Joint Protector System with Segmented Pads and Dynamic Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional protective gear for joints in contact sports fails to adequately cushion high-force impacts, leading to potential injuries and discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A joint protector system comprising impact-resistant pads made from elastomeric and high-tensile strength fibrous materials, designed to absorb and dissipate impact forces, with adjustable positioning and configuration to fit various joints, including a connector system for secure attachment to the limb.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional protective gear is used, then basic joint coverage is provided, but high-force impacts are not adequately cushioned
Solution Approach 1:
The protective gear is divided into separate first and second pads that can be independently positioned on opposite sides of the joint. This segmentation allows each pad to independently absorb impact forces from different directions, providing comprehensive protection while maintaining flexibility in positioning to optimize impact resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The pads are constructed from composite materials including foam material for cushioning and fabric material for structural integrity. This combination of materials with different properties (energy absorption and tensile strength) creates a system that can effectively dissipate high-force impacts while maintaining the structural integrity needed for repeated use.
2Strength
If rigid protective structures are used, then impact protection is improved, but flexibility and comfort are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pads utilize foam material that provides protective cushioning while inherently possessing flexibility. This flexible structure allows the pads to conform to the joint's movement and maintain protection without restricting the user's range of motion, solving the contradiction between rigid protection and operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system allows the pads to be dynamically adjusted and repositioned based on the user's needs and joint position. This dynamic adjustability ensures the pads remain in optimal positions for impact protection while accommodating changes in joint flexibility and movement patterns during different activities.
3Strength
If multiple pads are used to cover opposite sides of the joint, then impact protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves multiple functions: it attaches both the first and second pads to the limb, allows for adjustable positioning of each pad, and enables dynamic reconfiguration. This multi-functional design provides comprehensive protection from multiple sides while using a single, versatile component rather than multiple separate attachment mechanisms, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second pads are combined into a coordinated protective system where both pads work together to provide comprehensive coverage of the joint. By positioning pads on opposite sides and connecting them through a single connector system, the design achieves comprehensive protection while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that can be easily applied and adjusted.
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 joint protector system effectively reduces the force of impacts on joints while maintaining comfort and flexibility, suitable for various sports and applications, including military and construction gear.
Implementation Method 1
participants in sports (e.g. football, rugby, baseball, lacrosse, field hockey, etc.) wear protective gear to cushion the force of impacts that are regularly received during those events
Implementation Method 2
impact-resistant pads made from elastomeric and high-tensile strength fibrous materials, designed to absorb and dissipate impact forces
Data Source
AI summary
Joint protectors are disclosed. One such joint protector includes a first pad having a first axis; a second pad having a second axis; a connector coupled to the first and second pads, wherein the connector is configured to attach the first and second pads to a user's limb such that the first pad is positioned on one side of the user's joint and the second pad is positioned on an opposite side of the user's joint. Furthermore, the joint protector is movable to be in a first state, wherein the first axis aligns with the second axis and the end of the first pad aligns with the end of the second pad, and to be in a second state, wherein the first axis is angled relative to the second axis and the end of the first pad is not aligned with the end of the second pad.