Helmet Padding With Conical Protuberances For Shock Absorption

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing helmet padding technologies do not effectively utilize a combination of low density and high density foam layers with conical protuberances extending towards the outer periphery, which is advantageous for shock absorption and comfort.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layered helmet padding system comprising a low density foam inner layer with integrally formed conical protuberances that taper towards a higher density outer foam layer, providing a snug fit and enhanced shock absorption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single density foam layer is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but shock absorption performance is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshock absorption performanceVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies composite materials by combining two different foam densities (high density foam outer layer and low density foam inner layer with conical protuberances) to create a multi-layered liner that provides both structural support and enhanced shock absorption, resolving the contradiction between simple structure and effective shock absorption

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by creating conical protuberances within the low density foam inner layer that taper toward the outer periphery, providing localized variation in density and compression characteristics to enhance shock absorption while maintaining overall structural integrity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If conical protuberances are embedded in the foam layer, then shock absorption is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshock absorptionVSAvoidmanufacturing ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the conical protuberances with the inner foam layer by forming them as an integral part of the low density foam during the molding process, rather than attaching them as separate components, thereby enhancing shock absorption while avoiding additional assembly steps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If low density foam is used for comfort, then user comfort is improved, but structural support is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser comfortVSAvoidstructural support
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses composite materials with a high density foam outer layer providing structural support and a low density foam inner layer with conical protuberances providing comfort and shock absorption, allowing both structural integrity and user comfort to coexist

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by concentrating the low density foam material in the inner layer where it contacts the user's head, while maintaining high density foam in the outer layer for structural support, creating different material properties in different locations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 system offers improved shock absorption and comfort by distributing impact forces effectively through the conical protuberances, enhancing the overall safety and usability of helmets.

Implementation Method 1

The present invention includes an improved shock absorbing liner for helmets

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShock absorption: Damping

Implementation Method 2

distributing impact forces effectively through the conical protuberances

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImpact force distribution: Impact Force

Data Source

PatentUS7802320B2Helmet padding
Publication Date: 2010.09.28 STRATEGIC SPORTS LTD
  • US7802320B2 patent drawing
  • US7802320B2 patent drawing
  • US7802320B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An improved helmet padding includes a multi-layered liner including an innermost layer consisting of a comfort liner designed to engage the head of the user, and having an outer surface covered by an inner surface of a relatively low density foam layer. The relatively low density foam layer consists of a first region of relatively uniform thickness with an outer area from which a multiplicity of protuberances extend radially outwardly. The radially outward layer of the inventive padding consists of a layer of relatively high density foam. The outer layer includes a plurality of recesses corresponding to the protuberances of the inner layer and sized to snugly receive the conical protuberances therewithin. The outer surface of the outer foam layer is shaped and configured to engage the outer shell of a helmet in which it is installed.