Helmet Flexible Structure Impact Attenuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional helmets with rigid outer layers and compressible inner layers are inadequate in attenuating impact forces effectively, particularly in sports helmets with ridges and bumps that redirect forces, limiting protection against head trauma.
Innovation Solution
A helmet design featuring a shell, brim, and flexible structure fused together, where the flexible structure is positioned between the shell and brim, allowing the brim to deform relative to the shell upon impact, thereby extending the impact duration and reducing acceleration forces on the head.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid outer layer is used to disperse impact force, then the structural strength and rigidity are improved, but the impact force attenuation capability deteriorates because the rigid layer transfers nearly all force to the inner layer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the outer layer flexible rather than rigid. The outer layer is designed to deform and flex during impact, transforming from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible one that absorbs energy through deformation. This flexibility allows the outer layer to attenuate impact forces directly rather than transferring them to the inner layer, resolving the contradiction between structural strength and impact attenuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the outer layer from rigid to flexible. By altering the material properties or structural characteristics of the outer layer to increase flexibility, the system can simultaneously maintain structural integrity while improving impact force attenuation. This parameter change enables the outer layer to perform both structural support and energy absorption functions.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the outer layer is made flexible to attenuate impact force, then the impact force attenuation capability is improved, but the structural strength and rigidity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials to create an outer layer that combines the benefits of both rigid and flexible materials. The outer layer is constructed from composite materials that provide sufficient structural strength while maintaining flexibility for impact attenuation. This allows the layer to simultaneously achieve structural integrity and energy absorption capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the properties of different regions within the outer layer. Certain areas of the outer layer are designed with higher flexibility for impact attenuation, while other areas maintain higher rigidity for structural support. This localized variation in material or structural properties allows the outer layer to perform multiple functions simultaneously.
3Force
If ridges and bumps are added to the outer layer to redirect impact forces, then the force distribution is improved, but the impact attenuation capability deteriorates because forces are directed through I-beams bypassing the attenuation material
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the ridges and bumps movable rather than fixed. The protrusions are designed to flex and deform during impact, allowing them to adapt their position and orientation. This dynamic behavior enables the ridges to redirect forces while still allowing the underlying attenuation material to absorb energy, resolving the contradiction between force distribution and impact attenuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the outer layer into distinct functional regions: protrusions for force redirection and underlying attenuation material for energy absorption. By separating these functions spatially and allowing independent deformation of each component, the system can simultaneously achieve force distribution and impact attenuation without interference between the two functions.
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
This design enhances the helmet's ability to protect against head trauma by providing additional impact attenuation through both the compressible inner layer and the flexible structure, effectively reducing the force transferred to the user's head.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible structure deforms so that the brim moves relative to the shell
Implementation Method 2
When the helmet is subjected to an impact on the brim
Implementation Method 3
the compressible inner layer that compresses to help attenuate the force of the impact
Data Source
AI summary
A helmet includes a shell, a brim, ridges, and multiple flexible structures. The shell is shaped to receive a user's head. The brim covers the user's forehead and areas above the temples and ears and protrudes from the outer surface of the shell. The ridges are located along the back and top of the helmet and also protrude from the outer surface of the shell. The flexible structures, which are made of a material that is more flexible than the shell, the brim, and the ridges, are positioned in separation gaps between the shell and the brim and ridges. The shell, brim, ridges, and flexible structures are fused together as a single unibody. When the helmet is subjected to an impact on the brim or the ridges, the corresponding flexible structure deforms so that the brim or ridge moves relative to the shell. The deformation of the flexible structure attenuates the force of the impact, which improves the helmet's ability to protect the user from impacts.