CONCEPTUALIZATION & PROTOTYPING

ALPHA PROTOTYPE

SKETCH

Scale 1:2

Concept Idea Sketch

ALPHA PROTO

Scale 1:1

Moving D Flap | Clamp | Dial

CAD MODEL

Scale 1:1

Average Head Size- 55cm

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the alpha prototype is to demonstrate the basic design concept, its construction and basic functioning of the idea. The helmet holder securely grips/holds the helmet in a secured position on the bike(specifically the top rod of the bike frame) and locks the helmet on the bike itself. Providing a security system for the user to secure the helmet safely on the bike. Eventually, improving the portability, convenience and safety of helmets as well the user while riding a bike.

PRINCIPLE

The alpha prototype of the selected concept works upon the ‘Torsion Spring’ mechanism. Torsion springs are helical springs that exert a torque or rotary force. The ends of a torsion spring are attached to other components, in our prototype it is the D-Flaps and when those components rotate around the center of the spring, the spring tries to push them back to their original position. They can store and release angular energy or statically hold a mechanism in place by deflecting the legs about the body centerline axis.

CONSTRUCTION

The complete assembly has one mounting component, two moving parts and a locking mechanism. The Cycle Clamp rests on the bike rod and is bolted to the same. D- Flaps are connected to Cycle Clamp with a pin and a Torsion Spring is fitted between D-Flaps and the Cycle Clamp. The wires extend from the spring to the Dial and a top cover rests on the Dial.

The Alpha prototype consists of following parts-

Cycle Clamp - This is used for mounting it on a bike rod. It is supposed to be bolted and has two slots for mounting on the bike rod. It also has four round hinge slots for attaching the D-Flaps on either side and serves as the very base of the whole assembly.
D- Flap - They are used for gripping the helmet from inside and keeping it in the locked position on the bike. It consists of a unique shape that is extended on the upper sides that serves the purpose of larger surface area to be covered in order to grip the helmet efficiently. It is 2 in quantity and plays a major role in the process of holding and securing the helmet at its position.
Dial - The dial serves the purpose of rotating the D-flaps to grip the helmet from inside. It has the basic mechanical key lock mechanism that keeps the the flaps locked in their position.
Torsional Spring - The two springs are mounted on the junction of D-Flaps and Cycle Clamp, together held by pin.
Pin - The assembly consists of two pins that connects the D- Flaps and the Cycle Clamp together.

Cycle Clamp

D- Flap

Torsional Spring

Dial

Pin

WORKING

In the normal/ideal state, the D Flaps are in vertical position to the base/cycle clamp . At this stage, the helmet is placed on the D-Flaps and the dial is rotated in clockwise direction. This motion moves the D-flaps in outward direction and grips the helmet from inside. In order to make the D-Flaps remain in this tightened position, one end of each spring wire is extended till dial and wound about the central axis of the dial. The rotation exerts the angular force on the wound wires that pulls the D-Flaps. The internal mechanical lock in dial helps in securing the position of the flaps in the desired position- keeping the helmet secured.

PROS

Easy and convenient to use
Always present, regardless of use
Serves as a reminder when needed
Efficient use and assembly

CONS

Requires initial manual installation
Adds weight to the bike, albeit its lightweight

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