Mechanical Shock Detection Device for Wearable Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies for detecting traumatic brain injuries, such as concussions, require complex and costly sensor systems that are not economically viable for non-professional athletes, lacking simplicity and ease of integration into various wearable devices without the need for additional devices.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical shock detection device that can be easily integrated into wearable equipment, using calibrated components that break, bend, or deform upon experiencing a threshold shock, providing a visible or triggerable indication of a potentially injurious force, and can be designed for different activity levels and disposable for cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex sensor systems with electrical connections are used to detect traumatic brain injuries, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device separates the detection function into independent visual indicators that can be directly observed without complex electronics. Each shock detector element operates independently with simple mechanical components that translate shock forces into visible positional changes, eliminating the need for complex sensor systems while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces electronic sensor systems with a purely mechanical detection mechanism. Shock detectors use mechanical elements such as weights, springs, and position indicators that directly respond to shock forces through physical movement, eliminating the need for electrical connections, batteries, or electronic processing while providing clear visual feedback
2Reliability
If multiple sensors are implanted into helmets to detect different axial forces, then detection reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shock detectors are designed with universal applicability to detect shocks from multiple directions and magnitudes using the same basic mechanical principle. The devices can be strategically positioned within the helmet to cover different impact scenarios, providing comprehensive protection detection without requiring specialized sensors for each axis
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical shock detectors are self-contained units that automatically indicate shock events through visible positional changes without requiring external power sources, data processing systems, or additional electronic components. The mechanical elements self-regulate and provide immediate visual feedback when shock thresholds are exceeded
3Measurement precision
If electronic sensor devices are used for shock detection, then detection precision is improved, but ease of manufacture and cost-effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical shock detectors are designed as inexpensive, disposable components that can be easily manufactured and replaced. The simple mechanical construction using basic elements like weights, springs, and visual indicators allows for cost-effective production without complex electronics, making the devices accessible for widespread use in various protective equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The detection thresholds and sensitivity of the mechanical shock detectors can be adjusted by changing physical parameters such as weight mass, spring stiffness, or indicator positioning. This allows customization for different impact scenarios and protective equipment types without requiring complex electronic calibration, simplifying the manufacturing and adaptation process
4Measurement precision
If secondary remote devices are required for sensor operation, then detection capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shock detectors provide self-contained operation with immediate visual indicators that can be directly observed by the wearer or nearby individuals. The mechanical indicators automatically respond to shock events through visible positional changes, eliminating the need for remote devices, data transmission systems, or external monitoring equipment while providing clear real-time feedback
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
Enables cost-effective and simple detection of traumatic forces in wearable devices, suitable for various users, including children and amateur athletes, without the need for additional devices, and can be reused or replaced after triggering, addressing the economic and usability limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
one or more deformable supports disposed within the housing and operably connected to the suspended weight and to the housing. The deformable supports will break, bend, tear, or be otherwise deformed when a threshold shock is applied to the wearable equipment
Implementation Method 2
A suspended weight disposed within a housing by one or more deformable supports... When the wearable equipment is accelerated or decelerated to a high rate of acceleration over a short period of time, it can generate a significant force
Data Source
AI summary
The problem of detecting when a traumatic force has been sustained by the brain of an individual is solved by a shock detection device that can be installed in wearable equipment. The shock detection device can include one or more deformable supports that maintain at least one suspended weight at a specific location within a housing. When a shock of a pre-determined force is sustained by the equipment, the suspended weight and/or the one or more deformable supports will provide an indication that such a shock has occurred. Such indication can be a change in the position or state of the at least one suspended weight and/or the one or more deformable supports. Visual indicators can also be utilized to better signify when a sufficiently forceful shock has occurred.