Strap shock absorber
AssigneeConcussion Resources, LLC
InventorMark B. Hallett
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A system with a shock absorbing device shaped to fit onto straps of any size, introducing low amplitude shock absorption into the strap fixation system without compromising the fixation. The present device essentially takes up a small amount of slack in the strap and stores it within a serpentine course through a body made of a deformable material. In the event that increased and potentially damaging loads are experienced, the Strap Shock-Absorber deforms, but the fixation never exceeds the length of the strap itself. With potential applications ranging from chin straps to industrial straps, working in one or two dimensions, this device can reduce damaging force transmission to protect valuable but vulnerable structures. The deformation of the device may be either elastic or plastic, or may be a combination of both.
Claims13
A shock absorbing device, comprising:
- a body constructed from a deformable material, the body having a first lateral side having a first central axis and a second lateral side having a second central axis and the body having a first outer surface generally defined by a first plane generally intersecting a top surface of the first lateral side and a top surface of the second lateral side and a second outer surface generally defined by a second plane generally intersecting a bottom surface of the first lateral side and a bottom surface of the second lateral side,
- a plurality of ribs extending from an inner surface of the first side to an inner surface of the second side each rib having a top surface and a bottom surface, and
- a plurality of spaces defined by adjacent ribs;
- and
- a chin strap for a helmet extending through the spaces and having a first end extending beyond a first end of the body and a second end extending beyond a second end of the body;
- wherein the first outer surface and top surface of each rib are generally coplanar in relation to one another when the chin strap is not subjected to a load;
- wherein the second outer surface and bottom surface of each rib are generally coplanar in relation to one another when the chin strap is not subjected to a load;
- and
- wherein adjacent ribs are deflected in generally opposite directions when the chin strap is subjected to a load.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.