Quick Release Connector for Sports Helmet Faceguard
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sports helmets face difficulties in quickly and efficiently removing the faceguard for medical access due to the use of threaded fasteners requiring rotational forces, and their internal padding systems fail to accommodate anatomical variations effectively.
Innovation Solution
A helmet design featuring a quick-release faceguard connector assembly with a releasable coupler mechanism using a pin, sleeve, spring, and washer for rapid detachment, and an adjustable padding system with an inflatable bladder and pad member for improved fit and impact protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded fasteners are used to secure the faceguard to the shell, then the faceguard can be securely attached, but removal requires rotational force and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separate components: a threaded fastener for secure attachment, a coupler mechanism with movable head for quick release, and a faceguard. This segmentation allows the attachment and release functions to be performed by different mechanisms, resolving the contradiction between secure attachment and quick removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler mechanism acts as an intermediary between the threaded fastener and the faceguard. It translates a simple linear pushing motion into the rotational motion needed to loosen the threaded fastener, enabling quick release without requiring the end user to perform rotational movements.
2Strength
If conventional threaded connectors are used, then the faceguard remains securely connected during play, but rapid disconnection for medical access is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler mechanism serves as an intermediary that converts a simple pushing action into the complex rotational motion required to loosen the threaded fastener. This allows rapid disconnection with minimal effort while maintaining strong connection during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler mechanism dynamically changes the type of motion required for operation. During attachment, the threaded fastener provides static secure connection. During removal, the movable head transforms linear pushing motion into rotational loosening motion, making the operation dynamic and adaptable to different phases of use.
3Device complexity
If fixed internal padding is used, then the helmet structure is simple, but it fails to accommodate anatomical variations among wearers
Solution Approach 1:
The padding system transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic adjustable system. The movable pad members can be positioned at different locations and angles, allowing the same helmet to adapt to different head shapes and sizes while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple pad members are merged into a coordinated system controlled by a single inflatable bladder. This allows complex adjustments to be achieved through a simple single-action inflation mechanism, balancing structural simplicity with adaptability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pad members are used to accommodate head anatomy, then fit customization is improved, but the padding structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple pad members are merged into a unified system driven by a single inflatable bladder. This allows complex multi-point adjustments to be achieved through a simple single-action inflation mechanism, effectively reducing the operational complexity despite having multiple adjustable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The inflatable bladder serves multiple functions: it simultaneously adjusts the position and angle of multiple pad members, providing comprehensive fit customization through a single universal mechanism rather than requiring separate controls for each pad.
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
Enables rapid removal of the faceguard without rotational forces, enhancing medical access and providing a customizable fit that cradles the head for improved impact protection by accommodating anatomical variations.
Implementation Method 1
a spring that applies an inwardly directed biasing force to the pin
Implementation Method 2
an inflatable bladder residing between the helmet and the pad member
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to an improved sports helmet including a quick release connector assembly for the faceguard that allows for rapid disconnection of the faceguard from the helmet shell. The connector includes a bracket, and a coupler mechanism featuring an elongated pin, a head component, a spring, a retractable engaging element and a washer. The connector assembly is moveable between a use position, wherein the faceguard is secured to the shell by the bracket and the coupler mechanism, and a released position wherein the bracket and the faceguard are disconnected from the shell. An inwardly directed actuation force that lacks a rotational component is applied to the elongated pin to move from the use position to the released position.