Helmet Suspension Link Element Tool-Free Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing protective helmets with suspension systems require multiple parts and tools for assembly and disassembly, which complicates the process and contradicts the need for rapid assembly in hazardous situations.

Innovation Solution

A protective helmet assembly with a reduced number of parts, featuring a link element that connects the helmet suspension to the outer shell without the need for tools, and a releasable fastening mechanism for easy assembly and disassembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional protective helmets with suspension systems are assembled using multiple parts and tools, then the structural integrity and reliability are improved, but the assembly time and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the suspension system with the outer shell by integrating attachment mechanisms directly into the shell structure. The suspension system is pre-attached to the outer shell as a unified assembly, eliminating the need for separate tool-based fastening operations and reducing assembly time while maintaining structural integrity through the integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The suspension system is pre-assembled and pre-attached to the outer shell during manufacturing. The attachment mechanisms are pre-positioned and configured before field assembly, so that during emergency or hazardous situations, the helmet can be quickly donned without requiring tool-based assembly operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional protective helmets use multiple parts for suspension system, then the adaptability and adjustment options are improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment optionsVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated attachment mechanisms serve multiple functions: they provide structural attachment, allow for suspension adjustment, and enable quick release capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate parts needed while maintaining adaptability and adjustment options for different head sizes and preferences.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If traditional protective helmets require tools for assembly, then the manufacturing precision and connection reliability are improved, but the ease of manufacture and operational simplicity worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidassembly simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanisms are designed to be self-attaching and self-adjusting without requiring external tools. The suspension system automatically secures to the outer shell through integrated clips, snaps, or friction-fit interfaces that maintain reliable connections while eliminating the need for tool-based assembly operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP4537693A1Protective helmet assembly with a suspension system
Publication Date: 2025.04.16 MSA EUROPE GMBH
  • EP4537693A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4537693A1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2c
  • EP4537693A1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3c

AI summary

The application is directed to a protective helmet assembly (1), comprising at least one outer shell (3) configured for surrounding at least partly a head of a user; at least one helmet suspension (30) adapted to be releasably coupled to the outer shell (3), wherein the assembly (1) further comprises at least one link element (20) configured to be connected to the outer shell (3); wherein the helmet suspension (30) is connected to the outer shell (3) by attaching the helmet suspension (30) to the link element (20). The application is further directed to a method of assembling and disassembling a protective helmet assembly (1).