EP3310195B1 - Time trial bicycle helmet with ear shield - Google Patents
Time trial bicycle helmet with ear shield Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3310195B1 EP3310195B1 EP16812643.1A EP16812643A EP3310195B1 EP 3310195 B1 EP3310195 B1 EP 3310195B1 EP 16812643 A EP16812643 A EP 16812643A EP 3310195 B1 EP3310195 B1 EP 3310195B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- helmet
- shield
- helmet body
- magnet
- brow
- 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.)
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Images
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
- A42B3/28—Ventilating arrangements
- A42B3/281—Air ducting systems
- A42B3/283—Air inlets or outlets, with or without closure shutters
-
- 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
- A42B3/0493—Aerodynamic helmets; Air guiding means therefor
-
- 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
- A42B3/06—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets
- A42B3/066—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets specially adapted for cycling helmets, e.g. for soft shelled helmets
-
- 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
- A42B3/16—Ear protection devices
- A42B3/163—Wind or noise deflectors
-
- 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
- A42B3/18—Face protection devices
- A42B3/185—Securing goggles or spectacles on helmet shells
-
- 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
- A42B3/18—Face protection devices
- A42B3/22—Visors
- A42B3/221—Attaching visors to helmet shells, e.g. on motorcycle helmets
Definitions
- Bicycle time trials are a use scenario where sometimes-conflicting needs are carefully balanced. The goal of a cycling time trial is to traverse a course or track in the fastest time possible. Aerodynamic advantages may improve time trial results.
- a time trial helmet ideally will provide an aerodynamic advantage without sacrificing the protection afforded the user. At the same time, the helmet needs to be comfortable enough to not interfere with race performance. Thus, ventilation and weight are concerns that need to be balanced against the protection and reduced drag.
- FIGs. 1-3 depict perspective views of non-limiting examples of helmets with shields 14, which can include shields 50, 60, and 70.
- FIG. 1 shows a helmet 10, a helmet body 12, a shield 14, a front portion 16 of the helmet body 12, a tail portion 18 of the helmet body 12, a brow portion 20 of the shield 14, an ear portion 22 of the shield 14, a brow vent 24, a shield magnet 26, a bone line 28, and a full shield 50.
- FIG. 2 shows a helmet 30 having the elements of helmet 10, but with a vented shield 60 instead of the full, unvented shield 50.
- FIG. 2 includes at least one ear vent 32.
- FIG. 3 shows a helmet 40 having the elements of helmet 10 and 30, but with a shield 70 with the eye portion unshielded in the place of the full shield 50 of FIG. 1 or the vented shield 60 of FIG. 2 .
- a helmet e.g. helmet 10 of FIG. 1 , helmet 30 of FIG. 2 , helmet 40 of FIG. 3 etc.
- the helmets are intended for use in bicycle time trials (TT), a use scenario where different needs are carefully balanced.
- TT bicycle time trials
- the goal of a time trial is to traverse a course or track in the fastest time possible; an aerodynamic advantage may improve time trial results.
- a time trial helmet ideally will provide an aerodynamic advantage, or at least minimize drag caused by the helmet, without sacrificing the protection afforded the user.
- the helmet needs to be comfortable enough to not interfere with race performance.
- ventilation and weight are concerns that need to be balanced against the protection and reduced drag.
- FIGs. 1-3 address these needs.
- helmet body 12 can refers to any part of the helmet that is not a shield 14, but would not necessarily include straps or other ancillary or attachment features for securing the helmet to a head of the wearer or user.
- the helmet body 12 can refer, collectively, to an outer shell 11, an impact liner or energy absorbing layer 13, and a comfort liner or fit liner 19, as described in greater detail below.
- the protective helmet body 12 for the TT helmet examples disclosed herein can comprise one or more energy absorbing materials 13, such as an in inner energy absorbing material disposed within the outer shell 11, although a protective helmet 10, 30, 40 need not have both.
- the helmets 10, 30, 40 can be formed as an in-molded helmet that may comprise one or more than one layers, such as three layers, which can include: (i) a thin outer shell 11, (ii) an impact liner or energy absorbing layer 13, and (iii) a comfort liner or fit liner 19, each of which is addressed in greater detail below.
- the outer shell 11 may be formed of a plastic, resin, fiberglass, or other suitable material such as a polycarbonate (PC) shell, or a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) shell, whether stamped, in-molded, injection molded, vacuum formed, or formed by another suitable process.
- the outer shell 11 may comprise an outer surface 11a and an inner surface 11b opposite the outer surface 11a, outer surface 11a being farther from a head of the user 80 and the inner surface 11b being nearer the head of the user 80.
- the outer shell 11 may provide a material in which the impact liner 13 can be in-molded, may provide a smooth aerodynamic finish, and may provide a decorative finish for improved aesthetics.
- Polycarbonate shells are usually either in-molded in the form of a vacuum formed sheet, or alternatively, can be attached to the foam liner with an adhesive.
- the polycarbonate shell is taped onto the foam liner after the polycarbonate shell is molded.
- the in-molded polycarbonate shell method may be employed as bike helmets used for road cycling.
- a thickness of the outer shell 11 can comprise a thickness or average thickness, measured between the outer surface 11a and the inner surface 11b, in a range of 0-5 mm or about 1, 2, or 3 mm.
- the impact liner or energy absorbing layer 13 may be disposed inside and adjacent the outer shell.
- the impact liner 13 may comprise an outer surface 13a and an inner surface 13b opposite the outer surface 13a, the outer surface 13a being farther from a head of the user 80 and the inner surface 13b being nearer the head of the user 80.
- the outer surface 13a can be adjacent or in direct contact with the inner surface 11b of the shell 11.
- the energy absorbing layer 13 may be made of plastic, polymer, foam, or other suitable energy absorbing material to absorb energy and to contribute to energy management for protecting a wearer during impact.
- the energy absorbing layer 13 may include, without limitation, expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polyurethane (EPTU or EPU), or expanded polyolefin (EPO).
- EPP expanded polypropylene
- EPS expanded polystyrene
- EPTU or EPU expanded polyurethane
- EPO expanded polyolefin
- In-molded helmets are often formed such that the outer shell 11 of the helmet 10, 30, 40 is bonded directly to an energy absorbing expanding foam 13 as it is expanding and being molded into the shell.
- the energy absorbing layer 13 may be in-molded as a single or monolithic body of energy absorbing material and an outer shell 11.
- the energy absorbing layer 13 may be formed of multiple portions or a plurality of portions.
- the energy absorbing material 13 can be configured to absorb energy from an impact by being crushed or cracking.
- the impact liner 13 may be permanently coupled to the outer shell 11 with an adhesive, glue, or other suitable chemical or mechanical attachment.
- the outer shell 11 may be made from a combination of carbon and fiberglass, in which the carbon shell may be permanently coupled to the energy absorbing layer 13, such as an EPS liner, using chemical or mechanical fastening, such as with a glue or adhesive.
- the outer shell 11 may be made from a standard PC shell in which the energy absorbing layer is in-molded into the outer shell using a standard in-molding process.
- the comfort liner or fit liner 19 may be optional, and may be disposed inside the outer shell 11 and the impact liner 13, such as with an outer surface 19a of the comfort liner 19 being disposed adjacent or indirect contact with an inner surface 13b of the impact liner 13.
- An inner surface 19b of the inner surface 19 can be in direct contact, co-planar, or co-terminus with a head of the user or wearer 80.
- the comfort liner may omitted entirely so that the inner surface 13a of the impact liner is in direct contact, co-planar, or co-terminus with a head of the user or wearer 80.
- the comfort liner 19 may be made of textiles, plastic, foam, or other suitable material, such as polyester or nylon.
- the comfort liner 19 may also include portions of a fit system, such as a fit system comprising a dial that can real in or pay out portions of the fit system to match a size, shape, or both a size and shape of the head of the user 80.
- the comfort line 19 may comprise a low friction layer or slip plane for rotational energy management.
- the comfort liner 19 may be formed of one or more pads of material that can be joined together, or formed as discrete components, that are coupled to the in-molded helmet.
- the comfort liner 19 may be releasably or permanently attached to the impact liner 13 using snaps, hook and loop fasteners, adhesives, or other suitable materials.
- the comfort liner 19 can provide a cushion and improved fit for the wearer of the in-molded helmet 10, 30, 40.
- a thickness of the comfort liner 19 can comprise a thickness or average thickness, measured between the outer surface 19 and the inner surface 19b, in a range of 0-10 mm, 3-7 mm, or about 5 mm.
- the shields 14 releasably coupled to the helmets of FIGs. 1-3 may also be described as visors or lenses.
- the shield 14 may be made to be removable and be releasably coupled to the helmet body 12 to facilitate putting on and removing the helmet by the user.
- the shield 14 is releasably coupled to the helmet body 12 with magnets (e.g. shield magnets 26, body magnets 86, etc.).
- magnets e.g. shield magnets 26, body magnets 86, etc.
- any suitable attachment mechanism or combination of attachment mechanisms including but not limited to, clips, latches, magnets, locks, slots, channels, hook and loop fasteners, friction (e.g. inserted into a tight slot in the helmet body 12, etc.) may be used.
- a notch or cutout can be formed in the lower edge of the shield 14 such that the shield 14 fits around a nose of the user 80 and the nose of the user 80 can extend beyond and forward of the shield when the helmet is being worn by the user 80
- Contours or a shape of the helmet may be made continuous across a transition between, or at an interface of, the helmet body 12 and the shield 14 to create a continuous, integral helmet with an improved aerodynamic look and performance.
- the shield 14 operates as an integrated ear cover by extending from the front of the helmet to a side rear portion of the helmet. This can provide more aerodynamic performance and faster times for the cyclist, and allows a rider to cover and uncover both the rider's eyes and ears simultaneously.
- the helmet can be formed so that the shield 14 is part of a one-piece design that wraps around to side portions of the helmet to cover the ears 82 of the user 80, in addition to shielding the eyes 90 (e.g.
- the shield 14 of FIGs. 1 and 2 , etc. In contrast, conventional time trial helmets, as known in the art, have included ear covers integrated or formed as part of the helmet body 12. Conventional helmets have also included smaller removable shields that have just covered the eyes 90 of the user 80 without wrapping around to the sides and rear of the helmet to additionally cover the ears 82 of the user.
- the improved design of the current time trial helmet disclosed herein and shown, e.g., in FIGs. 1-3 comprises a shield 14 that both functions as a cover for the eyes 90, face, both or neither, while also extending all the way back to cover the ears 82 of the user 80.
- the shield 14 may be formed or molded as a single piece, or it may be assembled from two or more separate pieces.
- the shield 14 may be covered with a coating having special optical properties (e.g. polarized, contrast enhancing, filtering a particular range of wavelengths, intensity reduction, etc.).
- the shield 14 may incorporate some form of display technology (e.g. heads-up display, time/pace indicator, etc.).
- a front portion 16 of the helmet body 12 refers to the leading part of the helmet body 12, particularly the portion of the helmet body 12 that is in front of or in alignment with a center of a helmet wearer's face.
- a tail portion 18 of the helmet body 12 refers to the trailing part of the helmet body 12, particularly the portion of the helmet body 12 which is behind or in alignment with the back of the helmet users head.
- the front portion 16 of the helmet may be rounded, while the tail portion 18 may be tapered, giving the helmet an overall tear-drop or seed-like shape. See, for example, FIG. 8 . Such a shape offers aerodynamic advantages.
- the brow portion 20 of the shield 14 refers to a connecting or bridge portion of the shield 14 that connects ear 82 ( FIG. 5a ) cover portions (e.g. ear portion 22, etc.) of the shield 14.
- the shield 14 may not provide cover for the user's face or eyes 90. See, for example, the partial shield 70 of FIGs. 3 and 4C .
- the brow portion 20 allows the shield 14 to provide cover for the users ears 82, provide the aerodynamic advantages previously discussed, yet remain a single piece, as opposed to two separate ear covers. As seen in FIGs. 1-3 , the brow portion 20 extends along the brow portion of the helmet at the lower front edge of the helmet body 12.
- the ear portion 22 of the shield 14 refers to the portion of the shield 14 that covers the helmet user's ears 82 ( FIG. 5a ). According to various embodiments, the ear portion 22 of the shield 14 is flush with the tail portion 18 of the helmet body 12, reducing drag. In some embodiments, such as that depicted in FIG. 1 , the ear portion 22 of the shield 14 is a solid piece of material. In other embodiments, such as that depicted in FIG. 2 , the ear portion 22 of the shield 14 includes one or more ear vents 32, to provide ventilation and aid the rider in hearing their environment. The size of the ear vent 32 should balance the desired ventilation versus a potential negative impact on aerodynamic advantage of the TT helmet.
- the brow vent 24 in the shield 50, 60, 70 is an opening that allows a desired amount of air to pass into the helmet, such as for ventilation and cooling. While some airflow can be desirable, such as to reduce heat and improving cooing and comfort for a rider, excessive airflow can create unwanted drag, and decrease aerodynamic performance of the helmet.
- the ventilation provided by the brow vents 24 passes between the top edge 52 of the shield 14 and the helmet body 12. As seen in FIGs. 1-3 , the brow vents 24 are places where the top edge 52 of the shield 14 dips down, creating a gap when the shield 14 is seated with the helmet body 12. In other embodiments, the brow vent 24 may be shaped and located such that the ventilation provided passes entirely through the shield 14 or the helmet body 12.
- a shield magnet 26 is a magnet attached to, or incorporated within, the shield 14, for the purpose of coupling with one or more body magnets 86 (e.g. magnets associated with the helmet body 12, etc.).
- a shield magnet 26 may be coupled to the shield 14 in a number of ways, including but not limited to one or more of, adhesive, clips, enclosures, in-molding, and any other suitable way of attachment.
- the shield magnets 26 of FIGs. 1-3 are coupled to the shield 14 using clips that are secured to the shield 14 through holes (e.g. shield magnet slot 54 of FIGs. 4A-C , etc.), according to one embodiment.
- other attachment mechanisms may be used in addition to or instead of magnets.
- the shield magnet 26 is a permanent magnet. In other embodiments, the shield magnet 26 may be replaced with a ferromagnetic material that can magnetically couple with the body magnets 86 of the helmet body 12.
- a bone line 28 is a contour line along the exterior surface of the helmet, which contributes to the aerodynamic performance of the helmet.
- the bone lines 28 can begin at the front of the helmet and extend along the sides and top of the helmet to the rear of the helmet.
- a helmet comprises a helmet body 12 and a shield 14.
- the helmet body 12 comprises a front portion 16 and a tail portion 18, and the shield 14 comprises two ear portions 22 connected by a brow portion 20.
- the shield 14 is releasably coupled to the helmet body 12. Furthermore, at least a portion of an ear 82 of a helmet user 80 is substantially exposed with respect to the helmet body 12 and covered with respect to the shield 14. Finally, the brow portion 20 of the shield 14 extends across the front portion 16 of the helmet.
- the helmet may further comprise at least one body magnet 86 and at least one shield magnet 26 coupled to the shield 14.
- the at least one body magnet 86 and the at least one shield magnet 26 may be aligned with respect to each other such that the shield 14 can be magnetically coupled to the helmet body 12.
- the shield 14 may further comprise at least one brow vent 24 along a top edge 52 of the shield 14.
- Each ear portion 22 of the shield 14 may comprise at least one ear vent 32.
- a helmet comprises a helmet body 12 and a shield 14.
- the helmet body 12 comprises a front portion 16 and a tail portion 18.
- the shield 14 comprises two ear portions 22 connected by a brow portion 20.
- the shield 14 is magnetically coupled to the helmet body 12.
- an ear 82 of a helmet user 80 is fully or nearly fully exposed with respect to the helmet body 12 and covered by or only by the shield 14.
- the brow portion 20 of the shield 14 extends across the front portion 16 of the helmet.
- the tail portion 18 is tapered and the front portion 16 has a rounded leading edge 92, such that the helmet body 12 has a tear drop 130 form.
- a helmet comprises a helmet body 12 and a shield 14.
- the helmet body 12 comprises a front portion 16, a tail portion 18, and a plurality of body magnets 86.
- the shield 14 comprises a plurality of shield magnets 26, as well as two ear portions 22 connected by a brow portion 20.
- the shield 14 is releasably coupled to the helmet body 12 by the magnetic attraction between the plurality of body magnets 86 and the plurality of shield magnets 26.
- an ear 82 of a helmet user 80 is substantially exposed with respect to the helmet body 12 and covered with respect to the shield 14.
- the brow portion 20 of the shield 14 extends across the front portion 16 of the helmet.
- FIGs. 4A-C depict a perspective view of non-limiting examples of shields 14 for use with a time trial helmet. Specifically, FIG. 4A shows a full shield 50, as well as a shield magnetic slot 54. FIG. 4B shows a vented shield 60, and FIG. 4C shows a partial shield 70.
- the full shield 50 of FIG. 4A provides cover for both the ears 82 as well as the riders eyes 90.
- the brow portion 20 of the full shield 50 may be extended downward to provide cover for just the rider's eyes 90, so their vision is not impaired as they race.
- the brow portion 20 of the full shield 50 may be extended even further downward, covering more of the rider's face. This may provide aerodynamic benefits.
- the single-piece nature of the full shield 50 may make it more aerodynamic than other shields 14, such as the partial shield 70 and the vented shield 60, but at the cost of ventilation and comfort.
- the full shield 50 may be made of a single piece of material, or it may be assembled from multiple pieces.
- the vented shield 60 of FIG. 4B (and FIG. 2 ), provides cover for both the ears 82 as well as the rider's eyes 90, similar to the full shield 50. Furthermore, the vented shield 60 may cover more of the rider's face than their eyes 90, as discussed with respect to the full, unvented shield 50 above. However, the vented shield 60 has one or more ear vents 32 located on the ear portions 22 along the side of the shield 14. These vents may provide needed ventilation and cooling, and may also server to allow sound to enter the time trial helmet, which may help the rider have better situational awareness as they race.
- the vented shield 60 may be made of a single piece of material, or it may be assembled from multiple pieces.
- the partial shield 70 of FIG. 4C (and FIG. 3 ) provides cover for the rider's ears 82, but does not cover the rider's eyes 90.
- the partial shield 70 can therefore accommodate a rider wearing sunglasses or other eyeglasses, instead of using the shield 14 to cover their eyes 90.
- the brow portion 20 of the partial shield 70 is reduced in comparison to the brow portion 20 of the full shield 50 and the vented shield 60; the size of the brow portion 20 is sufficient to connect the two ear portions 22 securely.
- the shield magnetic slot 54 is a feature of a shield 14 with which a shield magnet 26 may be coupled to the shield 14. As depicted in FIGs. 4A-C , the shield magnetic slot 54 may be one or more holes or slots in the shield 14 which may be used to anchor a shield magnet 26 to the shield 14. For example, in the embodiments depicted in FIGs. 1-3 , the shield magnetic slots 54 are attached to clips with which the shield magnets 26 are coupled.
- FIG. 5A depicts a side view of a helmet user 80 wearing the helmet body 12 of FIGs. 1-3 , according to various embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 5a shows a helmet user 80, an ear 82, an indentation 84, a body magnet 86, a lip 88 of the helmet body 12, an eye 90, and a rounded leading edge 92.
- FIG. 5A illustrates the time trial helmet on a user head without a shield 14 to show the relative position of the user's head and ear 82 with respect to the helmet.
- User heads are not uniform, and positions of ears 82 on user heads can change with respect to other users and with respect to the helmet.
- the position of the helmet user 80 or rider's ear 82 shown in FIG. 5A is a relative position.
- the relative position shown in FIG. 5A illustrates a position that is about as far back as a helmet user's ear 82 will typically go.
- most ears 82 or a majority of ears 82
- most ears 82 will be situated farther forward, or nearer the front of the opening and more fully situated behind the ear portion 22 of the shield 14.
- most ears 82 will be mostly or completely exposed with respect to the helmet body 12 and mostly or completely exposed when the shield 14 is releasably decoupled from the helmet body 12.
- the indentations 84 shown in FIG. 5A are sized to hold a shield magnet 26 while it is coupled to the shield 14, thus allowing the shield 14 to sit flush with the helmet body 12.
- the indentations 84 also serve as a visual and tactile guide for the helmet user 80 to align the shield 14 correctly with the helmet body 12, according to various embodiments.
- the helmet bodies of FIGs. 1-3 all make use of indentations 84.
- the helmet body 12 may not include indentations 84.
- the shield magnets 26 couple with the shield 14 such that the interior surface of the shield 14 is unobstructed, and may sit flush with the helmet body 12 without requiring indentations 84.
- such embodiments may employ a visual indication of the location of the one or more body magnets 86 embedded in the helmet body 12, to assist with initial shield 14 alignment.
- the body magnet 86 may be a magnet (e.g. permanent magnet, etc.) which is incorporated in the helmet body 12 such that it may magnetically couple with the shield magnet(s) 26, holding the shield 14 in place while the time trial helmet is in use.
- the body magnet 86 may be embedded in the material of the helmet body 12 (i.e. in-molded, mechanically inserted post molding, etc.).
- the body magnet 86 may be affixed to the surface, or affixed such that it is exposed. In embodiments such as the one depicted in FIG.
- one or more body magnets 86 may be embedded in, or affixed to, the helmet body 12 in proximity to each indentation 84.
- a reduced magnet i.e. smaller, weaker, lighter, etc.
- amplified presence of body magnets 86 e.g. using multiple body magnets 86 for each shield magnet 26, using stronger body magnets 86, etc.
- the indentations 84, the body magnets 86, or both, may be located in a lip 88 of the helmet body 12, as shown in FIG. 5a .
- the helmet body 12 may have one or more "lips" which provide an idealized surface where the shield 14 may be seated while being releasably coupled to the helmet body 12.
- the lips 88 of the helmet body 12 are where indentations 84, the body magnets 86, or both, may be located.
- the helmet body 12 of the helmets of FIGs. 1-3 illustrate a rounded leading edge 92, for aerodynamic purposes.
- the rounded leading edge 92 is located on the front portion 16 of the helmet body 12, according to various embodiments.
- At least one body magnet 86 may be encased within the helmet body 12.
- the helmet may further comprise at least one indentation 84 set in a lip 88 of the helmet body 12, at least one body magnet 86, and at least one shield magnet 26 coupled to the shield 14.
- At least one body magnet 86 may be encased within the helmet body 12 near the location of each indentation 84.
- the shield magnets 26 may fit within the indentations 84.
- FIG. 5B depicts a side view of the helmet of FIG. 2 , according to various embodiments.
- a height of the helmet can taper to a minimum as the helmet tapers to a smaller size or lesser height at the rear tail or beak of the helmet.
- FIG. 5B shows helmet 30 comprising an outer surface 100 of the brow portion 20, an outer surface 102 of the front portion 16, an outer surface 104 of the ear portions 22, and an outer surface 106 of the tail portion 18.
- Contours or a shape of the helmet can be continuous across a transition between, or at an interface of, the helmet body 12 and the shield 14 to create a continuous, integral helmet with an improved aerodynamic look and performance.
- an outer surface 100 of the brow portion 20 of the shield 14 may be recessed with respect to an outer surface 102 of the front portion 16 of the helmet body 12.
- An outer surface 104 of the two ear portions 22 of the shield 14 may be substantially flush with an outer surface 106 of the tail portion 18 of the helmet body 12.
- an outer surface of the shield 14 may be recessed with respect to an outer surface 102 of the front portion 16 of the helmet body 12.
- the outer surface of the shield 14 may be substantially flush with an outer surface 106 of the tail portion 18 of the helmet body 12.
- the outer surface 100 of the brow portion 20 refers to the exterior surface of the shield 14 localized around the brow portion 20.
- the outer surface 102 of the front portion 16 refers to the exterior surface of the helmet body 12 (e.g. the outer shell, etc.) localized around the region where the brow portion 20 of the shield 14 comes into contact with the helmet body 12.
- the outer surface 104 of the ear portions 22 refers to the exterior surface of the shield 14 localized around the ear portion 22 or, more specifically, the exterior surface of the shield 14 near the rear of the shield 14.
- the outer surface 106 of the tail portion 18 refers to the exterior surface of the helmet body 12 (e.g. the outer shell, etc.) localized around the region where the ear portion 22 of the shield 14 comes in contact with the helmet body 12.
- FIG. 5B shows that the front portion 16 of the helmet can be formed by the outer shell and a front portion 16 of the energy absorbing layer disposed farther forward than the shield 14.
- the shield 14 can be recessed with respect to the front-most part, or leading edge, of the helmet so that a portion of the outer shell and energy absorbing layer can overhang the shield 14.
- FIGs. 6A and 6B illustrate cross-sectional views of the helmet user 80 wearing the helmet body 12 of FIG. 5A .
- FIG. 6A shows a side view, which includes a maximum thickness 110 of the front portion 16, and a maximum thickness 112 of the tail portion 18.
- FIG. 6B shows a front view that includes a representation of the average thickness 114 of the helmet body 12, discounting the contributions of the front portion 16 and the tail portion 18.
- Helmet thickness as discussed herein, and in particular a thickness 110 of the front or brow portion 16 of the helmet body 12 and a thickness 112 of the tail portion 18, can be measured as the distance from the head of the helmet user 80 to the exterior of the helmet body 12. More specifically, the brow thickness 110 or the tail thickness 112 of the helmet 10, 30, 40, can be measured near the lowest part of the helmet as the distance that extends from the inner or interior surface of the helmet body 12, such as the inner surface 19b of the comfort liner 19 or the inner surface 13b of the impact liner 13, to the exterior or outer surface of the helmet body 12. Brow thickness 110 can be measured, for example, from the outer surface 13a of the impact liner 13 or the outer surface 11a of the outer shell 11 adjacent and above the wearer's eyes.
- the thickness 110 may be made thicker than the thicknesses of other helmets previously used for cycling.
- typical brow thicknesses for the energy absorbing materials of conventional helmets have been less than about 33 millimeters (mm) or less than 30 mm, and have typically comprised thicknesses in ranges of about 20-30 mm, or about 25 mm, when not including a thickness or distance of a shield 14 as part of the brow thickness.
- 6A-B is thicker than conventional helmets, and can include a thickness greater than 33 mm, greater than 35 mm, greater than 40 mm, and may comprise a thickness in a range substantially equal to, or about, 33-50 mm, or about 40-50 mm, or about 45 mm or 48 mm.
- the terms substantially equal to, or about include variation in thicknesses in a range of 0-5 mm, 0-3 mm, and 0-1 mm, according to various embodiments.
- a helmet In order to pass impact testing in the brow portion 20, a helmet generally would need about 22 mm of energy absorbing material, like EPS foam, which is significantly less than the amount used in the helmets disclosed herein that can include about, or more than, twice the 22 mm of material.
- the average thickness 114 of the helmet body 12 can be in a range of about 20-26 mm or about 22-24 mm.
- the thickness 110 of the front or brow portion of the helmet body 12 can be about twice the thickness of the rest of the helmet, with the exception of the rear tear-drop shape.
- many helmets have a thickened rear section with a ratio of up to 4 times the thickness of the rest of the helmet.
- a brow thickness 110 of the helmet By increasing a brow thickness 110 of the helmet, while maintaining more conventional helmet thicknesses for other parts of the helmet, additional protections and aerodynamic performance can be achieved by the disclosed helmet. For example, by moving the brow portion 20 forward, or extending the outer surface of the helmet 10, 30, 40 (such as the outer surface 11a or 13a) farther from the head of the user 80, a first interaction of the helmet 10, 30, 40 with the air or wind occurs earlier temporally, or at a greater distance spatially, from the user 80, which produces better aerodynamics for all head fore, aft, and yaw angles.
- the energy absorbing layer 13, including foam as an energy absorbent material can typically absorb more energy when more foam is present, but at some point the benefits from added foam do not outweigh the aerodynamic harm from too much bulk in front.
- the more foam or energy absorbing material 13 thickness that is present in the helmet the better the helmet will perform in an impact test, but not necessarily better in an aerodynamic test.
- the time trial helmet test results do indicate that impacts on the brow result in significantly lower accelerations than are present elsewhere on the helmet for improved helmet impact performance, while also providing improved aerodynamic performance.
- the front portion 16 of the helmet body 12 may have a maximum thickness in a range of 40-50 mm.
- the tail portion 18 of the helmet body 12 may have a maximum thickness greater than the maximum thickness 110 of the front portion 16.
- the average thickness 114 of the portion of the helmet body 12 not included in either the front portion 16 or the tail portion 18 may be in a range of 20-26mm.
- FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of the bottom of the helmet body 12 of FIGs. 1-3 .
- FIG. 7 shows a central and rear portion of an interior of the helmet that is configured to receive a head of the user.
- FIG. 7 also shows that the inner surface of the front portion 16 of the helmet body 12 can include one or more interior channels 120 that align with the brow vents 24 to control or direct airflow into the helmet and around the head of the user.
- An inner liner or comfort liner can be inserted into the interior of the helmet to improve helmet fit and to direct or channel airflow around a head of the user.
- FIG. 8 depicts a top view of the helmet body 12 of FIGs. 1-3 .
- FIG. 8 shows that the time trial helmet can be formed comprising a footprint or shape that includes a rounded leading edge 92 and a tapered or pointed trailing or lagging edge such that an overall form factor of the helmet can resemble a tear drop 130 or a seed.
- FIGs. 9-10 depict a front and rear view of helmet 10 of FIG. 1 .
- the figures show a number of bone or contour lines 28 along the exterior surface of the helmet, which begin at the front of the helmet and extend along the sides and top of the helmet to the rear of the helmet.
- the helmet may comprise an optimized anterior or trailing edge portion that comprises a beak shape and prominent "bone" lines that may be formed on both left and right sides of the helmet and extend from the front of the helmet to the back of the helmet to contribute to the aerodynamic performance of the helmet.
- the anterior portion of the helmet may be hollow at an interior of the helmet, such as when a thickness of the helmet body 12 (or the outer shell and the energy absorbing layer) are of a substantially uniform thickness, or range in thicknesses from 10-50 millimeters.
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Description
- Aspects of this document relate generally to time trial bicycle helmets with removable shields.
- Protective headgear and helmets have been used in a wide variety of applications and across a number of industries including sports, athletics, construction, mining, military defense, and others, to prevent damage to a user's head and brain. Bicycle time trials are a use scenario where sometimes-conflicting needs are carefully balanced. The goal of a cycling time trial is to traverse a course or track in the fastest time possible. Aerodynamic advantages may improve time trial results. A time trial helmet ideally will provide an aerodynamic advantage without sacrificing the protection afforded the user. At the same time, the helmet needs to be comfortable enough to not interfere with race performance. Thus, ventilation and weight are concerns that need to be balanced against the protection and reduced drag.
- Aerodynamic and comfort advantages are to be had by covering the eyes and ears of the rider. Conventional time trial helmets, as known in the art, have included ear covers integrated or formed as part of the helmet body. Conventional helmets have also included removable eye shields that have just covered the eves of the user.
CA 2847771 discloses a time trial bicycle helmet with integral ear covers. - A need exists for a time trial bicycle helmet with improved aerodynamics and ventilation. Accordingly, the present application provides a time trial cycling helmet in accordance with the claims which follow.
- The foregoing and other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent to those artisans of ordinary skill in the art from the DESCRIPTION and DRAWINGS, and from the CLAIMS.
- The invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings, where like designations denote like elements, and:
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a helmet with a full shield; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a helmet with a vented shield; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a helmet with a partial shield; -
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the full shield ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the vented shield ofFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 4C is a perspective view of the partial shield ofFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 5A is a side view of a helmet user wearing the helmet body ofFIGs. 1-3 ; -
FIG. 5B is a side view of the helmet ofFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional side view of the helmet user wearing the helmet body ofFIG. 5A ; -
FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional front view of the helmet user wearing the helmet body ofFIG. 5A ; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the bottom of the helmet body ofFIGs. 1-3 ; -
FIG. 8 is a top view of the helmet body ofFIGs. 1-3 ; -
FIG. 9 is a front view of the helmet ofFIG. 1 ; and -
FIG. 10 is a rear view of the helmet ofFIG. 1 . - This disclosure, its aspects and implementations, are not limited to the specific helmet or material types, or other system component examples, or methods disclosed herein. Many additional components, manufacturing and assembly procedures known in the art consistent with helmet manufacture are contemplated for use with particular implementations from this disclosure. Accordingly, for example, although particular implementations are disclosed, such implementations and implementing components may comprise any components, models, types, materials, versions, quantities, and/or the like as is known in the art for such systems and implementing components, consistent with the intended operation.
- The word "exemplary," "example," or various forms thereof are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" or as an "example" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Furthermore, examples are provided solely for purposes of clarity and understanding and are not meant to limit or restrict the disclosed subject matter or relevant portions of this disclosure in any manner. It is to be appreciated that a myriad of additional or alternate examples of varying scope could have been presented, but have been omitted for purposes of brevity.
- While this disclosure includes a number of embodiments in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail particular embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the disclosed helmet and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the disclosed concepts to the embodiments illustrated.
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FIGs. 1-3 depict perspective views of non-limiting examples of helmets withshields 14, which can includeshields FIG. 1 shows ahelmet 10, ahelmet body 12, ashield 14, afront portion 16 of thehelmet body 12, atail portion 18 of thehelmet body 12, abrow portion 20 of theshield 14, anear portion 22 of theshield 14, abrow vent 24, ashield magnet 26, a bone line 28, and afull shield 50. Furthermore,FIG. 2 shows ahelmet 30 having the elements ofhelmet 10, but with a ventedshield 60 instead of the full,unvented shield 50.FIG. 2 includes at least oneear vent 32. Finally,FIG. 3 shows ahelmet 40 having the elements ofhelmet shield 70 with the eye portion unshielded in the place of thefull shield 50 ofFIG. 1 or the ventedshield 60 ofFIG. 2 . - A helmet (
e.g. helmet 10 ofFIG. 1 ,helmet 30 ofFIG. 2 ,helmet 40 ofFIG. 3 etc.) is a form of protective gear designed to protect the head from injury. The helmets are intended for use in bicycle time trials (TT), a use scenario where different needs are carefully balanced. The goal of a time trial is to traverse a course or track in the fastest time possible; an aerodynamic advantage may improve time trial results. A time trial helmet ideally will provide an aerodynamic advantage, or at least minimize drag caused by the helmet, without sacrificing the protection afforded the user. At the same time, the helmet needs to be comfortable enough to not interfere with race performance. Thus, ventilation and weight are concerns that need to be balanced against the protection and reduced drag. Various aspects of the helmets ofFIGs. 1-3 address these needs. - In the context of the present description,
helmet body 12 can refers to any part of the helmet that is not ashield 14, but would not necessarily include straps or other ancillary or attachment features for securing the helmet to a head of the wearer or user. Stated another way, thehelmet body 12 can refer, collectively, to anouter shell 11, an impact liner orenergy absorbing layer 13, and a comfort liner orfit liner 19, as described in greater detail below. Generally, theprotective helmet body 12 for the TT helmet examples disclosed herein, can comprise one or moreenergy absorbing materials 13, such as an in inner energy absorbing material disposed within theouter shell 11, although aprotective helmet helmets outer shell 11, (ii) an impact liner orenergy absorbing layer 13, and (iii) a comfort liner orfit liner 19, each of which is addressed in greater detail below. - The
outer shell 11 may be formed of a plastic, resin, fiberglass, or other suitable material such as a polycarbonate (PC) shell, or a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) shell, whether stamped, in-molded, injection molded, vacuum formed, or formed by another suitable process. Theouter shell 11 may comprise anouter surface 11a and aninner surface 11b opposite theouter surface 11a,outer surface 11a being farther from a head of theuser 80 and theinner surface 11b being nearer the head of theuser 80. Theouter shell 11 may provide a material in which theimpact liner 13 can be in-molded, may provide a smooth aerodynamic finish, and may provide a decorative finish for improved aesthetics. Polycarbonate shells are usually either in-molded in the form of a vacuum formed sheet, or alternatively, can be attached to the foam liner with an adhesive. In an embodiment, the polycarbonate shell is taped onto the foam liner after the polycarbonate shell is molded. The in-molded polycarbonate shell method may be employed as bike helmets used for road cycling. A thickness of theouter shell 11 can comprise a thickness or average thickness, measured between theouter surface 11a and theinner surface 11b, in a range of 0-5 mm or about 1, 2, or 3 mm. - The impact liner or
energy absorbing layer 13 may be disposed inside and adjacent the outer shell. Theimpact liner 13 may comprise anouter surface 13a and aninner surface 13b opposite theouter surface 13a, theouter surface 13a being farther from a head of theuser 80 and theinner surface 13b being nearer the head of theuser 80. Theouter surface 13a can be adjacent or in direct contact with theinner surface 11b of theshell 11. Theenergy absorbing layer 13 may be made of plastic, polymer, foam, or other suitable energy absorbing material to absorb energy and to contribute to energy management for protecting a wearer during impact. Theenergy absorbing layer 13 may include, without limitation, expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polyurethane (EPTU or EPU), or expanded polyolefin (EPO). In-molded helmets are often formed such that theouter shell 11 of thehelmet foam 13 as it is expanding and being molded into the shell. As such, theenergy absorbing layer 13 may be in-molded as a single or monolithic body of energy absorbing material and anouter shell 11. Alternatively, in other embodiments theenergy absorbing layer 13 may be formed of multiple portions or a plurality of portions. In any event, theenergy absorbing material 13 can be configured to absorb energy from an impact by being crushed or cracking. Theimpact liner 13 may be permanently coupled to theouter shell 11 with an adhesive, glue, or other suitable chemical or mechanical attachment. - As a non-limiting example, the
outer shell 11 may be made from a combination of carbon and fiberglass, in which the carbon shell may be permanently coupled to theenergy absorbing layer 13, such as an EPS liner, using chemical or mechanical fastening, such as with a glue or adhesive. As another non-limiting example, theouter shell 11 may be made from a standard PC shell in which the energy absorbing layer is in-molded into the outer shell using a standard in-molding process. - The comfort liner or
fit liner 19 may be optional, and may be disposed inside theouter shell 11 and theimpact liner 13, such as with anouter surface 19a of thecomfort liner 19 being disposed adjacent or indirect contact with aninner surface 13b of theimpact liner 13. Aninner surface 19b of theinner surface 19 can be in direct contact, co-planar, or co-terminus with a head of the user orwearer 80. In some instances the comfort liner may omitted entirely so that theinner surface 13a of the impact liner is in direct contact, co-planar, or co-terminus with a head of the user orwearer 80. Thecomfort liner 19 may be made of textiles, plastic, foam, or other suitable material, such as polyester or nylon. Thecomfort liner 19 may also include portions of a fit system, such as a fit system comprising a dial that can real in or pay out portions of the fit system to match a size, shape, or both a size and shape of the head of theuser 80. In some instances, thecomfort line 19 may comprise a low friction layer or slip plane for rotational energy management. Thecomfort liner 19 may be formed of one or more pads of material that can be joined together, or formed as discrete components, that are coupled to the in-molded helmet. Thecomfort liner 19 may be releasably or permanently attached to theimpact liner 13 using snaps, hook and loop fasteners, adhesives, or other suitable materials. As such, thecomfort liner 19 can provide a cushion and improved fit for the wearer of the in-moldedhelmet comfort liner 19 can comprise a thickness or average thickness, measured between theouter surface 19 and theinner surface 19b, in a range of 0-10 mm, 3-7 mm, or about 5 mm. - The
shields 14 releasably coupled to the helmets ofFIGs. 1-3 may also be described as visors or lenses. Theshield 14 may be made to be removable and be releasably coupled to thehelmet body 12 to facilitate putting on and removing the helmet by the user. In the embodiments illustrated inFIGs. 1-3 , theshield 14 is releasably coupled to thehelmet body 12 with magnets (e.g. shield magnets 26,body magnets 86, etc.). In other embodiments any suitable attachment mechanism or combination of attachment mechanisms, including but not limited to, clips, latches, magnets, locks, slots, channels, hook and loop fasteners, friction (e.g. inserted into a tight slot in thehelmet body 12, etc.) may be used. As seen inFIGs. 1 and2 , a notch or cutout can be formed in the lower edge of theshield 14 such that theshield 14 fits around a nose of theuser 80 and the nose of theuser 80 can extend beyond and forward of the shield when the helmet is being worn by theuser 80. - Contours or a shape of the helmet may be made continuous across a transition between, or at an interface of, the
helmet body 12 and theshield 14 to create a continuous, integral helmet with an improved aerodynamic look and performance. In the embodiments depicted inFIGs. 1-3 , and elsewhere, theshield 14 operates as an integrated ear cover by extending from the front of the helmet to a side rear portion of the helmet. This can provide more aerodynamic performance and faster times for the cyclist, and allows a rider to cover and uncover both the rider's eyes and ears simultaneously. Accordingly, the helmet can be formed so that theshield 14 is part of a one-piece design that wraps around to side portions of the helmet to cover theears 82 of theuser 80, in addition to shielding the eyes 90 (e.g. theshield 14 ofFIGs. 1 and2 , etc.). In contrast, conventional time trial helmets, as known in the art, have included ear covers integrated or formed as part of thehelmet body 12. Conventional helmets have also included smaller removable shields that have just covered theeyes 90 of theuser 80 without wrapping around to the sides and rear of the helmet to additionally cover theears 82 of the user. As such, the improved design of the current time trial helmet disclosed herein and shown, e.g., inFIGs. 1-3 comprises ashield 14 that both functions as a cover for theeyes 90, face, both or neither, while also extending all the way back to cover theears 82 of theuser 80. - The
shield 14 may be formed or molded as a single piece, or it may be assembled from two or more separate pieces. In some embodiments, theshield 14 may be covered with a coating having special optical properties (e.g. polarized, contrast enhancing, filtering a particular range of wavelengths, intensity reduction, etc.). In other embodiments, theshield 14 may incorporate some form of display technology (e.g. heads-up display, time/pace indicator, etc.). - A
front portion 16 of thehelmet body 12 refers to the leading part of thehelmet body 12, particularly the portion of thehelmet body 12 that is in front of or in alignment with a center of a helmet wearer's face. In contrast, atail portion 18 of thehelmet body 12 refers to the trailing part of thehelmet body 12, particularly the portion of thehelmet body 12 which is behind or in alignment with the back of the helmet users head. In various embodiments, thefront portion 16 of the helmet may be rounded, while thetail portion 18 may be tapered, giving the helmet an overall tear-drop or seed-like shape. See, for example,FIG. 8 . Such a shape offers aerodynamic advantages. - The
brow portion 20 of theshield 14 refers to a connecting or bridge portion of theshield 14 that connects ear 82 (FIG. 5a ) cover portions (e.g. ear portion 22, etc.) of theshield 14. In some embodiments, theshield 14 may not provide cover for the user's face oreyes 90. See, for example, thepartial shield 70 ofFIGs. 3 and4C . Thebrow portion 20 allows theshield 14 to provide cover for theusers ears 82, provide the aerodynamic advantages previously discussed, yet remain a single piece, as opposed to two separate ear covers. As seen inFIGs. 1-3 , thebrow portion 20 extends along the brow portion of the helmet at the lower front edge of thehelmet body 12. - The
ear portion 22 of theshield 14 refers to the portion of theshield 14 that covers the helmet user's ears 82 (FIG. 5a ). According to various embodiments, theear portion 22 of theshield 14 is flush with thetail portion 18 of thehelmet body 12, reducing drag. In some embodiments, such as that depicted inFIG. 1 , theear portion 22 of theshield 14 is a solid piece of material. In other embodiments, such as that depicted inFIG. 2 , theear portion 22 of theshield 14 includes one or more ear vents 32, to provide ventilation and aid the rider in hearing their environment. The size of theear vent 32 should balance the desired ventilation versus a potential negative impact on aerodynamic advantage of the TT helmet. - The
brow vent 24 in theshield top edge 52 of theshield 14 and thehelmet body 12. As seen inFIGs. 1-3 , the brow vents 24 are places where thetop edge 52 of theshield 14 dips down, creating a gap when theshield 14 is seated with thehelmet body 12. In other embodiments, thebrow vent 24 may be shaped and located such that the ventilation provided passes entirely through theshield 14 or thehelmet body 12. - A
shield magnet 26 is a magnet attached to, or incorporated within, theshield 14, for the purpose of coupling with one or more body magnets 86 (e.g. magnets associated with thehelmet body 12, etc.). Ashield magnet 26 may be coupled to theshield 14 in a number of ways, including but not limited to one or more of, adhesive, clips, enclosures, in-molding, and any other suitable way of attachment. Theshield magnets 26 ofFIGs. 1-3 are coupled to theshield 14 using clips that are secured to theshield 14 through holes (e.g.shield magnet slot 54 ofFIGs. 4A-C , etc.), according to one embodiment. As mentioned previously, other attachment mechanisms may be used in addition to or instead of magnets. - In some embodiments, the
shield magnet 26 is a permanent magnet. In other embodiments, theshield magnet 26 may be replaced with a ferromagnetic material that can magnetically couple with thebody magnets 86 of thehelmet body 12. - A bone line 28 is a contour line along the exterior surface of the helmet, which contributes to the aerodynamic performance of the helmet. The bone lines 28 can begin at the front of the helmet and extend along the sides and top of the helmet to the rear of the helmet.
- According to one embodiment, a helmet comprises a
helmet body 12 and ashield 14. Thehelmet body 12 comprises afront portion 16 and atail portion 18, and theshield 14 comprises twoear portions 22 connected by abrow portion 20. Theshield 14 is releasably coupled to thehelmet body 12. Furthermore, at least a portion of anear 82 of ahelmet user 80 is substantially exposed with respect to thehelmet body 12 and covered with respect to theshield 14. Finally, thebrow portion 20 of theshield 14 extends across thefront portion 16 of the helmet. - The helmet may further comprise at least one
body magnet 86 and at least oneshield magnet 26 coupled to theshield 14. The at least onebody magnet 86 and the at least oneshield magnet 26 may be aligned with respect to each other such that theshield 14 can be magnetically coupled to thehelmet body 12. Theshield 14 may further comprise at least onebrow vent 24 along atop edge 52 of theshield 14. Eachear portion 22 of theshield 14 may comprise at least oneear vent 32. - According to another embodiment, a helmet comprises a
helmet body 12 and ashield 14. Thehelmet body 12 comprises afront portion 16 and atail portion 18. Theshield 14 comprises twoear portions 22 connected by abrow portion 20. Theshield 14 is magnetically coupled to thehelmet body 12. Furthermore, anear 82 of ahelmet user 80 is fully or nearly fully exposed with respect to thehelmet body 12 and covered by or only by theshield 14. Thebrow portion 20 of theshield 14 extends across thefront portion 16 of the helmet. Finally, thetail portion 18 is tapered and thefront portion 16 has a rounded leadingedge 92, such that thehelmet body 12 has atear drop 130 form. - According to yet another embodiment, a helmet comprises a
helmet body 12 and ashield 14. Thehelmet body 12 comprises afront portion 16, atail portion 18, and a plurality ofbody magnets 86. Theshield 14 comprises a plurality ofshield magnets 26, as well as twoear portions 22 connected by abrow portion 20. Theshield 14 is releasably coupled to thehelmet body 12 by the magnetic attraction between the plurality ofbody magnets 86 and the plurality ofshield magnets 26. Also, anear 82 of ahelmet user 80 is substantially exposed with respect to thehelmet body 12 and covered with respect to theshield 14. Finally, thebrow portion 20 of theshield 14 extends across thefront portion 16 of the helmet. -
FIGs. 4A-C depict a perspective view of non-limiting examples ofshields 14 for use with a time trial helmet. Specifically,FIG. 4A shows afull shield 50, as well as a shieldmagnetic slot 54.FIG. 4B shows a ventedshield 60, andFIG. 4C shows apartial shield 70. - The
full shield 50 ofFIG. 4A (andFIG. 1 ) provides cover for both theears 82 as well as theriders eyes 90. In some embodiments, thebrow portion 20 of thefull shield 50 may be extended downward to provide cover for just the rider'seyes 90, so their vision is not impaired as they race. In other embodiments, thebrow portion 20 of thefull shield 50 may be extended even further downward, covering more of the rider's face. This may provide aerodynamic benefits. The single-piece nature of thefull shield 50 may make it more aerodynamic thanother shields 14, such as thepartial shield 70 and the ventedshield 60, but at the cost of ventilation and comfort. Thefull shield 50 may be made of a single piece of material, or it may be assembled from multiple pieces. - The vented
shield 60 ofFIG. 4B (andFIG. 2 ), provides cover for both theears 82 as well as the rider'seyes 90, similar to thefull shield 50. Furthermore, the ventedshield 60 may cover more of the rider's face than theireyes 90, as discussed with respect to the full,unvented shield 50 above. However, the ventedshield 60 has one or more ear vents 32 located on theear portions 22 along the side of theshield 14. These vents may provide needed ventilation and cooling, and may also server to allow sound to enter the time trial helmet, which may help the rider have better situational awareness as they race. The ventedshield 60 may be made of a single piece of material, or it may be assembled from multiple pieces. - The
partial shield 70 ofFIG. 4C (andFIG. 3 ) provides cover for the rider'sears 82, but does not cover the rider'seyes 90. Thepartial shield 70 can therefore accommodate a rider wearing sunglasses or other eyeglasses, instead of using theshield 14 to cover theireyes 90. Thebrow portion 20 of thepartial shield 70 is reduced in comparison to thebrow portion 20 of thefull shield 50 and the ventedshield 60; the size of thebrow portion 20 is sufficient to connect the twoear portions 22 securely. - The shield
magnetic slot 54 is a feature of ashield 14 with which ashield magnet 26 may be coupled to theshield 14. As depicted inFIGs. 4A-C , the shieldmagnetic slot 54 may be one or more holes or slots in theshield 14 which may be used to anchor ashield magnet 26 to theshield 14. For example, in the embodiments depicted inFIGs. 1-3 , the shieldmagnetic slots 54 are attached to clips with which theshield magnets 26 are coupled. -
FIG. 5A depicts a side view of ahelmet user 80 wearing thehelmet body 12 ofFIGs. 1-3 , according to various embodiments. Specifically,FIG. 5a shows ahelmet user 80, anear 82, anindentation 84, abody magnet 86, alip 88 of thehelmet body 12, aneye 90, and a roundedleading edge 92. -
FIG. 5A illustrates the time trial helmet on a user head without ashield 14 to show the relative position of the user's head andear 82 with respect to the helmet. User heads are not uniform, and positions ofears 82 on user heads can change with respect to other users and with respect to the helmet. Thus, the position of thehelmet user 80 or rider'sear 82 shown inFIG. 5A is a relative position. However, the relative position shown inFIG. 5A illustrates a position that is about as far back as a helmet user'sear 82 will typically go. As such, most ears 82 (or a majority of ears 82) will be situated farther forward, or nearer the front of the opening and more fully situated behind theear portion 22 of theshield 14. Thus,most ears 82 will be mostly or completely exposed with respect to thehelmet body 12 and mostly or completely exposed when theshield 14 is releasably decoupled from thehelmet body 12. - The
indentations 84 shown inFIG. 5A are sized to hold ashield magnet 26 while it is coupled to theshield 14, thus allowing theshield 14 to sit flush with thehelmet body 12. Theindentations 84 also serve as a visual and tactile guide for thehelmet user 80 to align theshield 14 correctly with thehelmet body 12, according to various embodiments. The helmet bodies ofFIGs. 1-3 all make use ofindentations 84. In other embodiments, thehelmet body 12 may not includeindentations 84. For example, if theshield magnets 26 couple with theshield 14 such that the interior surface of theshield 14 is unobstructed, and may sit flush with thehelmet body 12 without requiringindentations 84. As an option, such embodiments may employ a visual indication of the location of the one ormore body magnets 86 embedded in thehelmet body 12, to assist withinitial shield 14 alignment. - The
body magnet 86 may be a magnet (e.g. permanent magnet, etc.) which is incorporated in thehelmet body 12 such that it may magnetically couple with the shield magnet(s) 26, holding theshield 14 in place while the time trial helmet is in use. In some embodiments, thebody magnet 86 may be embedded in the material of the helmet body 12 (i.e. in-molded, mechanically inserted post molding, etc.). In other embodiments, thebody magnet 86 may be affixed to the surface, or affixed such that it is exposed. In embodiments such as the one depicted inFIG. 5A , which includesindentations 84 to receive theshield magnets 26, one ormore body magnets 86 may be embedded in, or affixed to, thehelmet body 12 in proximity to eachindentation 84. In some embodiments, a reduced magnet (i.e. smaller, weaker, lighter, etc.) may be used for theshield magnets 26, and compensated for with amplified presence of body magnets 86 (e.g. usingmultiple body magnets 86 for eachshield magnet 26, usingstronger body magnets 86, etc.). - The
indentations 84, thebody magnets 86, or both, may be located in alip 88 of thehelmet body 12, as shown inFIG. 5a . Thehelmet body 12 may have one or more "lips" which provide an idealized surface where theshield 14 may be seated while being releasably coupled to thehelmet body 12. As depicted inFIG. 5A , thelips 88 of thehelmet body 12 are whereindentations 84, thebody magnets 86, or both, may be located. - The
helmet body 12 of the helmets ofFIGs. 1-3 illustrate a rounded leadingedge 92, for aerodynamic purposes. The rounded leadingedge 92 is located on thefront portion 16 of thehelmet body 12, according to various embodiments. - According to various embodiments, at least one
body magnet 86 may be encased within thehelmet body 12. The helmet may further comprise at least oneindentation 84 set in alip 88 of thehelmet body 12, at least onebody magnet 86, and at least oneshield magnet 26 coupled to theshield 14. At least onebody magnet 86 may be encased within thehelmet body 12 near the location of eachindentation 84. Lastly, theshield magnets 26 may fit within theindentations 84. -
FIG. 5B depicts a side view of the helmet ofFIG. 2 , according to various embodiments. As shown, a height of the helmet can taper to a minimum as the helmet tapers to a smaller size or lesser height at the rear tail or beak of the helmet. Additionally,FIG. 5B showshelmet 30 comprising anouter surface 100 of thebrow portion 20, anouter surface 102 of thefront portion 16, anouter surface 104 of theear portions 22, and anouter surface 106 of thetail portion 18. Contours or a shape of the helmet can be continuous across a transition between, or at an interface of, thehelmet body 12 and theshield 14 to create a continuous, integral helmet with an improved aerodynamic look and performance. - According to various embodiments, an
outer surface 100 of thebrow portion 20 of theshield 14 may be recessed with respect to anouter surface 102 of thefront portion 16 of thehelmet body 12. Anouter surface 104 of the twoear portions 22 of theshield 14 may be substantially flush with anouter surface 106 of thetail portion 18 of thehelmet body 12. Alternatively, an outer surface of theshield 14 may be recessed with respect to anouter surface 102 of thefront portion 16 of thehelmet body 12. Also, the outer surface of theshield 14 may be substantially flush with anouter surface 106 of thetail portion 18 of thehelmet body 12. - The
outer surface 100 of thebrow portion 20 refers to the exterior surface of theshield 14 localized around thebrow portion 20. Theouter surface 102 of thefront portion 16 refers to the exterior surface of the helmet body 12 (e.g. the outer shell, etc.) localized around the region where thebrow portion 20 of theshield 14 comes into contact with thehelmet body 12. - The
outer surface 104 of theear portions 22 refers to the exterior surface of theshield 14 localized around theear portion 22 or, more specifically, the exterior surface of theshield 14 near the rear of theshield 14. Theouter surface 106 of thetail portion 18 refers to the exterior surface of the helmet body 12 (e.g. the outer shell, etc.) localized around the region where theear portion 22 of theshield 14 comes in contact with thehelmet body 12. - The view of
FIG. 5B shows that thefront portion 16 of the helmet can be formed by the outer shell and afront portion 16 of the energy absorbing layer disposed farther forward than theshield 14. Stated another way, theshield 14 can be recessed with respect to the front-most part, or leading edge, of the helmet so that a portion of the outer shell and energy absorbing layer can overhang theshield 14. - Regarding aerodynamics, bumping out the entire front of the
helmet body 12, or extending thefront portion 16 of thehelmet body 12 farther forward with respect to theshield 14, as shownFIG. 5B has resulted in improved performance through reduced drag, or lower drag rating numbers, for the helmet. The unexpected result of reduced drag and improved aerodynamic performance of the helmet due to the thickened or forwardly positioned brow portion is thought to potentially be a result of the helmet creating a larger fairing surface that does a better job at directing air over the riders body, rather than down to the face and chest of the rider. -
FIGs. 6A and6B illustrate cross-sectional views of thehelmet user 80 wearing thehelmet body 12 ofFIG. 5A . Specifically,FIG. 6A shows a side view, which includes amaximum thickness 110 of thefront portion 16, and amaximum thickness 112 of thetail portion 18.FIG. 6B shows a front view that includes a representation of theaverage thickness 114 of thehelmet body 12, discounting the contributions of thefront portion 16 and thetail portion 18. - Helmet thickness, as discussed herein, and in particular a
thickness 110 of the front orbrow portion 16 of thehelmet body 12 and athickness 112 of thetail portion 18, can be measured as the distance from the head of thehelmet user 80 to the exterior of thehelmet body 12. More specifically, thebrow thickness 110 or thetail thickness 112 of thehelmet helmet body 12, such as theinner surface 19b of thecomfort liner 19 or theinner surface 13b of theimpact liner 13, to the exterior or outer surface of thehelmet body 12.Brow thickness 110 can be measured, for example, from theouter surface 13a of theimpact liner 13 or theouter surface 11a of theouter shell 11 adjacent and above the wearer's eyes. Thethickness 110 may be made thicker than the thicknesses of other helmets previously used for cycling. For example, typical brow thicknesses for the energy absorbing materials of conventional helmets have been less than about 33 millimeters (mm) or less than 30 mm, and have typically comprised thicknesses in ranges of about 20-30 mm, or about 25 mm, when not including a thickness or distance of ashield 14 as part of the brow thickness. To the contrary, thebrow thickness 110 of thetime trial helmets FIGs. 6A-B , is thicker than conventional helmets, and can include a thickness greater than 33 mm, greater than 35 mm, greater than 40 mm, and may comprise a thickness in a range substantially equal to, or about, 33-50 mm, or about 40-50 mm, or about 45 mm or 48 mm. As used herein with respect to the helmet brow thickness, the terms substantially equal to, or about, include variation in thicknesses in a range of 0-5 mm, 0-3 mm, and 0-1 mm, according to various embodiments. In order to pass impact testing in thebrow portion 20, a helmet generally would need about 22 mm of energy absorbing material, like EPS foam, which is significantly less than the amount used in the helmets disclosed herein that can include about, or more than, twice the 22 mm of material. - With the exceptions of the
tail portion 18 of thehelmet body 12 that is thickened to form a teardrop shape for aerodynamic purposes, and the thickenedfront portion 16 of the helmet described above, theaverage thickness 114 of thehelmet body 12 can be in a range of about 20-26 mm or about 22-24 mm. Thus, thethickness 110 of the front or brow portion of thehelmet body 12 can be about twice the thickness of the rest of the helmet, with the exception of the rear tear-drop shape. As known in the art from conventional TT helmets, many helmets have a thickened rear section with a ratio of up to 4 times the thickness of the rest of the helmet. - By increasing a
brow thickness 110 of the helmet, while maintaining more conventional helmet thicknesses for other parts of the helmet, additional protections and aerodynamic performance can be achieved by the disclosed helmet. For example, by moving thebrow portion 20 forward, or extending the outer surface of thehelmet outer surface user 80, a first interaction of thehelmet user 80, which produces better aerodynamics for all head fore, aft, and yaw angles. Regarding protection, theenergy absorbing layer 13, including foam as an energy absorbent material, can typically absorb more energy when more foam is present, but at some point the benefits from added foam do not outweigh the aerodynamic harm from too much bulk in front. Thus, the more foam orenergy absorbing material 13 thickness that is present in the helmet, the better the helmet will perform in an impact test, but not necessarily better in an aerodynamic test. In the present case, the time trial helmet test results do indicate that impacts on the brow result in significantly lower accelerations than are present elsewhere on the helmet for improved helmet impact performance, while also providing improved aerodynamic performance. - According to various embodiments, the
front portion 16 of thehelmet body 12 may have a maximum thickness in a range of 40-50 mm. Thetail portion 18 of thehelmet body 12 may have a maximum thickness greater than themaximum thickness 110 of thefront portion 16. Theaverage thickness 114 of the portion of thehelmet body 12 not included in either thefront portion 16 or thetail portion 18 may be in a range of 20-26mm. -
FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of the bottom of thehelmet body 12 ofFIGs. 1-3 .FIG. 7 shows a central and rear portion of an interior of the helmet that is configured to receive a head of the user.FIG. 7 also shows that the inner surface of thefront portion 16 of thehelmet body 12 can include one or moreinterior channels 120 that align with the brow vents 24 to control or direct airflow into the helmet and around the head of the user. An inner liner or comfort liner can be inserted into the interior of the helmet to improve helmet fit and to direct or channel airflow around a head of the user. -
FIG. 8 depicts a top view of thehelmet body 12 ofFIGs. 1-3 .FIG. 8 shows that the time trial helmet can be formed comprising a footprint or shape that includes a rounded leadingedge 92 and a tapered or pointed trailing or lagging edge such that an overall form factor of the helmet can resemble atear drop 130 or a seed. -
FIGs. 9-10 depict a front and rear view ofhelmet 10 ofFIG. 1 . The figures show a number of bone or contour lines 28 along the exterior surface of the helmet, which begin at the front of the helmet and extend along the sides and top of the helmet to the rear of the helmet. As shown inFIG. 10 , the helmet may comprise an optimized anterior or trailing edge portion that comprises a beak shape and prominent "bone" lines that may be formed on both left and right sides of the helmet and extend from the front of the helmet to the back of the helmet to contribute to the aerodynamic performance of the helmet. In some embodiments, the anterior portion of the helmet may be hollow at an interior of the helmet, such as when a thickness of the helmet body 12 (or the outer shell and the energy absorbing layer) are of a substantially uniform thickness, or range in thicknesses from 10-50 millimeters. - Where the above examples, embodiments and implementations reference examples, it should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that other helmet and manufacturing devices and examples could be intermixed or substituted with those provided. In places where the description above refers to particular embodiments of helmets and customization methods, it should be readily apparent that a number of modifications may be made without departing from the spirit thereof and that these embodiments and implementations may be applied to other to helmet customization technologies as well. Accordingly, the disclosed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the claims.
Claims (11)
- A time trial cycling helmet (10), comprising:
a helmet body (12) comprising a front portion and a tail portion; and characterised by further comprising:a shield (14) comprising two ear shield portions (22) connected to each other adjacent the front portion (16) of the helmet body by a brow portion (20);wherein the shield (14) is releasably coupled to the helmet body; andwherein the helmet body (12) is configured to avoid covering ears of a wearer of the helmet body to leave a majority of the ear exposed with respect to the helmet body, and the ear shield portions are configured to extend to the helmet body over the ears of the wearer when connected to the helmet body adjacent to the front portion. - The helmet of claim 1, further comprising:at least one body magnet (86); andat least one shield magnet (26) coupled to the shield,wherein the at least one body magnet is encased within the helmet body (12), andwherein the at least one body magnet and the at least one shield magnet are aligned with respect to each other when the shield is connected to the helmet body.
- A helmet according to claim 1,
wherein the shield (14) is magnetically coupled to the helmet body (12) and
wherein the tail portion is tapered and the front portion has a rounded leading edge, such that the helmet body has a tear drop form factor. - The helmet of claim 1 or claim 3, wherein an outer surface of the brow portion (20) of the shield (14) is recessed with respect to an outer surface of the front portion of the helmet body such that at least part of the helmet body overhangs the brow portion of the shield, and wherein both outer surfaces of the two ear portions of the shield are substantially flush with an outer surface (106) of the tail portion of the helmet body.
- The helmet of claim 3, further comprising:at least one indentation set in a lip of the helmet body;at least one body magnet (86) encased within the helmet body near the at least one indentation; andat least one shield magnet (26) coupled to the shield and sized to fit within the at least one indentation;wherein the at least one body magnet and the at least one shield magnet are aligned with respect to each other when the shield is connected to the helmet body.
- A helmet according to claim 1, wherein the
helmet body comprises a plurality of body magnets (86); and
the shield comprises a plurality of shield magnets (26);
wherein the shield is releasably coupled to the helmet body by magnetic attraction between
the plurality of body magnets and the plurality of shield magnets. - The helmet of claim 6, wherein an outer surface of the shield is recessed with respect to an outer surface of the front portion of the helmet body, and wherein the outer surface of the shield is substantially flush with an outer surface (106) of the tail portion of the helmet body.
- The helmet of any preceding claim, further comprising a shield vent (24) at a top edge of the brow portion of the shield that is separated from a corresponding portion of the front portion (16) of the helmet body to leave an opening between the brow portion of the shield and the front portion of the helmet body when the shield is connected to the helmet body; wherein the helmet body comprises at least one interior channel to direct air passing through
the at least one brow vent into the helmet. - The helmet of any preceding claim, wherein the front portion (16) of the helmet body comprising a maximum thickness in a range of 40-50 mm, the tail portion of the helmet body comprising a maximum thickness greater than the maximum thickness of the front portion, and the average thickness of the portion of the helmet body not included in either the front portion or the tail portion is in a range of 20-26 mm.
- The helmet of any preceding claim, wherein each ear portion of the shield comprises at least one ear vent (32) extending through the ear portion of the shield.
- The helmet of any preceding claim, wherein the brow portion of the shield (14) comprises an eye shield that extends downward from the brow portion and is configured to cover at least the eyes of the helmet wearer.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP21020230.5A EP3884797A1 (en) | 2015-06-18 | 2016-06-20 | Time trial bicycle helmet with ear shield |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201562181377P | 2015-06-18 | 2015-06-18 | |
PCT/US2016/038432 WO2016205823A1 (en) | 2015-06-18 | 2016-06-20 | Time trial bicycle helmet with ear shield |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP21020230.5A Division EP3884797A1 (en) | 2015-06-18 | 2016-06-20 | Time trial bicycle helmet with ear shield |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP3310195A1 EP3310195A1 (en) | 2018-04-25 |
EP3310195A4 EP3310195A4 (en) | 2019-06-26 |
EP3310195B1 true EP3310195B1 (en) | 2021-05-05 |
Family
ID=61656368
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP21020230.5A Pending EP3884797A1 (en) | 2015-06-18 | 2016-06-20 | Time trial bicycle helmet with ear shield |
EP16812643.1A Active EP3310195B1 (en) | 2015-06-18 | 2016-06-20 | Time trial bicycle helmet with ear shield |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP21020230.5A Pending EP3884797A1 (en) | 2015-06-18 | 2016-06-20 | Time trial bicycle helmet with ear shield |
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EP (2) | EP3884797A1 (en) |
CN (2) | CN107847000B (en) |
Family Cites Families (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2866978A (en) * | 1957-02-21 | 1959-01-06 | Whitney A Stuart | Helmet with combined visor and ear-cheek shields |
CN2061773U (en) * | 1989-12-29 | 1990-09-12 | 易晓 | Glasses for protecting noze and ear |
US5991930A (en) * | 1998-05-07 | 1999-11-30 | Sorrentino; James J. | Protective helmet with attachable visor |
CN2875123Y (en) * | 2006-03-24 | 2007-03-07 | 于海燕 | Face mask used when user seeting off fireworks and firecrackers |
GB2451429B (en) * | 2007-07-26 | 2012-10-24 | Ruroc Sports Ltd | Protective helmet |
FR2978904B1 (en) * | 2011-08-08 | 2014-07-25 | Remi Finiel | HELMET ASSEMBLY AND EYE PROTECTION MASK |
CN203662095U (en) * | 2014-01-06 | 2014-06-25 | 佛山市南海永恒头盔制造有限公司 | Double-layer helmet |
AU2015226964A1 (en) * | 2014-03-07 | 2016-09-15 | Bell Sports, Inc. | Multi-body helmet construction with integrated vent covers |
CA2847771C (en) * | 2014-03-28 | 2015-07-07 | Louis Garneau Sports Inc. | Bicycle helmet |
CN104621831B (en) * | 2015-01-30 | 2017-05-31 | 东莞市信诺运动用品有限公司 | Goggles the is adjustable helmet |
-
2016
- 2016-06-20 CN CN201680046722.8A patent/CN107847000B/en active Active
- 2016-06-20 CN CN202110393201.2A patent/CN113170941B/en active Active
- 2016-06-20 EP EP21020230.5A patent/EP3884797A1/en active Pending
- 2016-06-20 EP EP16812643.1A patent/EP3310195B1/en active Active
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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CN107847000B (en) | 2021-05-04 |
EP3310195A4 (en) | 2019-06-26 |
EP3310195A1 (en) | 2018-04-25 |
CN113170941A (en) | 2021-07-27 |
CN113170941B (en) | 2024-03-19 |
CN107847000A (en) | 2018-03-27 |
EP3884797A1 (en) | 2021-09-29 |
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