Modular Bicycle Helmet Impact-Absorbing Structures in Lateral Compression

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bicycle helmets lack efficient systems for adjusting fit and mounting accessories, and their impact absorption structures can be improved for enhanced safety and versatility.

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 of accessories and customizable fit adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpact protectionVSAvoidstructure 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) with different geometries positioned at different locations within the helmet shell. Each structure independently absorbs impact energy from different directions, providing comprehensive protection while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different impact absorbing structures are strategically positioned at specific locations within the helmet shell to address local impact risks. The first structure is positioned to absorb impacts from a first direction, the second from a second direction, and the third from a third direction, creating localized protection zones throughout the helmet.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If modular impact absorbing structures are implemented, then safety and impact absorption are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpact absorptionVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The impact absorbing layer is divided into multiple separate modular structures that can be independently manufactured and then assembled into the helmet shell. This segmentation allows each structure to be produced using standard manufacturing processes, simplifying production while enabling complex overall geometry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular impact absorbing structures serve multiple functions: they absorb impact energy from specific directions, provide structural support at critical locations, and can be easily replaced or adjusted. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable fit systems are added, then fit customization and comfort are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefit customizationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fit system incorporates adjustable elements that allow dynamic modification of the helmet's fit to the rider's head. The adjustable elements enable the helmet to adapt to different head sizes and shapes, providing a customized fit while maintaining a relatively simple overall system design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If accessory mounting mechanisms are integrated, then versatility and functionality are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessory mountingVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The helmet shell is designed with integrated accessory mounting mechanisms that allow various accessories to be attached to different locations on the helmet. These mounting points are incorporated into the existing shell structure, enabling multi-functionality without requiring separate attachment systems.

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

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 safety by improving impact absorption and fit customization, while providing versatile mounting options for accessories, thereby increasing user convenience and functionality.

Implementation Method 1

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

PatentUS12414597B2Bicycle helmet with modular impact absorbing structures
Publication Date: 2025.09.16 SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS INC
  • US12414597B2 patent drawing
  • US12414597B2 patent drawing
  • US12414597B2 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.