Overlapping Inflatable Elements for Protective Device Shape Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protective devices with inflatable elements lack control over both the shape and inflation sequence, particularly in terms of height and thickness, as the inflation fluid expands uncontrolled within an open chamber.
Innovation Solution
The use of at least two partially overlapping inflatable elements with separate inflation chambers allows for precise control over the overall height and shape, as well as sequential or simultaneous inflation, enabling a multilayer structure with a desired profile and controlled inflation timing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a single bag with multiple textile structures of different thread lengths is used to control bag height and shape, then the shape control is improved, but the inflation sequence control deteriorates because the inflation fluid expands in an undifferentiated and uncontrolled manner
Solution Approach 1:
The single bag is divided into multiple separate inflatable elements, each with its own inflation chamber. This segmentation allows independent control of each element's inflation, enabling precise control over the inflation sequence while maintaining the desired bag shape through the arrangement of these segmented elements
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-dimensional textile structure arrangement to a three-dimensional multilayer structure where inflatable elements are stacked and joined together. This dimensional change enables both shape control through layer arrangement and inflation sequence control through separate chambers in the vertical dimension
2Length of moving object
If multiple textile structures with different thread lengths are joined to form a single bag, then the height control is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple textile structures and joining requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces complex multi-structure textile assemblies with simpler inflatable elements made of flexible shell materials. Each element is a complete, self-contained inflatable unit with integrated textile reinforcement, eliminating the need for multiple separate textile structures and their complex joining requirements while maintaining height control through element selection and arrangement
3Ease of manufacture
If the inflation chamber is completely open to allow free expansion, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the control over inflation sequence and timing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The single open inflation chamber is segmented into multiple separate inflation chambers, one for each inflatable element. Each chamber can be manufactured independently with simpler construction, yet the collection of chambers enables precise inflation timing control through selective activation of individual chambers or groups of chambers
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
This solution provides a protective device with precise control over the height and shape of the inflatable element, ensuring accurate inflation timing and dimensions, enhancing protection by allowing for a controlled inflation sequence and overall thickness.
Implementation Method 1
a gas generator (4) operatively connected to said at least two inflatable elements (12, 13, 14) so as to inflate said at least two inflatable elements (12, 13, 14)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
A protective device (10, 110) for the personal protection of a user is described. The device includes a first inflatable element (12) provided with a respective inner chamber (3a) and a second inflatable element (13) provided with a respective inner chamber (3b). Each inflatable element (12, 13, 14) is adapted to assume a deflated rest condition and an active inflated condition in the event of the fall of said user and/or in the event of danger or impact of said user against an obstacle. Each inflatable element (12, 13, 14) includes a plurality of tie elements (5) distributed in the inner chamber (3a, 3b) and at least partially acts to assume a tension condition when the inflatable element is in an inflated condition. The tie elements (5) are fixed to respective surface portions of the respective inflatable element (12, 13, 14). At least in said inflated condition, said first inflatable element and said second inflatable element are overlapped and define a multilayer inflatable structure.