Foldable Helmet Arc-Cell Structure for Impact Energy Dissipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing impact protection helmets, particularly those designed for cyclists and skaters, face challenges in efficiently absorbing and dissipating impact energy while maintaining a compact form, as they often consist of multiple components that may separate during impact, compromising protection and space-saving requirements.
Innovation Solution
A composite geometry structure featuring elastically deformable arc elements connecting hollow, three-dimensionally developed geometric elements, which absorb and dissipate impact energy without transmitting it to the body, and can be easily folded for space-saving storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a helmet is made with multiple components assembled through fixing means such as joints or hinges to save space, then the helmet occupies less space and is easier to store, but the cap is formed by several parts which do not directly collaborate with each other and thus could separate in case of impact, compromising protection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple protective components into a single integrated cap structure made of elastomeric material. The cap comprises a first portion with a first hollow chamber and a second portion with a second hollow chamber, both formed as one piece through 3D or conventional printing techniques. This integration ensures that all protective elements remain firmly connected and cannot separate during impact, while still allowing the entire cap to be folded for compact storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an elastomeric material that provides dynamic response to impact forces. The elastomeric cap can deform elastically upon impact to absorb energy, then return to its original shape. Additionally, the cap can be dynamically folded into a compact configuration for storage and unfolded for use, providing adaptability between protective and storage states.
2Strength
If a honeycomb structure with irregular hexagons is used to provide impact resistance, then the cap shows good resistance against impact, but the honeycomb geometry is insufficient at dissipating the energy generated by the impact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a hollow chamber structure within the elastomeric cap that functions similarly to porous materials for energy dissipation. The first and second hollow chambers are distributed throughout the cap structure, allowing them to compress and expand during impact to absorb and dissipate energy through material deformation and air compression, complementing the overall honeycomb-like geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an elastomeric material with specific durometer (92A TPU) that combines the properties of flexibility and energy absorption. This elastomeric material serves multiple functions: providing structural integrity, absorbing impact energy through elastic deformation, and enabling the cap to be folded for compact storage. The material properties are carefully selected to balance protection and portability requirements.
3Reliability
If a single-piece structure is used to ensure component collaboration during impact, then the cap maintains structural integrity, but it may occupy more space and be difficult to store
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an elastomeric material that provides dynamic response to impact forces. The elastomeric cap can deform elastically upon impact to absorb energy, then return to its original shape. Additionally, the cap can be dynamically folded into a compact configuration for storage and unfolded for use, providing adaptability between protective and storage states.
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 structure effectively dissipates impact energy across a larger surface area, enhancing protection and comfort, allowing for repeated use and easy storage, while meeting UNI-1078 standards and providing a versatile solution for various impact scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
the energy caused by the impact is absorbed due to the deformation of the arc elements underlying and connecting the hollow geometric elements
Data Source
AI summary
A composite geometry structure for the absorption and dissipation of the energy generated by an impact includes a plurality of hollow cells, adjacent and stably connected to each other. On each cell there are identified one or more arc elements which develop starting from two juxtaposed areas of the same perimeter edge of the cell, such arc elements being configured to be elastically deformed.