Integrated Helmet Hands-Free Device Using Merging and Universality

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hands-free devices for vehicle and sports use are cumbersome, require external modules, and limit sound reception, while also restricting communication between users in different vehicles or engaging in various activities.

Innovation Solution

A universal hands-free device with integrated electronics, speakers, and a microphone, powered by one or two batteries, that can be fitted inside a helmet or secured with an elastic band, utilizing Bluetooth technology for communication and featuring a multi-function push button with LED confirmation, allowing seamless communication between users in different vehicles or engaging in various activities without external modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If existing hands-free devices are integrated into helmets, then communication function is achieved, but the device becomes cumbersome and requires external modules

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of useVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the speaker, microphone, antenna, and electronic control unit into a single integrated module that fits within the helmet. This merging of components eliminates the need for external modules and reduces overall device complexity while maintaining full communication functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The hands-free device is designed as a universal module that can be installed in any type of helmet without modification. The single module performs multiple functions including audio output, audio input, wireless communication, and control, making it adaptable to various helmet types and communication scenarios.

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

2Reliability

If earphones are inserted into the ear canal, then audio output is achieved, but sound reception is limited and insertion/removal is cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound receptionVSAvoidease of insertion and removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the earphone from the ear canal and replaces it with a speaker mounted on the helmet interior. This extraction eliminates the cumbersome insertion and removal process while maintaining reliable audio output. The microphone is positioned near the mouth for reliable audio input without requiring ear canal insertion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a universal hands-free device is designed for any helmet type, then adaptability is improved, but device thickness increases making it uncomfortable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with helmet typesVSAvoiddevice thickness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the hands-free module with locally optimized components positioned at specific locations within the helmet interior. The speaker, microphone, and electronics are arranged in a compact configuration that adapts to different helmet shapes and sizes without requiring a thick uniform profile throughout the device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

4Adaptability or versatility

If communication between users in different vehicles is enabled, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication rangeVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hands-free device incorporates a universal wireless communication module capable of operating in different communication modes (within-vehicle and between-vehicle) without requiring separate hardware systems. This multi-functional approach enables extended communication range while avoiding the complexity of multiple specialized modules.

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

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

The device provides a comfortable, versatile, and convenient communication solution for users, enabling hands-free operation with any type of helmet or without, allowing communication between vehicle passengers and users engaging in sports or activities, without the need for external modules, enhancing user experience and reducing production costs.

Implementation Method 1

a loudspeaker incorporated into said module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroacoustic conversion:

Implementation Method 2

an antenna for transmitting and receiving signals incorporated into said module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation:

Implementation Method 3

powered by one or two batteries

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochemical energy conversion: Battery (electricity)

Data Source

PatentEP2491805B1Hands-free device
Publication Date: 2016.07.06 MAT COMM SOLUTIONS
  • EP2491805B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2491805B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2491805B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The invention relates to a device of the type commonly known on the market as "hands-free", i.e. devices that do not require input from the hands (fingers) in order to function, which has the essential feature of the device being installed, in one of the preferred embodiments thereof, inside a helmet, this embodiment applying to persons driving a vehicle with two or more wheels, to cyclists, skiers and other users of any type of helmet. Furthermore, the device of the invention may be used, in addition to being used for communication between passengers in the same vehicle, for communication between passengers in different vehicles or as a means of communication between two users who are walkers, cyclists or participants in other sports.