Protective Helmet Height Adjustment Link for Reproducible Fit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protective helmet assemblies lack a reliable height adjustment mechanism that allows reproducible adjustment without compromising wearing comfort or fastening strength, particularly under time pressure in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A protective helmet assembly with a separate link element comprising a bendable elongate connection member, connected to both the outer shell and helmet suspension, allowing adjustable length through attachment elements with adjustable sections and reversible direction, ensuring comfort and secure fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the height adjuster allows continuous adjustment of the distance between the head and outer shell, then the coverage area and balance are optimized, but the adjustment cannot be made in predefined steps for reproducible adjustment under time pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The height adjuster employs a dynamic adjustment mechanism with a movable element that can be positioned at multiple discrete locations along an adjustment path. This allows the system to transition from a static fixed-height design to a dynamic multi-position design, enabling reproducible adjustment in predefined steps while maintaining optimization of coverage area and balance.
2Length of moving object
If the webbing length is changed to adjust height, then the height adjustment is achieved, but the liner is deformed decreasing wearing comfort and the webbing extends out of the outer shell increasing risk of getting caught
Solution Approach 1:
The height adjustment function is segmented from the liner and webbing system. Instead of adjusting the entire liner-webbing assembly, only a dedicated adjustment element (such as a movable bridge or adjustable link) is modified in length or position. This segmentation allows height adjustment without deforming the liner or causing webbing to extend beyond the shell, thereby maintaining wearing comfort and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary adjustment mechanism is introduced between the shell and suspension system. This intermediary element (such as an adjustable link or movable bridge) serves as a mediator that enables height adjustment without directly deforming the liner or extending the webbing outward. The intermediary transfers the adjustment function while isolating the harmful effects from the user.
3Ease of operation
If the height adjuster is integrated into the helmet suspension system, then the adjustment function is provided, but the deformation of the liner reduces the fastening strength of the helmet to the head
Solution Approach 1:
The height adjustment function is segmented as a separate, independent mechanism from the liner and suspension fastening system. The adjustment element (such as a movable bridge or adjustable link) is structurally separated from the components that provide fastening strength. This segmentation ensures that adjusting the height does not compromise the integrity or fastening strength of the helmet-to-head connection.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary adjustment mechanism is positioned between the shell and suspension system, acting as a mediator that enables height adjustment without directly affecting the liner or fastening components. This intermediary transfers the adjustment function while preserving the structural integrity and fastening strength of the helmet suspension system.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4c
AI summary
The application is directed a protective helmet assembly comprising at least one outer shell configured for surrounding at least partly a head of a user; at least one helmet suspension adapted to be coupled to the outer shell, wherein the assembly further comprises at least one link element configured to be at least indirectly connected to the outer shell and at least indirectly connected to the helmet suspension, wherein the length of the link element is adjustable and the link element comprises at least one bendable elongate connection member, wherein further a first section of the connection member is extending from at least one first attachment element to at least one second attachment element, the first attachment element comprises at least one opening through which the connection member is extending, and wherein the length of the first section is adjustable.