Helmet Accessory Adapter with Stowable Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing helmet accessories, such as visors and hearing protection devices, often require separate adapters or connectors that can become lost or misplaced when not in use, leading to inefficiencies in attachment and storage.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring an adapter with a helmet connector for a releasable snap fit with the helmet's accessory connection mechanism and an accessory connector that can be stowed on a visor accessory's rearward extending member, allowing for easy storage and retrieval when switching between accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate adapters or connectors are provided for helmet accessories, then accessory attachment functionality is improved, but the risk of loss or misplacement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the adapter and connector into a single integrated accessory assembly. The adapter is permanently attached to the connector, eliminating the need for separate components that could be lost. This merging resolves the contradiction by maintaining accessory attachment functionality while preventing adapter loss through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated accessory assembly serves multiple functions: the adapter portion attaches to the helmet while the connector portion attaches to the accessory. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate adapter and connector components, resolving the contradiction by ensuring both attachment functionality and preventing component loss through universal integration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate adapters or connectors are provided for helmet accessories, then accessory attachment functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the adapter and connector into a single integrated component. Instead of providing separate adapter and connector parts, the invention combines them into one unified accessory assembly, reducing the number of components while maintaining full attachment functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated accessory assembly performs multiple functions within a single component structure. The same component that attaches to the helmet also provides the connection interface for the accessory, eliminating the need for multiple separate parts and simplifying the overall device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adapters are made removable for flexible accessory switching, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to frequent attachment and detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the accessory system into two parts: a permanent adapter integrated with the helmet and a removable connector that attaches to different accessories. This segmentation allows easy switching between accessories while maintaining a stable base attachment point, resolving the contradiction by improving both adaptability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is pre-installed and permanently attached to the helmet, eliminating the need to repeatedly attach and detach the helmet-adapter connection when switching accessories. Only the accessory connector needs to be removed and reattached, significantly reducing the operational steps and improving ease of use while maintaining accessory switching flexibility.
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 secure and convenient attachment of accessories to helmets while allowing for efficient storage and retrieval of adapters, reducing the likelihood of loss and improving usability across different applications.
Implementation Method 1
a helmet connector adapted to form a releasable snap fit with the accessory connection mechanism of the protective helmet
Implementation Method 2
The adapter includes a flexible abutment member extending into the extending channel to cooperate with the at least one rearward extending member
Data Source
AI summary
A system for use in connection with a protective helmet having at least one accessory connection mechanism includes a visor accessory which includes a frame including at least one rearward extending member. The system further includes an adapter including a helmet connector adapted to form a releasable connection with the accessory connection mechanism of the protective helmet and an accessory connector adapted to form a releasable connection with the at least one rearward extending member of the visor accessory. The accessory connector is adapted to be stowed on the at least one rearward extending member when the adapter is not in use to connect to the accessory connection mechanism of the protective helmet.