Removable Fencing Mask Accessory via Mesh Aperture Projections

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current fencing mask accessories, such as padding and lighting, are difficult to attach and remove without damaging the mask, and their limited positioning options restrict customizability and lead to premature disposal due to the use of permanent hook and loop fasteners.

Innovation Solution

A removable accessory for fencing masks that utilizes projections insertable into standardized apertures of the mask's mesh, allowing secure attachment without additional fasteners and enabling repositioning and interchangeability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If hook and loop fasteners are permanently attached to the inside of the fencing mask using glue or rivets, then accessories can be securely attached, but the fasteners become difficult to remove and replace, causing damage to the mask and leading to premature disposal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachment of accessoriesVSAvoidremoval and replacement of fasteners
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system is divided into separate components: the accessory includes projections that can be removed, while the mask retains the aperture structure. This segmentation allows the accessory to be detached without removing permanent fasteners from the mask, enabling reuse of the mask with different accessories.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment mechanism transitions from a static permanent attachment (glue or rivets) to a dynamic removable attachment system. The projections can be inserted into and removed from the apertures as needed, providing flexibility while maintaining secure attachment during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If hook and loop fasteners are permanently fixed at specific positions on the fencing mask, then accessories can be securely attached, but the customisability and positioning flexibility are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachment of accessoriesVSAvoidpositioning flexibility of accessories
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The aperture structure in the mask serves multiple functions: it provides attachment points for various accessories at different positions. The standardized apertures allow the same mask to accommodate different accessories (padding, lights, cameras) at multiple locations, enhancing versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment system moves from a single fixed position to multiple positions across the mask surface. By distributing apertures throughout the mask structure, the system enables accessory placement in multiple spatial locations, adding positional dimensionality to the attachment capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If hook and loop fasteners are used to attach accessories, then accessories can be attached to the fencing mask, but the fasteners become worn over time and require replacement, which damages the mask

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment of accessoriesVSAvoidlifespan of the fencing mask
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The wear-prone hook and loop fasteners are extracted from the mask structure and transferred to the accessory itself. The projections on the accessory engage with the mask's apertures without requiring permanent fasteners on the mask, protecting the mask from wear and extending its lifespan.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The accessory with its projections can be removed and replaced when worn, while the mask with its aperture structure is preserved and reused. This separates the disposable/wearable component from the durable mask structure, allowing recovery and continued use of the mask.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

Data Source

PatentEP3993885B1Removable accessory for a fencing mask
Publication Date: 2024.11.20 LEON PAUL EQUIP
  • EP3993885B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3993885B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3993885B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

A removable accessory (1; 101; 201) for a fencing mask provided with a mesh (2) having an array of apertures (4) is provided. The accessory comprises a main body (5; 205) having a first surface (6), and a plurality of projections (7, 8; 208) extending from the first surface (6) of the main body (5; 205). Each projection (7, 8; 208) is configured to be removably insertable into an aperture (4) of the mesh (2). Therefore, the accessory (1; 101; 201) may be removably attached to the fencing mask, without damaging the fencing mask.