CA2191678A1 - Protective helmet with improved liner - Google Patents
Protective helmet with improved linerInfo
- Publication number
- CA2191678A1 CA2191678A1 CA 2191678 CA2191678A CA2191678A1 CA 2191678 A1 CA2191678 A1 CA 2191678A1 CA 2191678 CA2191678 CA 2191678 CA 2191678 A CA2191678 A CA 2191678A CA 2191678 A1 CA2191678 A1 CA 2191678A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- helmet
- pad assembly
- density
- shock absorbing
- generally
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A42—HEADWEAR
- A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
- A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
- A42B3/04—Parts, details or accessories of helmets
- A42B3/10—Linings
- A42B3/12—Cushioning devices
- A42B3/125—Cushioning devices with a padded structure, e.g. foam
- A42B3/128—Cushioning devices with a padded structure, e.g. foam with zones of different density
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A42—HEADWEAR
- A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
- A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
- A42B3/32—Collapsible helmets; Helmets made of separable parts ; Helmets with movable parts, e.g. adjustable
- A42B3/324—Adjustable helmets
Landscapes
- Helmets And Other Head Coverings (AREA)
Abstract
The invention relates to a protective helmet chaving a rigid outer shell and an inner pad assembly comprising a front pad assembly, a rear pad assembly and an intermediate pad assembly. Each of the front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies is made from a generally rigid shock absorbing material and comprises a second generally soft inner liner secured to the generally rigid shock absorbing material. By varying the density or the thickness of the generally rigid shock absorbing material at specific areas, the helmet may be customized to meet the required certification norms while being very light and close fitting. The helmet of the invention also comprises improved ventilation features that result from the provision of recessed channels in the first generally rigid liner.
Description
TTTT.T~ PRO.~.-v~ ~T~v~T ~TT~ T~PRov~n T.TN~
FTT~Tn OF TU~ TNVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of protective helmets and more particularly, to a hockey helmet comprising an improved liner. The invention also relates to a helmet having improved ventilation features.
T~ nuNn TO T~T~ TNVT~NTION
The protection of the head is a main concern when one practices contact sports and hockey is no exception to that rule. Hockey as evolved through recent years to such an extent that the game is now faster than ever. The size and strength of hockey players have been constantly increasing with the results that the force of the blows that are sustained by the human body, including the head, is greater than ever. It is therefore not surprising that most professional hockey players now wear helmets, contrary than before. In the case of junior leagues, the wear of the helmet is compulsory and players therefore have no choice. In order to properly protect the player, helmets must meet certain standards. In the case of hockey helmets, these standards have been set forth by the Canadian Standards Association, in their Standards for Hockey Helmets, under publication No.
CAN/CSA-Z262.2-M.90, and are generally internationally accepted. The forces which a hockey helmet must withstand are generally those which are sufficient to cause concussion, and may not necessarily be below the limit which would cause a minor bump or bruise to the outer surface of the skull.
A typical hockey helmet comprises a rigid impact resistant outer shell and an inner shock absorbing liner secured to the inside of the shell. The inner liner found in the helmets currently available on the market usually consists of a foam or foam-like material that is intended to absorb the energy that is transmitted to the helmet during an impact. Such liners, which are usually glued to the inside of the outer shell, are commercially available under the trademark RUBATEX
(product of Rubatex Corporation) and CELLFLEX (product of Der-Tex Corporation). Although these foam or foam-like materials usually allow the liner to conform to the shape of the head of the player, thereby assuring proper fit, they have many disadvantages including their poor ability to absorb high amounts of energy during severe impacts, their tendency to absorb sweat, their incapacity of being properly moulded to acquire particular shapes and their tendency to unglue from the outer shell.
Since the liners of the prior art usually fit closely with the head of the player, they also tend to prevent proper ventilation thereby making the player feel 21~6~8 uncomfortable. The absence of proper ventilation also results in an excess generation of heat which, when combined with sweat, may lead to the formation of fog on the player's visor, if he or she is wearing one.
The use of substantially rigid, shock absorbing foams, such as expanded polystyrene foam, is well known in the area of cycling helmets. While such foams have provided satisfactory results for cyclist, their potential have not been fully exploited in the field of hockey. Various reasons may explain their absence in that field, the most important one being comfort.
Tn~ee~, the purpose of a cycling helmet is to protect the head of the cyclist during an accident. Therefore, during normal use, i.e. during a ride or a race, the head of the wearer is not subjected to severe impacts and accordingly, the fit between the wearer's head and the helmet need not to be and is often not a major concern, the purchase of a cycling helmet being governed by other factors such as certification, weight and price.
Contrary to this, during normal use, a hockey helmet is subjected to various hits and blows and as a result, the interface between the player's head and the helmet becomes a lot more important since any discomfort will be intensified be each and every hit or blow.
Furthermore, a hockey helmet must cover a significantly more important portion of the player's head including the ~1 9 1 67~
frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital regions, unlike the cycling helmet which typically covers only the frontal and parietal regions. Proper fit and comfort are thus essential.
-T~T a~D 8T~EMENT OF ~ TNVENTION
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a hockey helmet comprising a high energy absorption liner and that is comfortable enough to be worn by a player during a game.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a protective helmet in which the liner may vary in densities.
It is yet a further object to provide a hockey helmet having proper ventilation features.
As embodied and broadly described herein, the invention provides a protective helmet comprising:
a) a rigid outer shell shaped to protect the front, top, rear and side regions of a person's head;
b) an inner pad assembly comprising a front pad assembly, a rear pad assembly and an intermediate pad assembly, the front pad assembly being attached to a front portion of 2~9~6~8 the helmet shell and rear pad assembly being attached to a rear portion of the helmet shell, and wherein the intermediate pad is located between the front pad assembly and the rear pad assembly, each of the front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies being made from a generally rigid shock absorbing material, each the front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies further comprising a second generally soft inner liner secured to the generally rigid shock absorbing material.
In a preferred embodiment, the front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies are discrete from one another.
In a preferred embodiment, the generally rigid shock absorbing material an exr~n~ed polypropylene having a density from about 2.75 to about 5.25 pounds per cubic feet, most preferably from about 3.5 to 4.5 pounds per cubic feet. In another preferred embodiment, the generally soft liner is made from a PVC having a density from about 12 to about 18 pounds per cubic feet, preferably from about 14 to about 16 pounds per cubic feet.
In another preferred embodiment, the density of the generally rigid shock absorbing material is higher in ~ 9 1 678 .
the intermediate pad assembly than in the front and rear pad assemblies. Most preferably, the density of the generally rigid shock absorbing material in the intermediate pad assembly is from about 4.25 to 4.5 pounds per cubic feet and wherein the generally rigid shock absorbing material in the front and rear pad assemblies is about 3.5 pounds per cubic feet In another embodiment, the helmet has an inner surface and an outer surface and wherein the front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies cover substantially the entire inner surface of the helmet shell.
Most preferably, the generally rigid shock absorbing material and the generally soft liner have outer surfaces which have been treated to provide washable surfaces.
In accordance with another aspect of the same invention, the rigid outer shell comprises a ventilation aperture and either one of the front pad assembly, rear pad assembly and intermediate pad assembly comprises a ventilation channel cooperating with the ventilation aperture of the rigid outer shell to allow air to circulate within the helmet.
Thus, as embodied and broadly described herein, the invention also provides a protective helmet, - 2191~7~3 comprising:
a) a rigid outer shell shaped to protect the front, top, rear and side regions of a person's head, the rigid outer shell comprising a ventilation aperture;
b) an inner pad assembly formed from a generally rigid shock absorbing material, the inner pad further comprising a second generally soft inner liner secured to the generally rigid foam like material, the inner pad assembly comprising a ventilation channel cooperating with the ventilation aperture of the rigid outer shell to allow air to circulate within the helmet.
Other objects and features of the invention will become apparent by reference to the following specification and to the drawings.
RPT~ D~RTpTTON OF T~ D~TNG~
The following is a description by way of a preferred embodiment, reference being made to the following drawings, in which:
- Figure 1 is an exploded view of a helmet according to the present invention illustrating the inner pad assembly;
- Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the inner pad assembly of the present invention;
- Figure 3 is a bottom view of a helmet according to the present invention illustrating the soft liner and the ventilation apertures;
- Figure 4 is a front view of a helmet according to the present invention illustrating the ventilation apertures;
- Figure 5 is a top view of a helmet according to the present invention illustrating the ventilation apertures;
- Figure 6 is a rear view of a helmet according to the present invention illustrating the ventilation channels.
D ~PTPTTON OF ~ pPPRP~PPn PMR~nT~PNT
Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a protective helmet comprising an outer helmet shell 10 which is preferably made of a relatively rigid material, such as a polycarbonate alloy, a rigid thermoplastic, or a thermosetting resin, the material being most preferably polyethylene. As shown more particularly in Figures 4 to 6, the helmet shell 10 may also be provided with a plurality of ventilation apertures located along a front portion 80, a top portion 84 and a rear portion 86 of the helmet shell 10, as will be described hereinafter.
Referring back to Figure 1, the protective helmet further comprises an inner pad assembly which includes a front pad assembly 20a, an intermediate pad assembly 2Ob and a rear pad assembly 20c. The inner pad assembly is positioned within the helmet shell 10 to dissipate forces applied against the helmet shell 10 thereby protecting a wearer's head from the applied forces. It is preferred that the front pad assembly 2Oa, the intermediate pad assembly 2Ob and the rear pad assembly 20c cover substantially the entire inner surface of the helmet shell 10. Most preferably, the inner pad assembly's shape generally conforms to the inside shape of the shell 10.
Referring to Figure 2, it is seen that the front pad assembly 20a, the intermediate pad assembly 20b and the rear pad assembly 20c comprise the following general characteristics. The front pad assembly 20a is generally rearwardly curved, so that it is adapted to generally accommodate at least the forehead portion of the wearer. The front pad assembly 20a also includes a pair of downwardly extending legs 75 which serve to protect part of the wearer's jaw. The intermediate pad assembly 20b is generally adapted to accommodate the upper portion of the human head as well as the left and right sides of the human head. The intermediate pad assembly has a top portion which is generally downwardly concave and bottom portion which is generally adapted to accommodate an ear on each side. Intermediate pad assembly 20b may optionally taper slightly towards a front portion to form a front recessed area and towards a rear portion to form a rear recessed area (not shown).
Front portion and rear portion of intermediate pad assembly 20b are adapted to substantially conform to the rear portion of front pad assembly 20c and front portion of rear pad assembly 2Oa, respectively. The rear pad assembly 20c is generally forwardly curved, so that it is adapted to accommodate the rear portion of a human head.
The rear pad assembly 20c has an upper portion and a forward portion at each side thereof, and there is a further ventilation aperture formed in a rear side thereof. The purpose and location of the ventilation apertures is discussed below in more detail.
The inner pad assemblies 2Oa, 2Ob and 20c are attached to the inside of the shell 10 in any suitable manner, such as by using glue or by using mounting screws. Alternatively, only two of the pad assemblies 20a and 20c may be attached to helmet shell 10, wherein the intermediate pad assembly 20b will be self adjusting.
Preferably, the inner pad assembly is removably attached to the shell in order to facilitate the recycling of the various components of the helmet and in order to avoid the disadvantages associated with the use of glue.
As shown more particularly in Figure 2, each of the inner pad assembly 20a, 20b and 20c comprises a first moulded inner liner 40a, 40b and 40c that is made from a generally rigid light weight foam-like material and also comprises second generally soft liners 38a to 38e that are secured to the inside of the first liners 40a, 40b and 40c. As shown more particularly in Figure 3, soft liners are preferably located at the front portion 38a, the rear portion 38b, the top portion 38c and the sides 38d.
The first moulded inner liners 40a, 40b or 40c may be formed from any resilient, moldable, shock absorbing materials such as a foamed styrene polymer, a foamed urethane polymer or other rigid foam-like material being light in weight and having shock absorbing properties. Each pad assembly may have its outer surfaces treated to provide washable surfaces of the pads, for example, by dipping the pads in a suitable material such as liquid vinyl, urethane or latex.
A preferred material for the first moulded inner liner 40a, 40b or 40c consists of an expanded polypropylene (EPP) having a density ranging preferably from about 2.75 to about 5.25 pounds per cubic feet (pcf), and ranging most preferably from about 3.5 to about 4.5 pcf. In general, the thickness of the first inner liner is approximately ~ inch although it may vary according to the needs.
s Apart from its ability to absorb and dissipate high amounts of energy, the use of EPP also has the advantage of being light weight in comparison with the foam or foam-like liners of the prior art which have a density in the area of 7 pcf.
A preferred material for the second generally soft inner liners 38a to 38e consists of a synthetic thermoplastic polymer such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
A most preferred material is a PVC padding having a thickness of approximately 7,5 + 0,5 mm and having a density ranging preferably from about 12 to about 18 pcf and most preferably from about 14 to about 16 pcf. Such a product is sold under the name CRESPADORO 143/96. The PVC liner has the advantage of being washable and of being non absorbent. The second liners 38a to 38e are attached to the inside of the first liner in any suitable manner. Preferably, they are glued but the could also be mechanically attached via Velcro type fasteners.
During use, the second soft liner will readily compress and will provide for proper fitting of the helmet on the player's head while absorbing smaller - 21ql678 amounts of energy, the higher amounts of energy being dissipated by the first liner 40a, 40b or 40c.
The liner of the helmet of the present invention thus comprises a front pad assembly 2Oa, an intermediate pad assembly 2Ob and a rear pad assembly 20c, each of which comprises a first moulded liner 40a, 40b and 40c and a second soft liner 38a to 38e. This combination brings about substantial advantages over the liners and helmets of the prior art in terms of performance and certification.
As previously mentioned, the standards that must be met by hockey helmets have been set forth by the Canadian Standards Association, in their Standards for Hockey Helmets, under publication No. CAN/CSA-Z262.2-M.90, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference. According to the procedure outlined in that standard, the structural integrity of the helmet is determined by submitting it to various impacts at different sites such as the rear, side, crown, rear boss, front boss and front portions. By reason of its inherent geometry, a hockey helmet will generally have a relatively flat side and accordingly, more force will be transmitted to the head in this area upon impact. Since the side area of the helmet is the weakest point, helmet manufacturers will usually adjust their liner to a thickness and density such that it will meet the standard at that impact area. This determination will therefore affect the entire liner and the entire helmet. This results in a helmet that is always heavier that actually required since excess liner is used in areas where it is not required.
Contrary to this, the liner of the present invention may be customized to take into consideration the weakest points and the geometry of the helmet.
Therefore, by having a liner that is separated into distinct parts that cover various areas of the head, the inventors are capable of manufacturing a very light helmet. For example, the density of the liner that is intended to cover the side area of the head (the weakest point of the helmet) may be kept higher and therefore more absorbing while the density of the liner in other areas may be kept lower, thereby providing a lighter helmet. For example, in the case of the preferred embodiment described herein, the inventors have achived very good performances by providing a liner in which the first moulded liner 40b has a density of approximately 4.25 to 4.5 pcf while the first moulded liners 40a and 40c have a density of approximately 3.5 pcf, the density of the soft liners 38a to 38e remaining constant at approximately 15 to 16 pcf.
The person skilled in the art will realize that the concept of the present invention could be expanded -- 21 9 l 678 and that the density of the second soft liner could also be modified, provided comfort is not unduly sacrificed and provided that the standards are met. In fact, the liner of the present invention is very well adapted to respond to any changes in certification requirements.
Similarly, while the preferred embodiment has been described using the padd assemblies 2Oa, 2Ob and 20c, it is understood that the invention is not so limited and that the numbers of parts may vary keeping in mind however that more parts will most likely result in a higher manufacturing cost.
As is well known, it is important to provide free space within the interior of a protective helmet to permit evaporation of perspiration. As illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, each pad assembly is provided with one or more ventilation apertures or channels 60, 62, 64 and 66 which are generally aligned with the ventilation apertures 80, 84 and 86 in the helmet shell 10 to permit airflow in and out of the protective helmet, to promote cooling and to carry off warm moist air from within the protective helmet to the outside. Accordingly, the front pad assembly 20a is provided with ventilation apertures 60, the rear pad assembly 20c is provided with ventilation apertures 64 and 66, and the intermediate pad assembly 20b is provided with ventilation channels 62. It is preferred that the ventilation apertures 60 in the front pad assembly 20a, the ventilation channels 62 in - 219l 618 the intermediate pad assembly 20b and the ventilation apertures 64 and 66 in the rear pad assembly 20c be substantially aligned longitudinally, i.e. from a front portion of the protective helmet, beginning at ventilation apertures 60 adjacent a front portion of the helmet shell 10, continuing through each respective pad assembly, and terminating at the ventilation apertures 64 and 66 adjacent a back portion of the helmet shell 10, to promote the movement of air through the helmet with movement of the wearer. This movement of the air is also facilitated by the presence of recessed areas 60a, 62a and 64a which form a continuous channel from front to rear. Since the helmet is held comfortably in place through the second soft liners 38a to 38e, the head of the wearer does not obstruct the continuous channels formed by recessed areas 60a, 62a and 64a, unlike the helmets of the prior art that use a foam or foam-like padding that fit snuggly against the head. Ventilation is thus greatly improved.
The above description of a preferred embodiment should not be interpreted in any limiting manner since variations and refinements are possible which are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. The scope of the invention is defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.
FTT~Tn OF TU~ TNVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of protective helmets and more particularly, to a hockey helmet comprising an improved liner. The invention also relates to a helmet having improved ventilation features.
T~ nuNn TO T~T~ TNVT~NTION
The protection of the head is a main concern when one practices contact sports and hockey is no exception to that rule. Hockey as evolved through recent years to such an extent that the game is now faster than ever. The size and strength of hockey players have been constantly increasing with the results that the force of the blows that are sustained by the human body, including the head, is greater than ever. It is therefore not surprising that most professional hockey players now wear helmets, contrary than before. In the case of junior leagues, the wear of the helmet is compulsory and players therefore have no choice. In order to properly protect the player, helmets must meet certain standards. In the case of hockey helmets, these standards have been set forth by the Canadian Standards Association, in their Standards for Hockey Helmets, under publication No.
CAN/CSA-Z262.2-M.90, and are generally internationally accepted. The forces which a hockey helmet must withstand are generally those which are sufficient to cause concussion, and may not necessarily be below the limit which would cause a minor bump or bruise to the outer surface of the skull.
A typical hockey helmet comprises a rigid impact resistant outer shell and an inner shock absorbing liner secured to the inside of the shell. The inner liner found in the helmets currently available on the market usually consists of a foam or foam-like material that is intended to absorb the energy that is transmitted to the helmet during an impact. Such liners, which are usually glued to the inside of the outer shell, are commercially available under the trademark RUBATEX
(product of Rubatex Corporation) and CELLFLEX (product of Der-Tex Corporation). Although these foam or foam-like materials usually allow the liner to conform to the shape of the head of the player, thereby assuring proper fit, they have many disadvantages including their poor ability to absorb high amounts of energy during severe impacts, their tendency to absorb sweat, their incapacity of being properly moulded to acquire particular shapes and their tendency to unglue from the outer shell.
Since the liners of the prior art usually fit closely with the head of the player, they also tend to prevent proper ventilation thereby making the player feel 21~6~8 uncomfortable. The absence of proper ventilation also results in an excess generation of heat which, when combined with sweat, may lead to the formation of fog on the player's visor, if he or she is wearing one.
The use of substantially rigid, shock absorbing foams, such as expanded polystyrene foam, is well known in the area of cycling helmets. While such foams have provided satisfactory results for cyclist, their potential have not been fully exploited in the field of hockey. Various reasons may explain their absence in that field, the most important one being comfort.
Tn~ee~, the purpose of a cycling helmet is to protect the head of the cyclist during an accident. Therefore, during normal use, i.e. during a ride or a race, the head of the wearer is not subjected to severe impacts and accordingly, the fit between the wearer's head and the helmet need not to be and is often not a major concern, the purchase of a cycling helmet being governed by other factors such as certification, weight and price.
Contrary to this, during normal use, a hockey helmet is subjected to various hits and blows and as a result, the interface between the player's head and the helmet becomes a lot more important since any discomfort will be intensified be each and every hit or blow.
Furthermore, a hockey helmet must cover a significantly more important portion of the player's head including the ~1 9 1 67~
frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital regions, unlike the cycling helmet which typically covers only the frontal and parietal regions. Proper fit and comfort are thus essential.
-T~T a~D 8T~EMENT OF ~ TNVENTION
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a hockey helmet comprising a high energy absorption liner and that is comfortable enough to be worn by a player during a game.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a protective helmet in which the liner may vary in densities.
It is yet a further object to provide a hockey helmet having proper ventilation features.
As embodied and broadly described herein, the invention provides a protective helmet comprising:
a) a rigid outer shell shaped to protect the front, top, rear and side regions of a person's head;
b) an inner pad assembly comprising a front pad assembly, a rear pad assembly and an intermediate pad assembly, the front pad assembly being attached to a front portion of 2~9~6~8 the helmet shell and rear pad assembly being attached to a rear portion of the helmet shell, and wherein the intermediate pad is located between the front pad assembly and the rear pad assembly, each of the front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies being made from a generally rigid shock absorbing material, each the front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies further comprising a second generally soft inner liner secured to the generally rigid shock absorbing material.
In a preferred embodiment, the front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies are discrete from one another.
In a preferred embodiment, the generally rigid shock absorbing material an exr~n~ed polypropylene having a density from about 2.75 to about 5.25 pounds per cubic feet, most preferably from about 3.5 to 4.5 pounds per cubic feet. In another preferred embodiment, the generally soft liner is made from a PVC having a density from about 12 to about 18 pounds per cubic feet, preferably from about 14 to about 16 pounds per cubic feet.
In another preferred embodiment, the density of the generally rigid shock absorbing material is higher in ~ 9 1 678 .
the intermediate pad assembly than in the front and rear pad assemblies. Most preferably, the density of the generally rigid shock absorbing material in the intermediate pad assembly is from about 4.25 to 4.5 pounds per cubic feet and wherein the generally rigid shock absorbing material in the front and rear pad assemblies is about 3.5 pounds per cubic feet In another embodiment, the helmet has an inner surface and an outer surface and wherein the front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies cover substantially the entire inner surface of the helmet shell.
Most preferably, the generally rigid shock absorbing material and the generally soft liner have outer surfaces which have been treated to provide washable surfaces.
In accordance with another aspect of the same invention, the rigid outer shell comprises a ventilation aperture and either one of the front pad assembly, rear pad assembly and intermediate pad assembly comprises a ventilation channel cooperating with the ventilation aperture of the rigid outer shell to allow air to circulate within the helmet.
Thus, as embodied and broadly described herein, the invention also provides a protective helmet, - 2191~7~3 comprising:
a) a rigid outer shell shaped to protect the front, top, rear and side regions of a person's head, the rigid outer shell comprising a ventilation aperture;
b) an inner pad assembly formed from a generally rigid shock absorbing material, the inner pad further comprising a second generally soft inner liner secured to the generally rigid foam like material, the inner pad assembly comprising a ventilation channel cooperating with the ventilation aperture of the rigid outer shell to allow air to circulate within the helmet.
Other objects and features of the invention will become apparent by reference to the following specification and to the drawings.
RPT~ D~RTpTTON OF T~ D~TNG~
The following is a description by way of a preferred embodiment, reference being made to the following drawings, in which:
- Figure 1 is an exploded view of a helmet according to the present invention illustrating the inner pad assembly;
- Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the inner pad assembly of the present invention;
- Figure 3 is a bottom view of a helmet according to the present invention illustrating the soft liner and the ventilation apertures;
- Figure 4 is a front view of a helmet according to the present invention illustrating the ventilation apertures;
- Figure 5 is a top view of a helmet according to the present invention illustrating the ventilation apertures;
- Figure 6 is a rear view of a helmet according to the present invention illustrating the ventilation channels.
D ~PTPTTON OF ~ pPPRP~PPn PMR~nT~PNT
Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a protective helmet comprising an outer helmet shell 10 which is preferably made of a relatively rigid material, such as a polycarbonate alloy, a rigid thermoplastic, or a thermosetting resin, the material being most preferably polyethylene. As shown more particularly in Figures 4 to 6, the helmet shell 10 may also be provided with a plurality of ventilation apertures located along a front portion 80, a top portion 84 and a rear portion 86 of the helmet shell 10, as will be described hereinafter.
Referring back to Figure 1, the protective helmet further comprises an inner pad assembly which includes a front pad assembly 20a, an intermediate pad assembly 2Ob and a rear pad assembly 20c. The inner pad assembly is positioned within the helmet shell 10 to dissipate forces applied against the helmet shell 10 thereby protecting a wearer's head from the applied forces. It is preferred that the front pad assembly 2Oa, the intermediate pad assembly 2Ob and the rear pad assembly 20c cover substantially the entire inner surface of the helmet shell 10. Most preferably, the inner pad assembly's shape generally conforms to the inside shape of the shell 10.
Referring to Figure 2, it is seen that the front pad assembly 20a, the intermediate pad assembly 20b and the rear pad assembly 20c comprise the following general characteristics. The front pad assembly 20a is generally rearwardly curved, so that it is adapted to generally accommodate at least the forehead portion of the wearer. The front pad assembly 20a also includes a pair of downwardly extending legs 75 which serve to protect part of the wearer's jaw. The intermediate pad assembly 20b is generally adapted to accommodate the upper portion of the human head as well as the left and right sides of the human head. The intermediate pad assembly has a top portion which is generally downwardly concave and bottom portion which is generally adapted to accommodate an ear on each side. Intermediate pad assembly 20b may optionally taper slightly towards a front portion to form a front recessed area and towards a rear portion to form a rear recessed area (not shown).
Front portion and rear portion of intermediate pad assembly 20b are adapted to substantially conform to the rear portion of front pad assembly 20c and front portion of rear pad assembly 2Oa, respectively. The rear pad assembly 20c is generally forwardly curved, so that it is adapted to accommodate the rear portion of a human head.
The rear pad assembly 20c has an upper portion and a forward portion at each side thereof, and there is a further ventilation aperture formed in a rear side thereof. The purpose and location of the ventilation apertures is discussed below in more detail.
The inner pad assemblies 2Oa, 2Ob and 20c are attached to the inside of the shell 10 in any suitable manner, such as by using glue or by using mounting screws. Alternatively, only two of the pad assemblies 20a and 20c may be attached to helmet shell 10, wherein the intermediate pad assembly 20b will be self adjusting.
Preferably, the inner pad assembly is removably attached to the shell in order to facilitate the recycling of the various components of the helmet and in order to avoid the disadvantages associated with the use of glue.
As shown more particularly in Figure 2, each of the inner pad assembly 20a, 20b and 20c comprises a first moulded inner liner 40a, 40b and 40c that is made from a generally rigid light weight foam-like material and also comprises second generally soft liners 38a to 38e that are secured to the inside of the first liners 40a, 40b and 40c. As shown more particularly in Figure 3, soft liners are preferably located at the front portion 38a, the rear portion 38b, the top portion 38c and the sides 38d.
The first moulded inner liners 40a, 40b or 40c may be formed from any resilient, moldable, shock absorbing materials such as a foamed styrene polymer, a foamed urethane polymer or other rigid foam-like material being light in weight and having shock absorbing properties. Each pad assembly may have its outer surfaces treated to provide washable surfaces of the pads, for example, by dipping the pads in a suitable material such as liquid vinyl, urethane or latex.
A preferred material for the first moulded inner liner 40a, 40b or 40c consists of an expanded polypropylene (EPP) having a density ranging preferably from about 2.75 to about 5.25 pounds per cubic feet (pcf), and ranging most preferably from about 3.5 to about 4.5 pcf. In general, the thickness of the first inner liner is approximately ~ inch although it may vary according to the needs.
s Apart from its ability to absorb and dissipate high amounts of energy, the use of EPP also has the advantage of being light weight in comparison with the foam or foam-like liners of the prior art which have a density in the area of 7 pcf.
A preferred material for the second generally soft inner liners 38a to 38e consists of a synthetic thermoplastic polymer such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
A most preferred material is a PVC padding having a thickness of approximately 7,5 + 0,5 mm and having a density ranging preferably from about 12 to about 18 pcf and most preferably from about 14 to about 16 pcf. Such a product is sold under the name CRESPADORO 143/96. The PVC liner has the advantage of being washable and of being non absorbent. The second liners 38a to 38e are attached to the inside of the first liner in any suitable manner. Preferably, they are glued but the could also be mechanically attached via Velcro type fasteners.
During use, the second soft liner will readily compress and will provide for proper fitting of the helmet on the player's head while absorbing smaller - 21ql678 amounts of energy, the higher amounts of energy being dissipated by the first liner 40a, 40b or 40c.
The liner of the helmet of the present invention thus comprises a front pad assembly 2Oa, an intermediate pad assembly 2Ob and a rear pad assembly 20c, each of which comprises a first moulded liner 40a, 40b and 40c and a second soft liner 38a to 38e. This combination brings about substantial advantages over the liners and helmets of the prior art in terms of performance and certification.
As previously mentioned, the standards that must be met by hockey helmets have been set forth by the Canadian Standards Association, in their Standards for Hockey Helmets, under publication No. CAN/CSA-Z262.2-M.90, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference. According to the procedure outlined in that standard, the structural integrity of the helmet is determined by submitting it to various impacts at different sites such as the rear, side, crown, rear boss, front boss and front portions. By reason of its inherent geometry, a hockey helmet will generally have a relatively flat side and accordingly, more force will be transmitted to the head in this area upon impact. Since the side area of the helmet is the weakest point, helmet manufacturers will usually adjust their liner to a thickness and density such that it will meet the standard at that impact area. This determination will therefore affect the entire liner and the entire helmet. This results in a helmet that is always heavier that actually required since excess liner is used in areas where it is not required.
Contrary to this, the liner of the present invention may be customized to take into consideration the weakest points and the geometry of the helmet.
Therefore, by having a liner that is separated into distinct parts that cover various areas of the head, the inventors are capable of manufacturing a very light helmet. For example, the density of the liner that is intended to cover the side area of the head (the weakest point of the helmet) may be kept higher and therefore more absorbing while the density of the liner in other areas may be kept lower, thereby providing a lighter helmet. For example, in the case of the preferred embodiment described herein, the inventors have achived very good performances by providing a liner in which the first moulded liner 40b has a density of approximately 4.25 to 4.5 pcf while the first moulded liners 40a and 40c have a density of approximately 3.5 pcf, the density of the soft liners 38a to 38e remaining constant at approximately 15 to 16 pcf.
The person skilled in the art will realize that the concept of the present invention could be expanded -- 21 9 l 678 and that the density of the second soft liner could also be modified, provided comfort is not unduly sacrificed and provided that the standards are met. In fact, the liner of the present invention is very well adapted to respond to any changes in certification requirements.
Similarly, while the preferred embodiment has been described using the padd assemblies 2Oa, 2Ob and 20c, it is understood that the invention is not so limited and that the numbers of parts may vary keeping in mind however that more parts will most likely result in a higher manufacturing cost.
As is well known, it is important to provide free space within the interior of a protective helmet to permit evaporation of perspiration. As illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, each pad assembly is provided with one or more ventilation apertures or channels 60, 62, 64 and 66 which are generally aligned with the ventilation apertures 80, 84 and 86 in the helmet shell 10 to permit airflow in and out of the protective helmet, to promote cooling and to carry off warm moist air from within the protective helmet to the outside. Accordingly, the front pad assembly 20a is provided with ventilation apertures 60, the rear pad assembly 20c is provided with ventilation apertures 64 and 66, and the intermediate pad assembly 20b is provided with ventilation channels 62. It is preferred that the ventilation apertures 60 in the front pad assembly 20a, the ventilation channels 62 in - 219l 618 the intermediate pad assembly 20b and the ventilation apertures 64 and 66 in the rear pad assembly 20c be substantially aligned longitudinally, i.e. from a front portion of the protective helmet, beginning at ventilation apertures 60 adjacent a front portion of the helmet shell 10, continuing through each respective pad assembly, and terminating at the ventilation apertures 64 and 66 adjacent a back portion of the helmet shell 10, to promote the movement of air through the helmet with movement of the wearer. This movement of the air is also facilitated by the presence of recessed areas 60a, 62a and 64a which form a continuous channel from front to rear. Since the helmet is held comfortably in place through the second soft liners 38a to 38e, the head of the wearer does not obstruct the continuous channels formed by recessed areas 60a, 62a and 64a, unlike the helmets of the prior art that use a foam or foam-like padding that fit snuggly against the head. Ventilation is thus greatly improved.
The above description of a preferred embodiment should not be interpreted in any limiting manner since variations and refinements are possible which are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. The scope of the invention is defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims (20)
1. A protective helmet comprising:
a) a rigid outer shell shaped to protect the front, top, rear and side regions of a person's head;
b) an inner pad assembly comprising a front pad assembly, a rear pad assembly and an intermediate pad assembly, said front pad assembly being attached to a front portion of said helmet shell and rear pad assembly being attached to a rear portion of said helmet shell, and wherein said intermediate pad is located between said front pad assembly and said rear pad assembly, each of said front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies being made from a generally rigid shock absorbing material, each said front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies further comprising a second generally soft inner liner secured to said generally rigid shock absorbing material.
a) a rigid outer shell shaped to protect the front, top, rear and side regions of a person's head;
b) an inner pad assembly comprising a front pad assembly, a rear pad assembly and an intermediate pad assembly, said front pad assembly being attached to a front portion of said helmet shell and rear pad assembly being attached to a rear portion of said helmet shell, and wherein said intermediate pad is located between said front pad assembly and said rear pad assembly, each of said front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies being made from a generally rigid shock absorbing material, each said front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies further comprising a second generally soft inner liner secured to said generally rigid shock absorbing material.
2. The helmet of claim 1, wherein said front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies are discrete from one another.
3. The helmet of claim 1 wherein said generally rigid shock absorbing material an expanded polypropylene having a density from about 2.75 to about 5.25 pounds per cubic feet.
4. The helmet of claim 3, wherein said density is from about 3.5 to 4.5 pounds per cubic feet.
5. The helmet of claim 2 wherein said generally rigid shock absorbing material an expanded polypropylene having a density from about 2.75 to about 5.25 pounds per cubic feet.
6. The helmet of claim 5, wherein said density is from about 3.5 to about 4.5 pounds per cubic feet.
7. The helmet of claims 1, wherein said generally soft liner is made from a PVC having a density from about 12 to about 18 pounds per cubic feet.
8. The helmet of claim 7, wherein said density is from about 14 to about 16 pounds per cubic feet.
9. The helmet of claims 2, wherein said generally soft liner is made from a PVC having a density from about 12 to about 18 pounds per cubic feet.
10. The helmet of claim 9, wherein said density is from about 14 to about 16 pounds per cubic feet.
11. The helmet of claims 3, wherein said generally soft liner is made from a PVC having a density from about 12 to about 18 pounds per cubic feet.
12. The helmet of claim 11, wherein said density is from about 14 to about 16 pounds per cubic feet.
13. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the density of said generally rigid shock absorbing material is higher in said intermediate pad assembly than in said front and rear pad assemblies.
14. The helmet of claim 2, wherein the density of said generally rigid shock absorbing material is higher in said intermediate pad assembly than in said front and rear pad assemblies.
15. The helmet of claim 3, wherein the density of said generally rigid shock absorbing material is higher in said intermediate pad assembly than in said front and rear pad assemblies.
16. The helmet of claims 3 or 5, wherein the density of said generally rigid shock absorbing material in said intermediate pad assembly is from about 4.25 to 4.5 pounds per cubic feet and wherein said generally rigid shock absorbing material in said front and rear pad assemblies is about 3.5 pounds per cubic feet
17. The helmet of claim 1 wherein said helmet has an inner surface and an outer surface and wherein said front, intermediate and rear pad assemblies cover substantially the entire inner surface of said helmet shell.
18. The helmet of claim 1 wherein said generally rigid shock absorbing material and said generally soft liner have outer surfaces which have been treated to provide washable surfaces.
19. The helmet of claim 1, wherein said rigid outer shell comprises a ventilation aperture and wherein either one of said front pad assembly, rear pad assembly and intermediate pad assembly comprises a ventilation channel cooperating with said ventilation aperture of said rigid outer shell to allow air to circulate within the helmet.
20. A protective helmet, comprising:
a) a rigid outer shell shaped to protect the front, top, rear and side regions of a person's head, said rigid outer shell comprising a ventilation aperture;
b) an inner pad assembly formed from a generally rigid shock absorbing material, said inner pad further comprising a second generally soft inner liner secured to said generally rigid foam like material, said inner pad assembly comprising a ventilation channel cooperating with said ventilation aperture of said rigid outer shell to allow air to circulate within the helmet.
a) a rigid outer shell shaped to protect the front, top, rear and side regions of a person's head, said rigid outer shell comprising a ventilation aperture;
b) an inner pad assembly formed from a generally rigid shock absorbing material, said inner pad further comprising a second generally soft inner liner secured to said generally rigid foam like material, said inner pad assembly comprising a ventilation channel cooperating with said ventilation aperture of said rigid outer shell to allow air to circulate within the helmet.
Priority Applications (8)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2191678 CA2191678A1 (en) | 1996-11-29 | 1996-11-29 | Protective helmet with improved liner |
| AT97945692T ATE213394T1 (en) | 1996-11-29 | 1997-11-26 | HOCKEY HELMET WITH SELF-ADJUSTABLE PADDING |
| US09/309,000 US6298497B1 (en) | 1996-11-29 | 1997-11-26 | Hockey helmet with self-adjusting padding |
| DE69710605T DE69710605T2 (en) | 1996-11-29 | 1997-11-26 | HOCKEY HELMET WITH SELF-ADJUSTABLE PADDING |
| EP97945692A EP0942663B1 (en) | 1996-11-29 | 1997-11-26 | Hockey helmet with self-adjusting padding |
| CA002263384A CA2263384C (en) | 1996-11-29 | 1997-11-26 | Hockey helmet with self-adjusting padding |
| AU51127/98A AU5112798A (en) | 1996-11-29 | 1997-11-26 | Hockey helmet with self-adjusting padding |
| PCT/CA1997/000905 WO1998023174A1 (en) | 1996-11-29 | 1997-11-26 | Hockey helmet with self-adjusting padding |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2191678 CA2191678A1 (en) | 1996-11-29 | 1996-11-29 | Protective helmet with improved liner |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2191678A1 true CA2191678A1 (en) | 1998-05-29 |
Family
ID=4159347
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2191678 Abandoned CA2191678A1 (en) | 1996-11-29 | 1996-11-29 | Protective helmet with improved liner |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2191678A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP2550882A1 (en) * | 2011-07-27 | 2013-01-30 | Bauer Hockey Corp. | Sport helmet |
| US9226539B2 (en) | 2010-07-13 | 2016-01-05 | Sport Maska Inc. | Helmet with rigid shell and adjustable liner |
-
1996
- 1996-11-29 CA CA 2191678 patent/CA2191678A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US9226539B2 (en) | 2010-07-13 | 2016-01-05 | Sport Maska Inc. | Helmet with rigid shell and adjustable liner |
| EP2550882A1 (en) * | 2011-07-27 | 2013-01-30 | Bauer Hockey Corp. | Sport helmet |
| US9756892B2 (en) | 2011-07-27 | 2017-09-12 | Bauer Hockey, Llc | Sport helmet |
| US10751602B2 (en) | 2011-07-27 | 2020-08-25 | Bauer Hockey, Llc | Article of sport gear |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |