Head Cradle Flexibility via Slit Holes and Segmented Bending
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional head cradles for respirators suffer from insufficient flexibility leading to cracking, complex manufacturing processes, incomplete fixation of components resulting in rattling, and lack of a soft click sensation when folded or unfolded.
Innovation Solution
A head cradle design featuring two head band members with a support member, first and second fastening parts, and a strap connection part, including slit holes and click protrusions for enhanced flexibility and a simple manufacturing process, providing a stable fit and soft click sensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the head band part is made from a non-bent flat shape, then manufacturing is simpler, but flexibility is insufficient causing cracks during repeated bending
Solution Approach 1:
The head band part is divided into multiple bent sections with different bending radii. The first bent section has a larger bending radius than the second bent section, creating zones of varying flexibility. This segmentation allows the head band to maintain overall structural integrity while providing localized flexibility to accommodate repeated bending without cracking.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the head band part are given different geometric properties through varying bending radii. The first bent section with larger radius provides structural stability, while the second bent section with smaller radius provides enhanced flexibility. This local differentiation of geometric quality resolves the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the first and second lateral extending members have different shapes, then they can be optimized for specific functions, but the manufacturing process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second lateral extending members are designed with asymmetric geometries optimized for their specific functions. The first member has a configuration optimized for engagement with the latch, while the second member has a configuration optimized for pivoting motion. This asymmetric design allows functional optimization while maintaining manufacturability through standard forming processes.
3Device complexity
If the latch means only prevents the second lateral extending member from escaping outside, then the structure is simpler, but the two members are not completely fixed causing rattling
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to dynamically respond to the pivoting motion of the lateral extending members. The latch engages with the first member to prevent excessive outward movement, while simultaneously allowing controlled pivoting inward. This dynamic engagement ensures complete fixation during wear while maintaining structural simplicity.
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 design ensures the head cradle remains flexible and durable, provides a stable fit on the wearer's head, and transmits a soft click sensation during folding and unfolding, extending the product's lifespan by maintaining secure engagement of components.
Implementation Method 1
the support member includes a hole-section on which at least one slit hole having a shape extending at a predetermined angle with respect to the one direction is formed
Implementation Method 2
a first fastening part formed at one end portion of the support member and having an insertion hole formed to pass therethrough; a second fastening part formed at the other end portion of the support member
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the head cradle including 5 two head band members fastened to each other is provided, where the head band member includes: a support member extending in one direction; a first fastening part formed at one end portion of the support member and having an insertion hole formed to pass therethrough; a second fastening part formed at the other end portion of the support member; and a strap connection part which is formed at an end portion of the first 0 fastening part or the second fastening part and to which a strap connected to a mask main body is connected, where the support member includes a hole-section on which at least one slit hole having a shape extending at a predetermined angle with respect to the one direction is formed.