TWI794854B - 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

The present 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, for example, construction workers, miners or operators of industrial machinery. Helmets are also common in sports activities. For example, protective helmets can be used for ice hockey, bicycles, motorcycles, racing, skiing, snowboarding, 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 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 can move relative to each other. In other cases, such as typically in bicycle helmets, the helmet has attachment means for securing the helmet to the user's head, and the attachment means can be resized to fit the user's head, while the main body or shell of the helmet Keep the same size. In some cases, comfort pads within the helmet may serve as an attachment means. The attachment means may also be provided in the form of a plurality of physically separate parts, such as a plurality of comfort pads not interconnected with each other. These attachments for securing the helmet to the user's head can be used with additional straps (such as straps) to further secure the head The helmet is properly secured. Combinations of such adjustment mechanisms are also possible.

Helmets are usually made of an outer shell (which is usually stiff and made of plastic or composite material) and an energy absorbing layer (often referred to as a pad). In other configurations, such as a football scrimmage helmet, the helmet may not have a hard shell, and the helmet may be flexible as a whole. In any case, today, protective helmets have to be designed to meet specific legal requirements relating inter alia to the maximum acceleration that can occur at the center of gravity of the brain under a specific load. Usually, tests are carried out in which a so-called dummy skull equipped with a helmet is subjected to a radial impact towards the head. This has resulted in modern helmets having good energy absorption in radial impacts to the head. Progress has also been made in developing helmets (such as WO 2001/045526 and WO 2011/139224, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety) to absorb or dissipate rotational energy and/or convert it into translation Energy rather than rotational energy can be used to reduce the energy transmitted from an oblique strike (ie, both its combined tangential and radial components).

These oblique impacts (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 body elements connecting 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 summarized 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 increase), concussion, SDH, DAI, or a combination of these injuries can be suffered. In general, SDH occurs in the case of accelerations of short duration and large amplitude, while DAI occurs in the case of longer and more extensive inertial loads.

In helmets (such as In the helmets disclosed in WO 2001/045526 and WO 2011/139224), the two parts of the helmet can be configured to slide relative to each other at a sliding interface after an oblique impact.

In some helmets, the head attachment device is suspended within and detached from the hard shell. Such helmets are simple and inexpensive to manufacture and provide adequate protection against radial impacts for specific helmet applications. However, it would be desirable to improve the performance of such helmets, for example 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: an outer shell; a head mount configured to be mounted on 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 the head mount and the shell; the helmet further comprising head engaging means mounted on a surface of the head mount configured to face the wearer of the helmet the head so that the head engaging device can move relative to the head mount; and a low friction interface is provided between the head mount and the head engaging device.

In an arrangement, the head engaging device is connected to the head mount.

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

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

In an arrangement, at least two straps are connected to each other.

In configuration, the head engaging device consists of at least one A connector is connected to the head mount.

In configuration, the at least one connector has a first end and a second end that are both engaged to the header at respective first and second locations on the header engaging means a head engaging device; and a strap is positioned between the connector and the head engaging device in a region on the head engaging device between the first position and the second position.

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

In configuration, the connector is formed from an elongated section of material, optionally one of a rope, strip or tape.

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

In an arrangement, the plurality of connectors are formed from sections of a single piece of the material.

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

In an arrangement, the head engaging means is provided as a single component.

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

In configuration, the head mount includes a headband configured to engage at least the forehead of the wearer of the helmet; The crown area between the mounts and the forehead area are configured to be positioned adjacent to the headband.

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

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

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

In an arrangement, the helmet further includes a front forehead pad of the wearer positioned adjacent to the helmet.

In an arrangement, the front pad is connected to at least one of the headband, the forehead region of the head engaging device, and the housing.

In deployment, the front pad is connected by resilient connectors configured to move the front pad relative to the component to which it is connected.

In an arrangement, the head engaging means includes one or more pads provided on a surface of the head engaging means facing the head of the wearer of the helmet.

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

In an arrangement, the head engaging device includes a plurality of holes configurable to provide at least one of a location for attachment of a connector to the head engaging device and ventilation.

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

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

1: helmet

2: Shell

2': soft 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/fixed member

5a: Fixed member/suspended member

5b: Fixed member/suspended member

5c: Fixed member/suspended member

5d: fixed member/suspended member

6: Intermediate shell/adjustment device

7: Vent

8: Part 1

9: Part Two

10: head

11: longitudinal axis

12: displacement

13: Interface layer/attachment device

20:Head mount/strap

21: air gap

25: Connector

30: head ring

40: Head engagement device

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:Protrusion/Hook

69: elastic connector

70:Protrusion/hook

I: Oblique Forehead Impact

K: oblique impact / impact force

K _T : Tangential force

K _R : radial force

Hereinafter the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 depicts a cross-section through a helmet for providing protection against oblique impacts; Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the functional principle of the helmet of Fig. 1; Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B and Fig. 3C show the variation of the structure of the helmet of Fig. 1; Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 schematically depict another configuration of the helmet; Fig. 6 schematically Figure 7 depicts the interior of an example of a helmet according to the configuration depicted in Figure 6; Figure 8, Figure 9 and Figure 10 depict the use in the 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 interior of a further example of a helmet; The helmet in Figure 14.

The proportions of the thicknesses of the various layers in the helmet depicted in the figures have been exaggerated in the drawings 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 providing oblique impact protection. This type of helmet can be any of the types of helmets discussed above.

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

A sliding layer 4 (also referred to as a sliding accelerator or a low-friction layer) is arranged between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 , which enables displacement between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 . Specifically, as will be discussed below, the slip layer 4 or slip accelerator can be configured so that slip can occur in both parts during impact. between points. For example, it may be configured to be able to slide under the forces associated with an impact on the helmet 1 , which would hopefully allow the wearer of the helmet 1 to survive. 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 interconnecting the outer shell 2 with the inner shell 3 may be arranged in the edge portion of the helmet 1 . 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 usually very little 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 position of these connecting members 5 can be changed (for example, located away from the edge portion, and connect 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 polymer material such as polycarbonate (PC), polyvinylchloride (PVC) or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). Advantageously, the polymeric material may be fiber reinforced using materials such as glass fibres, aramid, Twaron, carbon fibres, or Kevlar.

The inner shell 3 is relatively thick and acts as an energy absorbing layer. Thus, it can suppress or absorb impact 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) or (for example) Other materials of cellular structure or strain rate sensitive foams such as those sold under the brand names Poron ^™ and D3O ^™ are made. The construction can 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 in the inner shell 3), but This is not its main purpose and its contribution to energy absorption is minimal compared to that of the inner shell 3 . Indeed, although some other elements such as comfort pads may be made of "compressible" materials and thus considered "energy absorbing" in other contexts, it is generally accepted in the field of helmets that in order to reduce injury to the wearer of the helmet, A compressible material is not necessarily "energy absorbing" in the sense that it absorbs a large amount 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, etc. This layer may have a thickness of about 0.1 mm to 5 mm, although other thicknesses may be used, depending on the material chosen and the performance desired. The number of sliding layers and their positioning may also vary, and an example of this will be discussed below (cf. Figure 3b).

As connecting member 5, for example deformable plastic or metal strips anchored in the outer and inner shells in a suitable manner can be used.

FIG. 2 shows the functional principle of the protective helmet 1 , where the helmet 1 and the wearer's head 10 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 head 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 special context, only the rotational tangential force K _T of the helmet and its effects are concerned.

It can be seen that the force K causes a displacement 13 of the outer shell 2 relative to the inner shell 3 and deformation of the connecting member 5 . A significant reduction in the torque transmitted to the head 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 movement between the inner shell 3 and the outer shell 2 reduces the energy converted into radial acceleration.

A sliding movement can also take place in the circumferential direction of the protective helmet 1 , but this is not depicted. This can be due to the angular rotation of the circumference between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 (i.e., during impact, the outer shell 2 Can rotate a circle 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 thinner outer layer 3" and a relatively thicker inner layer 3'. The outer layer 3" is preferably harder than the inner layer 3' to help facilitate sliding relative to the outer shell 2. In FIG. 3b the inner shell 3 is constructed in the same way as in FIG. 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 a lower friction than the inner sliding layer. In Fig. 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 ′ may, for example, be of the same material as the inner shell 3 .

Figure 4 depicts a second helmet 1 of the class discussed in WO 2011/139224 also intended for use in providing oblique impact protection. This type of helmet can also be any of the types of helmets discussed above.

In FIG. 4 the helmet 1 comprises 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. there may be no additional shell), or the outer surface may be a rigid shell 2 equivalent to the 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 .

An interface layer 13 (also referred to as attachment means) is provided to interface with the wearer's head (and/or to attach the 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 are not resizable, as it allows different sized heads to be accommodated by resizing the attachment means 13 . The attachment means 13 may be made of an elastic or semi-elastic polymer material, such as PC, ABS, PVC or PTFE, or a natural fiber material, such as cotton. For example, A textile cap or net may form the attachment means 13 .

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

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

A slip accelerator 4 is provided radially inside the energy absorbing layer 3 . The slip 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.

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

In other words, the slip accelerator 4 is provided radially inward of the energy absorbing layer 3 . A slip accelerator may also be provided radially outward of the attachment means 13 .

When the attachment means 13 is formed as a cap or net (as discussed above), sliding is facilitated Agent 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 have lubricant added. The low friction material may be a textile material. As discussed, this low friction material can be applied to either or both of the slip enhancer 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 means 5, such as the four fixing means 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 energy absorbed is usually 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 with 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 fixed to the attachment means 13 and the second portion 9 of the suspension member 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d is adapted to be fixed to the energy absorbing layer 3 .

Figure 5 shows the configuration of a helmet similar to the helmet in Figure 4 when placed on the wearer's head. The helmet 1 of FIG. 5 comprises a hard shell 2 made of a material different from the energy absorbing layer 3 . In comparison to Fig. 4, in Fig. 5 the attachment means 13 are fixed to the energy absorbing layer 3 by means of two fixing members 5a, 5b suitable for elastic, semi-elastic or plastic absorption of energy and forces.

Figure 5 shows the oblique frontal impact I before generating 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 fixing means 5a, 5b. Although only two such securing members are shown for clarity, in practice there may be many such securing members. The fixing member 5 can absorb rotational force through elastic or semi-elastic deformation. In other configurations, the deformation may be plastic, even causing one or more fixation members 5 fracture. As far as plastic deformation is concerned, 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 break to absorb energy plastically, while other fixation members deform and elastically absorb forces.

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 manner as the inner shell of the helmet of Figure 1 . If an outer shell 2 is used, it will help to spread the impact energy over the energy absorbing layer 3 . The slip accelerator 4 will also allow slip 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 through frictional heat, deformation of the energy absorbing layer, or deformation or displacement of the fixed 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, vessel rupture, concussion and DAI.

FIG. 6 schematically depicts a cross section of a helmet of a type different from that depicted in FIGS. 1 to 5 . In a helmet 1 such as that depicted in FIG. 6 , a 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 via a connector 25 . This type of helmet is often used for industrial purposes, such as construction workers, miners or operators of industrial machinery. However, a helmet 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 with materials such as glass fibres, aramid, Tevalon, carbon fibres, or Kevlar.

Although the following disclosure relates to an example of a helmet 1 in which the outer shell 2 is formed of a hard shell only, it should be understood that the disclosed configurations are applicable to other helmet configurations. For example, the housing may alternatively or additionally contain a layer of energy absorbing material. This energy-absorbing material can be formed, for example, from foamed materials such as expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polyurethane (EPU), acrylonitrile foam) or formed from cellular Shaped structures 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 ventilation holes may be provided. Alternatively or additionally, localized areas of energy absorbing material may be provided between the hard shell and the head mount. For example, a band of energy absorbing material may be provided around the lower edge of the hard shell and/or a section of energy absorbing material may be provided over the top of the wearer's head.

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

During this impact, 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. Thus, 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 impacts to the helmet that the helmet is designed to withstand, i.e. the air Gap 21 is not completely eliminated so that shocks can be transferred directly from the monocoque to the head mount.

In configuration, the helmet 1 can be configured such that if there is no impact on the helmet, the distance between the shell 2 and the head mount 20 at a position corresponding to the top of the wearer's head is at least 10 mm, optionally at least 15 mm, depending on At least 20mm in case, at least 30mm in case, at least 40mm in case. The magnitude of the impact the helmet 1 is designed to withstand and thus the size of the air gap 21 may depend on the intended use of the helmet 1 . It should be appreciated that depending on the intended use of the helmet, the size of the air gap 21 Small can be different at different locations. For example, the air gap 21 may be smaller at the front, rear or sides of the helmet than it is at a location corresponding to the top of the wearer's head.

In helmet configurations that include energy absorbing material, the energy absorbing material contributes to the ability of the helmet to withstand radial impacts. In particular, in configurations in which the energy absorbing material is located within the air gap between the 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 distance between the head mount and the energy absorbing layer The gap between the surfaces will be smaller than the gap between the housing and the head mount and can be eliminated entirely. Additionally, due to the contribution of the energy absorbing material when subjected to radial impacts, a smaller gap between the housing 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 his head, and mounts the helmet to the wearer's head or serves to facilitate 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 headband 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 comprise 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.

FIG. 7 depicts a configuration in which a helmet of the type schematically depicted in FIG. 6 has features according to the invention. As shown, the head mount includes a plurality of straps 20 that extend across the top of the head of the wearer of the helmet. Strap 20 may be connected to housing 2 at connection points by any of a number of known methods. For example, housing 2 may be molded to include a receptacle into which connector 25 may be inserted.

In the configuration depicted in Figure 7, the head mount is formed from two straps 20 each extending between a pair of connectors 25 positioned so that the straps 20 extend across the head of the wearer of the helmet. For example, the first strap 20 may extend from a left rear position to a right front position and the second strap 20 may extend from The right rear position extends 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, for example. Similarly, the location of the connection point of the strap 20 to the rest of the helmet 1 may differ from that depicted in FIG. 7 .

In a configuration, when the different straps 20 are close to each other, for example 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 strips 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 where it connects to other straps (eg at a location corresponding to the crown of the wearer's head of the helmet) . Finally, as mentioned above, in other configurations the head mount may be formed by components other than the straps, for example by a cap or shell mountable to the top of the wearer's head of the helmet 1 .

As shown in FIG. 7 , the helmet 1 further comprises head engaging means 40 . The head engaging means 40 is mounted on the surface of the head mount (ie strap 20 in the configuration depicted in FIG. 7 ), facing the wearer's head when the helmet 1 is worn by the wearer. 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 engaging device 40 is mounted such that the head engaging device 40 is movable relative to the head mount 20 . In other words, the head engaging device 40 and the head mount 20 are not rigidly connected to each other. The head engaging device 40 may function in the same or similar manner as the interface layer discussed above. The ability of the head engaging means 40 to move relative to the head mount 20 enables the helmet 1 to move, such as rotate, relative to the wearer's head if the helmet 1 is subjected to an oblique impact while it is being worn by the wearer. This can provide the benefits discussed above, such as reducing injury to the wearer of the helmet from such impacts.

A low friction interface may be provided between the head mount 20 and the head engaging device 40 . This facilitates 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 that discussed above for other helmet configurations. For example, the head engaging device 40 may be formed from a material that provides a sufficiently low coefficient of friction between it and the head mount 20 . For example, it may be formed from 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 head engaging 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 engaging device 40 (where the head mount 20 and the head engaging device 40 are in contact) may have a separate slip facilitator, such as a patch of low friction material. sheet or another material coating), which may be another polymer or fabric material or felt section with a low coefficient of friction, or may have a lubricant applied thereto.

The head engaging device 40 may be connected to the helmet 1 in any suitable manner that allows the head engaging device 40 to move relative to the head mount 20 . For example, the head engaging device 40 may be connected to the housing 2 eg by a connector that allows the head engaging device 40 to move relative to the housing 2 . These connectors may include elastic members that can be stretched as required to move the head engaging device 40 relative to the housing 2 .

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

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

In configuration, the connector 45 may have a first end 46 and a second end 47 that are coupled to the head engaging device 40 at respective first and second locations on the head engaging device 40 And positioned so that the strap 20 of the head mount is between the connector 45 and the head engaging device 40 in the region between the first position and the second position on the head engaging device 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 engaging device 40 is restricted from being completely removed from 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 that movement of the head engaging device relative to the head mount is not significantly reduced And thus the functionality of the helmet 1 is not significantly hindered. Alternatively or in addition, the connector 45 may be formed from a resilient material such that to the extent that portions of the connector 45 do not slide relative to the strap 20, the strap may be moved relative to the strap 20 attached to the head engaging device 40, for example by stretching the connector. First portion 46 and second portion 47 of connector 45 move to allow desired movement of the head engaging device relative to the head mount.

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

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

configuration, as schematically depicted in Figures 8 to 10, is used to form connections The length of material 50 of device 45 may terminate in a component such as a relatively short rod 51 . The rod 51 is connected to the elongated material 50 such that the length of the rod 51 is at an angle, optionally perpendicular, to the elongated length of the material. 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 Fig. 9, the rod 51 will then naturally orient itself against the surface of the head engaging device 40 such that the rod 51 cannot pass back 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 smaller than the length of the rod 51 .

In a configuration such as that depicted in FIG. 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. The connector 45 is therefore also mainly located on the side of the head engaging means 40 which is opposite the head of the wearer of the helmet. In the connector configuration discussed above and depicted in FIGS. The hole 41 in the helmet, so that the rod 51 is positioned on the surface of the head engaging means 40 facing the head of the wearer of the helmet.

If this is undesirable (for example 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), then the A second hole 41 is provided at each position in the part engaging means 40 for fixing the connector. In this configuration, a length of material may be passed through one hole from the area where the connector engages the strap, through the section of the header 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 configuration, each connector 45 may itself be formed from a separate section of elongated material. Alternatively, one or more connectors 45 may be formed from sections of a single piece of elongated material. For example, complex Several connectors 45 may be formed in a manner corresponding to the above, but where a connector 45 joins the head engaging device 40 instead of the rod 51 , the elongated material may extend to another connector 45 . In an arrangement, all of the connectors 45 used to connect the head engaging device 40 to the head mount may be formed from a single length of elongate material.

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

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

As discussed above, other configurations for connecting the head engaging device 40 may alternatively or additionally be used. For example, a resiliently deformable connector may be provided between the head mount and the head engaging device 40 such that a first portion of the connector is secured to a portion of the head mount (such as strap 20) and a second portion of the connector is secured To the part of the head engaging device 40 . Movement of the head engaging 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 head engaging means facing each other. The connector may be secured to one or both of the head mount and head engaging means 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 engaging means 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 sections. The separate sections can be kept separate and connected eg separately to the head mount and/or other parts of the helmet 1 . Alternatively, two or more sections may be connected during assembly of the helmet. In an arrangement, the separate sections of the head engaging means may be connected to each or a subset of the straps 20 forming or part of the head mount.

In an arrangement, the head engaging means, or one or more parts 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 a configuration of the 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 headband 30 can be attached to the helmet 1 separately from the rest of the head mount, such as the strap 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 rest of the helmet 1 by means of a headband 30 .

In configurations where the helmet 1 includes a headband 30, the head engaging device 40 may include a crown region 43 configured to be located between the top of the head of the wearer of the helmet and a head mount (such as the strap 20) and an assembled The position is such that the forehead region 44 is positioned adjacent to the headband 30 at least in the forehead region of the wearer of the helmet. The forehead region 44 of the head engaging device can be configured such that it can be moved relative to other sections of the head mount, such as the strap 20 used, in the same manner as other sections of the head engaging device 40 are configured. Sliding relative to the portion of the headband adjacent to it.

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

In a configuration, as depicted in FIG. 7 , the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40 may extend along the headband 30 , for example in the form of arms 49 . Accordingly, each arm 49 of the head engaging device may be adjacent to, but not bonded to, the side of the crown region 43 of the head engaging device. In an optional arrangement, one or more stiffeners may be provided between the or each arm 49 of the head engaging device 40 and the 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 means 40 and the crown region 43 increases when the helmet is subjected to an impact.

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

The middle region 48 of the head engaging device may 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 shell 2 in the event of an impact towards the front of the helmet 1 . For example, this may reduce the tendency for 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 appreciated that this configuration is not essential. The strap 20 used to form the head mount can be positioned to avoid this potential problem in any event. For example, a sufficient number of strips can be used 20 and/or wide enough bands to avoid or minimize this problem. Alternatively or additionally, a strap 20 extending from the front of the helmet may be provided.

Alternatively or additionally, additional support for the head engaging device may be provided which may relieve 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 headband. This support may be provided in the form of a sheet of material, for example formed from any of the materials discussed above for forming head engaging means. The support can be connected to the headband at a location between the two straps. Such supports may eg be provided at either side of the helmet, at one or more of 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 fit connections, and/or adhesives.

In configuration, as depicted in FIG. 13 , although the crown region 43 of the head engaging means 40 is provided on the side of the head mount (such as 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 . Accordingly, this arrangement may be configured such that the headband 30 is positioned between the forehead of the wearer of the helmet and the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device.

This configuration may be beneficial if the headband 30 is relatively soft and/or flexible, at least in the forehead area. In this configuration, the low friction interface between the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40 and the portion of the headband 30 adjacent to the wearer's forehead will allow the headband 30 and thus the wearer's forehead to move relative to the front of the housing 2. Region moves. As shown, the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40 may be connected to the headband 30 by a connector 49 . These connectors may be similar to the connectors discussed above or another suitable form of connector that allows relative movement between 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 on 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 can be connected to one of the headband 30, the forehead area 44 of the head engaging device 40 and the outer shell 2 or many.

For example, the front pad 66 may be directly connected to the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40 in a configuration in which the head engaging device 40 is provided between the headband 30 and the forehead of the wearer of the helmet. In this configuration, the forehead region 44 of the head engaging device 40 may include a protrusion or hook 68 engageable with the front pad 66 .

Alternatively or in addition, the front pad 66 may be connected to the headband 30 by elastic connectors 69 that engage hooks or protrusions 70 formed on the headband 30 . In this configuration, the elastic connectors 69 are configured to stretch sufficiently to allow the front pad 66 to move relative to the headgear 30 .

Alternatively or additionally, the front pad 66 may comprise fabric sections extending outwardly and around opposite sides of the headband 30, which are optionally elastically deformable. The front pad 66 may then be connected to the headband, for example by hook and loop connections with sections of hook or loop material respectively provided to a fabric extension of the front pad 66 and adhered to the surface of the headband 30 . Alternatively, the fabric extension of front pad 66 may include elastic connectors that engage hooks or tabs formed on headband 30 .

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

In configurations in which part of the headband 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 headband 30 . Alternatively or additionally, it may be connected to the housing 2 and/or the forehead region 44 of the head engaging means 40 by elastic connectors.

In one configuration, one or more pads 67 may be provided on other parts of the head engaging device 40. Partially, for example 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 provide separation of the head engaging 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, the location where the connector 45 is provided to connect the head engaging 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 engaging 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 holes 41 for engaging with a connector. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that the head engagement device 40 may have apertures that may be used to provide ventilation or to engage with a connector. Alternatively, different holes may be provided for specific functions.

It should also be appreciated that when holes 41 are provided for engagement with a 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 engaging device 40 may have a plurality of holes 41 positioned to enable the head engaging device 40 to be mounted in any of a plurality of helmet designs and/or helmet sizes.

1: helmet

2: Shell

20:Head mount/strap

30: head ring

40: Head engagement device

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

Claims (26)

A helmet comprising: an outer shell; a head mount configured to be mounted on top of the head of a wearer of the helmet; wherein the head mount is suspended within the outer shell such that, in use, the An air gap is provided between the mount and the shell; the helmet further includes head engaging means mounted on a surface of the head mount configured to face the head of the wearer of the helmet such that the head The engagement means is movable relative to the head mount; and a low friction interface is provided between the head mount and the head engagement means. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the head engaging device is connected to the head mount. The helmet of claim 1, 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 connection points on the shell. The helmet of claim 3, wherein the head mount includes a plurality of straps extending between a pair of opposing connection points. The helmet according to claim 3, wherein at least two straps are connected to each other. The helmet as claimed in claim 3, wherein the head engaging device is engaged with one of the belts At least one connector is connected to the head mount. 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 are at respective first and second positions on the head engaging device is coupled to the head engaging device; and a strap is positioned between the connector and the head engaging device in a region on the head engaging device between the first location and the second location. The helmet of claim 6, wherein the strap is not fixedly fastened to any part of the connector such that the strap can slide relative to the connector. 7. The helmet of claim 7, wherein the connector is formed from an elongated section of material that is optionally one of a rope, a strap or an adhesive tape. The helmet as claimed in claim 9, wherein the plurality of connectors are formed by separate pieces of the material. The helmet according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of connectors are formed by segments of a single piece of the material. 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 shell extending in a direction towards the rear of the helmet. A helmet as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the head engaging means is provided as a single component. A helmet as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the head engaging means is formed from a plurality of separate sections. The helmet of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the head mount includes a headband configured to engage at least the forehead of the wearer of the helmet; and the head engaging means includes a headband configured to be positioned at The crown region between the top of the head of the wearer of the helmet and the head mount and the forehead region are configured to be positioned adjacent the headband. 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, wherein the forehead region of the head engaging device is positioned between the wearer's forehead of the helmet and the headband. The helmet of claim 15, 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 claim 15, further comprising a forehead pad positioned adjacent to the wearer's forehead of the helmet. The helmet of claim 19, wherein the front pad is connected to at least one of the headband, the forehead region of the head engaging device, and the shell. The helmet of claim 20, wherein the front pad is connected by elastic connectors configured to enable movement of the front pad relative to components connected thereto. A helmet as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, 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. 11. The helmet of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the head engaging means comprises a panel of material optionally shaped to conform to the head of the 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 coupling a connector to the head engaging device and ventilation. 11. The helmet of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the low friction interface is provided by a low coefficient of friction between the head mount and the surfaces that the head engages. A helmet as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein if there is no impact on the helmet, the space provided by the air gap between the shell and the head mount at a position corresponding to the top of the wearer's head Be at least 10mm, optionally at least 15mm, optionally at least 20mm, optionally at least 30mm, and optionally at least 40mm.

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