Helmet Visor Attachment Mechanism for Glare Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Baseball players face difficulty in viewing a pitched baseball due to sun glare while wearing sunglasses, which obstruct their view of the ball.
Innovation Solution
A detachable visor for baseball helmets that is securely attached to the helmet's bill without pivoting, allowing for clear visibility of the ball and easy attachment/removal, with various attachment mechanisms such as magnetic and screw-based systems, and spring-loaded designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If sunglasses are worn to counteract sun glare, then glare reduction is improved, but the frame of the glasses partially obscures the baseball
Solution Approach 1:
The sunglasses are segmented into two separate components: a visor that attaches to the helmet to block sun glare from above, and separate eyewear that can be worn independently. This segmentation allows the glare-blocking function to be isolated from the frame that would otherwise obstruct the view of the baseball.
Solution Approach 2:
The glare-blocking function is extracted from traditional sunglasses with frames and transferred to a detachable visor that attaches to the helmet. This extraction removes the obstructive frame element while preserving the beneficial glare-reduction function through the visor's positioning above the eyes.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a visor is attached to the helmet, then glare reduction is improved, but the visor may pivot and cause discomfort or obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The visor employs a dynamic attachment system with a spring-loaded engagement mechanism that allows for controlled movement during impact while maintaining stability during normal use. The spring element provides give under load but maintains firm engagement during typical wearing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded attachment mechanism incorporates cushioning elements that absorb impact forces before they can cause discomfort or damage. This pre-positioned cushioning protects both the visor and helmet from the effects of accidental impacts during play.
3Reliability
If a secure attachment mechanism is used, then visor stability is improved, but attachment and removal becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into discrete engagement points and corresponding receptacles, allowing for quick snap-fit attachment and detachment. This modular segmentation enables secure bonding at multiple points while maintaining simple operation through a single-action engagement mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism incorporates dynamic elements such as spring-loaded latches or friction-fit components that provide secure engagement during normal use but allow for easy release when force is applied. This dynamic characteristic enables the system to transition between a high-security state during play and an easy-to-detach state for storage or adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
A helmet including a hard shell defining an exterior surface and an interior volume of space and including a bill. A visor including an engagement structure that is releasably attached to the bill wherein the visor does not pivot relative to the bill when engaged with the bill.