Single-Layer Foam Sling Pad with Slots for Breathability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional firearm and luggage slings suffer from bulkiness, weight, and discomfort due to bulky support pads that trap heat and provide an insecure mount on the shoulder.

Innovation Solution

A lightweight sling system featuring a single-layer closed cell foam back panel with slots for breathability and a binding around the periphery, connected via adjustable strap portions with coupling mechanisms for secure attachment to the article, and a pack design with a case for optical devices that includes a magnetized cover flap and length adjustment mechanisms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional multi-layer support pads are used, then cushioning comfort is provided, but the sling becomes bulky and heavier

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecushioning comfortVSAvoidpad bulk

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses open-cell foam material for the support pad that provides cushioning through its cellular structure while maintaining breathability and reducing bulk. The porous structure allows air circulation to dissipate heat and moisture without requiring multiple thick layers of material.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #31Porous materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a composite construction combining foam material with a fabric cover layer. This composite structure provides both cushioning from the foam and breathability/moisture management from the fabric, achieving comfort without excessive bulk.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional multi-layer support pads are used, then cushioning comfort is provided, but the sling weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecushioning comfortVSAvoidsling weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The open-cell foam material provides effective cushioning with lower density compared to conventional multi-layer constructions. The cellular structure delivers comfort per unit weight, reducing overall sling weight while maintaining support functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #31Porous materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent eliminates unnecessary outer fabric layers and intermediate materials found in conventional pads, retaining only the essential cushioning foam and a minimal fabric cover for breathability, thereby reducing weight.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional support pads with outer fabric layers are used, then cushioning is provided, but heat trapping and perspiration occur

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovecushioningVSAvoidheat accumulation

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The open-cell foam structure inherently allows air circulation through its porous network, enabling heat dissipation and moisture wicking. This breathability prevents heat trapping and reduces perspiration while maintaining cushioning support.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #31Porous materials

Solution Approach 2:

The foam material serves multiple functions simultaneously: providing cushioning support, enabling breathability for heat management, and offering moisture absorption. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate ventilation layers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional support pads are used, then cushioning is provided, but the mount on shoulder becomes insecure

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovecushioningVSAvoidshoulder mount security

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The open-cell foam material provides a textured, non-slip surface that increases friction between the pad and shoulder, preventing slippage. The porous structure creates mechanical interlocking that enhances grip and security during movement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #31Porous materials

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 comfort, breathability, and security without adding weight or bulk, allowing for efficient carrying of firearms and luggage while maintaining mobility and reducing perspiration.

Implementation Method 1

a pad comprising a single layer closed cell foam body defining a first surface and a second surface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectClosed cell foam: Foam

Implementation Method 2

a plurality of slots extending therethrough from the first surface to the second surface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAir flow through slots: Convection

Implementation Method 3

a binding secured to the periphery of the pad

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTensile strength: Tension

Data Source

PatentUS11528982B2Padded sling systems

Publication Date: 2022.12.20 REVELYST OPERATIONS LLC

AI summary

A sling for a firearm or luggage is provided comprising a pad comprising a single layer closed cell foam body defining a first surface and a second surface and a plurality of slots extending therethrough from the upper surface to the lower surface; and a binding secured to the periphery of the pad. The pad can be configured in a variety of ways to provide slings for carrying firearms and luggage. An embodiment of the pad is a backpanel having four sides and four corners that can be releasably connected to a chest pack such as a binocular case.