TWI838938B - Connector and apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A connector for connecting first and second parts of an apparatus, the first and second parts being configured to move relative to each other at least in a first plane, the connector comprising: a first attachment part for connecting to the first part of the apparatus; a second attachment part for connecting to the second part of the apparatus; a resilient part extending between the first and second attachment parts and configured to deform to allow relative movement between the first and second attachment parts, wherein: the first attachment part and the second attachment part are displaced relative to each other in a first direction, and the resilient part is narrower, in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, than the first attachment part and the second attachment part.

Description

Connectors and equipment

The present invention relates to a connector for connecting components of a device and a device.

Impact protection devices are generally intended to reduce the energy transferred from an impact to an object, such as a person to be protected. This may be achieved by energy absorbing members, energy redirecting members, or a combination thereof. Energy absorbing members may include energy absorbing materials, such as a foam material, or structures designed to deform elastically and/or plastically in response to an impact. Energy redirecting members may include structures designed to slide, shear, or otherwise move in response to an impact.

Impact protection equipment includes protective clothing for protecting a wearer of the clothing. Protective clothing comprising energy absorbing components and/or energy redirecting components are known. For example, such components are widely implemented in protective headgear such as helmets.

Examples of helmets that include energy absorbing members and energy redirecting members include WO 2001/045526 and WO 2011/139224 (the entire text of which is incorporated herein by reference). Specifically, such helmets include at least one layer formed of an energy absorbing material and at least one layer that can move relative to the head of the helmet wearer under an impact.

Implementing moving parts in a protective device is challenging. For example, connecting two layers of a device in a way that allows sufficient relative movement between parts of the device under a bump, but maintains the structural integrity of the device can be challenging. Ensuring that connectors can be relatively easy to manufacture and assemble can be challenging.

The object of the present invention is to provide a connector and a device including the connector, which at least partially solves some of the problems discussed above.

Additionally, ensuring the desired relative movement between moving parts under an impact can be challenging. Ensuring that the helmet/equipment can be relatively easy to manufacture and assemble can be challenging.

The object of the present invention is to provide a device that at least partially solves some of the problems discussed above.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a connector for connecting a first and a second component of a device is provided, wherein the first and the second components are structurally designed to move relative to each other in at least a first plane, and the connector comprises: a first attachment component, which is used to connect to the first component of the device; a second attachment component, which is used to connect to the second component of the device; an elastic component, which extends between the first and second attachment components and is structurally designed to be deformed to allow relative movement between the first and second attachment components, wherein: the first attachment component and the second attachment component are displaced relative to each other in a first direction, and the elastic component is narrower than the first attachment component and the second attachment component in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

Optionally, at least one of the first attachment member and the second attachment member is structured to be press-fit into a corresponding recess in the respective first or second member of the device.

As the case may be, the first attachment member and the second attachment member are displaced relative to each other in a first direction, and the connector is structured to connect the first and second members of the device so that in use, the first direction is substantially parallel to the first plane, and the at least one of the first attachment member and the second attachment member is structured to be inserted into the corresponding recess in the respective first or second member of the device in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first plane.

Optionally, at least one of the first attachment member and the second attachment member includes one or more protrusions structured to engage with the corresponding recess. Optionally, the one or more protrusions include a sloped portion and a shelf, the sloped portion is structured to facilitate insertion of the attachment member into the recess, and the shelf is structured to prevent removal of the attachment member from the recess.

Optionally, the first attachment member and/or the second attachment member are formed of an elastic material. Optionally, the elastic member is formed of the same elastic material.

Optionally, at least one of the first and second attachment parts includes an anchor point configured to connect the connector to a third part of the device or a further connector. Optionally, the anchor point includes a hole configured to receive a bayonet.

As the case may be, the first and/or second attachment member is substantially circular.

Optionally, the flexible member is elongated.

Optionally, the connector includes a plurality of second attachment members and a plurality of respective flexible members for connecting to one or more second members of the device.

Optionally, the connector further comprises a third attachment member for connecting to a third member of the device, the third member of the device being structured to move relative to the first and second members in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane; and a second resilient member extending between the first attachment member and the third attachment member and being structured to deform to allow relative movement between the third and first attachment members.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, a connector for connecting a first, second and third component of a device is provided, wherein the first and second components are structurally designed to move relative to each other in at least a first plane, and the third component is structurally designed to move relative to the first and second components in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane, and the connector comprises: a first attachment component, which is used to connect to the first component of the device; a second attachment component, which is used to The second part connected to the device; a third attachment part for connecting to the third part of the device; a first elastic part extending between the first and second attachment parts and configured to deform to allow relative movement between the first and second attachment parts; and a second elastic part extending between the first attachment part and the third attachment part and configured to deform to allow relative movement between the third and first attachment parts.

Optionally, the first and third attachment parts are detachable from each other so that the connector is formed in two parts.

Optionally, the first attachment member includes a peripheral portion surrounding the second elastic member around a first axis, and the second elastic member surrounds the third attachment member around a second axis, and when the connector is connected to the device, the elastic member is structured to protrude from the peripheral portion in a direction along the first axis.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device comprising: a first component and a second component, the first and second components being structurally designed to move relative to each other in at least a first plane; a connector as in any prior art solution, wherein the first attachment component of the connector is connected to the first component of the device, and the second attachment component of the connector is connected to the second component of the device.

Optionally, the first component includes a first recess and the first attachment component is arranged in the first recess, and/or the second component includes a second recess and the second attachment component of the connector is arranged in the second recess.

Optionally, the first component and/or the second component comprises a channel connected to a respective recess, wherein the elastic component is arranged in the channel.

As appropriate, the first and second recesses are substantially identical in shape to the respective attachment members.

Optionally, at least one of the first and second attachment members is press-fit into the respective recess.

Optionally, when the connector includes a third attachment member as described above, the third attachment member is also disposed in the first recess.

Optionally, the device has a layered structure, and the first and second components together form a first layer.

Optionally, when the connector includes a plurality of second attachment parts as described above, and the device includes a plurality of second parts connected by the connector.

Optionally, the device further comprises a third part, the third part being structured to move relative to the first and second parts in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane. Optionally, the connector comprises a third attachment part as described above, and the third attachment part is connected to the third part of the device.

Optionally, when the device comprises a first layer as described above, and the third component forms a second layer adjacent to the first layer.

Optionally, the first and second components are energy absorbing components, and optionally form a first energy absorbing layer.

Optionally, when the device includes a third component as described above, the third component is an energy absorbing component, which optionally forms a second energy absorbing layer.

Optionally, the device is a helmet.

1: Helmet

2: Outer layer

3: Energy absorption layer

3A: External

3B: Interior

3C: First component

3D: Second part

3X: Parts

4: Middle layer

4A: Comfort pad

4B: Substrate

5: Connector

6: Sliding layer

7: Outer plate

20: Connector

21: First attachment part

22: Second attachment part

23: Elastic parts

24: protrusion

25: Inclined part

26: Shelves

28: Locking pin

29: Buckle basket

30: Cheek pads

31: Concave part

32: Channel

100:Bulletproof vest

101: Protection Zone

211: Outer wall

212: Base

213: Third attachment part/through hole

214: Second elastic component

215: Peripheral parts

221: Outer wall

222: Base

231: Relatively thin part

232: Relatively thick part

233: Relatively narrow part

234: Relatively wide part

The present invention is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG1 schematically shows a cross section through a first example helmet; FIG2 schematically shows a cross section through a second example helmet; FIG3 schematically shows a cross section through a third example helmet; FIG4 schematically shows a cross section through a fourth example helmet; FIG5 schematically shows a cross section through a fifth example helmet; FIG6 schematically shows a cross section through a sixth example helmet; FIG7 schematically shows a cross section through a sixth example helmet; FIG. 8 schematically shows a cross section through a seventh example helmet; FIG. 8 shows an eighth example helmet; FIG. 9 shows a first example of a bulletproof vest; FIG. 10 shows a second example of a bulletproof vest; FIG. 11 schematically shows a cross section through a ninth example helmet; FIG. 12 shows a first view of a first example connector; FIG. 13 shows a first view of the first example connector; FIG. 14 shows the first example connector in a first configuration in a helmet; FIG. 15 shows FIG. 16 shows a first example connector in a second configuration in a helmet; FIG. 17 shows a second example connector in a first configuration in a helmet; FIG. 18 shows a first view of a third example connector; FIG. 19 shows a second view of the third example connector; FIG. 20 shows a fourth example connector; FIG. 21 shows a fifth example connector; FIG. 22 shows a sixth example connector; FIG. 23 shows a seventh example connector. FIG24 shows an eighth example connector; FIG25 shows a ninth example connector; FIG26 shows a tenth example connector; FIG27 shows an eleventh example connector; FIG28 shows a twelfth example connector; FIG29 shows a further example helmet; FIG30 shows a thirteenth example connector; FIG31 shows a fourteenth example connector; FIG32 shows a fifteenth example connector; and FIG33 shows a further example helmet.

Please note that the figures are schematic and that the thickness of the various layers and/or any gaps between layers depicted in the figures have been exaggerated in scale for the sake of clarity and may of course be adapted as needed and required.

Although the examples described below relate to helmets, it should be understood that the present invention has general application to protective equipment, including other types of helmets and other protective clothing.

The protective equipment may be understood as having components corresponding to the components of the helmet described below. For example, the protective equipment may have a layered structure corresponding to the layered structure of the described helmet.

Terms specific to a helmet, such as "radial", are understood to have equivalents in the context of other protective equipment, such as "thickness direction". A "wearer" is generally understood to correspond to an object to be protected by the protective equipment, and the "head" is a specific part of the object that contacts the equipment, such as a different body part.

The following describes the general features of the example helmet with reference to Figures 1 to 7.

Figures 1 to 7 show an example helmet 1 including an energy absorbing layer 3. The purpose of the energy absorbing layer 3 is to absorb and dissipate energy from an impact so as to reduce the energy transmitted to the helmet wearer. In the helmet 1, the energy absorbing layer may be the primary energy absorbing element. Although other elements of the helmet 1 may absorb energy to a more limited extent, this is not their primary purpose.

The energy absorbing layer 3 can absorb energy from a radial component of an impact more efficiently than a tangential component of an impact. The term "radial" generally refers to a direction substantially toward the center of the wearer's head, such as substantially perpendicular to an outer surface of the helmet 1. The term "tangential" can refer to a direction substantially perpendicular to the radial direction in a plane including the radial direction and the impact direction.

The energy absorbing layer may be formed of an energy absorbing material such as a foam material. Preferably such materials include expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polyurethane (EPU), vinyl nitrile foam; or strain rate sensitive foams such as those sold under the brand names Poron ^TM and D3O ^TM .

Alternatively or additionally, the energy absorbing layer may have a structure that provides energy absorbing characteristics. For example, the energy absorbing layer may include deformable elements, such as cells or finger-like protrusions, which deform upon impact to absorb and dissipate the energy of an impact.

As shown in FIG6 , the energy absorption layer 3 of the helmet 1 can be divided into an outer portion 3A and an inner portion 3B.

As shown in FIG. 11 , the energy absorbing layer 3 can be divided into a plurality of parts arranged adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the helmet. FIG. 11 shows a helmet of the type shown in FIG. 6 , in which the inner part 3B is formed in the front part 3C and the rear part 3D.

The energy absorbing layer is not limited to one specific configuration or material. The energy absorbing layer 3 may be provided by multiple layers having different configurations, i.e. formed of different materials or having different structures. The energy absorbing layer 3 may be a relatively thick layer. For example, the energy absorbing layer may be the thickest layer of the helmet 1 .

Figures 1 to 7 show an example helmet 1 including an outer layer 2. The purpose of the outer layer 2 may be to provide rigidity to the helmet. This may help to spread the energy of an impact over a larger area of the helmet 1. The outer layer 2 may also provide protection against objects that may pierce the helmet 1. Accordingly, the outer shell may be a relatively strong and/or rigid layer, for example compared to an energy absorbing layer 3. The outer layer 2 may be a relatively thin layer, for example compared to an energy absorbing layer 3.

The outer layer 2 may be formed from a relatively strong and/or rigid material. Preferably such material comprises a polymer material, such as, for example, polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Advantageously, the polymer material may be fiber reinforced, using materials such as glass fiber, aramid, tvopolymer, carbon fiber and/or aramid.

As shown in FIG. 7 , one or more outer panels 7 may be mounted to the outer layer 2 of the helmet 1 . The outer panels 7 may be formed of a relatively strong and/or rigid material, for example, the same type of material as that used to form the outer layer 2 . The choice of material used to form the outer panels 7 may be the same as or different from the material used to form the outer layer 2 .

In some embodiments of the helmet, the size of the outer layer 2 and/or the energy absorbing layer 3 is adjustable to provide a customized fit. For example, the outer layer 2 may be disposed in separate front and rear portions. The relative position of the front and rear portions may be adjusted to change the size of the outer layer 2. To avoid gaps in the outer layer 2, the front and rear portions may overlap. The energy absorbing layer 3 may also be disposed in separate front and rear portions. These may be configured so that the relative position of the front and rear portions may be adjusted to change the size of the energy absorbing layer 3. To avoid gaps in the energy absorbing layer 3, the front and rear portions may overlap.

Figures 1 to 4 show an example helmet 1 including an interface layer 4. Although not shown in Figures 5 to 7, these example helmets may also include an interface layer 4. The purpose of the interface layer 4 may be to provide an interface between the helmet and the wearer. In some configurations, this may improve the comfort of the wearer. The interface layer 4 may be configured to mount the helmet on a wearer's head. The interface layer 4 may be configured as a single component or in multiple sections.

The interface layer 4 may be configured to at least partially conform to the wearer's head. For example, the interface layer 4 may be elastic and/or may include an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the size of the interface layer 4. In one configuration, the interface layer may engage the top of a wearer's head. Alternatively or additionally, the interface layer 4 may include an adjustable strap configured to encircle the wearer's head.

The interface layer 4 may include a comfort pad 4A. A plurality of sections of the comfort pad 4A may be provided. The comfort pad 4A may be disposed on a substrate 4B for mounting the comfort pad to the rest of the helmet 1.

The purpose of the comfort pad 4A is to improve the comfort of wearing the helmet and/or to provide a better fit. The comfort pad can be formed of a relatively soft material, for example compared to the energy absorbing layer 3 and/or the outer layer 2. The comfort pad 4A can be formed of a foam material. However, the foam material can have a lower density and/or be thinner than the foam material used for the energy absorbing layer 3. Accordingly, during an impact, the comfort pad 4A does not absorb a large amount of energy, i.e. in order to reduce damage to the helmet wearer. The comfort pad is identified in this technology as being different from the energy absorbing layer, even though they can be constructed of somewhat similar materials.

The interface layer 4 and/or the comfort pad 4A which may be part thereof may be removable. This may enable the interface layer 4 and/or the comfort pad 4A to be cleaned and/or may enable providing an interface layer and/or comfort pad 4A structured to fit a specific wearer.

A strap (e.g., a chin strap) may be provided to secure the helmet 1 to the wearer's head.

The helmet of Figures 1 to 4 is structurally designed so that the interface layer 4 can move, for example slide, in a tangential direction relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the helmet may also include a connector 5 between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4, which allows relative movement between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4 while connecting the components of the helmet together.

The helmet of FIG. 5 is structurally designed so that the outer layer 2 can move, for example slide, in a tangential direction relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. As shown in FIG. 5 , the helmet 1 may also include a connector 5 between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the outer layer 2, which allows relative movement between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the outer layer 2 while connecting the components of the helmet together.

The helmet of FIG6 is structurally designed so that the outer portion 3A of the energy absorbing layer 3 can move, for example slide, in a tangential direction relative to the inner portion 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. As shown in FIG6, the helmet 1 may also include a connector 5 between the outer portion 3A of the energy absorbing layer 3 and the inner portion 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3, which allows relative movement between the outer portion 3A of the energy absorbing layer 3 and the inner portion 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3, while connecting the components of the helmet together.

In an example, as shown in FIG. 11 , an energy absorbing layer is divided into a plurality of components 3C and 3D arranged adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the helmet, and these components can be designed to move relative to each other and other components of the helmet.

The helmet of FIG. 7 is structurally designed so that the outer plate 7 can move relative to the outer layer 2 in a tangential direction in response to an impact, for example, slide. As shown in FIG. 7, the helmet may also include a connector 5 between the outer plate 7 and the outer layer 2, which allows relative movement between the outer plate 7 and the outer layer 2 while connecting the components of the helmet together.

The purpose of helmet layers that move or slide relative to each other can be to redirect an impact energy that would otherwise be transmitted to the wearer's head. This can improve the protection provided to the wearer against the tangential component of the impact energy. The tangential component of the impact energy will normally result in a rotational acceleration of the wearer's head. It is well known that this rotation can cause brain damage. It has been shown that a helmet with layers that move relative to each other can reduce the rotational acceleration of the wearer's head. A typical reduction may be about 25%, but in some cases a reduction of up to 90% may be possible.

Preferably, the relative movement between the helmet layers results in a total displacement between an outermost helmet layer and an innermost helmet layer of at least 0.5 cm, more preferably at least 1 cm, more preferably at least 1.5 cm. Preferably, the relative movement can occur in any direction, such as in a circumferential direction around the helmet, left to right, front to back, and any direction in between.

Relative motion can be considered to occur substantially in a plane within the relevant range, even though the motion between layers may be rotational rather than linear. Accordingly, references below may be made to motion within a plane.

Regardless of how the layers of a helmet are structured to move relative to each other, preferably relative movement such as sliding can occur under the forces of a typical impact for which the helmet is designed (e.g., a impact that the wearer is expected to survive). Such forces are significantly higher than a helmet can withstand during normal use. Impact forces tend to compress the layers of the helmet together, increasing the reaction forces between the components, and therefore increasing friction. In the case of a helmet structured to have layers that slide relative to each other, the interface between them may need to be structured to be able to slide even under the effects of the high reaction forces experienced between them in an impact.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 7 , a sliding interface may be provided between layers of the helmet 1 that are structurally designed to slide relative to each other. At the sliding interface, the surfaces slide relative to each other so that the layers of the helmet 1 can slide relative to each other. The sliding interface may be a low friction interface. Accordingly, a friction reducing member may be provided at the sliding interface. The following further describes an example sliding interface relative to each of the example helmets 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 7 .

The friction reduction member may be a low friction material or a lubricating material. For example, these may be provided as a continuous layer or as part of a plurality of discontinuous patches or materials. Possible low friction materials for the friction reduction member include wax polymers such as PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, FEP, PE and UHMWPE, Teflon ^™ , a textile such as Tamarack ^™ , a non-woven fabric such as a felt. These low friction materials may have a thickness of approximately 0.1 mm to 5 mm, but other thicknesses may also be used, depending on the material selected and the desired performance. Possible lubricating materials include oils, polymers, microspheres or powders. Combinations of the above may be used.

In one example, the low friction material or lubricating material may be a material containing polysiloxane. Specifically, the material may include (i) an organic polymer, a polysiloxane and a surfactant; (ii) an organic polymer and a copolymer based on a polysiloxane and an organic polymer; or (iii) a non-elastic cross-linked polymer obtained or obtainable by subjecting a polysiloxane and an organic polymer to a cross-linking reaction. Preferred choices of these materials are described in WO2017148958.

In one example, the low friction material or lubricating material may include a mixture of (i) an olefin polymer, (ii) a lubricant and optionally one or more further agents. Preferred choices of such materials are described in WO2020115063.

In one example, the low friction material or lubricating material may include an ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polymer having a density of less than or equal to 960 kg/m ³ , the UHMW polymer preferably being an olefin polymer. Preferred choices of such materials are described in WO2020/115063.

In one example, the low friction material or lubricating material may include a polyketone. Preferred choices for such materials are described in WO 2020/260185.

In some configurations, it may be desirable to structurally design a low friction interface such that the static and/or dynamic coefficient of friction between the materials forming the sliding surface at the sliding interface is between 0.001 and 0.3 and/or less than 0.15. The coefficient of friction may be tested by standard methods, such as standard test method ASTM D1894.

The friction reducing member may be disposed on one or both of the layers of the helmet 1 that are structured to slide relative to each other, or be an integral part. In some examples, the helmet layer may have a dual function, including serving as a friction reducing member. Alternatively or additionally, the friction reducing member may be separate from the layers of the helmet 1 that are structured to slide relative to each other, but disposed between the layers.

In some examples, instead of a sliding interface, a shear interface may be provided between layers of the headgear 1 that are structured to move relative to each other. At the shear interface, a shear layer shears to enable relative movement between layers of the headgear 1. The shear layer may include a gel or liquid that may be retained within a flexible envelope. Alternatively, the shear layer may include two opposing layers connected by a deformable element that deforms to enable shearing between the two opposing layers.

A single shear layer may be provided that substantially fills the volume between two layers of a helmet. Alternatively, one or more shear layers may be provided that fill only a portion of the volume between two layers of a helmet, for example leaving a substantial space around the shear layer. As described above, the space may include a sliding interface. Thus, the helmet may have a combination of shear and sliding interfaces. Such shear layers may be used as connectors 5 described further below.

Figures 1 to 7 schematically show a connector 5. The connector 5 is structured to connect two layers of the helmet while enabling the layers to move relative to each other, such as sliding or shearing. A different number of connectors 5 than shown in Figures 1 to 7 may be provided. The connector 5 may be positioned at a different position than shown in Figures 1 to 7, for example, at a peripheral edge of the helmet 1 instead of a central portion.

Typically, a connector 5 includes first and second attachment parts that are structurally designed to be attached to first and second parts of the helmet, respectively, and a deformable part between the first and second attachment parts, which enables the first and second attachment parts to move relative to each other so as to move between the first and second parts of the helmet. The connector 5 can absorb some impact energy by deformation.

The following describes the specific configuration of each of the example helmets shown in Figures 1 to 7.

FIG1 shows a helmet comprising an outer layer 2, an energy absorbing layer 3 and an interface layer 4. The interface layer 4 is configured as a single layer and includes a comfort pad.

The helmet of FIG1 is structurally designed so that the interface layer 4 can slide relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. A sliding interface is provided between the interface layer 4 and the energy absorbing layer 3.

A sliding layer 6 is disposed on a surface of the energy absorbing layer 3 facing the sliding interface. The sliding layer 6 may be molded to the energy absorbing layer 3 or otherwise attached thereto. The sliding layer 6 may be formed of a relatively strong material, for example, relative to the energy absorbing layer 3. The sliding layer 6 is structurally designed to provide a friction reducing member to reduce friction at the sliding interface. This may be achieved by forming the sliding layer 6 from a low friction material, such as PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, EEP, PE and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this may be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the sliding layer 6 and/or applying a lubricant to the sliding layer 6.

Alternatively or additionally, by applying a low friction coating to the energy absorbing layer 3 and/or applying a lubricant to the energy absorbing layer 3, by forming the energy absorbing layer 3 from a low friction material, a friction reducing member may be provided to reduce friction at the sliding interface.

The helmet 1 shown in FIG. 1 also includes a connector 5 attached to the interface layer 4. The connector is also connected to the sliding layer 6 to allow relative sliding between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the connectors 5 may be connected to another part of the rest of the helmet 1, such as the energy absorbing layer 3 or the outer layer 2. The connector 5 may also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

It should be understood that this configuration of energy absorbing layer 3 and interface layer 4 can be added to any helmet described herein.

FIG2 shows a helmet comprising an outer layer 2, an energy absorbing layer 3 and an interface layer 4. The interface layer 4 is arranged into a plurality of independent sections each including a comfort pad.

The helmet of FIG. 2 is structurally designed so that a section of the interface layer 4 can slide relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. A sliding interface is provided between the interface layer 4 and the section of the energy absorbing layer 3.

A sliding layer 6 is disposed on a surface of the energy absorbing layer 3 facing the sliding interface. The sliding layer 6 may be molded to the energy absorbing layer 3 or otherwise attached thereto. The sliding layer 6 may be formed of a relatively strong material, for example, relative to the energy absorbing layer 3. The sliding layer 6 is structurally designed to provide a friction reducing member to reduce friction at the sliding interface. This may be achieved by forming the sliding layer 6 from a low friction material, such as PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, EEP, PE and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this may be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the sliding layer 6 and/or applying a lubricant to the sliding layer 6.

Alternatively or additionally, by applying a low friction coating to the energy absorbing layer 3 and/or applying a lubricant to the energy absorbing layer 3, by forming the energy absorbing layer 3 from a low friction material, a friction reducing member may be provided to reduce friction at the sliding interface.

The helmet 1 shown in FIG. 2 also includes connectors 5 attached to each individual section of the interface layer 4. The connectors 5 are also attached to the sliding layer 6 to allow relative sliding between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the sections of the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the connectors 5 may be connected to another part of the rest of the helmet 1, such as the energy absorbing layer 3 or the outer layer 2. The connector 5 may also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

It should be understood that this configuration of energy absorbing layer 3 and interface layer 4 can be added to any helmet described herein.

FIG3 shows a helmet comprising an outer layer 2, an energy absorbing layer 3 and an interface layer 4. The interface layer 4 is provided as a single layer and comprises a comfort pad 4A attached to a base plate 4B. The base plate 4B may be bonded to the outer side of the comfort pad 4A. This bonding may be achieved by welding or sewing in any manner, such as by adhesive or by high frequency.

The helmet of FIG3 is structurally designed so that the interface layer 4 can slide relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. A sliding interface is provided between the interface layer 4 and the energy absorbing layer 3.

The substrate 4B of the interface layer 4 faces the sliding interface. The substrate 4B may be formed of a relatively strong material, for example relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 and/or the comfort pad 4A. The substrate 4B is structurally designed to provide a friction reducing member to reduce friction at the sliding interface. This may be achieved by forming the substrate 4B from a low friction material, such as PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, EEP, PE and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this may be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the substrate 4B and/or applying a lubricant to the substrate 4B. In an alternative example, the substrate 4B may be formed of a fabric material, optionally coated with a low friction material.

Alternatively or additionally, by applying a low friction coating to the energy absorbing layer 3 and/or applying a lubricant to the energy absorbing layer 3, by forming the energy absorbing layer 3 from a low friction material, a friction reducing member may be provided to reduce friction at the sliding interface.

The helmet 1 shown in FIG. 3 also includes a connector 5 attached to the interface layer 4. The connector is also connected to the energy absorbing layer to allow relative sliding between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the connectors 5 may be connected to another part of the rest of the helmet 1, such as the outer layer 2. The connector 5 may also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

It should be understood that this configuration of energy absorbing layer 3 and interface layer 4 can be added to any helmet described herein.

FIG. 4 shows a helmet comprising an outer layer 2, an energy absorbing layer 3 and an interface layer 4. The interface layer 4 is provided as a plurality of independent sections each comprising a comfort pad 4A attached to a base plate 4B. The base plate 4B can be bonded to the outer side of the comfort pad 4A. This bonding can be achieved by welding or sewing in any manner, such as by adhesive or by high frequency.

The helmet of FIG. 4 is structurally designed so that the interface layer 4 can slide relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. A sliding interface is provided between the interface layer 4 and the energy absorbing layer 3.

The substrate 4B of the section of the interface layer 4 faces the sliding interface. The substrate 4B may be formed of a relatively strong material, for example relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 and/or the comfort pad 4A. The substrate 4B is structured to provide a friction reducing member to reduce friction at the sliding interface. This may be achieved by forming the substrate 4B from a low friction material, such as PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, EEP, PE and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this may be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the substrate 4B and/or applying a lubricant to the substrate 4B. In an alternative example, the substrate 4B may be formed of a fabric material, optionally coated with a low friction material.

Alternatively or additionally, by applying a low friction coating to the energy absorbing layer 3 and/or applying a lubricant to the energy absorbing layer 3, by forming the energy absorbing layer 3 from a low friction material, a friction reducing member may be provided to reduce friction at the sliding interface.

The helmet 1 shown in FIG. 4 also includes a connector 5 attached to a section of the interface layer 4. The connector 5 is also connected to the energy absorbing layer 3 to allow relative sliding between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the connectors 5 may be connected to another portion of the rest of the helmet 1, such as the outer layer 2. The connector 5 may also be connected to two or more portions of the rest of the helmet 1.

It should be understood that this configuration of energy absorbing layer 3 and interface layer 4 can be added to any helmet described herein.

FIG. 5 shows a helmet including an outer layer 2 and an energy absorbing layer 3. Although not shown, an interface layer may be additionally provided.

The helmet of FIG5 is structurally designed so that the outer layer 2 can slide relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. A sliding interface can be provided between the outer layer 2 and the energy absorbing layer 3.

Although not shown, an additional layer may be provided on one surface of the energy absorbing layer 3 that faces the sliding interface. The additional layer may be molded to the energy absorbing layer 3 or otherwise attached thereto. The additional layer may be formed of a relatively strong material, such as relative to the energy absorbing layer 3. The additional layer is structured to provide friction reducing members to reduce friction at the sliding interface. This may be achieved by forming the additional layer from a low friction material, such as PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, EEP, PE, and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this may be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the additional layer and/or applying a lubricant to the additional layer.

Alternatively or additionally, by applying a low friction coating to the outer layer 2 and/or applying a lubricant to the outer layer 2, by forming the outer layer 2 from a low friction material, providing an additional low friction layer on a surface of the outer layer 2 facing the sliding interface, a friction reducing member may be provided to reduce friction at the sliding interface.

The helmet 1 shown in FIG. 5 also includes a connector 5 attached to the outer layer 2. The connector 5 is also attached to the energy absorbing layer 3 (or an additional layer) to allow relative sliding between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the section of the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the connectors 5 may be connected to another part of the rest of the helmet 1, such as an interface layer. The connector 5 may also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

It should be understood that this configuration of outer layer 2 and energy absorbing layer 3 can be added to any helmet described herein.

FIG. 6 shows a helmet including an outer layer 2 and an energy absorbing layer 3. As shown, the energy absorbing layer 3 of the helmet shown in FIG. 6 is divided into an outer portion 3A and an inner portion 3B. Although not shown, an interface layer may be additionally provided.

The helmet of FIG6 is structurally designed so that the outer portion 3A of the energy absorbing layer 3 can slide relative to the inner portion 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. A sliding interface can be provided between the outer portion 3A of the energy absorbing layer 3 and the inner portion 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3.

Although not shown, an additional layer may be provided on one or both of the inner and outer 3A, 3B surfaces of the energy absorbing layer 3 facing the sliding interface. The additional layer may be molded to the inner or outer 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 or otherwise attached thereto. The additional layer may be formed of a relatively strong material, such as relative to the energy absorbing layer 3. The additional layer may be structurally designed to provide a friction reducing member to reduce friction at the sliding interface. This may be achieved by an additional layer formed of a low friction material, such as PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, EEP, PE and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this may be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the additional layer and/or applying a lubricant to the additional layer.

Alternatively or additionally, by forming one or both of the inner and outer portions 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 from a low friction material, an additional low friction layer is provided on one surface of the inner and outer portions 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 facing the sliding interface, and by applying a low friction coating to the inner and outer portions 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 and/or applying a lubricant to the inner and outer portions 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3, a friction reducing member may be provided to reduce friction at the sliding interface.

The helmet 1 shown in FIG. 6 also includes a connector 5 attached to the outer layer 2. The connector 5 is also attached to the energy absorbing layer 3 (or an additional layer) to allow relative sliding between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the section of the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the connectors 5 may be connected to another part of the rest of the helmet 1, such as an interface layer. The connector 5 may also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

It should be understood that this configuration of the inner and outer portions 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 may be added to any of the helmets described herein.

FIG. 11 shows a helmet that is substantially the same as the helmet shown in FIG. 6 . However, in the helmet of FIG. 11 , the inner portion 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 is formed in a plurality of components 3C and 3D that are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the helmet. These components 3C and 3D are structured to move relative to each other and relative to the outer portion 3A of the energy absorbing layer. The components 3C and 3D may be connected to each other by one or more connectors that allow relative movement.

FIG. 7 shows a helmet including an outer layer 2 and an energy absorbing layer 3. As shown in FIG. 7, one or more outer panels 7 are mounted to the outer layer 2 of the helmet 1. The outer panels 7 may be formed of a relatively strong and/or rigid material, for example, the same type of material that may form the outer layer 2. Although not shown, an interface layer may be additionally provided.

The helmet of FIG. 7 is structurally designed so that the outer plate 7 can slide relative to the outer layer 2 in response to an impact. A sliding interface can be provided between the outer plate 7 and the outer layer 2.

By forming the outer layer 2 and/or the outer plate 7 from a low friction material, providing an additional low friction layer on a surface of the outer layer 2 and/or the outer plate 7 facing the sliding interface, by applying a low friction coating to the outer layer 2 and/or the outer plate 7, and/or applying a lubricant to the outer layer 2 and/or the outer plate 7, a friction reducing member can be provided to reduce the friction at the sliding interface.

The helmet 1 shown in FIG. 7 also includes a connector 5 attached to the outer plate 7. The connector 5 is also attached to the outer layer 2 to allow relative sliding between the outer plate 7 and the outer layer 2. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the connectors 5 may be connected to another part of the rest of the helmet 1, such as the energy absorbing layer 3. The connector 5 may also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

In such a configuration, in the event of an impact on the helmet 1, it is expected that the impact will be incident on one or a limited number of outer panels 7. Therefore, by designing the helmet so that one or more outer panels 7 can move relative to the outer layer 2 and any outer panel 7 that has not experienced an impact, the surface receiving the impact, i.e. one or a limited number of outer panels 7, can move relative to the rest of the helmet 1. In the event of an impact, this can reduce the rotational acceleration of a wearer's head.

It will be appreciated that such a configuration of outer plate 7 may be added to any helmet described herein, i.e. a configuration having a sliding interface between at least two of the layers of the helmet 1.

Some helmets (such as those shown in Figures 1 to 6) are structured to cover a top portion of the head, and the helmet structure described above is appropriately positioned in the helmet to cover a top portion of the head. For example, a helmet may be configured to substantially cover the forehead, top of the head, back of the head and/or temples of the wearer. The helmet may substantially cover the skull of the wearer.

Some helmets may be structured to cover other portions of the head, alternatively or additionally to a top portion. For example, a helmet such as the one shown in FIG. 8 may cover the cheeks and/or chin of the wearer. Such helmets may be structured to substantially cover the chin of the wearer. Helmets of the type shown in FIG. 8 are generally referred to as full-face helmets. As shown in FIG. 8 , cheek pads 30 may be disposed on either side of the helmet 1 (i.e., the left side and the right side). Cheek pads 30 may be disposed within an outer layer 2 of the helmet 1 to protect the side of the wearer's face from an impact.

The cheek pad 30 may have the same layered structure as the example helmet described above. For example, the cheek pad 30 may include one or more energy absorbing layers as described above, and/or an interface layer as described above, and/or layers that move relative to each other as described above, and as the case may be, the layers may be connected by connectors as described above. Alternatively or additionally, the cheek pad 30 itself may be structured to move relative to the outer layer 2 and, as the case may be, connected to the outer shell by connectors as described above.

Although, as mentioned above, the examples above relate to helmets, the present invention may also relate to alternative protective clothing, such as a bulletproof vest, as shown in Figures 9 and 10. The bulletproof vest 100 may provide protection for other parts of the body, such as the tibia, knees, thighs, forearms, elbows, upper arms, shoulders, chest and back. Individual bulletproof clothing items may be provided to protect individual body parts (as shown in Figure 9), or alternatively, they may be combined in a garment including multiple protection zones 101 to protect more than one body part (as shown in Figure 10). This bulletproof vest 100 may be used for the same activities as the helmet described above, including use in combat, sports and motorcycles.

The bulletproof vest 100 may have the same layered structure as the example helmet described above. For example, the bulletproof vest 100 may include an outer layer 2 as described above, one or more energy absorbing layers 3 as described above, and/or an interface layer as described above, and/or layers that move relative to each other as described above, and/or layers that can be connected by connectors 5 as described above.

Connectors that may be used in a helmet are described below. It should be understood that such connectors may be used in a variety of contexts and are not limited to use in helmets. For example, they may be used in other devices that provide impact protection, such as bulletproof vests or pads for sports equipment.

It should be understood that a connector may be used to connect any two components of a device together. In the context of helmets, it should be particularly understood that a connector may be used to connect any two components of a helmet, such as those components that are structured to move relative to each other as discussed above.

Where a connector is described as having a first part connected to a first part of a device and a second part connected to a second part of a device, it should be understood that this is reversible with appropriate modification. It should also be understood that where a device has first and second parts connected by multiple connectors, the multiple connectors need not have the same structural design as each other.

Figures 12 and 13 show a first example connector 20 according to the present invention. The connector 20 is used to connect a first and a second part of a helmet, and the first and the second parts are designed to move relative to each other in at least a first plane. As shown, the connector includes a first attachment part 21 for connecting to the first part of the helmet and a second attachment part 22 for connecting to the second part of the helmet. An elastic part 23 is arranged to extend between the first attachment part 21 and the second attachment part 22. The elastic part 23 is designed to be deformed to allow relative movement between the first attachment part 21 and the second attachment part 22.

As shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 , the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 are displaced relative to each other in a first direction. As shown, the elastic member 23 is narrower than the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

As shown, the elastic member 23 may be narrower than the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions. Alternatively, the first attachment member 21, the second attachment member 22, and the elastic member 23 may have substantially the same thickness in the third direction.

As shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 , when viewed from a third direction, the shapes of the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 may be substantially circular. The first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 may be substantially cylindrical. In other examples not shown, one or both of the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 may have a different shape.

As shown in FIG. 13 , the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 may be substantially hollow. As shown, the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 may each include an outer wall 211, 221 and a base 212, 222 defining a hollow cavity. In other examples not shown, one or both of the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 may be solid.

As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 , the first attachment member 21 may be wider than the second attachment member 22 in the second direction. In other examples not shown, the situation may be reversed. Alternatively, the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 may be substantially the same width.

As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the elastic member 23 may be substantially elongated. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the elastic member 23 may extend substantially linearly. In other examples, the elastic member 23 may extend along a substantially curved path. The elastic member 23 may be formed of an elastic material. The shape and material of the elastic member can be deformed to allow relative movement between the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22.

The elastic member 23 may be formed of an elastic material. The elastic material may be a TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) material, a TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) material, or a silicone elastomer material. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 , the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 may also be formed of an elastic material, such as the same elastic material as the elastic member 23. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 , these three members may be formed integrally.

FIG. 14 shows a portion of an example helmet 1 including an example connector 20. As shown, the helmet 1 includes a first component 3C and a second component 3D that are structured to move relative to each other in at least a first plane, as indicated by arrows. As shown, the first component 3C and the second component 3D can be arranged adjacent to each other in the first plane. The first component 3C and the second component 3D can form a first layer 3B of the helmet 1. As shown, the first component 3C and the second component 3D include respective recesses 31.

As shown in FIG. 14 , the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 may be designed to be press-fitted into a corresponding recess 31 in the first member 3C or the second member 3D of the helmet. The recess 31 may be connected to a respective channel 32 in the first member 3C or the second member 3D of the helmet, in which the elastic member 23 is disposed.

As shown in FIG. 14 , the connector may be structured to connect the first component 3C and the second component 3D of the helmet so that in use, the first direction (the direction of displacement between the first attachment component 21 and the second attachment component 22) is substantially parallel to the first plane (in which the components 3C, 3D of the helmet move relative to each other).

As shown in FIG. 14 , the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 can be structurally designed to be inserted into the corresponding recess 31 in the first member 3C or the second member 3D of the helmet in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first plane, i.e. parallel to the third direction.

As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 may include a protrusion 24 that is structured to engage with the corresponding recess 31. As shown, this may extend radially outward from the first attachment member 21. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the protrusion 24 may include a tilted portion 25 and a shelf 26. The tilted portion 25 may be structured to facilitate the insertion of the attachment members 21, 22 into the recess 31, and the shelf 26 may be structured to prevent the removal of the attachment members 21, 22 from the recess 31.

As shown in Figures 12 and 13, a single protrusion 24 may be provided. This may be provided continuously around an outer edge of the attachment parts 21, 22. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the first attachment part 21 may include an anchor point, in this example in the form of a through hole 213 in the base 212, for connecting the connector to a third part of the helmet or a further connector. As shown in Figure 15, the through hole 213 may receive a bayonet 28. The bayonet 28 may be attached to a corresponding buckle basket 29 in a third part 3A of the helmet.

As shown in FIG. 15 , the third part 3A of the helmet can be arranged adjacent to the first part 3C and the second part 3D in a direction perpendicular to the first plane in which the first part 3C and the second part 3D move. The third part 3A of the helmet can form a second layer of the helmet 1 .

As shown in FIG. 15 , the connector 20 may be disposed on a side of the first component 3C and the second component 3D that is closest to the third component 3A. In other examples not shown, the connector 20 may be disposed on a side of the first component 3C and the second component 3D that is farthest from the third component 3A. The connectors of these examples may or may not include an anchor point as described above.

The third part 3A of the helmet can be structured to move relative to the first part 3C and the second part 3D in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane. As shown in Figure 15, an intermediate layer 4 of low friction material (as described in detail above) can be provided between the first and second layers 3B, 3A. The intermediate layer 4 can be provided on a surface of the first part 3C and the second part 3D. As shown, the intermediate layer 4 can partially or completely cover the recesses 31 in the first part 3C and the second part 3D.

As shown in FIG. 15 , the first component 3C, the second component 3D and/or the third component 3A of the helmet may be energy absorbing components, forming an energy absorbing layer of the helmet (as described in detail above). In an example not shown, the third component may be replaced by a shell (as described in detail above) or an interface layer (as described in detail above).

FIG. 16 shows a second example connector 20, wherein the first attachment part 21 is different from the attachment part of the first example connector shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13. Specifically, the first attachment part 21 is connected to a third attachment part 213 for connecting to the third part 3A of the helmet.

As shown in FIG. 16 , the second example connector 20 includes a second elastic member 214 extending between the first attachment member 21 and the third attachment member 213 and configured to deform to allow relative movement between the third attachment member 213 and the first attachment member 21. The third member 3A of the helmet may be configured to move relative to the first member 3C and the second member 3D in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane.

As shown in FIG. 16 , the first attachment member 21 may include a peripheral portion 215 surrounding a second elastic member 214 around a first axis. The second elastic member 214 may in turn surround a third attachment member 213 around a second axis (which may or may not be the same as the first axis).

As shown, the shape of the peripheral portion 215 can be annular. As shown, the second elastic member 214 can span substantially the entirety of a central portion of the first attachment member 21. Alternatively, the second elastic member 214 can be formed by one or more arms with spaces between the arms, such as forming an X shape in the cross-sectional view of Figure 16.

The second elastic member 214 may be formed of an elastic material (as described above with respect to the first elastic member 23). As shown in FIG. 16 , the peripheral portion may be formed of a relatively strong material compared to the elastic member 214. These components may be molded together. As shown in FIG. 16 , the first elastic member 23 may extend from the peripheral member 215. These components may be molded together.

As shown in FIG. 16 , the protrusions 24 may be disposed on the peripheral portion 215 . These may be formed of an elastic material. They may also be molded together with the peripheral portion 215 .

FIG. 17 shows a portion of an example helmet 1 including a second example connector 20. The helmet is substantially the same as the helmet shown in FIG. 15 and described above. As shown, when the connector 20 is connected to the helmet 1, the second elastic member 214 is structured to protrude from the peripheral portion 215 in a direction along the first axis.

As shown, the third attachment member 213 may be a through hole that is structured to allow a fastener, such as a bayonet 28, to pass through and connect to the third member 3A of the helmet, such as via a buckle basket 29.

The connector shown in Figures 16 and 17 connects all three helmet components: the outer portion 3A, the first component 3C, and the second component 3D, and allows independent relative movement of the helmet components in at least the first and second planes.

Figures 18 and 19 show a variation of the connector 20 shown in Figures 12 and 13. The variation can also be applied to the connector shown in Figure 16.

As shown in FIG. 18 , the thickness of the elastic member 23 may vary in the third direction. For example, as shown, the elastic member 23 may include a relatively thin portion 231 and a relatively thick portion 232. The relatively thin portion 231 may include a tapered portion with a gradually varying thickness. This may allow the connector to bend more easily at the relatively thin portion 231 in a plane parallel to the third direction.

As shown in FIG. 19 , the width of the elastic member 23 may vary in the second direction. For example, as shown, the elastic member 23 may include a relatively narrow portion 233 and a relatively wider portion 234. The relatively narrow portion 233 may include a tapered portion with a gradually varying thickness. This may allow the connector to bend more easily at the relatively thinner portion 231 in a plane parallel to the second direction.

As shown, the relatively thinner portion 231 can be positioned within the relatively wider portion 234 of the elastic member 23.

As shown in FIG. 19 , the protrusion 24 is divided into a plurality of protrusions 24 . These are arranged adjacent to each other around one outer edge of the attachment parts 21 , 22 .

Figures 20 to 22 show examples of how the configuration of the first attachment member 21 and the second attachment member 22 can be varied, for example for the connector and variations thereof described above.

As shown in FIG. 20 , the first attachment part 21 may be relatively thin in the first direction, for example, so as to be arranged only at a portion corresponding to an edge of the recess 31. This may leave room for an additional connector 5 in the central portion of the recess 31, as shown. The additional connector 5 may connect the first part 3C of the helmet to the third part 3A of the helmet.

As shown in FIG. 21 , both the first and second attachment members may have such a configuration. For example, the thickness of the first attachment member 21 and/or the second attachment member 22 in the first direction may be similar to the thickness of the elastic member 23 in the second direction.

As shown in FIG. 22 , the first and second attachment members may be substantially the same size.

Figures 23 to 27 show examples of how the configuration of the flexible member 23 can be varied, for example for the connector and variations thereof described above.

As shown in FIG. 23 , the elastic member 23 may extend in a curved path in a first direction, for example, rather than in a straight path as in other examples. As shown, this path may be sinusoidal when viewed from a third direction.

As shown in FIG. 24 , the elastic member 23 may include a relatively narrow portion 233 and a relatively wide portion 234 in the second direction.

As shown in FIG. 25 , the elastic member 23 may be thinner in the third direction than its width in the second direction. Conversely, as shown in FIG. 26 , the elastic member 23 may be thicker in the third direction than its width in the second direction. As shown in FIG. 27 , the elastic member may include a portion thinner in the third direction than its width in the second direction, and a portion thicker in the third direction than its width in the second direction.

FIG. 28 shows how the configuration of the protrusions 24 can be changed. As shown, multiple rows of protrusions 24 can be arranged adjacent to each other in the third direction.

FIG. 29 shows an example in which a plurality of connectors 20 having corresponding recesses 31 and channels are used to connect a plurality of components 3X of a helmet.

Figures 30 to 32 show how the connector described above can be further modified by including multiple second attachment parts 22 and multiple corresponding elastic parts 23. Figures 30 to 32 show connectors with four, three or two second attachment parts 22 and multiple corresponding elastic parts 23, respectively. In an example, multiple elastic parts 23 extend from a single first attachment part 21. For example, multiple second attachment parts 22 can be structurally designed to connect to multiple respective parts of a helmet. However, they can alternatively provide multiple connectors for fewer helmet parts.

FIG. 33 shows an example in which a connector having a plurality of second attachment members 22 and a plurality of corresponding elastic members 23, with corresponding recesses 31 and channels, is used to connect a plurality of respective members 3X of a helmet. When the connectors 20 described above are used in a helmet of the type shown in FIG. 11, the connector 20 allows relative movement between the first member 3C and the second member 3D while securing the members together. Some example connectors 20 additionally allow relative movement between the first member 3C and the second member 3D and a third member 3A while securing the members together. However, it should be understood that the connectors described are not limited to use in helmets of this type.

Helmets such as those described above can be used in a variety of activities. Such activities include combat and industrial purposes, such as protective helmets for soldiers and hard hats or helmets used by construction workers, miners, or industrial machinery operators, for example. Helmets are also common in sporting activities. For example, protective helmets can be used for ice hockey, cycling, motorcycles, racing, skiing, snowboarding, skating, skateboarding, equestrian activities, American football, baseball, rugby, soccer, cricket, lacrosse, rock climbing, golf, air guns, roller skating, and paintballing.

Examples of injuries that can be prevented or mitigated by the helmets described above include mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) such as concussion, and severe traumatic brain injury (STBI) such as subdural hematoma (SDH), bleeding due to ruptured blood vessels, and diffuse axonal injury (DAI), which can be summarized as excessive stretching of nerve fibers due to high shear deformation in brain tissue.

Depending on the characteristics of the rotational component of an impact, such as duration, amplitude, and rate of increase, concussion, SDH, DAI, or a combination of these injuries may occur. In general, SDH occurs with accelerations of short duration and large amplitude, while DAI occurs with longer and more extensive acceleration loads.

Based on the above teachings, variations of the examples described above are possible. It should be understood that the present invention may be practiced in other ways and is expressly described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

20: Connector

21: First attachment part

22: Second attachment part

23: Elastic parts

24: protrusion

25: Inclined part

26: Shelves

Claims (30)

A connector for connecting a first and second component of a device, the first and second components are structurally designed to move relative to each other in at least a first plane, the connector comprising: a first attachment component for connecting to the first component of the device; a second attachment component for connecting to the second component of the device; an elastic component extending between the first and second attachment components and structurally designed to deform to allow relative movement between the first and second attachment components, wherein: the first attachment component and the second attachment component are displaced relative to each other in a first direction, and the elastic component is narrower than the first attachment component and the second attachment component in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. A connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein: at least one of the first attachment member and the second attachment member is structurally designed to be press-fitted into a corresponding recess in the respective first or second member of the device. A connector as claimed in claim 2, wherein: the first attachment member and the second attachment member are displaced relative to each other in a first direction, and the connector is structured to connect the first and second members of the device so that in use, the first direction is substantially parallel to the first plane, and at least one of the first attachment member and the second attachment member is structured to be inserted into the corresponding recess in the respective first or second member of the device in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first plane. A connector as claimed in claim 2, wherein at least one of the first attachment member and the second attachment member includes one or more protrusions structurally designed to engage with the corresponding recess. A connector as claimed in claim 4, wherein the one or more protrusions include an inclined portion and a shelf, the inclined portion is structurally designed to facilitate the insertion of the attachment member into the recess, and the shelf is structurally designed to prevent the attachment member from being removed from the recess. A connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first attachment member and/or the second attachment member is formed of an elastic material. A connector as claimed in claim 6, wherein the elastic member is formed of the same elastic material. A connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one of the first and second attachment members comprises an anchor point, the anchor point being structured to connect the connector to a third member of the device or a further connector. A connector as claimed in claim 8, wherein the anchor point includes a hole structured to receive a bayonet. A connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first and/or second attachment member is substantially circular. A connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the elastic member is elongated. A connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a plurality of second attachment parts and a plurality of respective elastic parts for connecting to one or more second parts of the device. A connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a third attachment member for connecting to a third member of the device, the third member of the device being structured to move relative to the first and second members in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane; and a second elastic member extending between the first attachment member and the third attachment member and being structured to deform to allow relative movement between the third and first attachment members. A connector for connecting a first, a second and a third part of a device, the first and the second parts being structured to move relative to each other in at least a first plane, and the third part being structured to move relative to the first and the second parts in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane, the connector comprising: a first attachment part for connecting to the first part of the device; a second attachment part for connecting to the third part of the device; a second component; a third attachment component for connecting to the third component of the device; a first elastic component extending between the first and second attachment components and configured to deform to allow relative movement between the first and second attachment components; and a second elastic component extending between the first attachment component and the third attachment component and configured to deform to allow relative movement between the third and first attachment components. A connector as claimed in claim 14, wherein the first and third attachment parts are detachable from each other so that the connector is formed into two parts. A connector as claimed in claim 14 or 15, wherein the first attachment member includes a peripheral portion surrounding the second elastic member around a first axis, and the second elastic member surrounds the third attachment member around a second axis, and when the connector is connected to the device, the second elastic member is structurally designed to protrude from the peripheral portion in a direction along the first axis. A device comprising: a first part and a second part, the first and second parts being structured to move relative to each other in at least a first plane; a connector as in any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the first attachment part of the connector is connected to the first part of the device, and the second attachment part of the connector is connected to the second part of the device. The device of claim 17, wherein the first component includes a first recess, and the first attachment component is disposed in the first recess, and/or the second component includes a second recess, and the second attachment component of the connector is disposed in the second recess. A device as claimed in claim 18, wherein the first component and/or the second component includes a channel connected to a respective recess, wherein the elastic component is arranged in the channel. The device of claim 18, wherein the shapes of the first and second recesses and the respective attachment parts are substantially the same. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein at least one of the first and second attachment members is press-fit into the respective recess. The device of claim 18, wherein the connector is a connector of any one of claims 12 to 16, and the third attachment member is also disposed in the first recess. A device as claimed in claim 17, wherein the device has a layered structure, and the first and second components together form a first layer. A device as claimed in claim 17, wherein the connector is the connector of claim 12, and the device includes a plurality of second components connected by the connector. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the apparatus further comprises a third member, the third member being structured to move relative to the first and second members in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane. The device of claim 25, wherein the connector is a connector of any one of claims 12 to 16, and the third attachment part is connected to the third part of the device. A device as claimed in claim 25 or 26, wherein the device has a layered structure and the first and second components together form a first layer, and wherein the third component forms a second layer adjacent to the first layer. A device as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 26, wherein the first and second components are energy absorbing components, optionally forming a first energy absorbing layer. A device as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 26, wherein the device has a layered structure and the first and second components together form a first layer, and wherein the third component is an energy absorbing component, optionally forming a second energy absorbing layer. A device as claimed in any one of items 17 to 26, wherein the device is a helmet.