EP3979869A1 - Helmet - Google Patents
HelmetInfo
- Publication number
- EP3979869A1 EP3979869A1 EP20732301.5A EP20732301A EP3979869A1 EP 3979869 A1 EP3979869 A1 EP 3979869A1 EP 20732301 A EP20732301 A EP 20732301A EP 3979869 A1 EP3979869 A1 EP 3979869A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- absorbing layer
- helmet
- outer shell
- impact absorbing
- impact
- 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.)
- Pending
Links
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- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 12
- 230000001133 acceleration Effects 0.000 description 5
- 208000027418 Wounds and injury Diseases 0.000 description 4
- 208000029028 brain injury Diseases 0.000 description 4
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 4
- 208000014674 injury Diseases 0.000 description 4
- 239000004433 Thermoplastic polyurethane Substances 0.000 description 2
- 210000004556 brain Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920002803 thermoplastic polyurethane Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 210000003462 vein Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 208000000202 Diffuse Axonal Injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 206010019196 Head injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000028373 Neck injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000571 Nylon 11 Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004952 Polyamide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004793 Polystyrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 208000002667 Subdural Hematoma Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000004676 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009194 climbing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001351 cycling effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009521 diffuse axonal injury Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004794 expanded polystyrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002647 polyamide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002223 polystyrene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011435 rock Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010008 shearing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002459 sustained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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
- A42B3/06—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets
- A42B3/062—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets with reinforcing means
- A42B3/063—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets with reinforcing means using layered structures
- A42B3/064—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets with reinforcing means using layered structures with relative movement between layers
-
- 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
Definitions
- This invention relates to a helmet, in particular a helmet having a detachable outer shell.
- Head injuries which can be incurred as a result of participation in sports such as cycling, horse riding or rock climbing, are a common cause of serious brain injuries. Impact protection is therefore important in preventing brain injuries as a result of impacts to the head.
- Head protection in the form of helmets, is designed to reduce the forces experienced by a user’s head during an impact.
- a helmet comprises at least one impact absorbing layer which is designed to absorb a portion of the forces to which the helmet is subjected during an impact.
- a helmet often does not provide adequate protection during an oblique impact which subjects the helmet to significant tangential forces. Oblique impacts are common, as it is rare for an impact to occur directly along the normal to the outer surface of the helmet with no additional components in other directions.
- Tangential forces result in the rotational acceleration of the brain, which has been linked to bridging vein rupture. In turn, this may be responsible for subdural haematomas, and diffuse axonal injuries.
- the present invention provides a helmet comprising:
- a connector which connects the outer shell to the impact absorbing layer to retain the outer shell on the impact absorbing layer
- the connector is arranged to allow the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer when the helmet is subject to an impact.
- This invention relates to a helmet including an impact absorbing layer and an outer shell, which are connected together by a connector, e.g. to retain the outer shell on the impact absorbing layer during normal use.
- the connector is arranged such that it allows the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer (i.e. be moved to a different position from that in which the outer shell is mounted on the impact absorbing layer and the connector is connecting them).
- the outer shell may be configured such that it is able to rotate about the impact absorbing layer when not connected to the impact absorbing layer by the connector.
- the outer shell is able to move, and for example rotate, about the outer surface of the impact absorbing layer when the outer shell has separated from the impact absorbing layer (owing to no longer being held in place by the connector). Therefore, when the helmet is subject to an impact that involves at least a tangential component (i.e. that is not solely along the normal direction to the outer surface of the helmet), at least a portion of the tangential forces produced by the impact may act to rotate the outer shell. This helps to reduce the rotation of the head of the user and thus the transfer of tangential forces from the impact. This is because the user’s head (e.g. with the impact absorbing layer still attached thereto) may able to translate (e.g. slide or rotate) within the outer shell instead of being subject to the tangential forces itself.
- the impact absorbing layer is designed to provide a user’s head with a degree of protection against bulk forces exerted in an impact.
- the impact absorbing layer is arranged to absorb at least a portion of the normal component of the forces exerted on the helmet during an impact.
- the impact absorbing layer may be formed from any suitable and desired material, such as expanded polystyrene.
- the impact absorbing layer comprises a hollow cell structure, e.g. comprising a plurality of hexagonal cells (in cross section). Preferably, at least a plurality of the cells tessellate with each other.
- the impact absorbing layer structure may comprise a micro-truss lattice or an out-of-plane honeycomb.
- the impact absorbing layer may further comprise a rim, e.g. around the edge (below) the hollow cell structure.
- the outer shell may be provided predominately as an aesthetic feature used to improve the appearance of the helmet.
- Such outer shells are typically not connected as a separate, discrete part of the helmet (thus contrasting with the outer shell of the present invention). Instead conventional helmets may be manufactured in moulds, into which the material forming the impact absorbing layer is injected.
- the outer shell may also help to reduce the rotation of the head of the user when the helmet is subject to an impact.
- the outer shell is formed from a rigid material, such as a thermoplastic, e.g.
- polycarbonate, or carbon fibre, or a composite material any suitable and desired material.
- Preferable materials for forming the outer shell have high strength to weight ratios.
- the outer shell has a thickness that is significantly less than a thickness of the impact absorbing layer.
- the outer shell may thus comprise a membrane, e.g. at least partly covering the impact absorbing layer.
- the outer shell may itself not be designed to absorb the force of the impact.
- the outer shell has a thickness (e.g. in the normal direction) of less than 6 mm, e.g. less than 4 mm, e.g. less than 2 mm, e.g. less than 0.5 mm
- Different outer shell thickness may be advantageous for different types of helmets, e.g.
- motorcyclist helmets may preferably have a thicker outer shell (e.g. 6 mm), whereas bicycle helmets may have a thinner outer shell (e.g. less than 4 mm).
- the impact absorbing layer has a thickness (e.g. in the normal direction) of between 10 mm and 50 mm, e.g. between 20 mm and 30 mm.
- Different impact absorbing layer thickness may be appropriate for different types of helmets, e.g. motorcyclist helmets may preferably have a thicker impact absorbing layer (e.g. between 20 mm and 50 mm), whereas bicycle helmets may have a thinner impact absorbing layer (e.g. between 10 mm and 30 mm).
- the outer shell covers at least 60% of the surface area of the outer surface of the impact absorbing layer, e.g. at least 70%, e.g. at least 80%.
- the outer shell preferably covers the impact absorbing layer at one or more, e.g. all, sites on the helmet which may experience an impact.
- the outer shell may comprise one or more vent apertures to allow airflow.
- the outer shell may not extend over the rim of the impact absorbing layer, when provided. Thus for example, the outer shell may only extend over the outer surface of the hollow cell structure. However, in other examples the shell extends at least partly over the rim.
- the outer shell has a smooth outer surface, e.g. in which the impact absorbing layer is formed from a plurality of cells.
- the inner surface of the outer shell is smooth. Such embodiments may be advantageous as providing smooth surfaces enables the outer shell to rotate over the impact absorbing layer with a minimized resistance upon impact.
- the connecter is designed to retain the outer shell on the impact absorbing layer (e.g. during normal use), and to allow the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer during an impact. This may allow the outer shell to move, e.g. rotate, about the outer surface of the impact absorbing layer. This may be achieved in any suitable or desired way.
- the connector may be arranged to retain the outer shell in position on the impact absorbing layer when weaker forces act on the helmet (e.g. as would be expected in normal use), and allow the outer shell to separate from the outer shell when larger forces act on the helmet, e.g. as the result of an impact.
- the connector extends in a radial direction, e.g.
- the connector is arranged to allow the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer when the (e.g. outer shell of the) helmet is subject to an impact having a particular (e.g. predetermined) force (e.g. an oblique force). This helps to retain the outer shell on the impact absorbing layer during normal use and to separate from the impact absorbing layer when subject to an impact.
- the particular force required for the connector to allow the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer may be chosen to have any suitable and desired value (e.g.
- the particular (e.g. predetermined) force is between 10 and 100 N, e.g. between 30 N and 70 N, e.g. approximately 50 N.
- the particular force may, for example be chosen such that it reflects the lowest range of forces acting on the helmet which may cause an injury.
- the connector may be located at any suitable and desired position on the helmet. However, preferably the connector is located along an axis of symmetry of the helmet, e.g. along the mid plane of the helmet extending from the front to the rear of the helmet. In a set of embodiments, the connector is located at the front of the helmet. Positioning the connector at the front of the helmet may be particularly useful in aiding the detachment of the outer shell in an oblique impact, particularly for impacts that are offset from the central axis of symmetry and thus the front of the helmet.
- the connector may have any suitable and desired form, e.g. such that it is arranged to allow the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer when the helmet is subject to an impact (e.g. having a force greater than a particular value e.g. approximately 50 N).
- the connector comprises a discrete component from the outer shell and the impact absorbing layer.
- at least a portion (e.g. the discrete component) of the connector is arranged to detach from the impact absorbing layer and/or the outer shell when the helmet is subject to an impact, e.g. such that the at least a portion (e.g.
- the connector comprises a plug which extends between (and, e.g., is attached to both) the outer shell and the impact absorbing layer.
- the outer shell comprises an aperture for receiving the plug.
- the plug extends through the aperture and attaches to (e.g. a socket of) the impact absorbing layer.
- the plug therefore may be accessible from the outside of the outer shell. This may allow the plug to be easily removed to interchange the plug and/or the outer shell. Interchanging the plug or the outer shell is particular advantageous if either is damaged accidently or for aesthetic reasons.
- the plug comprises an outer head having dimension(s) greater than the corresponding dimension(s) of the aperture.
- the outer head of the plug may therefore cover (e.g. encase) a portion of the outside of the outer shell. This may further aid easier removal of the plug to interchange the plug and/or the outer shell.
- the plug may attach to the impact absorbing layer in any suitable and desired way.
- the plug may attach directly to the impact absorbing layer.
- the impact absorbing layer comprises a hollow cell structure (e.g. comprising a plurality of cells)
- the plug may attach directly into a cell of the hollow cell structure of the impact absorbing layer.
- the connector comprises a socket (e.g. clip) for receiving the plug of the connector.
- the socket is formed on or attached to the outer surface of the impact absorbing layer.
- the plug is located in the socket.
- the plug is arranged to be removed from the socket, such that this allows the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer.
- the connector is an integrally formed part of the helmet (e.g. of the outer shell and/or the impact absorbing layer).
- the outer shell and the impact absorbing layer may comprise complementary (e.g. male and female) parts which (e.g. fit together to) form the connector.
- the outer shell may comprise a female (or male) member and the impact absorbing layer may comprise a corresponding male (or female) member which connect together to attach the outer shell to the impact absorbing layer.
- the male member may comprise a plug and the female member may comprise a complementary socket.
- the connector comprises a (e.g. hinged) projection (e.g. a projecting latch).
- the projection is integral to (comprises part of) the impact absorbing layer.
- the projection is attached (e.g. integral) to the main body of the impact absorbing layer by a flexible (e.g. hinged) portion.
- the flexible portion is formed from the same material as (e.g. is integral to) the impact absorbing layer.
- the flexible (e.g. hinged) portion may be formed by a portion of material (e.g. a “living hinge”) that is thinner than the surrounding material (e.g. of the impact absorbing later and/or the projection).
- the flexible portion allows the projection to bend and/or deform (e.g. relative to the impact absorbing layer) when a force is applied, e.g. without fracturing and/or rupturing the projection or its attachment to the main body of the impact absorbing layer (via the flexible portion).
- the impact absorbing layer comprises a cavity arranged to receive the projection, e.g. when the projection bends or deforms (e.g. via the flexible portion) relative to the main body of the impact absorbing layer. This may happen, for example, when a force is applied to the projection (e.g. via the outer shell).
- the projection is arranged to bend and/or deform relative to the main body of the impact absorbing layer, to allow the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer when the helmet is subject to an impact.
- the cavity is empty and the projection substantially does not protrude into the cavity.
- the outer shell comprises an aperture for receiving the projection (e.g. in the manner of a latch).
- the projection and the aperture are preferably arranged such that the projection extends through the aperture, e.g. when no force is applied to the projection.
- the projection and the aperture are arranged to retain the outer shell on the impact absorbing layer.
- the projection and the aperture are arranged such that when a force is applied to the projection (e.g. as a result of a force being applied to the outer shell) the projection and the aperture move relative to (e.g. apart from) each other, allowing the outer shell to move relative to the impact absorbing layer.
- a force is applied to the projection (e.g. as a result of a force being applied to the outer shell) the projection and the aperture move relative to (e.g. apart from) each other, allowing the outer shell to move relative to the impact absorbing layer.
- This may be owing to the projection being pushed into the cavity or the outer shell flexing away from the projection.
- This arrangement may help to retain the outer shell in a desired position on the impact absorbing structure during normal use, while allowing (e.g. translational) movement of the outer shell over the impact absorbing layer when the projection has been moved into the cavity in the impact absorbing layer (e.g. owing to a force being applied to the projection during an accident or by intentional means by a user, such as to remove the outer shell from the impact absorbing layer).
- the components of the connector may attach to each other (and/or to the outer shell and/or impact absorbing layer) in any suitable or desired way, e.g. to provide them with an attachment requiring a particular separation force (e.g. the particular force required to separate the outer shell from the impact absorbing layer as outlined above).
- the plug and the (e.g. socket of the) impact absorbing layer may attach together via a push (e.g. friction) fit.
- the push fit may be determined (e.g. solely) by the dimensions of the plug (and, e.g., the socket).
- the plug and/or socket comprise one or more grips, ridges or latches. The grips, ridges or latches may help to control (e.g. increase) the friction therebetween and thus the force required to be exerted for the connector to allow the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer when the helmet is subject to an impact.
- the connector may be formed from any suitable and desired material.
- the connector e.g. the plug and/or socket
- the connector is formed from a rigid material such as plastic, e.g. a thermoplastic, e.g. thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or a polyamide (Nylon), e.g. laser sintered polyamide 11 , or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).
- the connector e.g. the plug and/or socket
- the connector may be formed of multiple parts which may be fabricated from different materials, as appropriate. For example, as outlined above, at least part of the connector may be integrally formed with (and thus preferably formed from the same material from) the impact absorbing layer.
- the connector is arranged to separate into distinct parts or break when the helmet is subjected to an impact, rather than to deform and absorb energy when subjected to an impact.
- the plug is weaker than the outer shell, such that the connector may detach before the shell fractures during an impact.
- the connector may be arranged to allow the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer as a result of an impact in any suitable and desired way.
- the outer shell and the impact absorbing layer may be arranged to separate from each other in any suitable and desired way.
- the outer shell is arranged to be displaced relative to (e.g. rotated about) the impact absorbing layer.
- the displacement of the outer shell causes the connector to disconnect
- the outer shell may be displaced relative to the impact absorbing layer in any suitable and desired way.
- the outer shell is arranged to translate (e.g. slide or rotate) relative to the impact absorbing layer when the helmet is subject to an impact.
- the outer shell is not fixed (e.g. glued, taped or attached permanently by connectors) to the impact absorbing layer. This enables the outer shell to be separated from the impact absorbing layer when the connector is no longer connecting the outer shell to the impact absorbing layer.
- no part which is integral to the (e.g. inner surface of the) outer shell e.g.
- the connector is arranged to allow the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer within 5 ms of the impact.
- the outer shell and the impact absorbing layer are arranged to move, e.g. rotate, relative to each other for between 10 and 15 ms when subject to an impact, e.g. after the outer shell has separated from the impact absorbing layer.
- the helmet may comprise only one connector, in a set of embodiments the helmet comprises a plurality of connectors that connect the outer shell to the impact absorbing layer. The plurality of connectors may be identical or different.
- the plurality of connectors are (together) arranged (e.g. together) to allow the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer when the helmet is subjected to a particular (e.g. predetermined) force.
- the plurality of connectors are located in respective different positions on the helmet.
- the connectors may be located at particular angles about the base of the outer shell, e.g. evenly spaced from each other.
- the helmet may comprise one or more additional features which aid the (correct) positioning and retention of the outer shell on the impact absorbing layer.
- the (e.g. rim of the) impact absorbing layer may comprise at least one groove or projection formed therein.
- the outer shell may comprise at least one inwardly projecting ridge (e.g. clip).
- the at least one ridge corresponds (e.g. in location) to and engages with the at least one groove (or projection) in the (e.g. rim of the) impact absorbing layer (e.g.
- the ridge is located in the groove (or on the projection), when the outer shell is mounted on the impact absorbing layer.
- the at least one ridge may thus be located in the at least one groove (when the outer shell is mounted on the impact absorbing layer), such that there are additional attachment point(s) between the outer shell and the impact absorbing layer than just the connector.
- the interconnecting ridge(s) and groove(s) (or projection(s)) help to retain the outer shell in position during general use.
- the interconnecting ridge(s) and groove(s) (or projection(s)) provide a weaker connection between the outer shell and the impact absorbing layer than is provided by the connector.
- the at least one ridge is forced out of position from its corresponding groove (or projection) such that the outer shell is able to separate from the impact absorbing layer.
- the ridge(s) and groove(s) (or projection(s)) are arranged (e.g. interconnected when the outer shell is mounted on the impact absorbing layer) such that a particular (e.g. predetermined) force is required to remove the ridge(s) from the corresponding complementary groove(s) (or projection(s)).
- this particular (e.g. predetermined) force is less than the particular (e.g.
- the ridge(s) and groove(s) will preferably also detach (or have already detached) from each other and will preferably not act to provide any further resistance in retaining the outer shell on the impact absorbing layer.
- the (e.g. rim of the) impact absorbing layer comprises at least one ridge and the outer shell comprises at least one groove (or projection), i.e. the positioning of the ridge and the groove on the impact absorbing layer and the outer shell are the opposite way around compared to the arrangement described above.
- the features of the ridge(s) and groove(s) (or projection(s)) outlined herein may apply equally to this embodiment.
- the one or more grooves (or projections) and ridges may be located in any suitable and desired positions around the (e.g. rim of the) impact absorbing layer and the outer shell.
- the groove(s) (or projection(s)) are equally spaced about the (e.g. rim of the) impact absorbing layer.
- the one or more ridges are preferably correspondingly located towards (e.g. at) the bottom edge (e.g. a rim) of the outer shell.
- complementary grooves (or projections) and ridges may be located at the sides and rear of the helmet. Providing a plurality of interconnecting grooves (or projections) and ridges allows the shell to be held more securely in position on the impact absorbing layer, when the outer shell is mounted on the impact absorbing layer during normal use.
- the impact absorbing layer may comprise at least one protrusion on its outer surface.
- the impact absorbing layer comprises a plurality of protrusions, preferably the protrusions are evenly spaced around the outer surface of the impact absorbing layer.
- the outer shell comprises at least one recess corresponding (and complementary) to the at least one protrusion of the impact absorbing layer.
- the complementary protrusion(s) and recess(es) are provided (only) to help locate the outer shell in its correct position on the impact absorbing layer.
- the complementary protrusion(s) and recess(es) provide a (e.g.
- the complementary protrusion(s) and recess(es) are arranged such that a particular (e.g. predetermined) force is required to displace the protrusion(s) from the complementary recess(es).
- a particular (e.g. predetermined) force is (e.g. significantly) less than the particular (e.g.
- the complementary protrusion(s) and recess(es) will preferably also be displaced (or have already been displaced) from each other and will preferably not act to provide any further resistance in retaining the outer shell on the impact absorbing layer.
- Figure 1 shows a front exploded view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention
- Figure 2 shows a rear exploded view of the helmet shown in Figure 1 ;
- Figure 3 shows a front view of the helmet shown in Figures 1 and 2;
- Figure 4 shows a cross-section view of the helmet shown in Figures 1 , 2 and 3;
- Figure 5 shows a front view of the helmet shown in Figures 1 to 4 during an oblique impact
- Figures 6A, 6B and 6C show a selection of views of a plug for use in the helmet.
- Figure 7 shows a cross-section view of a portion of a helmet according to another embodiment of the present invention.
- a helmet acts to protect a user’s head from injury by absorbing energy from an impact.
- Oblique impacts which are a common type of impact, may subject a helmet to significant tangential forces. Such forces have the potential to cause rotational acceleration of the user’s brain, which may cause serious brain injuries.
- Embodiments of the present invention aim to provide an improved helmet that seeks to mitigate the effect of such oblique impacts.
- Figures 1 to 5 show different views of a helmet 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Both Figures 1 and 2 show an exploded view of the helmet to demonstrate the different components of the helmet 100 clearly.
- Figure 1 shows a view directed towards the front of the helmet 100.
- Figure 2 shows a view directed towards the back of the helmet 100.
- the helmet 100 has the following principal components: an impact absorbing layer 102, an outer shell 104 and a plug 106.
- the impact absorbing layer 102 is predominately formed of an out-of-plane honeycomb structure.
- the impact absorbing layer 102 further comprises a rim 108 around the base of the helmet 100.
- the rim 108 is formed from a solid (e.g. non hollow) material such as expanded polystyrenes in contrast to the out-of-plane honeycomb structure 102 which formed of hollow cells, the tessellating cells having a hexagonal cross section.
- the rim 108 of the impact absorbing layer 102 further includes a set of grooves 116, into which ridges 118 on the lower edge of the outer shell 104 (as can be seen in Figure 2) fit.
- Figure 2 also shows an additional protrusion 124 on the impact absorbing layer 102 mounted on the rear of the helmet.
- the protrusion 124 interconnects with a corresponding recess 126 on the outer shell 104, and further helps to retain the outer shell 104 in position on the impact absorbing layer 102 during normal use.
- a socket 114 is attached to the outer surface of the impact absorbing layer 102 into which the plug 106 fits.
- the plug 106 and the socket 114 fit together via a push (e.g. friction) fit.
- the plug 106 and the socket 114 form a connector that connects the impact absorbing layer 102 and outer shell 104 together to retain the outer shell 104 on the impact absorbing layer 102 during normal use.
- the outer shell 104 includes an aperture 110 at the front of the helmet through which the plug 106 can be inserted when the outer shell 104 is positioned on the impact absorbing layer 102.
- the outer shell 104 is first positioned on the impact absorbing layer 102. This involves interlocking the side grooves 116 and corresponding complementary ridges 118, as well as the rear protrusion 124 and the interconnecting recess 126.
- FIG. 3 A front view of the helmet 100, with the plug 106 inserted and holding the outer shell 104 in position, is shown in Figure 3.
- Figure 4 which shows a cross section view of the helmet 100 in a plane along the central axis of symmetry of the helmet 100, shows the plug 106 in position extending through the outer shell 104 and into the socket 114 on the impact absorbing layer 102.
- Figure 3 also shows recesses 122 in either side of the inner surface of the outer shell 104.
- the corresponding protrusions 120 on the outer surface of the impact absorbing layer 102 are seen, as well as the recesses 122 in the outer shell 104.
- the protrusions 120 fit into the recesses 122, acting to help locate and retain the outer shell 104 on the impact absorbing layer 102.
- Figure 5 demonstrates the reaction of the helmet 100 shown in Figures 1 to 4 in an oblique impact.
- the helmet 100 which is attached to the head of a user who is falling downwards, has been subject to a collision with the obstacle 502.
- the edge of the obstacle 502 which the helmet 100 contacts during the collision is slanted, and contacts the helmet 100 at a position which is offset from the centre of the helmet 100, which results in the force exerted on the helmet from the impact having a significant tangential component.
- the force exerted upon the helmet 100 during the impact is larger than the particular force which is required to detach the plug 106 from the socket 114, so to allow the outer shell to separate from the impact absorbing layer 102. Therefore, upon impact with the obstacle 502, the plug 106 is ejected from the helmet 100; specifically ejected from the socket 114 on the impact absorbing layer 102. As seen in Figure 5, the plug 106 completely separates from the helmet 100. However, there may be other embodiments not shown in which the plug 106 remains in contact with at least part of the helmet 100 whilst still allowing the outer shell 104 to separate from the impact absorbing layer 102.
- helmets according to embodiments of the present invention may reduce the rotational acceleration and velocity experienced the head of a user, compared to conventional foam helmets, by approximately 25% (in rotational acceleration) and approximately 45% (in rotational velocity).
- FIGS 6A, 6B and 6C show various views of the plug 106.
- the plug 106 comprises an outer head 602.
- the outer head 602 has an area greater than that of the aperture 110 into which the plug fits. After insertion of the plug 106 through the aperture 110 and into socket 114, the outer head 602 sits outside of the outer shell 104 as seen in Figure 3.
- the plug 106 further comprises a neck 604, which is connected to the outer head 602.
- the neck 602 may be made from a deformable plastic such that the neck 602 of the plug 106 can be inserted into the socket 114.
- the neck 604 has ridges 606 which act to hold the plug 106 in position in the socket 114.
- the socket may comprises corresponding grooves which mate with the ridges 606 of the plug 106 when the plug 106 is inserted into the socket.
- FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of a helmet 700 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
- the helmet 700 has the following principal components: an impact absorbing layer 702, an outer shell 704 and a latch 706.
- the latch 706 may be positioned in a similar location as the plug shown in previous figures.
- the latch 706 is integral to (e.g. formed from the same material as) the impact absorbing layer 702.
- the latch 706 includes a flexible portion 708 that attaches the latch 706 to the main body of the impact absorbing layer 702.
- the flexible portion acts as a living hinge to allow the position of the latch 706 to change relative to the main body of the impact absorbing layer 702 and the outer shell 704.
- the latch 706 also includes a block tip 707.
- the impact absorbing layer 702 additionally includes a cavity 714.
- the outer shell 704 includes an aperture 705.
- the block tip 707 of the latch 706 helps to keep the outer shell 704 in position on the impact absorbing layer 702 during normal use, by interacting with the edges of the aperture 705 to prevent translational movement of the outer shell 704 with respect to the impact absorbing layer 702.
- the force of the impact acts on the flexible portion 708 of the latch 706, causing the flexible portion 708 to bend.
- the direction in which the flexible portion 708 is bent may depend on the direction of the tangential forces acting on the helmet upon impact.
- the force exerted on the latch 706 either moves the latch 706 into the cavity 714, or rotates the latch 706 away from the cavity 714 and back on itself. Either of these movements of the latch 706 allows the outer shell 704 to detach from and/or move obstruction free over the impact absorbing layer 702, helping to reduce the tangential forces transferred to the head of the user.
- both of the abovementioned mechanisms may occur (e.g. at least in part) in order to enable the separation of the outer shell 704 and the impact absorbing layer 702.
- the latch 706 shown in Figure 7 is able to maintain its functionality after an impact.
- the latch 706 may also be manually compressed into the cavity 714 by a user, e.g. to allow for easy intentional removal the outer shell 704. This may allow the outer shell 704 to be interchangeable, for example for aesthetic purposes.
- a helmet according to embodiments of the present invention in which two independent layers (the outer shell and impact absorbing layer) connected by a connector, which allows the layers to separate when the helmet is subject to an impact, helps to reduce the tangential forces that may be transferred from an oblique impact to the head of the user.
- This may provide significant benefits over known helmets, e.g. in helping to reduce brain injuries.
- a different type of connector as opposed to a plug and socket and arrangement
Landscapes
- Helmets And Other Head Coverings (AREA)
Abstract
Description
Claims
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GBGB1908090.2A GB201908090D0 (en) | 2019-06-06 | 2019-06-06 | Helmet |
PCT/GB2020/051378 WO2020245609A1 (en) | 2019-06-06 | 2020-06-05 | Helmet |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3979869A1 true EP3979869A1 (en) | 2022-04-13 |
Family
ID=67386288
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP20732301.5A Pending EP3979869A1 (en) | 2019-06-06 | 2020-06-05 | Helmet |
Country Status (8)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20220232924A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3979869A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2022535092A (en) |
CN (1) | CN114126438A (en) |
AU (1) | AU2020286992A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA3142318A1 (en) |
GB (1) | GB201908090D0 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2020245609A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US9925440B2 (en) | 2014-05-13 | 2018-03-27 | Bauer Hockey, Llc | Sporting goods including microlattice structures |
CA3157206A1 (en) | 2019-05-21 | 2020-11-26 | Bauer Hockey Ltd. | Helmets comprising additively-manufactured components |
EP3838043B1 (en) * | 2019-12-18 | 2023-08-16 | George TFE SCP | Helmet |
GB2597534A (en) * | 2020-07-28 | 2022-02-02 | Strategic Sports Ltd | Improvements in or relating to helmets |
EP4082372A1 (en) * | 2021-04-29 | 2022-11-02 | George TFE SCP | Cellular energy-absorbing structure fastening device |
CA3207421A1 (en) | 2021-04-29 | 2022-11-03 | Piers Christian Storey | Cellular energy-absorbing structure fastening device |
EP4082373B1 (en) * | 2021-04-29 | 2024-06-26 | George TFE SCP | Cellular energy-absorbing structure fastening device |
EP4305990A1 (en) | 2022-07-11 | 2024-01-17 | SQlab GmbH | Bicycle helmet |
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US5150479A (en) * | 1991-09-23 | 1992-09-29 | E. D. Bullard Company | Protective helmet |
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GB0116738D0 (en) * | 2001-07-09 | 2001-08-29 | Phillips Helmets Ltd | Protective headgear and protective armour and a method of modifying protective headgear and protective armour |
AU2008217734A1 (en) * | 2007-02-20 | 2008-08-28 | Mips Ab | Apparatus at a protective helmet |
US8091148B2 (en) * | 2009-05-05 | 2012-01-10 | Chang-Hsien Ho | Fixing structure for safety helmet fastening strap |
SE534868C2 (en) * | 2010-05-07 | 2012-01-24 | Mips Ab | Helmet with sliding promoter provided at an energy absorbing bearing |
US9032558B2 (en) * | 2011-05-23 | 2015-05-19 | Lionhead Helmet Intellectual Properties, Lp | Helmet system |
PL2725936T3 (en) * | 2011-06-30 | 2020-10-05 | Simon Fraser University | Impact diverting mechanism |
US9516910B2 (en) * | 2011-07-01 | 2016-12-13 | Intellectual Property Holdings, Llc | Helmet impact liner system |
EP2550886B1 (en) * | 2011-07-27 | 2014-04-02 | Bauer Hockey Corp. | Sports helmet with rotational impact protection |
US9314061B2 (en) * | 2012-01-10 | 2016-04-19 | Guardian Innovations, Llc | Protective helmet cap |
US20130180034A1 (en) * | 2012-01-18 | 2013-07-18 | Darius J. Preisler | Sports helmet and replacement pad kit for use therein |
FR2996989B1 (en) * | 2012-10-23 | 2014-11-28 | Zedel | HEAVY-DUTY HELMET WITH PERFECTIONED HEADLINER AND JUGULAR |
US20140223641A1 (en) * | 2013-02-10 | 2014-08-14 | Blake Henderson | Helmet with custom foam liner and removable / replaceable layers of crushable energy absorption material |
US10736373B2 (en) * | 2013-08-13 | 2020-08-11 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet with shock absorbing inserts |
US9795180B2 (en) * | 2013-09-27 | 2017-10-24 | Bell Sports, Inc. | System and method for coupling helmet components and liners |
US11744312B2 (en) * | 2014-02-21 | 2023-09-05 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
CA2944358A1 (en) * | 2014-04-01 | 2015-10-08 | Bell Sports, Inc. | Locking liner for helmet |
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US20180092424A1 (en) * | 2016-10-03 | 2018-04-05 | Revision Military S.A.R.L. | Helmet assembly |
GB201621272D0 (en) * | 2016-12-14 | 2017-01-25 | Mips Ab | Helmet |
US10499700B2 (en) * | 2016-12-30 | 2019-12-10 | Zam Helmets Inc. | Helmet with flexible structure for improved force attenuation |
CN110678094B (en) * | 2017-03-29 | 2021-01-26 | 米帕斯公司 | Helmet with a detachable head |
GB201708094D0 (en) * | 2017-05-19 | 2017-07-05 | Mips Ab | Helmet |
US11553752B2 (en) * | 2017-07-20 | 2023-01-17 | Ryan C. EILER | Safety helmet with interchangeable layers |
CA3096029A1 (en) * | 2018-04-02 | 2019-10-10 | VICIS, Inc. | Protective helmet |
US11478036B2 (en) * | 2020-11-05 | 2022-10-25 | Hard Head Veterans LLC | Adjustable tactical helmet retention harness |
-
2019
- 2019-06-06 GB GBGB1908090.2A patent/GB201908090D0/en not_active Ceased
-
2020
- 2020-06-05 CA CA3142318A patent/CA3142318A1/en active Pending
- 2020-06-05 EP EP20732301.5A patent/EP3979869A1/en active Pending
- 2020-06-05 JP JP2021571878A patent/JP2022535092A/en active Pending
- 2020-06-05 WO PCT/GB2020/051378 patent/WO2020245609A1/en unknown
- 2020-06-05 AU AU2020286992A patent/AU2020286992A1/en active Pending
- 2020-06-05 CN CN202080051249.9A patent/CN114126438A/en active Pending
- 2020-06-05 US US17/616,549 patent/US20220232924A1/en active Pending
Also Published As
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JP2022535092A (en) | 2022-08-04 |
WO2020245609A1 (en) | 2020-12-10 |
CN114126438A (en) | 2022-03-01 |
AU2020286992A1 (en) | 2022-01-06 |
US20220232924A1 (en) | 2022-07-28 |
CA3142318A1 (en) | 2020-12-10 |
GB201908090D0 (en) | 2019-07-24 |
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