Segmented Shock Absorbing Elements for Knee Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing body part protection devices with single shock absorbing elements provide limited protection and restrict movement, especially for individuals who need to kneel or engage in activities involving prolonged contact with hard surfaces, leading to pain and injury.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising multiple discrete shock absorbing elements between a body part contact portion and a surface contact portion, allowing for superior protection and mobility by distributing weight and pressure more effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single shock absorbing element is used, then the device structure is simple, but the protection capability is limited and movement is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single shock absorbing element into multiple discrete shock absorbing elements (at least two) that are distributed between the body part contact portion and surface contact portion. This segmentation allows each element to independently absorb shock, thereby enhancing overall protection capability while maintaining structural simplicity through modular design
2Ease of operation
If a single shock absorbing element is used, then the device structure is simple, but movement freedom is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the shock absorption function into multiple discrete elements, the device allows greater degrees of freedom in movement. Each discrete element can deform independently, enabling the device to accommodate various movement directions and types while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The discrete shock absorbing elements are designed to be deformable, allowing the device to dynamically adapt to different movement scenarios. This dynamic characteristic enables movement freedom while the modular structure keeps the overall device simple
3Reliability
If multiple discrete shock absorbing elements are used, then protection capability is superior, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements segmentation by using multiple discrete shock absorbing elements that can be independently positioned and sized. This allows superior protection through distributed shock absorption while maintaining structural simplicity via modular, standardized components
Solution Approach 2:
Different discrete shock absorbing elements can be positioned at specific locations to address local protection needs. This local quality approach enhances overall protection capability while allowing the rest of the device structure to remain simple and uncluttered
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 device effectively reduces pain and injury from prolonged contact with hard surfaces while enabling comfortable movement, as demonstrated by its ability to absorb a significant percentage of pressure exerted on the body part, thereby enhancing protection and mobility.
Implementation Method 1
the protective mechanism is based on the deformation of a material with limited elasticity
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of discrete shock absorbing elements disposed therebetween
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides body part protectors which comprise multiple discrete and optionally removable/replaceable shock absorbing elements. The body part protectors of this invention offer superior protection to body parts such as knees and elbows as compared to other devices and/or those devices which comprise single shock absorbing elements.