Helmet Disc Spring Force Absorbing Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional padding systems are ineffective in absorbing a wide range of impact forces, as they are designed for either high or low impact forces but not both, and once they deform to their load/deflection limit, they can no longer absorb forces exceeding this limit.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, elastic shock-absorbing element comprising disc springs and an elastomeric component that can absorb and dissipate impact forces through a combination of disc springs with tailored geometries and materials, allowing for multi-stage load-deflection performance curves and high damping capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional padding systems are designed for high impact forces, then they can absorb high impact forces, but they cannot effectively absorb low impact forces
Solution Approach 1:
The force absorbing element is divided into multiple segments or layers with different material properties. Each segment is designed to activate at different force thresholds, allowing the system to handle both low and high impact forces effectively. The segmentation enables progressive engagement of different material layers based on the magnitude of the applied force.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite materials with different mechanical properties combined in a single force absorbing element. This includes combining materials with different modulus of elasticity, yield strengths, and deformation characteristics to create a multi-stage response to impact forces. The composite structure allows simultaneous or sequential activation of different material properties based on force magnitude.
2Force
If foam systems deform to their load/deflection limit, then they can absorb forces up to that limit, but they are no longer capable of absorbing forces which exceed this limit
Solution Approach 1:
The force absorbing element incorporates dynamic characteristics through non-linear load-deflection behavior. The system transitions from a static foam structure to a dynamic response where stiffness and damping properties change with deformation level. This allows the element to remain effective across a wider range of force magnitudes by adapting its mechanical properties during the impact event.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes material parameters such as modulus of elasticity, density, and damping coefficients across different regions or layers of the force absorbing element. This parameter variation enables the system to provide appropriate resistance at different deformation stages, maintaining reliability beyond the traditional load/deflection limit of uniform foam systems.
3Strength
If disc springs are used to absorb impact forces, then high spring force and elasticity are achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple disc springs into a stacked configuration where they work together as a single integrated unit. This combining approach maintains the high spring force and elasticity benefits of individual disc springs while reducing overall device complexity through compact stacking and shared mounting structures. The merged configuration also provides progressive force absorption as each spring engages in sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The disc springs are arranged in a nested or stacked configuration where smaller springs are positioned within or between larger springs. This nesting approach maximizes space utilization and provides multi-stage force absorption while maintaining a compact overall structure. The nested arrangement reduces the footprint and simplifies integration into the force absorbing element.
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 effective absorption of both high and low impact forces without permanent deformation, offering improved protection and energy dissipation across a range of applications, including sports equipment, by utilizing disc springs and elastomeric components to manage load-deflection profiles effectively.
Implementation Method 1
A lightweight, elastic shock-absorbing element comprising disc springs and an elastomeric component that can absorb and dissipate impact forces
Implementation Method 2
allowing for multi-stage load-deflection performance curves and high damping capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed towards a helmet adapted for use by a human being for a variety of activities. The helmet includes a shell, a plurality of FAEs, and at least one rigid component. The shell maybe configured and arranged to cover a portion of a wearer's head. The plurality of FAEs may be separately positioned adjacent to the shell's interior surface. Each FAE may include at least one disc spring that is adapted for absorbing forces. The at least one rigid component may be disposed within the shell and adjacent to the plurality of FAEs. In this way, the FAEs may be between the shell's interior surface and the at least one rigid component. When a force is applied to a location on the shell's exterior surface, it may be substantially absorbed by at least one of the FAEs positioned adjacent to the location on the shell's interior surface.