Shin Guard with Hidden Closure and Calf Reinforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shin guards designed for sports like soccer and hockey are not suitable for combat sports as they do not adequately protect the opponent and can cause irritation or abrasions, and they lack protection for the instep, which is often used for striking.
Innovation Solution
A shin guard with a front padding attached to a sleeve, featuring a hidden closure system and a foot loop, made from elastic or neoprene material, with a reversibly attachable top portion to conceal the closure and prevent catching on clothing, and an optional cross-shaped calf reinforcement for added support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a closure system is used to secure the shin guard to the leg, then the shin guard is firmly attached and provides adequate protection, but the closure system may catch on clothing or cause irritation to the wearer and opponent
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is nested within the front padding structure. The front padding is positioned such that it covers and conceals the closure system at the top of the sleeve, allowing the closure to remain functional while being hidden from external contact. This nesting arrangement enables the closure system to secure the shin guard firmly while preventing it from catching on clothing or causing irritation.
2Reliability
If the front padding is attached along the entire length of the sleeve, then protection is maximized, but the closure system becomes exposed and vulnerable to catching on clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The front padding is segmented into an attached portion and a reversibly attachable top portion. The attached portion extends along the length of the sleeve from the instep upward, providing continuous protection. The top portion, which is reversibly attachable, can be detached to expose the closure system for securing, then reattached to conceal the closure system. This segmentation allows the padding to provide maximum protection while enabling the closure system to be concealed when not in use.
3Reliability
If a rigid shin guard structure is used, then protection is provided, but mobility and comfort are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The shin guard utilizes a flexible sleeve material that can be elastic or neoprene, allowing the guard to move with the wearer's leg rather than restricting movement. The front padding is attached to this flexible sleeve, creating a composite structure that maintains protection while accommodating leg motion. The reversible attachment of the top portion of the front padding allows for adjustment to optimize both protection and comfort during various movements.
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 shin guard provides enhanced protection and mobility for the wearer while reducing irritation to both the wearer and the opponent, with the hidden closure system preventing snagging and the calf reinforcement offering additional support during repeated foot flexion and extension.
Implementation Method 1
the sleeve is an elastic material or a neoprene material
Data Source
AI summary
A shin guard for combat sports is provided having increased protect for the wearer and the opponent. The shin guard has sleeve for surrounding the lower leg of the wearer and a front padding attached to the sleeve with a top portion reversibly secured which covers and hides a closure system. The shin guard may also have a calf reinforcement.