Protective Apparel Support Yoke for Weight Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current protective apparel systems, particularly helmets, are cumbersome and cause discomfort due to their weight and high center of gravity, restricting movement and vision, and often require external power sources for air circulation, which can lead to reduced battery life and ineffective air distribution.
Innovation Solution
A protective apparel support apparatus featuring a contoured yoke that rests on the torso, distributing the weight of the protective gear and incorporating an air circulation system with fans positioned away from the wearer's ears to improve ergonomics and airflow efficiency, while maintaining a clear field of vision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a helmet is used to support protective apparel, then protective coverage is improved, but weight and center of gravity increase causing discomfort and neck strain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the weight-bearing function from the helmet by introducing a separate support apparatus (backboard with shoulder straps) that transfers the load to the torso. The helmet retains only its protective function for the head, while the support apparatus carries the weight of the protective apparel and accessories.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into distinct functional components: the helmet for head protection, the face shield for facial protection, and the support apparatus (backboard with straps) for weight bearing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromising overall performance.
2Reliability
If a face shield is added to the helmet, then facial protection is improved, but field of vision is reduced and claustrophobic feeling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The face shield is designed to be detachable and adjustable, allowing the wearer to modify its position or remove it when not needed. This dynamic configuration enables the wearer to balance protection needs with visibility requirements during different phases of work.
3Reliability
If extensions are added to the face shield and protective apparel, then coverage is improved, but drag and neck strain increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support apparatus extracts the weight-bearing function from the neck and head region, transferring it to the torso through the backboard and shoulder straps. This allows extensions on the face shield and apparel to provide necessary coverage without compounding the strain on the wearer's neck.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a chin bar is added to couple helmet and apparel, then structural stability is improved, but field of vision is further limited and weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chin bar merges the helmet and protective apparel into a unified structure, ensuring they move together as a single protective system. This integration provides structural stability while the detachable nature of the face shield allows vision to be optimized when needed.
5Ease of operation
If fans are incorporated into the helmet for air circulation, then air flow is improved, but weight and center of gravity worsen and battery life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The air circulation system is extracted from the helmet structure and integrated into the support apparatus instead. This allows the fans to be positioned on the backboard where they can provide air circulation without adding weight to the helmet or affecting its center of gravity.
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
The solution provides a more comfortable, ergonomic fit with improved airflow and reduced weight distribution on the head, enhancing the wearer's mobility and visibility while maintaining a sterile field without the need for external power sources.
Implementation Method 1
The yoke 100 can be configured to rest on the wearer's shoulders and can support portions of the protective apparel and support apparatus. The yoke 100 can be configured to distribute a weight of the protective apparel and support apparatus about a torso of the wearer.
Implementation Method 2
The air circulation system can include a fan configured to move air from an exterior environment through the yoke 100 and into the enclosed barrier space.
Data Source
AI summary
A protective apparel support system is disclosed comprising a support frame configured to rest on the shoulders of a wearer, the support having a first shoulder member, a second shoulder member and a shield engagement portion. A shield is selectively coupleable to the support and protective apparel is coupled to the shield.