Wearable Protection Case With Fixed Inflatable Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable protection devices are not adequately positioned, structurally robust, and cost-effective, while also lacking flexibility for different body parts and quick assembly.
Innovation Solution
A protection device comprising inflatable elements with segments fixed to a case by seams, allowing for correct positioning and operation, made from durable materials like polyurethane and PVC, with a simple assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the inflatable bag is directly housed in a pocket of a garment, then the structure is simple, but the positioning is not correct and operation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable element is divided into multiple segments (first segment, second segment, etc.) that can be independently positioned and attached to the garment. Each segment has attachment portions that can be separately secured to different locations on the garment, enabling precise positioning while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The inflatable element is nested within a protective housing that has a recessed portion. The housing provides structural support and correct positioning while the inflatable element remains contained within it. This nested arrangement ensures proper positioning without significantly increasing device complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple attachment portions are provided at garment seams, then positioning is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable element is segmented with each segment having its own attachment portions. This segmentation allows multiple attachment points to be distributed across the garment without requiring a complex centralized attachment system. Each segment can be independently attached, simplifying the overall attachment mechanism while achieving reliable positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment portions are designed to be self-attaching to the garment seams through simple mechanical means such as loops, tabs, or Velcro. This self-service approach eliminates the need for complex attachment mechanisms or additional fastening components, achieving reliable positioning without significantly increasing device complexity.
3Reliability
If segments are fixed to first and second covers, then positioning and operation are ensured, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second covers are merged into a single protective housing structure that contains the inflatable element. The segments are fixed to this unified housing rather than to separate covers, simplifying the manufacturing process. The housing is formed as a single piece or pre-assembled unit, reducing the number of assembly steps while ensuring correct positioning and operation of the inflatable segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The segments are pre-attached to the housing during the housing fabrication process rather than being attached separately afterward. This preliminary action integrates the segment attachment into the main manufacturing flow, eliminating additional assembly steps. The housing is designed with built-in attachment features that are formed during molding or fabrication, ensuring correct positioning without increasing manufacturing complexity.
4Strength
If durable materials like polyurethane and PVC are used, then structural robustness is improved, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thickness and density parameters of the polyurethane and PVC materials are optimized to achieve the minimum required structural robustness. Rather than using uniformly thick high-grade materials throughout, the material parameters are varied locally - thicker and denser in high-stress areas, thinner and less dense in low-stress areas. This parameter optimization maintains structural robustness while reducing overall material cost.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the protective housing and inflatable elements use different material grades and thicknesses based on their functional requirements. High-stress contact areas use durable polyurethane and PVC, while non-critical areas use less expensive materials. This local quality approach ensures structural robustness where needed while minimizing production costs in less critical regions.
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
Ensures safe, flexible, and robust impact protection for various body parts with efficient production and assembly, maintaining correct positioning and operation.
Implementation Method 1
The inflatable element (2) is configurable between: a deflated condition where the first and second portions of at least one wall of each segment, for a preponderant part of its surface extension, are close and at least partially in contact with each other, an inflated condition where the first and second portions of the at least one wall of each segment, for a preponderant portion of its surface extension, are spaced apart
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable protection device including an inflatable element having a plurality of side-by-side segments and configurable between a deflated condition and an inflated condition. The protection device includes a case defining a compartment in which the plurality of segments is housed. The case includes a first and a second cover in sheet material, at least partially opposite to each other.