Flexible Strap Holding Device for Gas Mask Helmet Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holding devices for breathing masks attached to protective helmets are complex, difficult to handle, and provide inconsistent fit due to unadjustable spring force, leading to reduced comfort and impermeability, and restrict helmet interchangeability among wearers with different head shapes.
Innovation Solution
A holding device featuring flexible adjustable straps with stop elements and offset sliding elements ensures a secure fit, combined with ergonomically designed grip elements and a durable construction for easy handling and secure attachment to the helmet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid extension rod with spring action fastening hooks is used, then the mask can be fastened to the helmet, but the device becomes difficult to handle and the spring force cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rigid extension rod with a flexible tightening strap that has elastic properties. This flexible strap can be easily handled and adjusted by the user, eliminating the difficulty of operating rigid mechanical components while still providing secure fastening when tightened.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces adjustability to the fastening system by allowing the tightening strap length to be modified. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the spring force/tension to be customized for different users and head sizes, transforming a fixed system into an adaptable one.
2Device complexity
If the spring force is fixed, then the holding device structure is simple, but the mask fit becomes inconsistent for different head sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the tightening strap length adjustable, allowing users to modify the strap length according to their head size and shape. This transforms a static, one-size-fits-all system into a dynamic, customizable system that adapts to individual users while maintaining relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables change in the physical parameter of strap length to achieve different tension levels and fit configurations. By allowing users to adjust the length parameter of the tightening strap, the system can accommodate various head sizes and shapes without complex mechanical components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the receptacles are moved to adjust spring force, then the fit can be adjusted, but the helmets cannot be exchanged among wearers with different head shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the adjustment mechanism from the helmet structure. The adjustability is built into the holding device's tightening strap, which can be independently adjusted by each user. This segmentation allows the helmet to remain a standardized, interchangeable component while the holding device provides individualized adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables each user to independently adjust the tightening strap length to suit their own head shape and size. This self-service adjustment capability eliminates the need for pre-configuring helmets for different users, allowing helmets to be freely exchanged while each user customizes their own holding device.
4Device complexity
If fastening hooks are used without stop elements, then the design is simple, but the hooks can become unhooked under external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces stop elements as intermediary components between the fastening hooks and the helmet structure. These stop elements act as safety intermediaries that prevent the hooks from disengaging under external forces, adding a layer of security without significantly complicating the overall fastening mechanism.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides enhanced wearing comfort, secure fit, and ease of use, preventing the breathing mask from becoming unhooked under external forces, while allowing for adjustable fit and compatibility with various head shapes.
Implementation Method 1
a fastening hook telescopically attached to its free end by means of a tension spring
Implementation Method 2
stop elements are provided in the area of the fastening hook that are in frictional or positive contact with the helmet or its hook receptacle
Data Source
AI summary
A holding device for a breathing mask that is fastened to a protective helmet when in use includes a fastening hook connected to a flexible, length-adjustable tightening strap that is hooked into a receptacle on the protective helmet. Stop elements that are both frictionally engaged and in positive contact prevent the accidental release of the fastening hook together with the flexibility of the tightening strap that at the same time ensures an individually adjustable fit of the mask while sliding elements arranged at an offset to the stop elements ensure automatic optimum orientation of the tightening straps. The tightening strap and the fastening hook are coupled using a retainer piece molded to the tightening strap that is held in positive contact in the recess of a grip end connected with the fastening hook.