Removable Energy Absorbing Panels for Helmet Impact Dissipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current helmet designs rely heavily on two-stage energy absorption, with thick, rigid shells that are ineffective in dissipating impact energy, leading to inadequate protection against traumatic head injuries and concussions.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of additional energy-absorbing panels removably attached to the outer shell of helmets, strategically located to enhance impact energy absorption, which can include polyurethane foam covered with a protective layer and air flow channels for improved aerodynamics and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If thick, rigid shells are used to create a tough and durable helmet, then the helmet's durability and structural strength are improved, but the shell becomes ineffective in dissipating impact energy, transferring most energy to the absorption materials inside
Solution Approach 1:
The helmet shell is divided into multiple segments including a hard outer shell and multiple energy-absorbing panels attached to its outer surface. This segmentation allows the hard shell to maintain structural integrity while the attached panels provide additional energy dissipation through controlled deformation during impact
Solution Approach 2:
The helmet employs a composite structure combining a hard plastic shell (polycarbonate or ABS) with energy-absorbing panels made of polyurethane foam covered with protective material. This composite approach allows the hard shell to provide durability while the foam panels dissipate impact energy through compression
2Loss of energy
If energy-absorbing panels are added to the helmet, then impact energy absorption is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption system is segmented into removable panels that can be independently attached and detached from the helmet shell. This allows for simplified manufacturing and assembly, as well as easier replacement of individual panels without affecting the entire helmet structure
Solution Approach 2:
The energy-absorbing panels are designed to be removable and replaceable. When panels become depleted from absorbing impacts, they can be easily removed and replaced without replacing the entire helmet, reducing long-term costs and complexity
3Reliability
If energy-absorbing panels are added to the helmet, then protection against traumatic head injuries is improved, but the overall cost of the helmet increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the energy absorption system into separate removable panels, the manufacturing process is simplified. Panels can be manufactured independently using cost-effective materials like polyurethane foam, and only the necessary protective components need to be produced at high cost
Solution Approach 2:
The removable panel design allows for economical replacement of only the energy-absorbing components when they become depleted, rather than replacing the entire expensive helmet shell. This reduces long-term costs while maintaining high protection standards
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 additional energy-absorbing panels increase the helmet's ability to dissipate impact energy, reducing the risk of head injuries and improving cost efficiency by allowing for easier refurbishment and replacement.
Implementation Method 1
the materials inside the helmet further dissipate impact loads
Data Source
AI summary
An energy absorption system is provided with a plurality of energy absorbing panels that may be releasably connected to a helmet. The energy absorbing panels are provided with a plurality of air flow channels defining a plurality of energy absorption chambers. Each of the air flow channels is designed to direct air flow from an anterior of the helmet to a posterior of the helmet when the energy absorbing panels are connected to an outer shell of the helmet.