Bridging Device for Vest Load Weight Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support systems for carrying loads over bullet-resistant vests are ineffective due to the vest's thickness and layered structure, which creates a gap between the user's torso and the lumbar belt, preventing proper weight distribution and relief from the shoulders to the hips.
Innovation Solution
A bridging device with a first axle coupled to the load and a second axle connected to a support element, such as a lumbar belt, using adjustable connecting elements to maintain tension and bridge the gap between the vest and the support element, allowing for secure and stable weight distribution across the user's body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a lumbar belt is used to support the load, then weight distribution is improved, but the vest's thickness creates a gap that prevents the lumbar belt from binding properly to the torso
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a bridging device as an intermediary component between the lumbar belt and the load. This bridging device includes a rigid bridge element that spans the gap created by the vest thickness, allowing the lumbar belt to effectively bind to the load despite the intervening vest layers. The bridge element transfers forces between the lumbar belt and the load, resolving the contradiction by providing a mechanical connection that overcomes the gap problem.
2Strength
If the vest thickness is increased for better protection, then protection capability is improved, but the gap between torso and vest increases, reducing support element effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses the gap problem by introducing a spatial dimension solution - the bridging device extends in the dimension perpendicular to the vest surface, spanning the gap created by vest thickness. This allows the support system to maintain effectiveness regardless of vest thickness variations, as the bridge element adapts to the specific gap dimension in each configuration.
3Force
If a rigid bridge structure is used to span the gap, then weight distribution is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the bridging device into distinct functional components: a rigid bridge element for spanning the gap, connection interfaces for the lumbar belt, and attachment points for the load. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall design by breaking down the complex function of weight distribution across the vest gap into manageable structural elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A bridging device for securing a load carried by a user over a vest having interior side facing the user and exterior side facing away from the user that comprises a first axle capable of being coupled to the load in an area proximal to the exterior side, a second axle capable of being coupled to a support element worn by the user in an area proximal to the interior side; and at least one connecting element connecting the first axle to the second axle, wherein the connecting element is capable of maintaining a tension between the load and the support element.