Ballistic Shield Sling Weight Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The weight and size of ballistic shields pose challenges for law enforcement and military personnel, leading to fatigue and decreased mobility during extended use, which compromises effective utilization of the shield in dynamic situations.
Innovation Solution
A shield sling apparatus with adjustable straps and buckles that allows for ambidextrous use, providing support for the weight of the ballistic shield and allowing users to distribute the weight away from their hands and arms to their back and shoulders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If ballistic shields are constructed from heavy materials such as hardened steel or ceramic composites to withstand high-velocity impacts, then protective capability is improved, but user fatigue and decreased mobility occur during extended use
Solution Approach 1:
The shield support system is divided into multiple components including a shoulder strap, elbow support, and hand grip, distributing the weight-bearing function across different body parts rather than concentrating it in one location. This segmentation allows the heavy shield to be supported through multiple contact points throughout the user's body.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional hand-held shield support to a three-dimensional weight distribution system that engages the shoulder, elbow, and hand simultaneously. By adding vertical and diagonal support elements (shoulder strap extending to elbow support), the system creates a spatial framework that distributes weight across multiple dimensions of the user's body.
2Area of stationary object
If ballistic shields are designed with large size and heavy materials to provide adequate coverage and protection, then protective coverage is improved, but ease of manipulation and mobility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support system incorporates dynamic elements including an adjustable shoulder strap with glide buckle that allows movement and repositioning, and a flexible elbow support that can adapt to different arm positions. These dynamic components enable the user to manipulate the shield more easily while maintaining support during various operational positions and movements.
3Device complexity
If traditional hand-held shield support is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but user fatigue increases and extended use becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The shield support system is divided into multiple components including a shoulder strap, elbow support, and hand grip, distributing the weight-bearing function across different body parts rather than concentrating it in one location. This segmentation allows the heavy shield to be supported through multiple contact points throughout the user's body, reducing fatigue and enabling extended use.
4Device complexity
If fixed shoulder strap configuration is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different users and situations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The shoulder strap incorporates a glide buckle mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of strap length and position. This dynamic feature enables the same strap configuration to adapt to different user sizes, preferences, and operational situations, including ambidextrous use, without requiring multiple fixed configurations or complex adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A sling for use with a ballistic shield, wherein the sling may be fastened with a release buckle and tightened. Excess strap may be secured in a glide buckle and can be trimmed to fit. An optional security webbing loop adds stability against strap sliding. Ambidextrous buckles near the handle grip allow versatile connection and use. The shoulder strap hooks onto the lower strap, enhancing stability.