Modular Bicycle Helmet Impact Structure for Fit and Accessory Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bicycle helmets lack efficient systems for adjusting fit and mounting accessories while providing optimal impact absorption and structural integrity.

Innovation Solution

A bicycle helmet design featuring modular impact absorbing structures, adjustable fit systems, and accessory mounting mechanisms, including a visor with a removable panel, an accessory mount, and an adjusting assembly that allows for secure attachment and removal of accessories, and an impact absorbing layer with lateral compression interfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a hard outer shell and impact absorbing inner shell are used, then impact absorption is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpact absorptionVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The impact absorbing layer is segmented into multiple independent impact absorbing structures (first, second, third structures) that can be laterally compressed and positioned independently within the helmet body. Each structure has engagement portions that interface with the outer shell separately, allowing modular assembly and independent optimization of each segment's impact absorption characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If adjustable fit systems are added, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefit adjustmentVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fit system includes an adjustable assembly with a dial mechanism that enables dynamic adjustment of the helmet's internal volume and strap tension. The dial can be rotated to tighten or loosen the fit, and the system includes movable components that allow the helmet to adapt to different head sizes and shapes while maintaining a secure fit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If accessory mounting mechanisms are added, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessory mountingVSAvoidmounting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The outer shell incorporates universal mounting structures with engagement portions that can accommodate multiple types of accessories (lights, cameras, sensors). These mounting structures are integrated into the helmet's existing impact absorbing framework, allowing a single system to serve both protective and accessory mounting functions without requiring separate dedicated mounting mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Ease of manufacture

If modular impact absorbing structures are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly easeVSAvoidinterface precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The impact absorbing layer is divided into discrete modular structures that can be manufactured separately and then assembled into the helmet body. Each structure includes engagement portions with interfaces designed to mate with corresponding features in the outer shell, enabling independent manufacturing of components followed by precise assembly through lateral compression and engagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement portions serve as intermediary elements between the impact absorbing structures and the outer shell. These engagement portions include interfaces that mediate the connection, allowing for precise positioning and secure attachment while accommodating minor variations in manufacturing tolerances through the lateral compression mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enhances fit customization, facilitates easy accessory mounting, and improves impact absorption by utilizing modular structures that securely integrate with the helmet's outer shell, ensuring enhanced safety and user convenience.

Implementation Method 1

an impact absorbing layer positioned on an interior side of the outer shell, the impact absorbing layer comprising a first impact absorbing structure having a first interface and a second impact absorbing structure having a second interface in lateral compression against the first interface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLateral compression: Compression

Data Source

PatentUS20250374987A1Bicycle helmet with modular impact absorbing structures
Publication Date: 2025.12.11 SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS INC
  • US20250374987A1 patent drawing
  • US20250374987A1 patent drawing
  • US20250374987A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A helmet includes an outer shell having an interior and an exterior and an impact absorbing layer positioned on the interior of the outer shell. The impact absorbing layer includes a first impact absorbing structure having a first interface and a second impact absorbing structure having a second interface in lateral compression against the first interface.