Foam Ventilation Element for Lightweight Shock-Absorbing Apparel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ventilation elements for apparel and sports accessories are heavy due to rigid frames, complex to assemble, and do not adapt well to different body shapes or postures, and fail to absorb shocks effectively.
Innovation Solution
A ventilation element comprising a first and second surface spaced apart by a foam, allowing air circulation, with channels and bridges that dynamically adjust to body movements, providing cushioning and ventilation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid frame arrangement is used to create a gap for air circulation, then ventilation is improved, but weight increases and the structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the rigid frame structure entirely and replaces it with a flexible foam material that inherently maintains the air gap through its elastic properties. This extraction of the frame eliminates the weight and complexity associated with rigid structural elements while preserving the ventilation function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameter from rigid (frame) to flexible (foam), allowing the structure to adapt its shape while maintaining the air circulation gap. The foam's elasticity provides the necessary structural support without the weight and complexity of a rigid frame.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid frame is used to maintain air gap, then ventilation is achieved, but adaptability to different body shapes and postures is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic, flexible foam structure that can adapt its shape in real-time to accommodate different body contours and postures. Unlike a static rigid frame, the foam continuously adjusts its configuration while maintaining the air gap, providing both ventilation and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a flexible foam material that acts as a compliant structure, allowing it to conform to various body shapes and movements. This flexible approach replaces the rigid frame while maintaining the essential air circulation function.
3Strength
If a rigid frame structure is used, then structural stability is provided, but shock absorption capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a foam material that inherently provides cushioning and shock absorption capabilities before impacts occur. The foam's cellular structure is designed to compress and dissipate energy, providing protective functionality while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses foam material that combines the structural support function previously provided by rigid frames with the shock absorption properties of flexible cellular materials. This composite approach integrates multiple functions into a single material system.
4Stability of the object's composition
If multiple components (frame, net part) are used for ventilation, then ventilation function is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of the frame and net part into a single integrated foam structure. The foam material simultaneously provides the structural support, air gap maintenance, and flexible surface that were previously distributed across multiple components, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The foam material serves multiple functions simultaneously: it maintains the air gap for ventilation, provides structural support, offers shock absorption, and adapts to body shapes. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components.
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 ventilation element is lightweight, adaptable, and absorbs shocks while maintaining effective ventilation and stability, suitable for various body shapes and postures.
Implementation Method 1
a first surface (11), comprising a foam; a second surface (12)... providing cushioning and ventilation
Implementation Method 2
the first surface (11) and the second surface (12) are spaced apart, creating a void, so that air may circulate between the first surface and the second surface
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 2
AI summary
The present invention concerns a ventilation element (10) for an article of apparel, footwear, or a sports accessory (25), comprising: a first surface (11), comprising a foam; a second surface (12); wherein the first surface (11) and the second surface (12) are spaced apart, creating a void, so that air may circulate between the first surface (11) and the second surface (12).