Heated Helmet Visor Contacts for Continuous Power While Pivoting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing helmets with electrically-heated visors require direct connection to a power supply, leading to potential damage if the power supply lead is not disconnected properly, and expose the wearer to cold air when the visor is opened to prevent condensation.
Innovation Solution
A helmet design with a pivotally connected visor and biased electrical contacts that maintain contact throughout the visor's movement, allowing for a removable visor and a magnetic, mechanical connection to an external power source via a flexible connector assembly, ensuring continuous power supply without direct connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the power supply lead is directly connected to the power supply jack, then the electrical connection is simple and reliable, but the power supply lead and jack may be damaged if the lead is not disconnected properly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flexible connector assembly as an intermediary component between the power supply jack and the power supply lead. This flexible connector serves as a buffer that allows the rigid power supply jack to remain stationary while the flexible connector can bend and move, preventing direct mechanical stress on the electrical connection points. The flexible connector assembly includes a housing with a opening that receives the power supply lead, creating a protected pathway that isolates the electrical contacts from direct pulling forces.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the visor is opened to allow outside air to flow in, then condensation is eliminated, but the wearer is exposed to cold air which is uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous heating action through the electrically-heated visor that operates throughout the visor's movement range. The biased electrical contacts ensure continuous power delivery to the heating element regardless of whether the visor is in a closed or open position, allowing the visor to actively prevent condensation formation rather than passively relying on air circulation. This continuous heating action eliminates the need to open the visor for ventilation, maintaining warmth and comfort for the wearer while preventing condensation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the visor is pivotally connected to allow movement, then the visor can be adjusted between positions, but the electrical connection may be interrupted during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic electrical contacts that are specifically designed to maintain connection during the visor's pivotal movement. The biased electrical contacts include spring mechanisms that continuously apply pressure to maintain electrical contact as the visor moves between positions. The flexible connector assembly also contributes to this dynamic capability by allowing relative movement between the visor and the fixed power supply jack while maintaining electrical connectivity through its flexible wiring and contact design.
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 a secure and convenient power connection that prevents damage and maintains heating functionality while avoiding exposure to cold air, enhancing user comfort and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The first visor electrical contact is pivotally connected to the helmet shell about a first pivot axis passing through the first helmet electrical contact. One of the first helmet electrical contact and the first visor electrical contact is biased against an other one of the first helmet electrical contact and the first visor electrical contact.
Data Source
AI summary
A helmet has a helmet shell and a visor pivotally connected to the helmet shell. First and second helmet electrical contacts are attached at both sides of the helmet and are adapted for electrically connecting to an electrical power source. First and second visor electrical contacts are attached to each side of the visor. The first and second visor electrical contacts are in contact with the first and second helmet electrical contacts respectively, at at least one position of the pivoting visor. First and second electrical wires are electrically connected to the first and second visor electrical contacts respectively.