Helmet Insert Composite Structure for Impact Energy Diffusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current motorcycle helmets do not effectively absorb and dissipate kinetic energy from impacts, leading to partial or complete destruction and reduced protective capabilities, which necessitates frequent replacement and compromises head safety.
Innovation Solution
A composite material with a network of base elements forming cavities, arranged to break under impact, is integrated between the outer and inner shells of the helmet, diffusing kinetic energy in multiple directions to enhance absorption and reduce transmission to the head, accompanied by a method of extrusion for manufacturing and optional indicator means for integrity inspection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional expanded materials are used in the inner cap, then the helmet can absorb kinetic energy from impacts, but the material transmits significant kinetic energy to the cranial cavity causing cerebral lesions
Solution Approach 1:
The inner cap is divided into multiple cells (first cells and second cells) with different structures. The first cells have walls that break under impact to absorb energy, while the second cells maintain structural integrity to prevent energy transmission to the head. This segmentation allows simultaneous energy absorption and protection against cerebral lesions.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the helmet absorbs more kinetic energy through deformation, then head protection is improved, but the helmet structure is destroyed requiring frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the inner cap have different structural properties. The first cells are designed with breakable walls for energy absorption in impact zones, while the second cells maintain rigid structures to preserve overall helmet integrity. This local differentiation allows the helmet to absorb impact energy without complete structural failure.
3Loss of energy
If the inner cap is made with expanded materials for energy absorption, then protection function is provided, but the dimensions and mass become unreasonable for transportable objects
Solution Approach 1:
The inner cap utilizes a cellular porous structure where thin-walled first cells and second cells create void spaces for energy absorption. This porous architecture provides high energy absorption capacity per unit mass, reducing the overall weight compared to solid expanded materials while maintaining protective function.
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 composite material absorbs an additional 35-40% of kinetic energy, significantly reducing the risk of cerebral injuries and extending helmet lifespan by preventing irreversible damage, while the indicator means ensures the helmet's integrity is maintained.
Implementation Method 1
diffusing kinetic energy in multiple directions to enhance absorption and reduce transmission to the head
Implementation Method 2
break under the effect of the kinetic energy induced by an impact
Data Source
AI summary
A composite material includes an upper layer, a lower layer and means arranged so as to diffuse substantially transversely at least part of the kinetic energy induced by an impact on one of said layers, said means cooperating on both sides, with the upper layer and the lower layer. The diffusion means can consist in a network of interassembled base elements and of cavities, forming a three-dimensional structure. A protection device comprising includes an insert consisting of the composite material.