Protective Mantel Accessory Hub for Carrier-Swapping Mobility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing body armor systems often require repositioning and reattachment of accessories when switching between different armor carriers, compromising mobility and comfort.

Innovation Solution

A modular body armor system featuring a primary yoke and accessory hub that allows for removable attachment of armor carriers and accessories, including a sliding attachment point and elastic materials for articulation, enabling seamless transition between armor configurations without repositioning accessories.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If accessories are attached to the armor carrier in existing systems, then the armor carrier provides protection, but the accessories must be repositioned and reattached when switching carriers, compromising mobility and comfort

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemobility and comfortVSAvoidtime for repositioning and reattachment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into three main segments: the accessory hub (with attachment points), the armor carrier, and the accessories. This segmentation allows the accessory hub to remain attached to the carrier while accessories are securely mounted to the hub, enabling independent replacement of carriers without disturbing accessory positions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The accessory hub acts as an intermediary component between the armor carrier and the accessories. It provides a stable interface that remains attached to the carrier, allowing accessories to maintain their positions while the carrier can be replaced or adjusted without affecting accessory placement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a modular system allows switching between armor carriers, then adaptability is improved, but the complexity of attachment mechanisms increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to switch between armor carriersVSAvoidcomplexity of attachment mechanisms

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The accessory hub is designed with universal attachment points that can interface with multiple different armor carrier types. This multi-functionality allows the same hub and accessory configuration to work with various carriers, providing adaptability without requiring complex carrier-specific attachment mechanisms for each accessory.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment mechanism incorporates dynamic elements such as elastic materials and sliding attachment points that allow for adjustment and adaptation during movement. This enables the system to maintain secure attachment while accommodating different carrier configurations and movement dynamics.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If elastic materials are used for articulation, then mobility is enhanced, but the reliability of secure attachment may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovemobilityVSAvoidsecure attachment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Elastic materials are incorporated into the attachment mechanism to provide dynamic adjustment capabilities. These materials allow the attachment points to flex and adapt during movement, enhancing mobility while maintaining secure attachment through the elastic recovery force that keeps components firmly connected.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment mechanism utilizes changes in elastic material properties (such as tension and compression) to adapt to different movement states. This allows the system to maintain reliable attachment across a range of motion by dynamically adjusting the attachment force through elastic deformation and recovery.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 mobility and comfort by allowing accessories to remain attached to the armor carrier, providing a modular system that adapts to different armor configurations without the need for repeated attachment and detachment.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic material disposed within the opening, wherein the elastic material allows the opening to expand and contract

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20250244106A1Protective mantel and accessory hub

Publication Date: 2025.07.31 POINT BLANK ENTERPRISES

AI summary

A protective mantel and accessory hub includes a primary yoke configured to be worn underneath an armor carrier. Sliding attachment points removably connect the armor carrier to the upper protector to allow for mobility and articulation. Accessories such as a throat guard and deltoid guards are removably attached to the mantel. Shoulder suspension members are inserted into the primary yoke to support and distribute the weight of the armor carrier. The armor carrier includes a magnetically attachable front accessory panel and zippered pouches on the front and back to receive and retain body armor plates.