Strap-to-Helmet Quick Connector With Spring-Loaded Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chin strap connectors for helmets are prone to improper adjustment, leading to unsafe fits and are not easily adaptable to different helmets, lacking positive feedback for secure connections, and are susceptible to accidental disengagement.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly with a housing and insert member that secures the chin strap in a fixed position using a spring-loaded actuator, providing audible and tactile feedback for proper connection and preventing accidental disengagement, allowing for quick, one-handed attachment to the helmet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If adjustable chin strap connectors are used, then user comfort and fit can be modified, but the chin strap may become too loose or improperly secured leading to safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the adjustment function from the connector itself and places it only in the strap threading process. The connector housing contains a slot that accepts the strap at a fixed position, removing the ability to adjust the connector position once attached. This ensures the chin strap maintains a secure, non-adjustable fit while still allowing initial adjustment through proper strap threading before attachment.
2Ease of operation
If traditional snap connectors are used, then the chin strap can be easily attached and detached, but accidental disengagement occurs and positive feedback for secure connection is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates a spring-loaded actuator that provides both audible and tactile feedback when the chin strap is properly secured. The spring mechanism engages with the strap to create a distinct click or snap sound and tactile sensation, confirming secure attachment. This feedback mechanism prevents accidental disengagement by requiring deliberate user action to release the strap, while maintaining easy attachment through the same spring-loaded engagement.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If molded plastic chin cups are used, then impact protection is provided, but the cup flexes on impact reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs a composite construction for the chin cup assembly, combining a rigid outer shell made from strong materials like polycarbonate or reinforced plastic with an inner cushioning layer. This composite structure provides both the necessary rigidity to resist impact forces and the cushioning to distribute impact energy, preventing the flexing observed in single-material molded plastic cups while maintaining impact protection.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the connector is made adaptable to different helmets, then versatility is improved, but the connection mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention achieves universality through a standardized connector design featuring a housing with a slot that accommodates various strap configurations and attachment points. The spring-loaded actuator mechanism provides a universal engagement method that works across different helmet types and chin strap designs. This multi-functional approach allows the same connector structure to adapt to different helmets without increasing complexity, as the fundamental engagement mechanism remains consistent while accommodating variations in strap routing and attachment locations.
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
Ensures a secure, non-adjustable fit of the chin strap in the ideal position, preventing accidental disengagement and providing a neat appearance while allowing for easy replacement and adaptability to various helmets.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator positioned in the housing... The actuator cooperates with the insert member such that the first position of the actuator releases the insert member from the housing and the second position of the actuator secures the insert member to the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly for securing a chin strap to a helmet has a housing adapted to be secured to a surface of the helmet, an actuator positioned in the housing, and an insert member adapted to be secured to the chin strap. The housing has at least one slot therein. The actuator is movable between a first position at a second position. The insert member has a portion receivable within the slot of the housing. The actuator cooperates with the insert member such that the first position of the actuator releases the insert member from the housing and the second position of the actuator secures the insert member to the housing.