Cycling Helmet Size Adjuster with Freely Orientable Headrest
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing size adjusters for cycling helmets do not consistently provide comfortable support as the helmet size is adjusted, as the fixed support portions are not adaptable to all configurations.
Innovation Solution
The size adjuster features headrest elements that are fixedly connected to the annular structure in a freely orientable manner along at least one axis, allowing them to tilt and adapt optimally to the user's head across various configurations, with optional spherical supports and gel inserts for comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fixed support portions are used in the annular structure, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the comfort of support is limited to specific sizes only
Solution Approach 1:
The support portions are made movable relative to the annular structure through a mechanism involving a slot and a movable connection point. This allows the support portions to dynamically adjust their position and orientation to accommodate different head sizes and shapes, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The support portions are separated from the fixed structure and made as independent movable elements. Each support portion can be independently positioned and oriented, allowing the system to adapt to various user configurations while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing of individual components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the annular structure is adjusted to different diameters, then the helmet can fit different sized users, but the fixed support portions cannot adapt to all configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The support portions are connected to the annular structure through a movable mechanism that allows them to tilt and reposition themselves as the annular structure changes diameter. This dynamic connection ensures that regardless of the adjusted size configuration, the support portions maintain optimal positioning for user comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The support portions automatically adjust their own position and orientation in response to changes in the annular structure's diameter, without requiring manual intervention. The movable connection mechanism allows the supports to self-align with the user's head shape across different sizes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual switching device is used to adjust the annular structure, then the helmet can be adapted to various sizes, but the support portions remain fixed and uncomfortable for some configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The support portions are made dynamically adjustable through a slot mechanism that allows them to move and tilt independently of the manual switching device. This ensures that while the user manually adjusts the overall size, the support portions automatically reposition themselves to maintain comfort across all configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A size adjuster for helmets for cycling use of the type that can be fixedly connected inside a helmet for cycling use is disclosed. The size adjuster includes an annular structure arranged along the lower periphery of the helmet and is able to be switched between a minimum diameter configuration and a plurality of increased diameter configurations to allow the helmet to be worn by different sized users. The adjuster can include a manual switching device of the configuration of the annular structure and further includes headrest elements for a user connected to the annular structure in a freely orientable manner along at least one axis.