TW202203796A - Helmet - Google Patents

Abstract

A helmet, comprising an outer shell; a head mount, configured to be mounted on the top of the head of a wearer of the helmet; wherein the head mount is suspended within the outer shell such that, in use, an air gap is provided between head mount and the outer shell; the helmet further comprises a head engagement device that is mounted on a surface of the head mount, that is configured to face the head of a wearer of the helmet, such that the head engagement device can move relative to the head mount; and a low friction interface is provided between the head mount and the head engagement device.

Description

helmet

This invention relates to helmets.

As we all know, helmets are used in various activities. These activities include combat and industrial uses such as protective helmets for soldiers and hard hats or helmets used by eg construction workers, miners or industrial machinery operators. Helmets are also common in sports. For example, protective helmets can be used for ice hockey, bicycles, motorcycles, racing, skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, skateboarding, equestrian sports, American football, baseball, rugby, soccer, cricket, lacrosse, rock climbing, golf, airsoft, Roller derby and paintball.

The helmet can be fixed or adjustable in size to suit different head sizes and shapes. In some types of helmets, such as commonly found in ice hockey helmets, adjustability can be provided by moving parts of the helmet to change the outer and inner dimensions of the helmet. This can be achieved by having the helmet have two or more parts that are movable relative to each other. In other cases, such as commonly found in bicycle helmets, the helmet has attachment means for securing the helmet to the user's head, and the attachment means can be sized to fit the user's head, while the body or outer shell of the helmet is keep the same size. In some cases, a comfort pad within the helmet may serve as an attachment device. The attachment means may also be provided in the form of a plurality of physically separate parts, such as a plurality of comfort pads that are not interconnected with each other. These attachment means for securing the helmet to the user's head can be used together with additional straps such as a girdle to further secure the helmet in place. Combinations of these adjustment mechanisms are also possible.

Helmets are usually made of an outer shell (which is usually very rigid and made of plastic or composite material) and an energy absorbing layer (often referred to as a liner). In other configurations, such as a rugby scrimmage helmet, the helmet may not have a rigid outer shell, and the helmet may be flexible as a whole. In any case, today, protective helmets must be designed to meet specific legal requirements in particular with regard to the maximum acceleration that can occur at the center of gravity of the brain under a specific load. Typically, tests are performed in which a so-called prosthetic head equipped with a helmet is subjected to a radial impact towards the head. This has resulted in modern helmets having good energy absorption when impacting the skull radially. Progress has also been made in developing helmets (eg WO 2001/045526 and WO 2011/139224, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety) by absorbing or dissipating rotational energy and/or converting it into translation Energy, rather than rotational energy, is used to reduce the energy transferred from the oblique strike (ie, its combined tangential and radial components).

These oblique shocks, if unprotected, result in both translational and angular accelerations of the brain. The angular acceleration causes the brain to rotate within the skull causing damage to the bodily elements that connect the brain to the skull and also to the brain itself.

Examples of rotational injuries include mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI), such as concussion, and severe traumatic brain injury (STBI), such as subdural hematoma (SDH), hemorrhage from ruptured blood vessels, and diffuse axonal injury (DAI), which can be summed up as excessive stretching of nerve fibers caused by high shear deformation of brain tissue).

Depending on the characteristics of the rotational force, such as duration, amplitude, and rate of growth, concussion, SDH, DAI, or a combination of these injuries may be experienced. In general, SDH occurs with short duration and large amplitude accelerations, while DAI occurs with longer and wider inertial loads.

In helmets that can reduce the rotational energy transmitted to the brain caused by oblique impacts, such as those disclosed in WO 2001/045526 and WO 2011/139224, the two parts of the helmet can be configured so that after an oblique impact Slide relative to each other at the sliding interface.

In some helmets, the head attachment is suspended within and separated from the hard outer shell. Such helmets are simple and inexpensive to manufacture, and provide adequate radial impact protection for specific helmet applications. However, it may be desirable to improve the performance of such helmets, such as during oblique impacts, preferably without substantially increasing manufacturing cost and/or effort.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a helmet comprising: shell; a head mount configured to be mounted on top of the head of the wearer of the helmet; wherein the head mount is suspended within the housing such that, in use, an air gap is provided between the head mount and the housing; The helmet further includes a head engagement device mounted on the surface of the head mount and configured to face the head of a wearer of the helmet such that the head engagement device is movable relative to the head mount ;and A low friction interface is provided between the head mount and the head engagement means.

In configuration, the head engagement device is connected to the head mount.

In configuration, the head mount includes a plurality of straps configured to extend across the top of the head of the wearer of the helmet and connect to attachment points on the outer shell.

In a configuration, the head mount includes a plurality of straps extending between a pair of opposing connection points.

In the configuration, at least two straps are connected to each other.

In configuration, the head engagement device is connected to the head mount by at least one connector that engages with one of the straps.

In the configuration, the at least one connector has a first end and a second end, both of which are engaged to the header at respective first and second positions on the header engaging device and a strap is positioned between the connector and the head engagement device in an area on the head engagement device between the first position and the second position.

In the configuration, the strap is not fixedly secured to any portion of the connector such that the strap can slide relative to the connector.

In the configuration, the connector is formed from an elongated section of material, as appropriate one of a string, strip or tape.

In the configuration, the plurality of connectors are formed from separate pieces of the material.

In the configuration, the plurality of connectors are formed from segments of a single piece of material.

In configuration, the head mount includes at least one strap connected to the front of the shell extending in a direction towards the rear of the helmet.

In configuration, the head engagement device is provided as a single component.

In configuration, the head engaging means is formed from a plurality of separate segments.

In a configuration, the head mount includes a headband configured to engage at least the forehead of a wearer of the helmet; and The head engaging device includes a crown region configured to be positioned between the crown of the head of the wearer of the helmet and the head mount and a forehead region configured to be positioned adjacent the headgear.

In a configuration, the head engaging device further includes a medial region connecting the crown region to the forehead region.

In the configuration, the forehead region of the head engaging device is located between the wearer's forehead of the helmet and the headgear.

In the configuration, the headband is located between the wearer's forehead of the helmet and the forehead region of the head engaging device.

In a configuration, the helmet further includes a front pad positioned adjacent to the wearer's forehead of the helmet.

In a configuration, the front pad is connected to at least one of the headgear, the forehead region of the head engaging device, and the outer shell.

In the configuration, the front pad is connected by a resilient connector configured to move the front pad relative to the component to which it is connected.

In a configuration, the head engaging device includes one or more pads provided on a surface of the head engaging device facing the head of the wearer of the helmet.

In the configuration, the head engaging means comprises a sheet of material optionally shaped to conform to the head of the helmet wearer.

In configuration, the head engagement device includes a plurality of holes that can be configured to provide at least one of a location for attachment of a connector to the head engagement device and ventilation.

In the configuration, the low friction interface is provided by a low coefficient of friction between the head mount and the surface that the head engages.

In the configuration, if the helmet is not impacted, the separation provided by the air gap between the shell and the head mount at a location corresponding to the top of the wearer's head is at least 10 mm, and optionally at least 15 mm , at least 20 mm depending on the situation, at least 30 mm depending on the situation, and at least 40 mm depending on the situation.

The proportions of the thicknesses of the various layers in the helmet depicted in the figures have been exaggerated in the figures for clarity and can of course be adapted according to needs and requirements.

Figure 1 depicts a first helmet 1 of the class discussed in WO 01/45526 intended for use in providing protection against oblique impacts. This type of helmet can be any type of helmet discussed above.

The protective helmet 1 is constructed of an outer shell 2 and an inner shell 3 arranged inside the outer shell 2 and intended for contact with the wearer's head.

Between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 is arranged a sliding layer 4 (also called a sliding accelerator or low friction layer), which enables the displacement between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 . In particular, as will be discussed below, the slip layer 4 or slip accelerant can be configured such that slip can occur between the two parts during impact. For example, it may be configured to be able to slide under the forces associated with an impact to the helmet 1 , which is expected to survive the wearer of the helmet 1 . In some configurations, it may be desirable to configure the sliding layer 4 such that the coefficient of friction is between 0.001 and 0.3 and/or below 0.15.

In the depiction of FIG. 1 , one or more connecting members 5 may be arranged in the rim portion of the helmet 1 interconnecting the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 . In some configurations, the connector can counteract the mutual displacement between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 by absorbing energy. However, this is not essential. Furthermore, even with this feature, the energy absorbed is typically very small compared to the energy absorbed by the inner shell 3 during impact. In other configurations, the connecting member 5 may be completely absent.

Furthermore, the positions of these connecting members 5 can be varied (eg, positioned away from the edge portion and connecting the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 through the sliding layer 4).

The housing 2 is preferably relatively thin and strong to withstand various types of shocks. For example, the housing 2 may be made of a polymeric material such as polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). Advantageously, the polymeric material may be fiber reinforced using materials such as glass fiber, aramid, Twaron, carbon fiber or Kevlar.

The inner shell 3 is relatively thick and acts as an energy absorbing layer. Therefore, it can suppress or absorb shock to the head. It may advantageously be formed from a foamed material such as expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polyurethane (EPU), vinyl nitrile foam, for example Other materials of honeycomb structure or strain rate sensitive foams such as those sold under the brand names Poron ^™ and D3O ^™ are made. The construction may vary in different ways, which will appear below, for example, in layers of many different materials.

The inner shell 3 is designed to absorb impact energy. Other elements of the helmet 1 will absorb this energy to a limited extent (such as the hard outer shell 2 or the so-called "comfort pads" provided within the inner shell 3), but this is not its main purpose and its contribution to energy absorption is the same as that of the inner shell 3 The energy absorption is relatively small. In fact, although some other elements such as comfort pads can be made of "compressible" materials and are thus considered "energy absorbing" in other contexts, it is generally accepted in the helmet art that, in order to reduce injury to the wearer of the helmet, Compressible materials are not necessarily "energy absorbing" in terms of absorbing large amounts of energy during impact.

Many different materials and embodiments can be used as the sliding layer 4 or sliding accelerator, such as oil, Teflon, microspheres, air, rubber, polycarbonate (PC), textile materials such as felt, and the like. This layer may have a thickness of about 0.1 mm to 5 mm, although other thicknesses may also be used, depending on the material chosen and the desired performance. The number of sliding layers and their positioning may also vary, and examples of this will be discussed below (refer to Figure 3b).

As the connecting member 5, deformable plastic or metal strips can be used, for example, which are suitably anchored in the outer and inner shells.

FIG. 2 shows the functional principle of the protective helmet 1 , wherein the helmet 1 and the head 10 of the wearer are assumed to be semi-cylindrical, and the head 10 is mounted on the longitudinal axis 11 . When the helmet 1 is subjected to an oblique impact K, torque and torque are transmitted to the skull 10 . The impact force K causes both a tangential force K _T and a radial force K _R on the protective helmet 1 . In this particular context, only the helmet rotational tangential force K _T and its effects are concerned.

It can be seen that the force K causes a displacement 12 of the outer shell 2 relative to the inner shell 3, and the connecting member 5 is deformed. A significant reduction in the torque transmitted to the skull 10 can be achieved using this configuration. Typical reductions can be around 25%, but in some instances, reductions can be as high as 90%. This is because the sliding motion between the inner shell 3 and the outer shell 2 reduces the energy converted into radial acceleration.

Sliding movements can also occur in the circumferential direction of the protective helmet 1, but this is not depicted. This may be due to a circumferential angle of rotation between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 (ie, during an impact, the outer shell 2 may rotate a circumferential angle relative to the inner shell 3).

Other configurations of the protective helmet 1 are also possible. Figure 3 shows a few possible variants. In Figure 3a, the inner shell 3 is constructed from a relatively thin outer layer 3" and a relatively thick inner layer 3'. The outer layer 3" is preferably stiffer than the inner layer 3' to help facilitate sliding relative to the outer shell 2. In Figure 3b, the inner shell 3 is constructed in the same way as in Figure 3a. In this case, however, there are two sliding layers 4 with an intermediate shell 6 between them. The two sliding layers 4 can be embodied in different ways and made of different materials as desired. For example, one possibility is that the outer sliding layer has lower friction than the inner sliding layer. In Figure 3c, the housing 2 is embodied in a different way than before. In this case, the harder outer layer 2 ″ covers the softer inner layer 2 ′. The inner layer 2 ′ can be, for example, of the same material as the inner shell 3 .

Figure 4 depicts a second helmet 1 of the classification discussed in WO 2011/139224 which is also intended to provide protection against oblique impacts. This type of helmet can also be any type of helmet discussed above.

In FIG. 4 , the helmet 1 includes an energy absorbing layer 3 similar to the inner shell 3 of the helmet of FIG. 1 . The outer surface of the energy absorbing layer 3 may be provided by the same material as the energy absorbing layer 3 (i.e. without the additional outer shell), or the outer surface may be a rigid shell 2 equivalent to the outer shell 2 of the helmet shown in Figure 1 (see Figure 5). In this case, the rigid shell 2 may be made of a different material than the energy absorbing layer 3 . The helmet 1 of FIG. 4 has a plurality of optional vents 7 extending through both the energy absorbing layer 3 and the outer shell 2 to thereby allow airflow through the helmet 1 .

Interface layer 13 (also referred to as attachment means) is provided to interface with (and/or attach helmet 1 to) the wearer's head. As previously discussed, this may be worth having when the energy absorbing layer 3 and rigid shell 2 cannot be resized, as it allows different sized heads to be accommodated by resizing the attachment means 13 . The attachment means 13 may be made of elastic or semi-elastic polymeric materials such as PC, ABS, PVC or PTFE or natural fibre materials such as cotton. For example, a textile cap or mesh may form the attachment means 13 .

Although attachment device 13 is shown as including a headband portion and further strap portions extending from the front, rear, left and right sides, the specific configuration of attachment device 13 may vary depending on the configuration of the helmet. In some cases, the attachment means may be more like a continuous (shaping) sheet, and may have holes or gaps, eg, corresponding to the location of the vents 7, to allow airflow through the helmet.

Figure 4 also depicts an optional adjustment device 6 for adjusting the diameter of the headband of the attachment device 13 to a particular wearer. In other configurations, the headband may be an elastic headband, in which case the adjustment means 6 may be excluded.

The slip accelerator 4 is provided radially inside the energy absorbing layer 3 . The sliding accelerator 4 is adapted to slide against the energy absorbing layer or against the attachment means 13 provided for attaching the helmet to the wearer's head.

The sliding accelerator 4 is provided to assist the sliding of the energy absorbing layer 3 relative to the attachment means 13 in the same manner as discussed above. The slip accelerator 4 may be a material with a low coefficient of friction, or may be coated with such a material.

Thus, in the helmet of FIG. 4 , the slip enhancer 4 may be provided on or integrated with the innermost side of the energy absorbing layer 3 to face the attachment means 13 .

However, it is also envisaged that, also in order to provide slidability between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the attachment means 13, the slip promoter 4 may be provided on or integrated with the outer surface of the attachment means 13 . That is, in certain configurations, the attachment device 13 itself may be adapted to act as the slip promoter 4 and may comprise a low friction material.

In other words, the sliding accelerator 4 is provided in the radial direction of the energy absorbing layer 3 . Sliding accelerators may also be provided radially outward of the attachment means 13 .

When the attachment means 13 is formed as a cap or mesh (as discussed above), the slip promoter 4 may be provided as a patch of low friction material.

The low friction material can be a waxy polymer such as PTFE, ABS, PVC, PC, Nylon, PFA, EEP, PE and UHMWPE or a powder material (which can be lubricated). The low friction material may be a fabric material. As discussed, this low friction material can be applied to either or both of the slip promoter and the energy absorbing layer.

The attachment means 13 may be fixed to the energy absorbing layer 3 and/or the housing 2 by means of fixing members 5, such as the four fixing members 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d in Fig. 4 . These may be adapted to absorb energy by deforming in an elastic, semi-elastic or plastic manner. However, this is not essential. Furthermore, even with this feature, the absorbed energy is typically very small compared to the energy absorbed by the energy absorbing layer 3 during impact.

According to the configuration shown in FIG. 4, the four fixing members 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d are suspension members 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d having a first part 8 and a second part 9, wherein the suspension members 5a, 5b, The first portion 8 of 5c, 5d is adapted to be secured to the attachment means 13 and the second portion 9 of the suspension members 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d is adapted to be secured to the energy absorbing layer 3 .

Figure 5 shows a configuration similar to that of Figure 4 when a helmet is placed on the wearer's head. The helmet 1 of FIG. 5 includes a hard shell 2 made of a different material than the energy absorbing layer 3 . In comparison to Figure 4, in Figure 5 the attachment means 13 are fixed to the energy absorbing layer 3 by means of two fixing members 5a, 5b adapted to elastically, semi-elastically or plastically absorb energy and forces.

Forehead oblique impact I is shown in Figure 5 to generate a rotational force on the helmet. The oblique impact I causes the energy absorbing layer 3 to slide relative to the attachment means 13 . The attachment means 13 are fixed to the energy absorbing layer 3 by means of the fixing members 5a, 5b. Although only two of these securing members are shown for clarity, there may be many such securing members. The fixing member 5 can absorb rotational force by elastic or semi-elastic deformation. In other configurations, the deformation may be plastic, even causing one or more of the fixation members 5 to break. In terms of plastic deformation, at least the fixing member 5 needs to be replaced after impact. In some cases, a combination of plastic and elastic deformation of the fixation members 5 may occur, ie, some fixation members 5 rupture to absorb energy plastically, while other fixation members deform and elastically absorb force.

In general, in the helmets of Figures 4 and 5, during an impact, the energy absorbing layer 3 acts as an impact absorber by compressing in the same way as the inner shell of the helmet of Figure 1 . If an outer shell 2 is used, it will help to disperse the impact energy on the energy absorbing layer 3 . The slip accelerator 4 will also allow slippage between the attachment means and the energy absorbing layer. This allows energy that would otherwise be transmitted to the brain as rotational energy to be dissipated in a controlled manner. Energy can be dissipated by frictional heat, deformation of the energy absorbing layer, or deformation or displacement of the stationary member. Reduced energy transfer results in reduced rotational acceleration affecting the brain, thus reducing brain rotation within the skull. Thereby reducing the risk of rotational injuries including MTBI and STBI such as subdural hematoma, SDH, ruptured blood vessel, concussion and DAI.

Figure 6 schematically depicts a cross-section of a helmet of a type different from that depicted in Figures 1-5. In a helmet 1 , such as the one depicted in FIG. 6 , the head mount 20 is suspended within the shell 2 such that an air gap 21 is provided between the shell 2 and the head mount 20 . The head mount 20 can be connected to the housing 2 by a connector 25 . This type of helmet is often used for industrial purposes, such as construction workers, miners or industrial machinery operators. However, helmets based on this configuration can be used for other purposes. For example, in some applications, the housing 2 may be made of a polymer such as polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), high density polyethylene (HDPE), or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). Hard shell made of material. Advantageously, the polymeric material may be fiber reinforced using materials such as glass fiber, aramid, Tevalon, carbon fiber or Kevlar.

Although the following disclosure is directed to an example of a helmet 1 in which the outer shell 2 is formed only from a hard shell, it should be understood that the disclosed configuration is applicable to other helmet configurations. For example, the outer shell may alternatively or additionally comprise a layer of energy absorbing material. This energy absorbing material may for example be formed from a foamed material (eg expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polyurethane (EPU), vinyl nitrile foam) or formed into a honeycomb of other materials or strain rate sensitive foams such as those sold under the brand names Poron ^™ and D3O ^™ .

In use, the layer of energy absorbing material may be provided as a shell over substantially the entire surface of the hard shell facing the wearer's head, but may provide ventilation holes. Alternatively or additionally, localized areas of energy absorbing material may be provided between the hard shell and the head mount. For example, strips of energy absorbing material may be provided around the lower edge of the hard shell and/or sections of energy absorbing material may be provided over the top of the wearer's head.

In a helmet, such as the one depicted in Figure 6, providing an air gap 21 between the inner surface of the outer shell 2 and the head mount 20 is intended to ensure that loads caused by impact to the outer shell 2 are distributed across the wearer's head . In particular, the load is not limited to a point on the wearer's head adjacent to the point of impact on the helmet 1 . Conversely, the load is distributed across the shell 2 and then across the head mount 20 and thus across the wearer's head.

During this impact, the impact energy may be absorbed by deformation of parts of the helmet, such as the head mount, to reduce the size of the air gap. Therefore, the size of the air gap 21 between the shell 2 and the head mount 20 can be selected to ensure that the head mount 20 does not come into contact with the shell 2 under the impact on the helmet that the helmet is designed to withstand, ie, air The gap 21 is not completely eliminated so that shocks can be transferred directly from the hard shell to the head mount.

In configuration, the helmet 1 may be configured such that if there is no impact on the helmet, the spacing between the shell 2 and the head mount 20 at a location corresponding to the top of the wearer's head is at least 10 mm, and optionally at least 15 mm , at least 20 mm depending on the situation, at least 30 mm depending on the situation, and at least 40 mm depending on the situation. The magnitude of the impact the helmet 1 is designed to withstand and therefore the size of the air gap 21 may depend on the intended use of the helmet 1 . It will be appreciated that the size of the air gap 21 may vary at different locations depending on the intended use of the helmet. For example, the air gap 21 may be smaller at the front, rear or side of the helmet than at a location corresponding to the top of the wearer's head.

In a helmet configuration that includes an energy absorbing material, the energy absorbing material may enable the helmet to withstand radial impacts. In particular, in configurations in which the energy absorbing material is located within the air gap between the outer shell 2 and the head mount 20 at a location corresponding to the top of the wearer's head, it will be appreciated that the relationship between the head mount and the energy absorbing layer is The gap between the surfaces will be smaller than the gap between the shell and the head mount and can be eliminated completely. Additionally, due to the contribution of the energy absorbing material when subjected to radial impact, a smaller clearance between the outer shell and the head mount may be required than would be the case without the energy absorbing material.

The head mount 20 may be provided in any form that conforms to the wearer's head, or at least the top of the head, and either mounts the helmet to the wearer's head or serves to facilitate the mounting of the helmet to the wearer's head. In some configurations, it may help to secure the helmet 1 to the wearer's head, but this is not essential. In some configurations, the head mount 20 may include a headgear or headband that at least partially surrounds the wearer's head. Alternatively or additionally, the head mount 20 may include one or more straps extending across the top of the wearer's head. Alternatively or additionally, the head mount 20 may include a cap or shell that encapsulates the upper portion of the wearer's head. The straps forming part of the head mount may be made of nylon. Other materials may alternatively or additionally be used.

Figure 7 depicts a configuration in which a helmet of the type schematically depicted in Figure 6 has features according to the invention. As shown, the head mount includes a plurality of straps 20 extending across the top of the head of the wearer of the helmet. The strap 20 may be attached to the housing 2 at the attachment point by any of a number of known methods. For example, the housing 2 may be molded to include a socket into which the connector 25 may be inserted.

In the configuration depicted in Figure 7, the head mount is formed by two straps 20 each extending between a pair of connectors 25 positioned such that the straps 20 extend across the head of the wearer of the helmet. For example, the first strap 20 may extend from the left rear position to the right front position and the second strap 20 may extend from the right rear position to the left front position. However, it should be appreciated that many other configurations may be used. For example, additional straps may be provided such that three, four or more straps extend across the top of the wearer's head. Similarly, the location of the attachment point of the strap 20 to the rest of the helmet 1 may be different from that depicted in FIG. 7 .

In a configuration, when the different straps 20 approach each other, eg, at the top of the wearer's head, the straps 20 may be disconnected from each other to allow some movement of one strap relative to the other. In other configurations, the straps may be connected to each other at their equal intersections. In a further configuration, the head mount may comprise one or more straps extending from the point of attachment to the rest of the helmet 1 to the point at which it attaches to other straps (eg at a location corresponding to the top of the head of the wearer of the helmet) . Finally, as mentioned above, in other configurations, the head mount may be formed from components other than straps, such as a cap or shell that may be mounted to the top of the head of the wearer of the helmet 1 .

As shown in FIG. 7 , the helmet 1 further comprises head engaging means 40 . The head engagement device 40 is mounted on the surface of the head mount (ie, the strap 20 in the configuration depicted in FIG. 7 ), with the head engagement device 40 facing the wearer's head when the wearer wears the helmet 1 . In other words, the head engaging means 40 is provided on the side of the head mount 20 opposite to the air gap existing between the head mount 20 and the housing 2 .

As will be discussed in further detail below, the head engagement device 40 is mounted such that the head engagement device 40 is movable relative to the head mount 20 . In other words, the head engagement device 40 and the head mount 20 are not rigidly connected to each other. The head engagement device 40 may function in the same or similar manner as the interface layer discussed above. If the helmet 1 is subjected to an oblique impact while it is being worn by the wearer, the ability of the head engaging device 40 to move relative to the head mount 20 enables the helmet 1 to move, such as rotate, relative to the wearer's head. This may provide the benefits discussed above, such as reducing damage to the wearer of the helmet from such impacts.

A low friction interface may be provided between the head mount 20 and the head engagement device 40 . This may facilitate movement of the head engaging device 40 relative to the head mount 20 under impact to the helmet 1 .

The low friction interface between the head mount 20 and the head engaging device 40 may be implemented by any method corresponding to the methods discussed above for other helmet configurations. For example, the head engagement device 40 may be formed of a material that provides a sufficiently low coefficient of friction between it and the head mount 20 . For example, it may be formed of polypropylene (PP), nylon, polycarbonate (PC), polyketone, or any other low friction material, such as those discussed above. By selecting suitable materials to form one or both of the head mount and the head engagement means, a low friction interface can be provided without providing additional components and/or surface treatments.

In other configurations, one or both of the surfaces of the head mount 20 and the head engagement device 40 (where the head mount 20 and the head engagement device 40 are in contact) may have a separate sliding enhancer (such as a sticker of a low friction material) sheet or another material coating), which may be another polymer or textile material or felt segment with a low coefficient of friction, or may have a lubricant applied to it.

The head engagement device 40 may be attached to the helmet 1 in any suitable manner that allows the head engagement device 40 to move relative to the head mount 20 . For example, the head engagement device 40 may be connected to the housing 2 , eg, by a connector that allows the head engagement device 40 to move relative to the housing 2 . Such connectors may include elastic components that can stretch and move the head engagement device 40 relative to the housing 2 if desired.

In a configuration such as that depicted in Figure 7, the head engagement device 40 may be connected to the head mount, eg, to one or more straps 20 that are part of the head mount.

When the head engagement device 40 is connected to the head mount, a connector 45 may be used that allows some movement of the head engagement device 40 relative to the portion of the head mount to which it is attached.

In the configuration, the connector 45 may have a first end 46 and a second end 47 that are attached to the head engaging device 40 at respective first and second positions on the head engaging device 40 and are positioned such that the head The strap 20 of the head mount is located between the connector 45 and the head engagement means 40 in the region between the first position and the second position on the head engagement means 40 . In this configuration, the strap 20 may be loosely secured to any portion of the connector 45 such that the strap may slide relative to the connector 45 in its longitudinal direction and/or laterally. However, the head engagement device 40 is limited to full removal by the strap 20 .

In this configuration, the connector 45 may be formed from or covered by a material that provides a sufficiently low coefficient of friction between the connector 45 and the strap 20 so that movement of the head engaging device relative to the head mount is not significantly reduced And therefore the function of the helmet 1 is not significantly hindered. Alternatively or additionally, the connector 45 may be formed of a resilient material such that to the extent that the portion of the connector 45 does not slide relative to the strap 20, the strap may be relatively The first portion 46 and the second portion 47 of the connector 45 move to allow the head engaging device to move as desired relative to the head mount.

In a configuration such as that depicted in FIG. 7, the connector 45 may be formed from an elongated section of material. For example, the connector 45 may be formed from a section of material in the shape of a string, tape, or tape. This material may, for example, have a generally circular or rectangular cross-section. The connector may be formed of a resilient material, which may be beneficial for the connector to function when the helmet 1 is subjected to an impact (as described above) and/or may facilitate assembly of the helmet 1 . In the configuration, the connector 45 may be formed from an elastic material coated with a fabric layer. Connector 45 may alternatively or additionally be formed from polysiloxane, rubber, or another elastic plastic material.

A connector, such as those discussed above, may be attached to the head engagement device 40 at the first and second positions by any suitable method, including, for example, adhesives or mechanical methods, such as a snap-fit connection. Alternatively, both ends of the elongated material may be tied to each other and/or at least one end may be tied to a portion of the helmet 1 to secure the helmet.

In a configuration, as schematically depicted in FIGS. 8-10 , the length of material 50 used to form the connector 45 may terminate in a component such as a relatively short rod 51 . Rod 51 is attached to elongated material 50 such that the length of rod 51 is at an angle to the elongated length of the material, optionally perpendicular. As shown in FIG. 9 , during assembly, the rod 51 can be inserted through the hole 41 in the head engaging device 40 in the longitudinal direction. However, as shown in Figure 9, the rod 51 will then naturally orient itself against the surface of the head engaging device 40, so that the rod 51 cannot reverse through the hole. It should be appreciated that in this configuration, the hole 41 in the head engagement device 40 may be configured to be larger than the cross-section of the rod 51 but less than the length of the rod 51 .

In a configuration, such as that depicted in Figure 7, the strap 20 is connected to the head engaging device 40 such that the strap 20 is on the side of the head engaging device 40 opposite the head of the wearer of the helmet. Accordingly, the connector 45 is also primarily located on the side of the head engaging device 40 opposite the head of the wearer of the helmet. In the connector configurations discussed above and depicted in FIGS. 8-10 , the connector 45 may be configured such that the length of material forming the connector 45 extends through the head engaging device 40 from the side that contacts the strap 20 . The hole 41 in the center, and thus the rod 51, is positioned on the surface of the head engaging device 40 facing the head of the wearer of the helmet.

If this is undesirable (eg if it affects the comfort of the wearer of the helmet) or if it is desired to hide the rod 51 (for aesthetic reasons or to reduce the risk of damage to the connector 45 and/or the risk of tampering), the Second holes 41 are provided at each position of the joint device 40 for fixing the connector. In this configuration, the length of material may pass through one hole from the area where the connector engages the strap, through the section of the head engagement device 40 between the two holes 41, and then through the second hole. In this configuration, the rod 51 is held on the same side of the head engaging device 40 as the strap 20, ie on the side of the head engaging device 40 opposite the wearer's head.

In the configuration, each connector 45 may itself be formed from separate sections of elongated material. Alternatively, one or more connectors 45 may be formed from segments of a single piece of elongated material. For example, a plurality of connectors 45 may be formed in a manner corresponding to the above, but instead of the rod 51 where the connectors 45 join the head engagement device 40, the elongated material may extend to another connector 45. In the configuration, all of the connectors 45 used to connect the head engagement device 40 to the head mount may be formed from a single length of elongated material.

As shown in FIG. 7 , in a configuration in which the head mount includes a strap 20 extending across the head of the wearer of the helmet between two attachment points on the outer shell 2 , the pair of head engaging means 40 may be A pair of connectors 45 are provided for each strap 20 on the set side. Similarly, each strap 20 may be provided with at least one connector 45, optionally a pair of connectors 45. However, this is not essential. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, fewer connections may be provided between the head engagement device 40 and a head mount (such as the strap 20). In the configuration depicted in FIG. 11 , for example, the connector 45 may be provided only at the rear of the helmet 1 .

FIG. 12 depicts an alternative configuration for connecting the head engaging device 40 . As shown, the head engagement device 40 can include an aperture 60 through which the strap 20, which is part of the head mount, can pass.

As discussed above, other configurations for connecting the head engaging device 40 may alternatively or additionally be used. For example, an elastically deformable connector may be provided between the head mount and the head engagement device 40 such that a first portion of the connector is secured to a portion of the head mount (such as the strap 20) and a second portion of the connector is secured to the part of the head engagement device 40 . Movement of the head engagement device relative to the head mount may be accomplished by stretching and/or other deformation of the connector. This connector may be secured to one or both of the surfaces of the head mount and the head engagement device facing each other. The connector may be secured to one or both of the head mount and the head engagement device by any suitable means, including, for example, by hook and loop material and/or adhesives.

As shown in the configurations depicted in Figures 7, 11 and 12, the head engagement device 40 may be provided as a single component, such as a single layer of material. However, this is not necessarily the case. For example, the head engaging means may be formed from a plurality of separate segments. The detached sections may remain detached and eg individually connected to the head mount and/or other parts of the helmet 1 . Alternatively, two or more segments may be connected during assembly of the helmet. In a configuration, the separate sections of the head engagement device may be connected to each or a subset of the straps 20 that form or are part of the head mount.

In a configuration, the head engaging device or one or more portions thereof may be formed by injection molding or vacuum forming. Thus, it can be formed to have a shape that conforms to the shape of the head of the wearer of the helmet.

In the configuration of helmet 1, such as that depicted in FIG. 7, the head mount may include a headband 30 that engages at least the forehead of the wearer of the helmet and may substantially surround the wearer's head. It will be appreciated that this headgear 30 may be attached to the helmet 1 separately from the rest of the head mount, such as the straps 20 . Alternatively, the headband 30 may be connected to the helmet 1 by means of the strap 20 . As another alternative, the strap 20 may be connected to the remainder of the helmet 1 by means of the headband 30 .

In configurations in which helmet 1 includes headgear 30, head engagement device 40 may include a crown region 43 configured to be located between the crown of the wearer's head and a head mount (such as strap 20) and a set of The state is to position the forehead region 44 adjacent to the headgear 30 at least in the forehead region of the wearer of the helmet. The head engaging device forehead region 44 can be configured such that it can be configured in the same way as other sections of the head engaging device 40 to be able to move relative to other sections of the head mount, such as the strap 20 in use Slides relative to the portion of the headband adjacent to it.

The head engaging device forehead region 44 may be connected to the headgear and/or the housing 2 to enable the head engaging device 40 forehead region 44 relative to the head, for example, by a connector configured to allow movement of one part relative to another. Ring 30 moves. Alternatively or additionally, the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40 may be connected to the helmet 1 by a middle region 48 of the head engaging device 40 . In particular, the middle region 48 of the head engaging device 40 may connect the forehead region 44 to the crown region 43 . In the configuration, the crown region 43, the middle region 48, and the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device may be integrally formed from a single sheet of material.

As depicted in FIG. 7 , in the configuration, the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40 may extend along the head ring 30 , for example in the form of arms 49 . Thus, each arm 49 of the head engaging device may be adjacent but not joined to the side of the crown region 43 of the head engaging device. In an optional configuration, one or more stiffeners may be provided between an arm or each arm 49 of the head engaging device 40 and an adjacent portion of the crown region 43 of the head engaging device. This may be provided to reduce the extent to which the gap between the arms 49 of the head engaging device 40 and the crown region 43 increases under impact on the helmet.

The reinforcement between the arms 49 of the head engagement device 40 and the crown region 43 may be integrally formed with the rest of the head engagement device. Alternatively or additionally, the stiffeners may be provided in the form of sheets of material, such as from any of the materials discussed above for forming the head engaging means, which are connected at their respective ends to the arms 49 and 49 of the head engaging means 40. Crown area 43. The sheet of material may be attached to the crown region 43 and arms 49 of the head engagement device 40 by any convenient means including, for example, hook and loop connections, snap connections, and/or adhesives. The connector is adjustable so that the material sheet can be used as a reinforcement for helmets of different sizes.

The middle region 48 of the head engaging device can be configured such that it performs additional functions in addition to connecting the crown region 43 to the forehead region 44 . In particular, the intermediate region 48 may assist in preventing the forehead of the wearer of the helmet from contacting the forehead region of the outer shell 2 if the impact is directed towards the front of the helmet 1 . For example, this may reduce the tendency of the front of the wearer's head to pass between the two straps 20 in a configuration such as that depicted in FIG. 7 .

It should be understood that this configuration is not essential. The straps 20 used to form the head mount can be positioned to avoid this potential problem in any event. For example, a sufficient number of tapes 20 and/or tapes of sufficient width may be used to avoid or minimize this problem. Alternatively or additionally, a strap 20 may be provided extending from the front of the helmet.

Alternatively or additionally, additional support for the head engaging device may be provided which may alleviate any tendency of the wearer's head and thus the head engaging device to pass through the gap between the two straps and/or the head loop. This support may be provided in the form of a sheet of material, such as from any of the materials discussed above for forming the head engaging means. The support may be connected to the headband at a location between the two straps. Such supports may be provided, for example, at one or more of either side of the helmet, the front of the helmet, and the rear of the helmet. The support may be attached to the headband by any convenient means including, for example, hook and loop connections, snap connections, and/or adhesives.

In the configuration, as depicted in Figure 13, although the crown region 43 of the head engaging device 40 is provided on the side of the head mount (such as the strap 20) facing the head of the wearer of the helmet 1, the forehead Regions 44 may be provided on opposite sides of headband 30 . Thus, this configuration can be configured such that the headgear 30 is positioned between the wearer's forehead of the helmet and the head engaging device forehead region 44 .

This configuration may be beneficial if the headband 30 is relatively soft and/or flexible, at least in the forehead region. In this configuration, the low friction interface between the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40 and the portion of the headgear 30 adjacent to the wearer's forehead will enable the headgear 30, and therefore the wearer's forehead, to relative to the front of the housing 2 Area moves. As shown, the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40 may be connected to the headgear 30 by a connector 49 . These connectors may be similar to those discussed above or be another suitable form of connector that allows relative movement between the connected components.

As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 , one or more pads 66 , 67 may be provided to the helmet 1 . For example, in a helmet including any of the configurations discussed above for the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40, the front pad 66 may be positioned adjacent the forehead of the wearer of the helmet. Depending on the configuration of the helmet 1 , the front pad may be connected to one or more of the headgear 30 , the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40 and the outer shell 2 .

For example, in a configuration in which the head engaging device 40 forehead region 44 is provided between the headgear 30 and the forehead of the wearer of the helmet, the front pad 66 may be directly connected to the head engaging device 40 forehead region 44 . In this configuration, the forehead region 44 of the head engagement device 40 may include projections or hooks 68 that can engage the front pad 66 .

Alternatively or additionally, the front pad 66 may be connected to the headgear 30 by elastic connectors 69 that engage hooks or protrusions 70 formed on the headgear 30 . In this configuration, the elastic connector 69 is configured to be able to stretch sufficiently so that the front pad 66 can move relative to the headgear 30 .

Alternatively or additionally, the front pad 66 may include fabric segments extending outwardly and around opposing sides of the headgear 30, optionally elastically deformable. The front pad 66 may then be attached to the headband, for example, by hook and loop connections to segments of hook or loop material provided to the fabric extensions of the front pad 66 and adhered to the surface of the headband 30, respectively. Alternatively, the fabric extension of the front pad 66 may include elastic connectors that engage hooks or protrusions formed on the headband 30 .

A configuration with a fabric extension extending to the front pad 66 on the opposite side of the headgear may be preferred because it may have an improved aesthetic appearance and the fabric coverage of the edges of the headgear and head engaging device may reduce the helmet wearer's stress. Risk of skin rubbing against edges. Furthermore, when the head engagement device 40 is moved relative to the head ring under impact, a section of the head ring 30 may no longer be covered by the head engagement device. However, the fabric can slide relative to the headband 30 to be able to provide further movement.

In configurations in which a portion of the headgear 30 is provided between the forehead of the wearer of the helmet and the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40 (such as the configuration depicted in FIG. 13 ), the front pad may be directly connected to the headgear 30 . Alternatively or additionally, it may be connected to the forehead region 44 of the housing 2 and/or the head engaging device 40 by means of elastic connectors.

In an arrangement, one or more pads 67 may be provided on other portions of the head engaging device 40 , such as on the crown region 43 of the head engaging device 40 . These pads 67 may be used to enhance the comfort of the wearer of the helmet and/or to provide separation of the head engagement device 40 from the wearer's head to facilitate ventilation. As shown in FIG. 14, the pad 67 may be positioned such that it does not overlap, for example, where the connector 45 is provided to connect the head engagement device 40 to the head mount. Alternatively or additionally, one or more pads 67 may be positioned to cover the connector 45 .

As shown in FIG. 14 , one or more holes 43 may be provided in the head engagement device 40 . These holes facilitate ventilation between the wearer's head and the gap 21 between the head mount 20 and the outer shell 2 .

As discussed above, the head engagement device 40 may also include one or more apertures 41 for engagement with the connector. Thus, it should be appreciated that the head engagement device 40 may have apertures that may be used to provide ventilation or to engage a connector. Alternatively, different apertures may be provided for specific functions.

It will also be appreciated that when holes 41 are provided for engagement with the connector, the head engaging device 40 may have holes 41 in the locations required for engagement with the connector to adapt the head engaging device 40 to the particular design of the helmet. Alternatively, the head engagement device 40 may have a plurality of holes 41 positioned to enable the head engagement device 40 to be mounted in any of a plurality of helmet designs and/or helmet sizes.

1: Helmet 2: Outer shell 2': Softer inner layer 2": Harder outer layer 3: Inner shell/energy absorbing layer 3': Inner layer 3": Outer layer 4: Sliding layer/sliding accelerator 5: Connecting member/fixing member 5a: fixed member/suspension member 5b: fixed member/suspension member 5c: fixed member/suspension member 5d: fixed member/suspension member 6: intermediate case/adjustment device 7: vent 8: first part 9: Part II 10: Skull 11: Longitudinal Axis 12: Displacement 13: Interface Layer/Attachment 20: Head Mount/Strip 21: Air Gap 25: Connector 30: Head Ring 40: Head Engagement 41: Hole 43: Crown area/hole 44: Forehead area 45: Connector 46: First end/first part 47: Second end/second part 48: Middle area 49: Arm/connector 50: Material 51: Rod 60 : Hole 66: Front Pad 67: Pad 68: Projection/Hook 69: Elastic Connector 70: Projection/Hook I: Forehead Oblique Impact K: Oblique Impact/ Impact Force K _T : Tangential Force K _R : Radial force

The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 depicts a cross-section through a helmet used to provide diagonal impact protection;

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the functional principle of the helmet of FIG. 1;

3A, 3B, and 3C show changes in the structure of the helmet of FIG. 1;

Figures 4 and 5 schematically depict another configuration of the helmet;

Figure 6 schematically depicts a cross-section of another configuration of the helmet;

Figure 7 depicts the interior of an example of a helmet according to the configuration depicted in Figure 6;

Figures 8, 9 and 10 depict connectors used in a helmet of the configuration depicted in Figure 7;

Figure 11 depicts the interior of a further example of a helmet;

Figure 12 depicts the interior of a further example of a helmet;

Figure 13 depicts the interior of a further example of a helmet;

Figure 14 depicts the interior of a further example of a helmet; and

Figure 15 depicts the helmet of Figure 14 from the side.

1: Helmet

2: Shell

20: Head mount/belt

30: headband

40: Head engagement device

41: Hole

43: Crown area/hole

44: Forehead area

45: Connector

46: First End/Part One

47: Second End/Part Two

48: Middle area

49: Arm/Connector

Claims (26)

A helmet comprising: shell; a head mount configured to be mounted on the top of the head of the wearer of the helmet; wherein the head mount is suspended within the housing such that, in use, an air gap is provided between the head mount and the housing; The helmet further includes a head engagement device mounted on the surface of the head mount and configured to face the head of a wearer of the helmet such that the head engagement device is movable relative to the head mount ;and A low friction interface is provided between the head mount and the head engagement device. 2. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the head engaging device is connected to the head mount. The helmet of claim 1 or 2, wherein the head mount includes a plurality of straps configured to extend across the top of the head of a wearer of the helmet and connect to attachment points on the outer shell. The helmet of claim 3, wherein the head mount includes a plurality of straps extending between a pair of opposing attachment points. A helmet as claimed in claim 3 or 4, wherein at least two straps are connected to each other. 5. The helmet of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the head engagement device is connected to the head mount by at least one connector that engages with one of the straps. 6. The helmet of claim 6, wherein the at least one connector has a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being at respective first and second positions on the head engaging device is attached to the head engagement device; and a strap is positioned between the connector and the head engagement device in an area on the head engagement device between the first position and the second position. The helmet of claim 6 or 7, wherein the strap is not fixedly fastened to any part of the connector such that the strap can slide relative to the connector. The helmet of claim 7 or 8, wherein the connector is formed from an elongated section of material which is one of a cord, strap or tape as appropriate. The helmet of claim 9, wherein the plurality of connectors are formed from separate pieces of the material. The helmet of claim 9 or 10, wherein the plurality of connectors are formed from segments of a single piece of the material. 11. The helmet of any one of claims 3 to 11, wherein the head mount includes at least one strap connected to the front of the outer shell extending in a direction towards the rear of the helmet. The helmet of any of the preceding claims, wherein the head engaging device is provided as a single component. A helmet as in any preceding claim, wherein the head engaging means is formed from a plurality of separate sections. The helmet of any preceding claim, wherein the head mount includes a headband configured to engage at least the forehead of a wearer of the helmet; and The head engaging device includes a crown region configured to be positioned between the crown of the head of the wearer of the helmet and the head mount and a forehead region configured to be positioned adjacent the headgear. 16. The helmet of claim 15, wherein the head engaging means further comprises a middle region connecting the crown region to the forehead region. The helmet of claim 15 or 16, wherein the forehead region of the head engaging device is positioned between the forehead of the wearer of the helmet and the headgear. The helmet of claim 15 or 16, wherein the headband is positioned between the wearer's forehead of the helmet and the forehead region of the head engaging device. The helmet of any one of claims 15 to 18, further comprising a front pad positioned adjacent the wearer's forehead of the helmet. The helmet of claim 19, wherein the front pad is connected to at least one of the headgear, the forehead region of the head engaging device, and the outer shell. The helmet of claim 20, wherein the front pad is connected by resilient connectors configured to enable movement of the front pad relative to the components to which it is connected. A helmet as in any preceding claim, wherein the head engaging means comprises one or more pads provided on a surface of the head engaging means facing the head of the wearer of the helmet. A helmet as in any preceding claim, wherein the head engaging means comprises a sheet of material optionally shaped to conform to the head of a wearer of the helmet. The helmet of claim 23, wherein the head engaging device includes a plurality of holes configurable to provide at least one of a location for attaching a connector to the head engaging device and ventilation. The helmet of any of the preceding claims, wherein the low friction interface is provided by a low coefficient of friction between the head mount and the surfaces with which the head engages. A helmet as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein if there is no impact on the helmet, the spacing provided by the air gap between the outer shell and the head mount at a location corresponding to the top of the wearer's head is at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm as needed, at least 20 mm as needed, at least 30 mm as needed, at least 40 mm as needed.

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