Helmet Connector Shock Absorber for Impact Force Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Typical helmets, such as hard hats, have limited ability to absorb the force of impact, transferring a significant amount of force to the wearer's head due to the lack of effective shock absorption in their connectors and suspension systems.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a shock absorber with an S-shaped curve between the helmet shell and suspension components, such as crown straps, to distribute and absorb impact forces, along with a retention clip system for secure engagement and user accessibility, enhances the helmet's impact absorption capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a traditional rigid connector is used to connect the shell to the suspension, then the structural simplicity and ease of manufacture are improved, but the impact force absorption capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a shock absorber element that is pre-configured to deform during impact events. This element is designed beforehand to cushion and absorb impact forces, transforming the rigid connector into one with built-in energy absorption capability without complicating the overall manufacturing process
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a rigid structure to one with controlled flexibility by incorporating a shock absorber element. This changes the mechanical parameters of the connector, allowing it to deform elastically under impact loads and absorb energy while maintaining structural integrity during normal use
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the shock absorber is integrated into the connector, then the impact force absorption is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorber element is integrated directly into the connector body, merging the functions of connection and shock absorption into a single component. This eliminates the need for separate shock absorption mechanisms and reduces overall system complexity despite adding impact absorption capability
Solution Approach 2:
The shock absorber element utilizes a flexible, thin-walled structure that can deform elastically under impact loads. This flexible element provides effective shock absorption while maintaining a compact and simple overall connector design, avoiding the need for complex mechanical shock absorption systems
3Ease of operation
If the retention clip is made movable for user access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of the connection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The retention clip is designed as a movable element that can be easily actuated by the user when needed, while automatically returning to a locked position that secures the element firmly. This dynamic design allows the clip to transition between accessible and secure states, providing both ease of operation and reliable retention
Solution Approach 2:
The movable retention clip acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the element retention system. It provides a simple interface for user operation while maintaining a secure, reliable connection when engaged, effectively mediating between the need for accessibility and the need for secure retention
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 effectively reduces the force of impact transferred to the wearer's head, providing improved protection by absorbing up to 175 pounds of force per connector, significantly reducing the likelihood and severity of injury.
Implementation Method 1
The shock absorber is operatively disposed between the shell and the coupled portion of the suspension to absorb at least a portion of a force of impact delivered to the shell
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed to a helmet. The helmet preferably includes a shell, a suspension, and a connector. The suspension preferably includes a crown strap. The connector preferably couples to the shell and the crown strap. The connector preferably has a shock absorber operatively disposed between the shell and the crown strap to absorb at least a portion of a force of impact delivered to the shell.