Modular Wetsuit with Ridge Connectors for Watertight Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wetsuits require separate garments for different configurations, limiting versatility and necessitating multiple purchases based on aquatic conditions or personal preferences, with zippers being inadequate for a watertight connection.
Innovation Solution
A modular, dynamically reconfigurable wetsuit system featuring a torso part with connectors and interchangeable arm and leg parts, utilizing a joint system with outward-facing ridges and fasteners for detachable, watertight connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a zipper is used to provide a closer fitting of the wetsuit, then the fit is improved, but the connection becomes inadequate for joining two separate components due to leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The wetsuit is divided into separate modular components (torso piece, arm pieces, leg pieces) that can be independently connected and disconnected. Each component has standardized connectors that enable reliable watertight joining while maintaining ease of donning and doffing.
Solution Approach 2:
A connector mechanism serves as an intermediary between separate wetsuit components. This connector includes a sealing element that bridges the gap between components, preventing water leakage while allowing easy attachment and detachment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate wetsuit garments are used for different configurations, then the fit for specific conditions is improved, but the quantity of garments required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wetsuit is segmented into interchangeable modules (torso, arms, legs) that can be reconfigured to create different coverage configurations. This allows a single set of components to replace multiple complete wetsuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system provides universal compatibility across all wetsuit components, enabling any arm or leg piece to be attached to the torso piece. This multi-functional system allows one wetsuit set to serve multiple purposes and configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular connector system is implemented, then the adaptability and reconfigurability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system concentrates complexity only at the connection points between components, while the main body pieces remain simple. Each connector is designed with specific local features (ridges, sealing elements) that enable reliable connection without complicating the overall wetsuit design.
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamically configurable wetsuit includes a torso part having a pair of partial arm sleeves and a pair of partial leg pants. A distal end of each of the pair of partial arm sleeves and the pair of partial leg pants has a first connector that includes a set of outward-facing ridges. The wetsuit further includes a pair of arm parts and a pair of leg parts. Each of the pair of arm parts and the pair of leg parts having a second connector at a proximal end for detachable connection with one of the first connectors of the torso part, each second connector including a set of inward-facing ridges. The wetsuit further includes a fastener system to maintain a connection between the first and second connectors.