Knee Protection Device Adaptive Rigidity via Tie Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing knee protection devices have a predetermined structure that cannot be configured spontaneously to address the need for protection during actual impacts or falls, limiting their effectiveness in dynamic situations.
Innovation Solution
A knee protection device featuring a support structure surrounded by transformable elements and tie members that adjust tension based on detected conditions, such as impacts or falls, using sensors like accelerometers to activate inflation or shape-memory materials for enhanced rigidity and movement restriction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a predetermined rigid structure is used for knee protection, then protection coverage is ensured, but the device cannot adapt spontaneously to actual impact situations
Solution Approach 1:
The knee protection device transitions from a static predetermined structure to a dynamic adaptive system. The support structure includes transformable elements that can change their rigidity state between flexible and rigid based on detected impact conditions, allowing the device to adapt spontaneously to actual protection needs while maintaining structural integrity when required
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes its physical parameters (rigidity, support force) in response to detected conditions. Sensors monitor impact parameters and trigger transformation of the support structure elements, changing their mechanical properties from flexible to rigid state to provide appropriate protection levels matched to the severity and type of impact detected
2Reliability
If the support structure is made rigid to prevent knee movements, then protection effectiveness increases, but comfort and mobility during normal activity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure elements are designed to be dynamically transformable between flexible and rigid states. During normal activity, the elements remain flexible to allow full range of motion and comfort. Upon detecting an impact or fall condition, the elements transform to a rigid state to provide strong protective support and restrict harmful knee movements
Solution Approach 2:
The device prepares protective action in advance by maintaining transformable elements in a ready state that can quickly transition to rigid support. Sensors continuously monitor for impact conditions, and upon detection, the system preemptively activates the rigid support structure to counteract the harmful effects of the impact before significant injury can occur
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 adaptive protection by increasing rigidity and restricting movements during dangerous situations, effectively preventing injuries by dynamically adjusting its configuration in response to user conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The transformable element may be a shape-memory element
Implementation Method 2
the device comprises a gas generator and activation means able to activate inflation of the inflatable element in the event of impact
Implementation Method 3
using sensors like accelerometers to activate inflation or shape-memory materials
Data Source
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Figure 5
AI summary
A protection device (1) for the protection of a knee or knee protector is described. The protection device (1) includes a support structure (2) surrounding at least partially a knee joint, at least one transformable element (5) able to assume a first condition and a second condition, and one or more tie members (8) able to connect said support structure (2) to said inflatable element (5). In a condition between said first condition and second condition of the transformable element (5), the tie members (8) are in an at least partially stretched condition and are able to exert a pulling action on the support structure (2).