Mandible Shield with Ventilation Windows and Hinged Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mandible shields do not effectively provide maxillofacial protection, particularly for military and firefighting personnel, as they lack efficient ventilation and compact storage solutions, and are vulnerable to wear and tear at the panel edges.
Innovation Solution
A mandible shield comprising multiple ballistics material panels with a polymeric frame that includes windows for weight reduction and ventilation, hinged segments for compact storage, and a textured camouflage fabric layer for enhanced protection and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a solid frame structure is used to protect panel edges, then protection against ballistic threats is improved, but weight and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes material from the frame structure by incorporating windows that expose portions of the ballistic panel. This extraction of frame material reduces weight and material usage while maintaining protection, as the ballistic panel itself provides the necessary protective function in those areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The ballistic panel serves multiple functions: it provides ballistic protection and simultaneously serves as a structural element that can be exposed through window openings to reduce frame material requirements. The panel becomes both the protective barrier and a load-bearing component.
2Strength
If a solid frame structure is used to protect panel edges, then protection against ballistic threats is improved, but material usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes material from the frame structure by incorporating windows that expose portions of the ballistic panel. This extraction of frame material reduces weight and material usage while maintaining protection, as the ballistic panel itself provides the necessary protective function in those areas.
3Strength
If a single-piece mandible shield is used, then protection coverage is improved, but ventilation is reduced causing visor fogging
Solution Approach 1:
The mandible shield is divided into multiple segments or panels that are connected by hinges. This segmentation allows the shield to fold during storage while maintaining full coverage when deployed. The segmented structure creates channels that improve ventilation and prevent visor fogging.
Solution Approach 2:
The shield transitions from a static single-piece structure to a dynamic segmented structure with movable hinges. This allows the shield to adapt its configuration - providing full coverage when needed and creating ventilation channels when deployed, thereby preventing fogging.
4Strength
If a rigid single-piece mandible shield is used, then protection is improved, but storage efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mandible shield is divided into multiple segments or panels that are connected by hinges. This segmentation allows the shield to fold during storage while maintaining full coverage when deployed. The segmented structure creates channels that improve ventilation and prevent visor fogging.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented panels can be folded into a compact configuration that reduces the storage volume of the mandible shield, allowing it to be stored more efficiently when not in use.
Data Source
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AI summary
A mandible shield comprises at least one panel having a peripheral edge, an inner surface, and an outer surface. The at least one panel is comprised of a ballistics material. A frame is coupled to the at least one panel and covers the peripheral edge of the at least one panel. The frame has at least one window exposing at least a portion of the outer surface of the at least one panel. The frame is configured to at least partially extend over a mandible of a user when the frame is coupled to opposing lateral sides of a helmet.