Layered Protective Structure with Elastic Impact Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protective structures for garments and equipment are heavy, limit air circulation, and have limited impact distribution capabilities, often leading to discomfort and increased weight.
Innovation Solution
A layered protective structure comprising a rigid outer layer with mesh holes, an elastic net-like middle layer, and a flexible inner layer, designed to efficiently distribute impact forces while allowing air circulation and reducing weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If traditional sheet-like protective structures are used, then protection is provided, but weight increases and air circulation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The protective structure is divided into multiple functional layers: a rigid outer layer with mesh structure for impact distribution, an elastic intermediate layer for energy absorption, and a flexible inner layer for comfort. This segmentation allows each layer to specialize in specific protective functions while reducing overall weight compared to solid sheet structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer rigid layer incorporates a mesh structure with numerous holes, creating a porous configuration that significantly reduces material usage and weight. The mesh pattern maintains structural integrity for impact distribution while allowing air circulation through the protective garment.
2Ease of manufacture
If uniform thickness protective structures are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but impact distribution capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The protective structure employs varying thickness across different layers and regions. The rigid outer layer has greater thickness at impact-prone areas, the elastic layer varies in density, and the flexible layer adapts to body contours. This local variation optimizes impact distribution where needed while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular construction.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If solid protective structures are used, then protection is enhanced, but heat trapping increases and comfort decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh structure in the rigid outer layer creates numerous channels for air circulation, allowing heat to escape and fresh air to reach the skin. The porous configuration maintains protective function while actively managing thermal comfort during physical activity.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-layer construction with gaps and interfaces between layers creates air channels that facilitate ventilation. The elastic and flexible layers work together to maintain spacing that enables air flow while preserving protective coverage.
4Strength
If heavy protective materials are used, then impact resistance is improved, but mobility and comfort are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The protective system is segmented into three distinct layers with specialized functions: rigid protection, elastic energy absorption, and flexible comfort. This division allows lightweight materials to achieve superior protective performance compared to single heavy-layer constructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective structure combines different material types in a composite configuration: rigid plastic or composite for outer protection, elastic foam or rubber for intermediate absorption, and flexible fabric for inner comfort. This composite approach optimizes the strength-to-weight ratio and enhances overall performance.
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 layered structure provides improved impact distribution, reduced weight, enhanced air circulation, and durability, making it suitable for various protective garments and equipment.
Implementation Method 1
the second layer is an elastic net-like structure which is configured to fit at least partly between the rim structures
Data Source
AI summary
A layered protective structure for protective garments and equipment is disclosed. The layered protective structure comprises three layers. The first layer is the outermost layer, and it is the most rigid of the layers and has first layer holes that have at their edges rim structures extending inward into the protective structure. The second layer is an elastic net-like structure that is configured to fit at least partly between the rim structures. The first layer and the second layer are on top of the third layer, which is the innermost of the layers (i.e., towards the user when the protective structure is in use). The third layer is made of a softer and more flexible material than the first layer. The second layer spreads the impact forces and conveys at least part of them to the third layer.