Segmented Knee Pad Frame with Flexible Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Occupational knee pads that extend to the foot are heavy and cumbersome, making them unsuitable for all work settings, while shorter pads lack durability and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A molded support frame with upper and lower sections connected by a flexible connector, featuring ribbing for strength and flexibility, modular components for secure assembly, and angled buckle mounts and strap retention guides for comfortable positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the knee pad extends from the knee to the foot to distribute body weight, then the weight distribution and protection are improved, but the knee pad becomes heavy and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The knee pad is divided into two main sections: an upper section that extends from the knee and a lower section that ends above the foot, separated by a flexible connector. This segmentation allows the pad to provide weight distribution protection where needed while reducing the overall length and weight of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible connector is introduced between the upper and lower sections, allowing dynamic adjustment and movement. This enables the knee pad to adapt to user movements while maintaining protection, and the lower section can be positioned optimally without extending to the foot, reducing unnecessary weight.
2Ease of operation
If the knee pad is made shorter to reduce weight and cumbersome nature, then the ease of movement is improved, but the durability and form-holding capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Ribbing is added to both the upper and lower sections to provide localized structural reinforcement. This allows the shorter knee pad to maintain durability and form-holding capability in critical areas without requiring the entire pad to be longer and heavier.
Solution Approach 2:
The knee pad combines different materials and structural features: a molded frame with ribbing for structural integrity, a flexible connector for adaptability, and a cushion for comfort. This composite approach allows the shorter design to achieve both durability and ease of movement.
3Ease of operation
If the knee pad is made flexible to accommodate movement, then the ease of operation is improved, but the ability to hold form and maintain position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Ribbing is strategically added to the upper and lower sections to provide localized structural support. This allows the knee pad to be flexible where needed while maintaining form and position in critical areas during movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible connector between the upper and lower sections provides dynamic flexibility to accommodate knee movement, while the ribbed structure in each section maintains local form stability. This dynamic design allows the pad to adapt to movement while holding its form.
Data Source
AI summary
A knee pad support frame that is a molded component having an upper section and lower section that are coupled together by a flexible connector. The upper section has a knee pocket shape and both the upper and lower sections have ribbing to provide the necessary strength and rigidity. Additional molded components are provided for attaching the frame to the other knee pad components such as a cushion, cover and securing strap.