Goggle Strap Battery Pods for Lens Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery-powered goggles face challenges in providing sufficient and convenient power for extended use, particularly in preventing fogging of lenses due to high power consumption by resistive-element heating systems, which require multiple batteries that are cumbersome and difficult to securely attach to the strap.
Innovation Solution
A dual-battery-pod system integrated into the goggle strap with concave molded cavities and spring-biased contacts, using thermal plastic polyurethane or silicone extension members to securely hold and power resistive heating elements, allowing for serial connection of batteries to achieve the necessary voltage for efficient lens heating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If multiple batteries are used to provide sufficient power for resistive-element heating systems, then the power consumption requirement is met, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to cumbersome attachment to the strap
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is segmented into multiple individual battery units that can be independently attached to the strap. Each battery has its own attachment mechanism, allowing them to be distributed along the strap rather than clustered together. This segmentation reduces the complexity of securing multiple batteries while maintaining the required power output for heating elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system transitions from a two-dimensional planar attachment (flat strap surface) to a three-dimensional distributed attachment along the length of the strap. By utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the strap, multiple batteries can be spaced out and secured at different positions, reducing interference and simplifying the overall attachment structure.
2Use of energy by moving object
If multiple batteries are used to provide sufficient power for resistive-element heating systems, then the power consumption requirement is met, but the ease of operation worsens due to difficult secure attachment to the strap
Solution Approach 1:
The battery attachment mechanism incorporates self-service features where the batteries automatically secure to the strap through spring-biased contacts and snap-fit connectors. The spring-biased contacts automatically make electrical connection when the battery is attached, eliminating the need for separate wiring operations. This self-service capability significantly improves ease of operation while maintaining multiple battery configuration for sufficient power.
3Duration of action of moving object
If batteries are attached to the strap for extended use, then the duration of action is improved, but the reliability worsens due to potential detachment during physical activities
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism incorporates curved and contoured surfaces that conform to the shape of both the strap and battery housings. The spring-biased contacts use弧形 (curved) engagement surfaces that provide mechanical interlocking, making it difficult for batteries to detach during physical activities. This curvature-based design maintains reliable attachment while enabling extended duration of use.
4Power
If multiple batteries are used to provide sufficient power, then the power requirement is met, but the weight of the object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery housings and attachment components utilize thin-walled flexible materials that minimize additional weight. The strap integration uses lightweight polymers and thin connector elements. This approach allows multiple batteries to be mounted while keeping the overall weight increase minimal, maintaining the power requirements for heating while preserving comfort during extended wear.
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
Enables extended use of goggles for up to eight hours without recharging, with a secure and aesthetically pleasing battery attachment system that withstands physical activities and provides consistent power for fog-free operation.
Implementation Method 1
spring-biased contacts for establishing electrical connection
Implementation Method 2
powering resistive heating elements to prevent fogging of the lens
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
A goggle adapted for utilizing a plurality of batteries to perform a powered function for the goggle comprising: a lens retained in a goggle body, strap extension members connected to the goggle body, each extension member defining therein a cavity having a contact for retaining a battery pod, each battery pod having a chemical cell battery therein, for powering the goggle to enable one or more of heating the goggle lens, video capture, GPS, stereo sound or other electronic function of the goggle. The cavities are symmetrical about a z-axis and the batteries for the system are interchangeable such that any battery pod may be flipped about the z-axis and retained in any battery cavity. The goggle is further comprised of a strap portion, either attached to the extension members or integral therewith, for retaining the goggle on a user's head or helmet.