W H A T I S A G Y R O S C O P I C M E C H A N I S M ?
A gyroscopic mechanism consists of more than one sub-assembly, and the motion of one sub-assembly can be isolated from the motion of the other sub-assembly. Through a series of linkages that are hinged with each other, where all hinged components are assisted by elastomeric torsional spring action, the impact on the exterior surface of the helmet can be substantially reduced. By forcing transmitted impact to transfer through a series of two-force-linkages, the impact force can be dismantled into arrays of smaller component forces.
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G O A L O F T H I S P R O D U C T
The goal of this product is to better protect players' heads. Modern football helmets have created this illusion that once put on, a player is safe. Sadly, that is far from true. Modern football helmets contain a thin layer of protective layer between the head and the impact, allowing the head to rattle upon impact. With my concept, I am hoping to create a helmet that can absorb the full-force impact before it can reach the head, keeping it stable and neutralized. The fewer rattles or sudden movements the brain experiences, the fewer concussions, and the better a players' health will be.
By relating the concept of gyroscopic motion, I was able to isolate the impact force from the head. The transition of the force from the impact point through the hinge and eventually being dissipated is the ideal situation. Modern helmets lack this feature and therefore do not protect players sufficiently. |
T H E K N E E - J O I N T S P R I N G M E C H A N I S M
This mechanism is the key component in my helmet concept. There are three sub-assemblies in this mechanism - the ball & socket, the joint, and the spring. The ball & socket allows the join to move freely. This is crucial because it will allow any impact force to be dissipated away from the head. The joint and spring work together to absorb the impact. For example, if a force is applied on the top of the helmet, instead of the force traveling through and straight to the head, this mechanism will absorb the force, diverting it to dissipate around the head. The ball & socket allow the force to be dissipated in any direction away from the head. This spreads the force, increasing the area on which it was applied. By the time the force reaches the head, it is completely dissipated or very minimal.
In the pictures below, you will be able to see photos of the helmet prototype. There is another layer that will be covering the knee-joint springs but for the sake of visuality, it was removed. If you click on the video sample, you will also be able to view a short clip of the knee-joint spring mechanism moving in action.
In the pictures below, you will be able to see photos of the helmet prototype. There is another layer that will be covering the knee-joint springs but for the sake of visuality, it was removed. If you click on the video sample, you will also be able to view a short clip of the knee-joint spring mechanism moving in action.