Protective Helmet U-Shaped Head Support Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional protective helmets face challenges in adjusting to varying head circumferences due to changes in activities, leading to discomfort or unsuitability, as existing solutions are complex and expensive, especially for community helmets that need to accommodate a wide range of head sizes.
Innovation Solution
A protective helmet design featuring a head support with adjustable length and a separate system for adjusting the neckband position, allowing independent adjustment of the head support length and neckband position relative to the median frontal plane, using a U-shaped head support with movable components and pivot axes that remain unchanged with head support length adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a helmet with adjustable head circumference is used to accommodate varying head sizes, then the helmet can fit more users, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment system is segmented into two independent functions: head support length adjustment and neck strap position adjustment. This allows each subsystem to be optimized separately, reducing overall complexity while maintaining versatility for different head circumferences
Solution Approach 2:
The head support structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables circumference adjustment through length modification, and allows frontal plane position adjustment through independent neck strap movement, reducing the need for multiple specialized components
2Adaptability or versatility
If the head support length is increased to accommodate larger head circumferences, then the helmet can fit bigger heads, but the position of the helmet's median frontal plane changes causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the adjustment of head support length from the adjustment of helmet frontal plane position, allowing independent optimization of both parameters to maintain comfort across different head sizes
Solution Approach 2:
The neck strap is designed to be movable relative to the head support, enabling dynamic repositioning of the helmet's frontal plane to maintain proper alignment and comfort regardless of head support length
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rack system is used to adjust the headband circumference and move the frontal and occipital parts, then the headband can be adjusted, but the implementation becomes complicated and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The complex rack system is extracted and replaced with a simpler U-shaped head support structure that achieves the same adjustment functionality through basic mechanical principles, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses simple, inexpensive components such as adjustable straps and basic connectors instead of complex mechanical racks, making the helmet more affordable and easier to manufacture while maintaining adjustment functionality
Data Source
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AI summary
A protective helmet (1) comprises a head support (3) attached to a shell (2). The head support (3) forms a U-shape with a front portion (3a) attached to the front portion (2a) of the shell (2). The two ends of the head support (3) are attached to the side walls of the shell (2) by two attachment points. First adjustment means regulate the length of the head support (3) between the two attachment points and its distance from the front portion of the shell (2). A neck strap (4) is attached to the occipital portion (2b) of the shell (2) and is movably mounted. Second adjustment means for the neck strap (4) modulate the distance between the neck strap (4) and the front portion (3a) of the head support (3).