Helmet Shield Locking Mechanism for Crash-Stable Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motorcycle helmets face issues with the shield unintentionally moving from the operative position during crashes, have complex structures due to dual locking mechanisms, and suffer from reliability degradation over time.
Innovation Solution
A protective helmet design featuring a locking device positioned on the outer shell, allowing the shield to be stably locked in the operative or intermediate positions, with a simplified mechanism for easy operation and reduced complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking means are positioned both in the shield and in the outer shell, then the shield can be locked in the operative position, but the structure becomes particularly complex and manufacture becomes time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means are extracted from the shield and positioned exclusively in the outer shell. The engaging means remain on the shield, but the active locking mechanism is relocated to the outer shell, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking means in the outer shell integrate multiple functions: they engage with the shield's engaging means, provide locking action, and control the rotation between operative and inoperative positions. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components needed.
2Reliability
If locking means are positioned both in the shield and in the outer shell, then the shield can be locked in the operative position, but manufacture becomes particularly time consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the locking means from the shield and placing them only in the outer shell, the manufacturing process is simplified. Fewer components need to be manufactured with precision locking features, reducing production time and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex dual-position locking mechanism is replaced with a simpler single-position locking system in the outer shell that achieves the same functional outcome with fewer parts, discarding unnecessary complexity while recovering the essential locking function.
3Device complexity
If the shield is maintained only by fastening means, then the structure is simpler, but the shield may unintentionally move from the operative position particularly in case of a crash
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means are positioned to preemptively counteract forces that might cause the shield to move during a crash. The locking mechanism engages before any unintended movement occurs, providing preliminary stabilization against impact forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable body with its curved engagement surface provides a mechanical advantage that creates a strong locking action. The curved geometry ensures positive engagement and prevents slippage or unintended movement during impact.
4Ease of operation
If a locking device with rotatable body and elastic means is used, then the shield can be stably locked and easily unlocked, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic means automatically engage the locking position without user intervention. When the shield is rotated into the operative position, the elastic means self-actuate to lock it in place. The system serves itself by using the shield's own movement to trigger the locking action.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex multi-component locking mechanism is replaced with a simpler system using elastic deformation and geometric engagement. The elastic means provide the locking force through material elasticity rather than complex mechanical linkages.
Data Source
AI summary
Protective helmet to be worn and to protect the head of a user against impacts and including a rigid outer shell delimiting an inner space for housing the head of user and including a front opening. The protective helmet includes a shield removably coupled to the outer shell and adapted to move at least between an operative position wherein the shield covers the front opening without allowing entrance of air in the inner space and an inoperative position wherein the inner space is accessible from the outside through the front opening, the shield being provided with a front hole. The protective helmet includes a locking device to lock the shield in the operative position. The locking device is positioned on the outer shell and includes a rotatable engaging member to engage the front hole of the shield when in the operative position.