Vacuum Bladder Locking for Conforming Athletic Equipment Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional articles of athletic equipment, such as pads and protective gear, lack the ability to lock the size or shape to a wearer's body part, making it difficult to achieve an optimum fit.
Innovation Solution
A locking structure incorporating a bladder with elastic elements and locking elements that transition between an unlocked and locked state via fluid pressure adjustment, allowing the equipment to conform to the wearer's body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adjustable straps are used to secure the article, then the article can be adjusted to different sizes, but the receiving body cannot conform to the wearer's body part
Solution Approach 1:
The locking structure transitions from a static adjustable design to a dynamic locked state. The bladder expands under vacuum pressure to push locking elements into engagement, transforming the receiving body from a flexible but non-conforming structure to a locked structure that actively conforms to and secures the wearer's body part with precision.
Solution Approach 2:
A vacuum pump creates negative pressure within the bladder, causing the bladder to expand and push locking elements into a locked position. This pneumatic mechanism enables the receiving body to transition from an adjustable state to a locked state, achieving precise conforming fit around the wearer's body part.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the receiving body is made flexible to accommodate various sizes, then adaptability is improved, but the ability to lock and conform to a specific body part is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two states: a flexible adjustable state for size accommodation and a locked conforming state for reliability. The locking elements remain disengaged during adjustment, allowing flexibility, then engage under vacuum pressure to provide reliable locking and conforming fit.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum pressure parameter changes the physical state of the bladder from relaxed to expanded, which in turn changes the position of locking elements from disengaged to engaged. This parameter change enables the system to transition between flexible and locked states, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and locking reliability.
3Ease of operation
If conventional straps are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but the ability to create a customized fit is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum pump automatically inflates the bladder and engages the locking elements without manual intervention. The system self-adjusts and locks the receiving body to conform precisely to the wearer's body part, maintaining ease of operation while achieving customized fit through automated vacuum-induced locking.
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
Provides a snug and customized fit by constricting around the body part, enhancing comfort and support.
Implementation Method 1
A vacuum pump is attached to the exterior of the article and operable to remove fluid from the interior void of the bladder
Implementation Method 2
at least one elastic element disposed within the interior void
Data Source
AI summary
A locking structure for an article includes a bladder including a first barrier element attached to a second barrier element to define a chamber having an interior void. A locking system includes locking elements that each attach to at least one elastic element. The locking elements each include at least one interface surface. The interior void of the bladder operable between a first pressure to move the locking system to a locked state and a second pressure to move the locking system to an unlocked state.