US20140338104A1 - Helmet padding system - Google Patents
Helmet padding system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20140338104A1 US20140338104A1 US14/275,046 US201414275046A US2014338104A1 US 20140338104 A1 US20140338104 A1 US 20140338104A1 US 201414275046 A US201414275046 A US 201414275046A US 2014338104 A1 US2014338104 A1 US 2014338104A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- padding system
- helmet
- helmet padding
- user
- spacing pad
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A42—HEADWEAR
- A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
- A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
- A42B3/04—Parts, details or accessories of helmets
- A42B3/10—Linings
- A42B3/12—Cushioning devices
- A42B3/125—Cushioning devices with a padded structure, e.g. foam
- A42B3/127—Cushioning devices with a padded structure, e.g. foam with removable or adjustable pads
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A42—HEADWEAR
- A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
- A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
- A42B3/04—Parts, details or accessories of helmets
- A42B3/10—Linings
- A42B3/12—Cushioning devices
- A42B3/125—Cushioning devices with a padded structure, e.g. foam
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A42—HEADWEAR
- A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
- A42B1/00—Hats; Caps; Hoods
- A42B1/04—Soft caps; Hoods
- A42B1/08—Soft caps; Hoods with protection against blows
Definitions
- the invention relates generally to the field of protective headgear, and more particularly, to impact-resistant padding for protective headgear.
- a helmet padding system includes a baseball cap and a spacing pad.
- the baseball cap has a body portion and a brim portion.
- the cap includes a pair of side portions extending downward from the cap body below a point at which the brim portion meets the body portion.
- the spacing pad is positioned within the baseball cap, and includes a layer of elastomeric material.
- FIG. 1 is an image illustrating an exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is an image illustrating an exemplary helmet shell of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is an image illustrating exemplary absorption pads of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4 is an image illustrating an exemplary spacing pad of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 5 is an image of the exemplary spacing pad of FIG. 4 in a helmet shell
- FIG. 6 is an image illustrating another exemplary spacing pad of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 7 is an image of the exemplary spacing pad of FIG. 6 in a helmet shell
- FIG. 8 is an image illustrating yet another exemplary spacing pad of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIGS. 9A-9D are images illustrating an exemplary impact-resistant pad in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 10A-10C are images illustrating an exemplary protective headgear system in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 11 is an image illustrating another exemplary protective headgear system in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating another exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 13 is an image illustrating another exemplary spacing pad of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIGS. 14A-14D are images illustrating another exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- FIGS. 15A-15C are images illustrating an alternative embodiment of the exemplary helmet padding system of FIGS. 14A-14D ;
- FIGS. 16-18 are images illustrating embodiments of another exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- helmet padding and protective headgear systems that incorporate impact-resistant pads beneath a user's helmet to cushion impacts on the helmet from the user's head.
- helmet is not intended to be limited, but is meant to encompass any headgear worn for protection during an activity in which an impact to the head may occur.
- impact-resistant is intended to encompass any object that partially or fully lessens, diminishes, dissipates, deflects, or absorbs the mechanical force of an impact.
- the exemplary systems and apparatus disclosed herein are configured to lessen the force of an impact on the user's head. This makes them particularly suitable for use by participants in athletic activities, and particularly suitable for participants in traditional “contact” sports, such as wrestling, American football, or rugby, where high-force impacts may be commonly experienced. While the exemplary embodiments of the invention are described herein with respect to athletic activities, it will be understood that the invention is not so limited. Suitable applications for the systems and apparatus of the present invention include, for example, military helmets or construction helmets. Other suitable applications will be readily understood by one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.
- FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary helmet padding system 100 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- Helmet padding system 100 may be worn by a user during an athletic activity.
- system 100 includes a helmet shell 110 , a spacing pad 130 , and a plurality of absorption pads 150 . Additional details of system 100 are described herein.
- Helmet shell 110 is configured to be positioned on a user's head. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , helmet shell 110 completely encloses the upper portion of the user's head. This may be desirable in order to ensure any impacts to the user's head are absorbed by helmet padding system 100 . Helmet shell 110 may include one or more straps 112 for securing helmet shell 110 to the user's head. The size of helmet shell 110 is selected such that helmet shell 110 can accommodate the remaining components of system 100 while still being securely positioned on the user's head. Where helmet shell 110 is a conventional helmet shell, it will be understood that helmet shell 110 may include its own integral, connected foam pads in addition to the pads described with respect to system 100 . It will be understood that the pads described with respect to system 100 may be pads provided in addition to the pads provided in conventional helmet shells 110 . Suitable helmet shells 110 for use with the present invention will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.
- Spacing pad 130 is positioned within the interior of helmet shell 110 . As shown in FIGS. 4-8 , spacing pad 130 comprises a central portion 132 and a plurality of extending portions 134 projecting outward from the central portion. Spacing pad 130 may or may not be coupled to the interior of helmet shell 110 . When spacing pad 130 is coupled to helmet shell 110 , central portion 132 is coupled to a central region of the interior of helmet shell 110 , such that extending portions 134 project toward the peripheral edges of helmet shell 110 .
- Spacing pad 130 is formed from impact-resistant materials.
- spacing pad 130 may include a layer of elastomeric material.
- the elastomeric material may provide impact-resistance by absorbing and dissipating the force of impacts laterally along the surface of the elastomeric material.
- spacing pad 130 consists of only a single layer of elastomeric material.
- spacing pad 130 comprises two or more layers of elastomeric material.
- Spacing pad 130 may include the layers of elastomeric material directly adjacent each other, or in a more preferred embodiment, may include a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material between the layers of elastomeric material.
- Suitable materials for forming the elastomeric layer(s) include, but are not limited to, urethane rubbers, silicone rubbers, nitrile rubbers, butyl rubbers, acrylic rubbers, natural rubbers, styrene-butadiene rubbers, and the like. In general, any suitable elastomer material can be used to form the above-described elastomeric layers without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- Suitable materials for forming the layer of high tensile strength fibrous material include, but are not limited to, aramid fibers, fiberglass, or other high tensile strength fibers. The fibers may be woven to form a cloth layer that is disposed between and generally separates the opposing elastomeric layers.
- the high tensile strength fibrous material layer may desirably block and redirect impact energy that passes through one of the elastomeric layers. Additional description of materials for forming spacing pad 130 may be found in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/331,004, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
- spacing pad 130 may comprise an array of raised portions 131 formed on a surface thereof.
- Raised portions 131 may have a rectangular shape, as shown in FIG. 4 .
- raised portions 131 may have a square shape or a diamond shape.
- Raised portions 130 desirably enable air circulation across spacing pad 130 and concentrate the load from an impact on spacing pad 130 .
- An array of raised portions 131 having a diamond shape may be particular desirable, as these raised portions 131 may enable greater flexibility of spacing pad 130 .
- spacing pad 130 may or may not be coupled to the interior helmet shell 110 .
- such coupling may be effected, for example, using adhesive. It may be desirable that the surface of spacing pad 130 , including the entire lengths of extending portions 134 , be adhered to the interior of helmet shell 110 .
- the lengths of extending portions 134 may be limited, to prevent separation of extending portions 134 from helmet shell 110 during an impact that deforms helmet shell 110 .
- Absorption pads 150 may be coupled to spacing pad 130 .
- the plurality of absorption pads 150 includes a first large absorption pad 152 and a number of remaining absorption pads 154 .
- absorption pad 152 is configured to be coupled to the central portion of spacing pad 130
- absorption pads 154 are configured to be coupled to the ends of the extending portions of spacing pad 130 .
- Absorption pads 150 are desirably shaped such that they do not directly contact helmet shell 110 when spacing pad 130 is coupled to helmet shell 110 .
- Absorption pads 150 may be insulated from helmet shell 110 by the ends of spacing pad 130 , and/or may be formed with a preferential curve, in order to create a gap between the outer surfaces of pads 150 and the interior of helmet shell 110 .
- Suitable materials for use in forming absorption pads 150 include, for example, conventional closed or open-cell foams, elastomeric and/or polymer materials. Other materials will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.
- FIGS. 4-8 and 13 show different embodiments of spacing pads 130 a , 130 b , 130 c , 130 d for use with the present invention.
- Each spacing pad 130 a , 130 b , 130 c , 130 d includes a respective central portion 132 a , 132 b , 132 c , 132 d and a respective plurality of extending portions 134 a , 134 b , 134 c , 134 d .
- Features of these extending portions 134 will be described herein. It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that any of the features described herein with respect to one embodiment of spacing pad 130 may be provided in any of the other embodiments.
- extending portions 134 project outward at regular intervals from their respective central portions 132 .
- the regular intervals may be approximately every 45°.
- the regular intervals may be approximately every 90°.
- extending portions 134 b of spacing pad 130 b have end portions 136 b .
- End portions 136 b have a width greater than the width of the remainder of the respective extending portion 134 b .
- the wider end portions 136 b of spacing pad 130 b may be desirable in order to provide a large base for absorption pads 150 .
- the wide end portions 136 b may be made sufficiently wide that the end portions 136 b of adjacent extending portions 134 b overlap with each other when spacing pad 130 b is positioned within the helmet shell.
- spacing pad 130 b may be contained in a liner 137 .
- Liner 137 may be configured to surround spacing pad 130 b in order to provide a comfortable contact between the user and spacing pad 130 b.
- extending portions 134 c may be arranged axially symmetrically relative to central portion 132 c .
- extending portions 134 a may be arranged axially asymmetrically.
- extending portions 134 a may have varying lengths projecting from central portion 132 a.
- extending portions 134 a , 134 b , 134 c may also be dependent on the configuration of helmet shell 110 , as set forth below.
- the varying lengths of extending portions 134 may be selected to correspond to a peripheral contour of helmet shell 110 .
- the lengths of extending portions 134 may be selected such that, when spacing pad 130 is coupled to helmet shell 110 , the end of each extending portion 134 projects to within a specified distance of the periphery of helmet shell 110 .
- extending portions 134 project to within 0.125-2.0 inches of the periphery of helmet shell 110 .
- Helmet shell 110 may include features that would interfere with the path of extending portions 134 . Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , extending portions 134 b may be shaped to avoid interfering features in helmet shell 110 , i.e., by changing direction. As shown in FIG. 6 , at least one of the extending portions 134 b may have a first portion 138 extending in a first direction and a second portion 139 extending from the first portion 138 in a second direction different from the first direction. This may desirably ensure that the entire length of extending portion 134 b is adhered to the interior of helmet shell 110 .
- a spacing pad 130 d may be intended for use in a baseball cap having a rear cut-out (e.g., for access to an adjustable strap).
- one of extending portions 134 d may be shortened and have a rounded edge relative to the other extending portions. This extending portion may be positioned to extend toward the rear cut-out of the baseball cap. This feature may desirably enable all of spacing pad 130 d to fit comfortably within the baseball cap.
- the width and number of extending portions 134 may be selected based on the circumference and size of helmet shell 110 . As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 , spacing pad 130 may include a relatively large number of thin extending portions 134 . Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 8 , spacing pad 130 may include a relatively small number of thick extending portions 134 . In an exemplary embodiment, extending portions 134 have a width of approximately 1′′ to approximately 4′′.
- FIGS. 4-8 the number, shape, and size of extending portions 134 in FIGS. 4-8 is shown merely for the purposes of illustration, and is not intended to be limiting. Spacing pads 130 having different numbers of extending portions 134 or differently shaped and sized extending portions 134 may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.
- FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate an exemplary impact-resistant pad 200 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- Impact-resistant pad 200 may be worn by a user as part of a protective headgear system during an athletic activity, such as a wrestling match.
- impact-resistant pad 200 includes a top portion 220 and side portions 240 and 250 . Additional details of impact-resistant pad 200 are described herein.
- Top portion 220 is configured to be positioned covering a top of the user's head. As shown in FIGS. 9A-9D top portion 220 may be approximately circular, and is sized to cover substantially the entire top of the user's head. In an exemplary embodiment, top portion 220 includes a plurality of openings 222 . Openings 222 desirably provide ventilation to the user's head during use of impact-resistant pad 200 . As shown in FIG. 9D , openings 222 are formed around the periphery of top portion 220 .
- Side portions 240 and 250 extend downward from top portion 220 .
- the term “side portion” is not intended to mean that portions 240 and 250 are on the “side” of the user's head (as opposed to the front or back). To the contrary, portions 240 and 250 may be located on any side of the user's head. As shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C side portions 240 and 250 cover a front portion and a back portion of the user's head, respectively. As further illustrated in FIG. 9A , back portion 250 extends a greater distance from top portion 220 than front portion 240 . This may be desirable in order to provide greater protection to the back of the user's head, and to prevent obstructing the user's view.
- Side portions 240 and 250 are not directly connected to each other, as shown in FIG. 9A .
- a circumferential gap 260 is formed between side portions 240 and 250 . This may be particularly desirable so that impact-resistant pad 200 may be worn by users of different head sizes. For example, when a user has a relatively small head, the gap 260 will be relatively narrow, and side portions 240 and 250 will sit close to each other (or possibly in contact with each other) when placed on the user's head. However, when a user has a relatively large head, the gap 260 will be relatively large, and side portions 240 and 250 will sit far from each other when placed on the user's head.
- Impact-resistant pad 200 is formed from substantially the same materials described above with respect to spacing pad 130 .
- Impact-resistant pad 200 is unconnected to any supporting structure. As will be discussed in further detail herein, impact-resistant pad 200 is configured to be worn under a helmet. To this end, impact-resistant pad 200 is desirably thin. In an exemplary embodiment, impact-resistant pad 200 has a thickness of no greater than approximately 23 mm, and even more preferably, a thickness of no greater than approximately 3 mm. The thickness of impact-resistant pad 200 may be selected based on a number of factors, including for example the type of helmet, the desired level of impact protection, and the type of material encasing the pad (such as moisture-wicking, moisture-absorbent, cloth, or neoprene).
- FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate an exemplary protective headgear system 300 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- Protective headgear system 300 may be worn by a user during an athletic activity, such as a wrestling match.
- protective headgear system 300 includes an impact-resistant pad 320 and a helmet 340 . Additional details of protective headgear system 300 are described herein.
- Impact-resistant pad 320 is formed from materials designed to dissipate the force of impacts on the user's head.
- impact-resistant pad 320 is an impact-resistant pad substantially as described above with respect to impact-resistant pad 200 .
- impact-resistant pad 320 includes a top portion 322 configured to be positioned covering a top of the user's head, and side portions 324 and 325 extending downward from top portion 322 . Side portions 324 and 325 are not directly connected to each other, and define a circumferential gap (not shown) therebetween.
- Helmet 340 is configured to be positioned on a user's head overtop of impact-resistant pad 320 . Helmet 340 is unconnected to impact-resistant pad 320 . When helmet 340 is positioned overtop of impact-resistant pad 320 , helmet 340 covers the circumferential portions of impact-resistant pad 320 .
- helmet 340 comprises conventional wrestling headgear, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10C .
- Helmet 340 includes a plurality of straps 342 for securing helmet 340 to the user's head. Straps 342 extend over top portion 322 of impact-resistant pad 320 .
- Impact-resistant pad 320 may include guide portions (not shown) for receiving and properly positioning straps 342 of helmet 340 .
- FIG. 11 illustrates another exemplary protective headgear system 400 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- protective headgear system 400 includes an impact-resistant pad 420 and a helmet shell 440 , as shown in FIG. 11 .
- Helmet shell 440 is configured to completely cover the user's head. This may be desirable in order to provide an additional layer of impact-resistance on top of impact-resistant pad 420 .
- the size of helmet shell 440 is selected such that helmet 440 can accommodate impact-resistant pad 420 therein while still being securely positioned on the user's head.
- helmet shell 440 is a helmet shell substantially as described with respect to helmet shell 110 . Suitable helmet shells 440 for use with the present invention will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.
- FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary helmet padding system 500 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 12 shows an exploded cross-sectional diagram of helmet padding system 500 through a central portion thereof.
- Helmet padding system 500 may also be worn by a user during an athletic activity.
- system 500 includes a helmet shell 510 , a spacing pad 530 , and a deflection layer 570 . Additional details of system 500 are described herein.
- Helmet shell 510 is configured to be positioned on a user's head.
- Helmet shell 510 may be a helmet shell substantially as described with respect to helmet shell 110 , or may be a helmet substantially as described above with respect to helmet 340 .
- the size of helmet shell 510 is selected such that helmet shell 510 can accommodate the remaining components of system 500 while still be securely positioned on the user's head.
- Spacing pad 530 is positioned within the interior of helmet shell 510 .
- Spacing pad 530 may be a spacing pad substantially as described with respect to spacing pad 130 .
- spacing pad 530 may be an impact-resistant pad substantially as described above with respect to impact-resistant pad 200 .
- spacing pad 530 may be formed from any of the materials set forth above with respect to spacing pad 130 or impact-resistant pad 200 , and may take any of the shapes described above with respect to spacing pad 130 and/or impact-resistant pad 200 .
- spacing pad 530 may have any other shape suitable for covering a space between the user's head and the helmet shell 510 .
- Spacing pad 530 may also comprise an array of raised portions 531 formed on a surface thereof, as described above with respect to raised portions 131 .
- Spacing pad 530 is not adapted to be coupled to the interior of helmet shell 510 .
- spacing pad 530 remains unconnected to helmet shell 510 (or from any other component that is connected to helmet shell 510 , e.g., conventional helmet padding provided with helmet shell 510 ). This enables relative movement between spacing pad 530 and helmet shell 510 , which may be important to assist in dissipation of the force from impacts, as explained in further detail below with respect to deflection layer 570 .
- Helmet padding system 500 may include a plurality of absorption pads 550 coupled to spacing pad 530 .
- Absorption pads 550 may be substantially the same as those described above with respect to absorption pads 150 .
- Deflection layer 570 is positioned between helmet shell 510 and spacing pad 530 .
- Deflection layer 570 is formed from a material that is less flexible (i.e. stiffer) than spacing pad 530 . This enables the hard surface of deflection layer 570 to deflect a portion of the force from impacts along a surface thereof, rather than transmitting that force through deflection layer 570 to spacing pad 530 . In other words, it assists in converting forces from impacts into tangential forces (which propagate along the surface) as opposed to normal forces (which propagate through the surface to the user's head).
- deflection layer 570 comprises a sheet of polycarbonate material. Deflection layer 570 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of spacing pad 530 , such that the deflection layer 570 completely covers the space between spacing pad 530 and helmet shell 510 .
- Deflection layer 570 is also not coupled to the interior of helmet shell 510 . This creates a “slip plane” between deflection layer 570 and helmet shell 510 , and enables relative movement between the two components. Put another way, this allows independent movement of the user's head (with which spacing pad 530 and deflection layer 570 are in contact) and helmet shell 510 .
- Helmet padding system 500 may also include a plurality of deflection plates 580 .
- Deflection plates 580 may be coupled to the interior of helmet shell 510 in positions such that they slidably abut deflection layer 570 .
- Deflection plates 580 may be coupled to helmet shell 510 , e.g., with an adhesive.
- Deflection plates 580 are formed from the same materials as deflection layer 570 .
- the use of deflection plates 580 coupled to helmet shell 510 may further promote a sliding interface between deflection layer 570 and helmet shell 510 , and thereby promote deflecting the force of impacts in a tangential direction along deflection layer 570 , rather than through deflection layer 570 to spacing pad 530 .
- Helmet padding system 500 may also include a deformation layer 590 .
- Deformation layer 590 may be positioned between deflection layer 570 and spacing pad 530 .
- Deformation layer 590 is configured to deform upon experiencing the force from an impact.
- Deformation layer 590 may undergo elastic (i.e. reversible) or plastic (i.e. irreversible) deformation.
- deformation layer 590 comprises a sheet of corrugated plastic material configured to undergo plastic deformation. As shown in FIG. 12 , the sheet of corrugated plastic material may comprise a pair of plastic surface layers separated by a plurality of plastic ridges defining air gaps therebetween.
- deformation layer 590 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of spacing pad 530 , such that the deformation layer 590 completely covers the space between spacing pad 530 and deflection layer 570 .
- Deformation layer 590 may undergo plastic deformation, for example, by crumpling, bending, fracturing, or other irreversible changes. Accordingly, deformation layer 590 may need to be periodically replaced following impacts to helmet padding system 500 , where such impacts are sufficient to cause significant plastic deformation of deformation layer 590 .
- a liner may be configured to surround and contain spacing pad 530 , deflection layer 570 , and deformation layer 590 , to maintain their relative positioning and arrangement.
- the liner may be formed, for example, from a cloth or nylon material to provide a comfortable contact between the user and the components of helmet padding system 500 .
- FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate another exemplary helmet padding system 600 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- Helmet padding system 600 may be worn by a user during military activities, e.g., under a standard military helmet.
- system 600 includes a frame 610 and a spacing pad 630 . Additional details of system 600 are described herein.
- Frame 610 is configured to be positioned on a user's head.
- Frame 610 comprises a rigid material such as, for example, a plastic or polycarbonate material.
- the size of frame 610 is selected such that helmet shell 610 can accommodate spacing pad 630 while still be securely positioned on the user's head.
- Spacing pad 630 is coupled to frame 610 .
- Spacing pad 630 may be a spacing pad substantially as described with respect to spacing pad 130 , and/or may be formed from any of the materials described with respect to spacing pad 130 .
- spacing pad 630 comprises a central portion 632 and a plurality of extending portions 634 projecting outward from the central portion 632 .
- the plurality of extending portions 634 are fixed to frame 610 .
- each extending portion 630 has an end portion with a greater width than a portion of the respective extending portion coupled to central portion 632 . Specifically, extending portions 630 get wider as they extend outwardly from central portion 632 . The end portions of extending portions 634 are fixed to frame 610 .
- frame 610 comprises a groove 612 , as shown in FIG. 14B .
- the end portions of each of the plurality of extending portions 634 are inserted within groove 612 .
- the end portions of the plurality of extending portions 634 may be additionally secured to the frame via one or more attachment mechanisms.
- Suitable attachment mechanisms 615 include, for example, rivets, adhesives, or stitching.
- Frame 610 may be configured to be coupled to a helmet, as shown in FIG. 14D .
- frame 610 is configured to be coupled to a standard-issue military helmet.
- the standard-issue military helmet includes a plurality (e.g. four) pre-arranged mounting points, such as drill holes, in the helmet.
- frame 610 includes a plurality of through holes 614 positioned to align with the pre-arranged mounting points in the military helmet. This may desirably simplify the attachment of frame 610 to the helmet.
- Spacing pad 630 is fixed to frame 610 in such a way that spacing pad does not contact the helmet when frame 610 is coupled to the helmet.
- frame 610 has a ring shape, as shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C .
- the plurality of extending portions 634 extend upward from frame 610 , such that central portion 623 is positioned above frame 610 . This creates a cavity within frame 610 in which the top of the user's head is positioned during use.
- FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate another exemplary helmet padding system 700 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- the helmet padding system 700 is substantially the same as helmet padding system 600 , and only the differences between those two embodiments will be described hereinafter.
- frame 710 of helmet padding system 700 has a dome shape, as shown in FIGS. 15A-15C .
- the standard-issue military helmet includes a plurality (e.g. four) pre-arranged mounting points, such as drill holes, in the helmet.
- frame 710 includes a plurality of through holes 714 positioned to align with the pre-arranged mounting points in the military helmet.
- Spacing pad 730 is positioned within the dome, and may be adhered to an inner surface of the dome.
- the dome-shaped frame 710 includes a plurality of ridges 716 formed on an outer surface thereof. As shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B , ridges 716 extend along frame 710 from edge to edge through a top portion of frame 710 . When dome-shaped frame 710 is coupled to a helmet, frame 710 contacts the helmet only along the outermost surfaces of the plurality of ridges 716 . This may be desirable in order to minimize the transfer of impact force from the helmet to frame 710 .
- frame 710 may also include a plurality of straps 718 for enhancing fit and comfort of system 700 when worn by a user, as shown in FIG. 15C .
- Helmet padding systems 600 and 700 may also include a deformation layer.
- the deformation layer may be a layer substantially as described with respect to deformation layer 590 .
- the deformation layer is positioned between the frame and the spacing pad.
- the deformation layer is positioned such that it is between the frame and the helmet when the frame is coupled to the helmet.
- the helmet padding systems 800 , 900 , 1000 of the present invention may be used with baseball caps.
- a helmet padding system usable with such a baseball-style cap is disclosed.
- New FIGS. 16-18 disclose alternative embodiments of such a system.
- the baseball cap of this system has the style of a normal baseball cap except on sides of the cap.
- the body of the cap may be formed from flexible material such as cotton or synthetic textiles.
- the rear of the cap may be fitted to the user's head, or may include a conventional adjustable strap.
- the side 810 of the cap extends downward to cover the user's temple, and at least a portion (preferably at least 50%) of the user's ear.
- a downward extended portion is formed on both sides of the cap.
- the downward extended portion may extend across the rear of the cap.
- the downward extended portion may end (or grow more narrow) across the rear of the cap.
- the cap body may include an opening 820 in the area of the user's ear. The opening may be desirable in order to promote aeration within the cap, and to provide the user better hearing.
- a spacing pad is provided within the cap.
- spacing pad 130 d illustrated in FIG. 13 is provided.
- the cap may include any of the spacing pads and accompanying components described herein. Still further, this system may use conventional foam padding in place of the spacing pad.
- the shape of the spacing pad may be selected to maximize coverage of the user's head while minimizing interference with the user's comfort (e.g., by obstructing the user's hearing).
- the spacing pad has one extending portion that extends from the top of the cap to a position forward of the user's ear, to cover the user's temple, and another extending portion that extends from the top of the cap to a position rearward of the user's ear, to cover the base of the user's skull behind their ear.
- the spacing pad is shaped to leave a gap in the area of the user's ear, to avoid obstructing the user's hearing.
- the cap may include a rigid frame.
- the rigid frame may be formed, for example, from rigid plastic.
- the rigid frame comprises a plurality of rigid outer members extending along the periphery of the gap (adjacent the edges of the spacing pad).
- the frame may have a substantially round, rectangular, or triangular shape.
- the frame further comprises an open area between the rigid outer members. The open area in the central portion of the rigid frame is desirable in order to avoid obstructing the user's hearing.
- the cap may also include a rigid liner around a peripheral edge of the cap.
- the rigid liner comprises a thin, rigid structure extending around the peripheral edges of the cap.
- the rim may be formed, for example, from rigid plastic. The rim may desirably be positioned within a fold or pocket of the outer cloth body of the cap, in order to enhance the user's comfort.
Landscapes
- Helmets And Other Head Coverings (AREA)
Abstract
Helmet padding systems are disclosed. One helmet padding system includes a baseball cap and a spacing pad. The baseball cap has a body portion and a brim portion. The cap includes a pair of side portions extending downward from the cap body below a point at which the brim portion meets the body portion. The spacing pad is positioned within the baseball cap, and includes a layer of elastomeric material.
Description
- The invention relates generally to the field of protective headgear, and more particularly, to impact-resistant padding for protective headgear.
- Conventionally, participants in “contact” sports (e.g., wrestling, football, rugby) wear protective headgear to cushion the force of impacts that are regularly received during those events. In recent years, the negative health effects of the impacts to the head experienced during such contact sports have been a matter of focus. These negative health effects can be diminished or minimized by effectively cushioning participants from the forces of impacts. Accordingly, improved structures, such as impact-resistant headgear, are desired to lessen the impact forces experienced by those participants.
- Aspects of the present invention are directed to helmet padding systems. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a helmet padding system includes a baseball cap and a spacing pad. The baseball cap has a body portion and a brim portion. The cap includes a pair of side portions extending downward from the cap body below a point at which the brim portion meets the body portion. The spacing pad is positioned within the baseball cap, and includes a layer of elastomeric material.
- The invention is best understood from the following detailed description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings, with like elements having the same reference numerals. When a plurality of similar elements are present, a single reference numeral may be assigned to the plurality of similar elements with a small letter designation referring to specific elements. When referring to the elements collectively or to a non-specific one or more of the elements, the small letter designation may be dropped. According to common practice, the various features of the drawings are not drawn to scale unless otherwise indicated. To the contrary, the dimensions of the various features may be expanded or reduced for clarity. Included in the drawings are the following figures:
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FIG. 1 is an image illustrating an exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is an image illustrating an exemplary helmet shell of the helmet padding system ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is an image illustrating exemplary absorption pads of the helmet padding system ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is an image illustrating an exemplary spacing pad of the helmet padding system ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5 is an image of the exemplary spacing pad ofFIG. 4 in a helmet shell; -
FIG. 6 is an image illustrating another exemplary spacing pad of the helmet padding system ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 7 is an image of the exemplary spacing pad ofFIG. 6 in a helmet shell; -
FIG. 8 is an image illustrating yet another exemplary spacing pad of the helmet padding system ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIGS. 9A-9D are images illustrating an exemplary impact-resistant pad in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 10A-10C are images illustrating an exemplary protective headgear system in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 11 is an image illustrating another exemplary protective headgear system in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating another exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 13 is an image illustrating another exemplary spacing pad of the helmet padding system ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIGS. 14A-14D are images illustrating another exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIGS. 15A-15C are images illustrating an alternative embodiment of the exemplary helmet padding system ofFIGS. 14A-14D ; and -
FIGS. 16-18 are images illustrating embodiments of another exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention. - The embodiments of the invention described herein relate to helmet padding and protective headgear systems that incorporate impact-resistant pads beneath a user's helmet to cushion impacts on the helmet from the user's head. As used herein, the term “helmet” is not intended to be limited, but is meant to encompass any headgear worn for protection during an activity in which an impact to the head may occur. Additionally, as used herein, the term “impact-resistant” is intended to encompass any object that partially or fully lessens, diminishes, dissipates, deflects, or absorbs the mechanical force of an impact.
- The exemplary systems and apparatus disclosed herein are configured to lessen the force of an impact on the user's head. This makes them particularly suitable for use by participants in athletic activities, and particularly suitable for participants in traditional “contact” sports, such as wrestling, American football, or rugby, where high-force impacts may be commonly experienced. While the exemplary embodiments of the invention are described herein with respect to athletic activities, it will be understood that the invention is not so limited. Suitable applications for the systems and apparatus of the present invention include, for example, military helmets or construction helmets. Other suitable applications will be readily understood by one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.
- Referring now to the drawings,
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplaryhelmet padding system 100 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.Helmet padding system 100 may be worn by a user during an athletic activity. As a general overview,system 100 includes ahelmet shell 110, aspacing pad 130, and a plurality ofabsorption pads 150. Additional details ofsystem 100 are described herein. -
Helmet shell 110 is configured to be positioned on a user's head. As shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 ,helmet shell 110 completely encloses the upper portion of the user's head. This may be desirable in order to ensure any impacts to the user's head are absorbed byhelmet padding system 100.Helmet shell 110 may include one ormore straps 112 for securinghelmet shell 110 to the user's head. The size ofhelmet shell 110 is selected such thathelmet shell 110 can accommodate the remaining components ofsystem 100 while still being securely positioned on the user's head. Wherehelmet shell 110 is a conventional helmet shell, it will be understood thathelmet shell 110 may include its own integral, connected foam pads in addition to the pads described with respect tosystem 100. It will be understood that the pads described with respect tosystem 100 may be pads provided in addition to the pads provided inconventional helmet shells 110.Suitable helmet shells 110 for use with the present invention will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein. -
Spacing pad 130 is positioned within the interior ofhelmet shell 110. As shown inFIGS. 4-8 ,spacing pad 130 comprises a central portion 132 and a plurality of extending portions 134 projecting outward from the central portion.Spacing pad 130 may or may not be coupled to the interior ofhelmet shell 110. When spacingpad 130 is coupled tohelmet shell 110, central portion 132 is coupled to a central region of the interior ofhelmet shell 110, such that extending portions 134 project toward the peripheral edges ofhelmet shell 110. - Spacing
pad 130 is formed from impact-resistant materials. For example,spacing pad 130 may include a layer of elastomeric material. The elastomeric material may provide impact-resistance by absorbing and dissipating the force of impacts laterally along the surface of the elastomeric material. In one exemplary embodiment,spacing pad 130 consists of only a single layer of elastomeric material. In another exemplary embodiment,spacing pad 130 comprises two or more layers of elastomeric material. Spacingpad 130 may include the layers of elastomeric material directly adjacent each other, or in a more preferred embodiment, may include a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material between the layers of elastomeric material. - Suitable materials for forming the elastomeric layer(s) include, but are not limited to, urethane rubbers, silicone rubbers, nitrile rubbers, butyl rubbers, acrylic rubbers, natural rubbers, styrene-butadiene rubbers, and the like. In general, any suitable elastomer material can be used to form the above-described elastomeric layers without departing from the scope of the present invention. Suitable materials for forming the layer of high tensile strength fibrous material include, but are not limited to, aramid fibers, fiberglass, or other high tensile strength fibers. The fibers may be woven to form a cloth layer that is disposed between and generally separates the opposing elastomeric layers. The high tensile strength fibrous material layer may desirably block and redirect impact energy that passes through one of the elastomeric layers. Additional description of materials for forming
spacing pad 130 may be found in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/331,004, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. - As shown in
FIG. 4 ,spacing pad 130 may comprise an array of raisedportions 131 formed on a surface thereof. Raisedportions 131 may have a rectangular shape, as shown inFIG. 4 . However, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that other shapes may be chosen. For example, raisedportions 131 may have a square shape or a diamond shape. Raisedportions 130 desirably enable air circulation acrossspacing pad 130 and concentrate the load from an impact onspacing pad 130. An array of raisedportions 131 having a diamond shape may be particular desirable, as these raisedportions 131 may enable greater flexibility ofspacing pad 130. - As set forth above,
spacing pad 130 may or may not be coupled to theinterior helmet shell 110. When spacingpad 130 is coupled to the interior ofhelmet shell 110, such coupling may be effected, for example, using adhesive. It may be desirable that the surface ofspacing pad 130, including the entire lengths of extending portions 134, be adhered to the interior ofhelmet shell 110. The lengths of extending portions 134 may be limited, to prevent separation of extending portions 134 fromhelmet shell 110 during an impact that deformshelmet shell 110. -
Absorption pads 150 may be coupled tospacing pad 130. As shown inFIG. 3 , the plurality ofabsorption pads 150 includes a firstlarge absorption pad 152 and a number of remainingabsorption pads 154. As shown inFIG. 1 ,absorption pad 152 is configured to be coupled to the central portion ofspacing pad 130, andabsorption pads 154 are configured to be coupled to the ends of the extending portions ofspacing pad 130. -
Absorption pads 150 are desirably shaped such that they do not directly contacthelmet shell 110 when spacingpad 130 is coupled tohelmet shell 110.Absorption pads 150 may be insulated fromhelmet shell 110 by the ends ofspacing pad 130, and/or may be formed with a preferential curve, in order to create a gap between the outer surfaces ofpads 150 and the interior ofhelmet shell 110. Suitable materials for use in formingabsorption pads 150 include, for example, conventional closed or open-cell foams, elastomeric and/or polymer materials. Other materials will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein. -
FIGS. 4-8 and 13 show different embodiments ofspacing pads spacing pad central portion portions spacing pad 130 may be provided in any of the other embodiments. - As shown in
FIGS. 4-8 , extending portions 134 project outward at regular intervals from their respective central portions 132. As shown inFIGS. 4 and 6 , the regular intervals may be approximately every 45°. As shown inFIG. 8 , the regular intervals may be approximately every 90°. - As shown in
FIGS. 6 and 7 , extendingportions 134 b ofspacing pad 130 b haveend portions 136 b.End portions 136 b have a width greater than the width of the remainder of the respective extendingportion 134 b. Thewider end portions 136 b ofspacing pad 130 b may be desirable in order to provide a large base forabsorption pads 150. Thewide end portions 136 b may be made sufficiently wide that theend portions 136 b of adjacent extendingportions 134 b overlap with each other when spacingpad 130 b is positioned within the helmet shell. - Additionally, as shown in
FIGS. 6 and 7 ,spacing pad 130 b may be contained in aliner 137.Liner 137 may be configured to surroundspacing pad 130 b in order to provide a comfortable contact between the user andspacing pad 130 b. - As shown in
FIG. 8 , extendingportions 134 c may be arranged axially symmetrically relative tocentral portion 132 c. Alternatively, as shown inFIG. 4 , extendingportions 134 a may be arranged axially asymmetrically. Additionally, as shown inFIG. 4 , extendingportions 134 a may have varying lengths projecting fromcentral portion 132 a. - The shapes and sizes of extending
portions helmet shell 110, as set forth below. - As shown in
FIGS. 5 and 7 , the varying lengths of extending portions 134 may be selected to correspond to a peripheral contour ofhelmet shell 110. In other words, if the periphery of thehelmet shell 110 has a varying contour, the lengths of extending portions 134 may be selected such that, when spacingpad 130 is coupled tohelmet shell 110, the end of each extending portion 134 projects to within a specified distance of the periphery ofhelmet shell 110. In an exemplary embodiment, extending portions 134 project to within 0.125-2.0 inches of the periphery ofhelmet shell 110. -
Helmet shell 110 may include features that would interfere with the path of extending portions 134. Accordingly, as shown inFIGS. 6 and 7 , extendingportions 134 b may be shaped to avoid interfering features inhelmet shell 110, i.e., by changing direction. As shown inFIG. 6 , at least one of the extendingportions 134 b may have afirst portion 138 extending in a first direction and asecond portion 139 extending from thefirst portion 138 in a second direction different from the first direction. This may desirably ensure that the entire length of extendingportion 134 b is adhered to the interior ofhelmet shell 110. - Additionally, as shown in
FIG. 13 , aspacing pad 130 d may be intended for use in a baseball cap having a rear cut-out (e.g., for access to an adjustable strap). In this embodiment, one of extendingportions 134 d may be shortened and have a rounded edge relative to the other extending portions. This extending portion may be positioned to extend toward the rear cut-out of the baseball cap. This feature may desirably enable all ofspacing pad 130 d to fit comfortably within the baseball cap. - The width and number of extending portions 134 may be selected based on the circumference and size of
helmet shell 110. As shown inFIGS. 4 and 6 ,spacing pad 130 may include a relatively large number of thin extending portions 134. Alternatively, as shown inFIG. 8 ,spacing pad 130 may include a relatively small number of thick extending portions 134. In an exemplary embodiment, extending portions 134 have a width of approximately 1″ to approximately 4″. - It will be understood that the number, shape, and size of extending portions 134 in
FIGS. 4-8 is shown merely for the purposes of illustration, and is not intended to be limiting. Spacingpads 130 having different numbers of extending portions 134 or differently shaped and sized extending portions 134 may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein. -
FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate an exemplary impact-resistant pad 200 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Impact-resistant pad 200 may be worn by a user as part of a protective headgear system during an athletic activity, such as a wrestling match. As a general overview, impact-resistant pad 200 includes atop portion 220 andside portions resistant pad 200 are described herein. -
Top portion 220 is configured to be positioned covering a top of the user's head. As shown inFIGS. 9A-9D top portion 220 may be approximately circular, and is sized to cover substantially the entire top of the user's head. In an exemplary embodiment,top portion 220 includes a plurality ofopenings 222.Openings 222 desirably provide ventilation to the user's head during use of impact-resistant pad 200. As shown inFIG. 9D ,openings 222 are formed around the periphery oftop portion 220. -
Side portions top portion 220. As used herein, the term “side portion” is not intended to mean thatportions portions FIGS. 9B and 9C side portions FIG. 9A ,back portion 250 extends a greater distance fromtop portion 220 thanfront portion 240. This may be desirable in order to provide greater protection to the back of the user's head, and to prevent obstructing the user's view. -
Side portions FIG. 9A . In particular, acircumferential gap 260 is formed betweenside portions resistant pad 200 may be worn by users of different head sizes. For example, when a user has a relatively small head, thegap 260 will be relatively narrow, andside portions gap 260 will be relatively large, andside portions - It will be understood that the number, shape, and size of
side portions FIGS. 9A-9D is shown merely for the purposes of illustration, and is not intended to be limiting.Side portions resistant pad 200 is formed from substantially the same materials described above with respect tospacing pad 130. - Impact-
resistant pad 200 is unconnected to any supporting structure. As will be discussed in further detail herein, impact-resistant pad 200 is configured to be worn under a helmet. To this end, impact-resistant pad 200 is desirably thin. In an exemplary embodiment, impact-resistant pad 200 has a thickness of no greater than approximately 23 mm, and even more preferably, a thickness of no greater than approximately 3 mm. The thickness of impact-resistant pad 200 may be selected based on a number of factors, including for example the type of helmet, the desired level of impact protection, and the type of material encasing the pad (such as moisture-wicking, moisture-absorbent, cloth, or neoprene). -
FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate an exemplaryprotective headgear system 300 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.Protective headgear system 300 may be worn by a user during an athletic activity, such as a wrestling match. As a general overview,protective headgear system 300 includes an impact-resistant pad 320 and ahelmet 340. Additional details ofprotective headgear system 300 are described herein. - Impact-
resistant pad 320 is formed from materials designed to dissipate the force of impacts on the user's head. In an exemplary embodiment, impact-resistant pad 320 is an impact-resistant pad substantially as described above with respect to impact-resistant pad 200. In particular, impact-resistant pad 320 includes atop portion 322 configured to be positioned covering a top of the user's head, andside portions top portion 322.Side portions -
Helmet 340 is configured to be positioned on a user's head overtop of impact-resistant pad 320.Helmet 340 is unconnected to impact-resistant pad 320. Whenhelmet 340 is positioned overtop of impact-resistant pad 320,helmet 340 covers the circumferential portions of impact-resistant pad 320. In an exemplary embodiment,helmet 340 comprises conventional wrestling headgear, as shown inFIGS. 10A-10C .Helmet 340 includes a plurality ofstraps 342 for securinghelmet 340 to the user's head.Straps 342 extend overtop portion 322 of impact-resistant pad 320. Impact-resistant pad 320 may include guide portions (not shown) for receiving and properly positioningstraps 342 ofhelmet 340. - It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that
helmet 340 is not limited to the embodiment shown inFIGS. 10A-10C FIG. 11 illustrates another exemplaryprotective headgear system 400 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. As a general overview,protective headgear system 400 includes an impact-resistant pad 420 and ahelmet shell 440, as shown inFIG. 11 .Helmet shell 440 is configured to completely cover the user's head. This may be desirable in order to provide an additional layer of impact-resistance on top of impact-resistant pad 420. The size ofhelmet shell 440 is selected such thathelmet 440 can accommodate impact-resistant pad 420 therein while still being securely positioned on the user's head. In an exemplary embodiment,helmet shell 440 is a helmet shell substantially as described with respect tohelmet shell 110.Suitable helmet shells 440 for use with the present invention will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein. -
FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplaryhelmet padding system 500 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.FIG. 12 shows an exploded cross-sectional diagram ofhelmet padding system 500 through a central portion thereof.Helmet padding system 500 may also be worn by a user during an athletic activity. As a general overview,system 500 includes ahelmet shell 510, aspacing pad 530, and adeflection layer 570. Additional details ofsystem 500 are described herein. -
Helmet shell 510 is configured to be positioned on a user's head.Helmet shell 510 may be a helmet shell substantially as described with respect tohelmet shell 110, or may be a helmet substantially as described above with respect tohelmet 340. The size ofhelmet shell 510 is selected such thathelmet shell 510 can accommodate the remaining components ofsystem 500 while still be securely positioned on the user's head. - Spacing
pad 530 is positioned within the interior ofhelmet shell 510. Spacingpad 530 may be a spacing pad substantially as described with respect tospacing pad 130. Alternatively,spacing pad 530 may be an impact-resistant pad substantially as described above with respect to impact-resistant pad 200. Likewise,spacing pad 530 may be formed from any of the materials set forth above with respect tospacing pad 130 or impact-resistant pad 200, and may take any of the shapes described above with respect tospacing pad 130 and/or impact-resistant pad 200. Alternatively,spacing pad 530 may have any other shape suitable for covering a space between the user's head and thehelmet shell 510. Spacingpad 530 may also comprise an array of raisedportions 531 formed on a surface thereof, as described above with respect to raisedportions 131. - Spacing
pad 530 is not adapted to be coupled to the interior ofhelmet shell 510. In other words, spacingpad 530 remains unconnected to helmet shell 510 (or from any other component that is connected tohelmet shell 510, e.g., conventional helmet padding provided with helmet shell 510). This enables relative movement betweenspacing pad 530 andhelmet shell 510, which may be important to assist in dissipation of the force from impacts, as explained in further detail below with respect todeflection layer 570. -
Helmet padding system 500 may include a plurality ofabsorption pads 550 coupled tospacing pad 530.Absorption pads 550 may be substantially the same as those described above with respect toabsorption pads 150. -
Deflection layer 570 is positioned betweenhelmet shell 510 andspacing pad 530.Deflection layer 570 is formed from a material that is less flexible (i.e. stiffer) thanspacing pad 530. This enables the hard surface ofdeflection layer 570 to deflect a portion of the force from impacts along a surface thereof, rather than transmitting that force throughdeflection layer 570 tospacing pad 530. In other words, it assists in converting forces from impacts into tangential forces (which propagate along the surface) as opposed to normal forces (which propagate through the surface to the user's head). In an exemplary embodiment,deflection layer 570 comprises a sheet of polycarbonate material.Deflection layer 570 may have a shape corresponding to the shape ofspacing pad 530, such that thedeflection layer 570 completely covers the space betweenspacing pad 530 andhelmet shell 510. -
Deflection layer 570 is also not coupled to the interior ofhelmet shell 510. This creates a “slip plane” betweendeflection layer 570 andhelmet shell 510, and enables relative movement between the two components. Put another way, this allows independent movement of the user's head (with whichspacing pad 530 anddeflection layer 570 are in contact) andhelmet shell 510. -
Helmet padding system 500 may also include a plurality ofdeflection plates 580.Deflection plates 580 may be coupled to the interior ofhelmet shell 510 in positions such that they slidablyabut deflection layer 570.Deflection plates 580 may be coupled tohelmet shell 510, e.g., with an adhesive.Deflection plates 580 are formed from the same materials asdeflection layer 570. The use ofdeflection plates 580 coupled tohelmet shell 510 may further promote a sliding interface betweendeflection layer 570 andhelmet shell 510, and thereby promote deflecting the force of impacts in a tangential direction alongdeflection layer 570, rather than throughdeflection layer 570 tospacing pad 530. -
Helmet padding system 500 may also include adeformation layer 590.Deformation layer 590 may be positioned betweendeflection layer 570 andspacing pad 530.Deformation layer 590 is configured to deform upon experiencing the force from an impact.Deformation layer 590 may undergo elastic (i.e. reversible) or plastic (i.e. irreversible) deformation. In an exemplary embodiment,deformation layer 590 comprises a sheet of corrugated plastic material configured to undergo plastic deformation. As shown inFIG. 12 , the sheet of corrugated plastic material may comprise a pair of plastic surface layers separated by a plurality of plastic ridges defining air gaps therebetween. Likedeflection layer 570,deformation layer 590 may have a shape corresponding to the shape ofspacing pad 530, such that thedeformation layer 590 completely covers the space betweenspacing pad 530 anddeflection layer 570. -
Deformation layer 590 may undergo plastic deformation, for example, by crumpling, bending, fracturing, or other irreversible changes. Accordingly,deformation layer 590 may need to be periodically replaced following impacts tohelmet padding system 500, where such impacts are sufficient to cause significant plastic deformation ofdeformation layer 590. - The above components of
helmet padding system 500 may be contained in a liner (not shown). In particular, a liner may be configured to surround and containspacing pad 530,deflection layer 570, anddeformation layer 590, to maintain their relative positioning and arrangement. The liner may be formed, for example, from a cloth or nylon material to provide a comfortable contact between the user and the components ofhelmet padding system 500. -
FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate another exemplaryhelmet padding system 600 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.Helmet padding system 600 may be worn by a user during military activities, e.g., under a standard military helmet. As a general overview,system 600 includes aframe 610 and aspacing pad 630. Additional details ofsystem 600 are described herein. -
Frame 610 is configured to be positioned on a user's head.Frame 610 comprises a rigid material such as, for example, a plastic or polycarbonate material. The size offrame 610 is selected such thathelmet shell 610 can accommodatespacing pad 630 while still be securely positioned on the user's head. - Spacing
pad 630 is coupled toframe 610. Spacingpad 630 may be a spacing pad substantially as described with respect tospacing pad 130, and/or may be formed from any of the materials described with respect tospacing pad 130. In particular,spacing pad 630 comprises acentral portion 632 and a plurality of extendingportions 634 projecting outward from thecentral portion 632. The plurality of extendingportions 634 are fixed to frame 610. - As shown in
FIGS. 14A and 14B , each extendingportion 630 has an end portion with a greater width than a portion of the respective extending portion coupled tocentral portion 632. Specifically, extendingportions 630 get wider as they extend outwardly fromcentral portion 632. The end portions of extendingportions 634 are fixed to frame 610. - In an exemplary embodiment,
frame 610 comprises agroove 612, as shown inFIG. 14B . The end portions of each of the plurality of extendingportions 634 are inserted withingroove 612. The end portions of the plurality of extendingportions 634 may be additionally secured to the frame via one or more attachment mechanisms.Suitable attachment mechanisms 615 include, for example, rivets, adhesives, or stitching. -
Frame 610 may be configured to be coupled to a helmet, as shown inFIG. 14D . In an exemplary embodiment,frame 610 is configured to be coupled to a standard-issue military helmet. The standard-issue military helmet includes a plurality (e.g. four) pre-arranged mounting points, such as drill holes, in the helmet. In this embodiment,frame 610 includes a plurality of throughholes 614 positioned to align with the pre-arranged mounting points in the military helmet. This may desirably simplify the attachment offrame 610 to the helmet. Spacingpad 630 is fixed to frame 610 in such a way that spacing pad does not contact the helmet whenframe 610 is coupled to the helmet. - In one exemplary embodiment,
frame 610 has a ring shape, as shown inFIGS. 14B and 14C . The plurality of extendingportions 634 extend upward fromframe 610, such that central portion 623 is positioned aboveframe 610. This creates a cavity withinframe 610 in which the top of the user's head is positioned during use. -
FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate another exemplaryhelmet padding system 700 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Thehelmet padding system 700 is substantially the same ashelmet padding system 600, and only the differences between those two embodiments will be described hereinafter. - In an exemplary embodiment,
frame 710 ofhelmet padding system 700 has a dome shape, as shown inFIGS. 15A-15C . The standard-issue military helmet includes a plurality (e.g. four) pre-arranged mounting points, such as drill holes, in the helmet. In this embodiment,frame 710 includes a plurality of throughholes 714 positioned to align with the pre-arranged mounting points in the military helmet. - Spacing
pad 730 is positioned within the dome, and may be adhered to an inner surface of the dome. The dome-shapedframe 710 includes a plurality ofridges 716 formed on an outer surface thereof. As shown inFIGS. 15A and 15B ,ridges 716 extend alongframe 710 from edge to edge through a top portion offrame 710. When dome-shapedframe 710 is coupled to a helmet, frame 710 contacts the helmet only along the outermost surfaces of the plurality ofridges 716. This may be desirable in order to minimize the transfer of impact force from the helmet to frame 710. In this embodiment,frame 710 may also include a plurality ofstraps 718 for enhancing fit and comfort ofsystem 700 when worn by a user, as shown inFIG. 15C . -
Helmet padding systems deformation layer 590. In one embodiment, the deformation layer is positioned between the frame and the spacing pad. In an alternative embodiment, the deformation layer is positioned such that it is between the frame and the helmet when the frame is coupled to the helmet. - As explained above with respect to
FIG. 13 , thehelmet padding systems FIGS. 16-18 disclose alternative embodiments of such a system. - The baseball cap of this system has the style of a normal baseball cap except on sides of the cap. The body of the cap may be formed from flexible material such as cotton or synthetic textiles. The rear of the cap may be fitted to the user's head, or may include a conventional adjustable strap. As shown in
FIG. 16 , theside 810 of the cap extends downward to cover the user's temple, and at least a portion (preferably at least 50%) of the user's ear. A downward extended portion is formed on both sides of the cap. As shown inFIG. 16 , the downward extended portion may extend across the rear of the cap. Alternatively, as shown inFIGS. 17 and 18 , the downward extended portion may end (or grow more narrow) across the rear of the cap. As shown inFIG. 16 , the cap body may include anopening 820 in the area of the user's ear. The opening may be desirable in order to promote aeration within the cap, and to provide the user better hearing. - Within the cap, a spacing pad is provided. In an exemplary embodiment,
spacing pad 130 d illustrated inFIG. 13 is provided. Alternatively, the cap may include any of the spacing pads and accompanying components described herein. Still further, this system may use conventional foam padding in place of the spacing pad. - The shape of the spacing pad may be selected to maximize coverage of the user's head while minimizing interference with the user's comfort (e.g., by obstructing the user's hearing). In an exemplary embodiment, the spacing pad has one extending portion that extends from the top of the cap to a position forward of the user's ear, to cover the user's temple, and another extending portion that extends from the top of the cap to a position rearward of the user's ear, to cover the base of the user's skull behind their ear. The spacing pad is shaped to leave a gap in the area of the user's ear, to avoid obstructing the user's hearing.
- To protect the area of the user's ear, the cap may include a rigid frame. The rigid frame may be formed, for example, from rigid plastic. In an exemplary embodiment, the rigid frame comprises a plurality of rigid outer members extending along the periphery of the gap (adjacent the edges of the spacing pad). The frame may have a substantially round, rectangular, or triangular shape. The frame further comprises an open area between the rigid outer members. The open area in the central portion of the rigid frame is desirable in order to avoid obstructing the user's hearing.
- The cap may also include a rigid liner around a peripheral edge of the cap. In an exemplary embodiment, the rigid liner comprises a thin, rigid structure extending around the peripheral edges of the cap. The rim may be formed, for example, from rigid plastic. The rim may desirably be positioned within a fold or pocket of the outer cloth body of the cap, in order to enhance the user's comfort.
- Although the invention is illustrated and described herein with reference to specific embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details shown. Rather, various modifications may be made in the details within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims and without departing from the invention. In particular, any of the features described herein with respect to one embodiment may be provided in any of the other embodiments.
Claims (17)
1. A helmet padding system comprising:
a baseball cap having a body portion and a brim portion, the cap comprising a pair of side portions extending downward from the cap body below a point at which the brim portion meets the body portion; and
a spacing pad positioned within the baseball cap, the spacing pad including a layer of elastomeric material.
2. The helmet padding system of claim 1 , wherein the side portions are sized to cover at least 50% of a user's ear when the helmet padding system is worn by the user.
3. The helmet padding system of claim 1 , further comprising a rear portion extending downward from the cap body, the rear portion forming a continuous extended portion with the pair of side portions.
4. The helmet padding system of claim 3 , wherein the rear portion extends downward from the cap body a same distance as the pair of side portions.
5. The helmet padding system of claim 3 , wherein the rear portion extends downward from the cap body a shorter distance than the pair of side portions.
6. The helmet padding system of claim 1 , wherein each of the pair of side portions includes an opening therein.
7. The helmet padding system of claim 6 , wherein the openings are positioned over a user's ear when the helmet padding system is worn by the user.
8. The helmet padding system of claim 1 , wherein the spacing pad comprises a central portion and a plurality of extending portions projecting outward from the central portion
9. The helmet padding system of claim 8 , wherein the plurality of extending portions includes at least a first extending portion extending to a position forward of a user's ear and a second extending portion extending to a position rearward of the user's ear when the helmet padding system is worn by the user, thereby defining a gap over the user's ear.
10. The helmet padding system of claim 8 , wherein each extending portion has an end portion with a greater width than a portion of the respective extending portion coupled to the central portion
11. The helmet padding system of claim 8 , wherein the body portion of the baseball cap includes a cutout in a rearward area, and wherein an extending portion of the spacing pad extending toward the rearward area is shorter than the remaining extending portions of the spacing pad.
12. The helmet padding system of claim 1 , wherein the spacing pad consists of a single layer of the elastomeric material.
13. The helmet padding system of claim 1 , wherein the spacing pad comprises a plurality of layers of elastomeric material.
14. The helmet padding system of claim 13 , wherein the spacing pad further comprises a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material between two layers of elastomeric material.
15. The helmet padding system of claim 1 , further comprising a rigid frame coupled to the baseball cap, the rigid frame comprising a plurality of rigid members defining a space in an area of a user's ear when the helmet padding system is worn by the user.
16. The helmet padding system of claim 1 , further comprising a rigid liner extending around a peripheral edge of the body portion of the baseball cap.
17. The helmet padding system of claim 16 , wherein the baseball cap comprises a pocket extending around the peripheral edge of the body portion, and the rigid liner is positioned within the pocket.
Priority Applications (13)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/275,046 US20140338104A1 (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2014-05-12 | Helmet padding system |
PCT/US2014/037764 WO2014186312A1 (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2014-05-13 | Helmet padding system |
EP14798462.9A EP2996506A4 (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2014-05-13 | Helmet padding system |
TW103117352A TW201509321A (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2014-05-16 | Helmet padding system |
US14/493,869 US10993496B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2014-09-23 | Helmet padding system |
US14/729,266 US20150264993A1 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2015-06-03 | Helmet padding system |
US15/488,650 US11253771B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2017-04-17 | Helmet padding system |
US15/644,145 US20170303624A1 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2017-07-07 | Helmet padding system |
US15/898,814 US20180235303A1 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2018-02-19 | Helmet padding system |
US15/923,117 US20180279707A1 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2018-03-16 | Helmet padding system |
US16/210,271 US11659882B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2018-12-05 | Helmet padding system |
US16/774,494 US11730222B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2020-01-28 | Helmet padding system |
US17/100,267 US11744312B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2020-11-20 | Helmet padding system |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US201361824537P | 2013-05-17 | 2013-05-17 | |
US14/275,046 US20140338104A1 (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2014-05-12 | Helmet padding system |
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US14/493,869 Continuation-In-Part US10993496B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2014-09-23 | Helmet padding system |
Publications (1)
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US20140338104A1 true US20140338104A1 (en) | 2014-11-20 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
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US14/275,046 Abandoned US20140338104A1 (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2014-05-12 | Helmet padding system |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20140338104A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2996506A4 (en) |
TW (1) | TW201509321A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2014186312A1 (en) |
Cited By (25)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20150047110A1 (en) * | 2013-08-13 | 2015-02-19 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet with shock absorbing inserts |
USD752294S1 (en) | 2013-08-13 | 2016-03-22 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
USD752814S1 (en) | 2013-08-13 | 2016-03-29 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
US20160235133A1 (en) * | 2014-04-11 | 2016-08-18 | John Dana Chase, JR. | Impact reduction apparel and impact absorbing liner for apparel |
USD773120S1 (en) | 2014-07-25 | 2016-11-29 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
WO2016196724A1 (en) | 2015-06-03 | 2016-12-08 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US20170105461A1 (en) * | 2015-10-14 | 2017-04-20 | Impact Reduction Apparel, Inc. | Impact reduction apparel and impact absorbing liner for apparel |
USD795500S1 (en) | 2013-08-13 | 2017-08-22 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
WO2017147143A1 (en) * | 2016-02-22 | 2017-08-31 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US20170295882A1 (en) * | 2014-10-09 | 2017-10-19 | Artisent, Llc | Individually Conforming Impact Attenuating Liner for a Helmet |
US20180092420A1 (en) * | 2013-12-03 | 2018-04-05 | University Of Massachusetts | Add-on impact energy absorbing pad structure for outside of military and sport helmets |
USD817553S1 (en) | 2016-10-31 | 2018-05-08 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
USD822905S1 (en) | 2016-10-31 | 2018-07-10 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
US20180303187A1 (en) * | 2016-03-02 | 2018-10-25 | Poc Sweden Ab | Comfort Padding and a Helmet Comprising The Comfort Padding |
WO2019010193A3 (en) * | 2017-07-07 | 2019-04-04 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US10362829B2 (en) | 2013-12-06 | 2019-07-30 | Bell Sports, Inc. | Multi-layer helmet and method for making the same |
US10721987B2 (en) | 2014-10-28 | 2020-07-28 | Bell Sports, Inc. | Protective helmet |
US10993496B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2021-05-04 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US11253771B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2022-02-22 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US11503872B2 (en) | 2011-09-09 | 2022-11-22 | Riddell, Inc. | Protective sports helmet |
US11540577B2 (en) | 2020-03-12 | 2023-01-03 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet system |
US11540578B2 (en) | 2020-03-12 | 2023-01-03 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet system |
US11659882B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2023-05-30 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US11730222B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2023-08-22 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US11744312B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2023-09-05 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10219572B1 (en) | 2014-03-10 | 2019-03-05 | John E. Whitcomb | Baseball cap having impact protection |
GB201818219D0 (en) * | 2018-11-08 | 2018-12-26 | Mips Ab | Connector |
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- 2014-05-13 EP EP14798462.9A patent/EP2996506A4/en not_active Withdrawn
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US11503872B2 (en) | 2011-09-09 | 2022-11-22 | Riddell, Inc. | Protective sports helmet |
USD752294S1 (en) | 2013-08-13 | 2016-03-22 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
USD752814S1 (en) | 2013-08-13 | 2016-03-29 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
US11864615B2 (en) | 2013-08-13 | 2024-01-09 | Smith Sport Optics, Inc. | Helmet with shock absorbing inserts |
USD771874S1 (en) | 2013-08-13 | 2016-11-15 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
US11844390B2 (en) | 2013-08-13 | 2023-12-19 | Smith Sport Optics, Inc. | Helmet with shock absorbing inserts |
US20150047110A1 (en) * | 2013-08-13 | 2015-02-19 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet with shock absorbing inserts |
USD795500S1 (en) | 2013-08-13 | 2017-08-22 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
US10736373B2 (en) * | 2013-08-13 | 2020-08-11 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet with shock absorbing inserts |
US20180092420A1 (en) * | 2013-12-03 | 2018-04-05 | University Of Massachusetts | Add-on impact energy absorbing pad structure for outside of military and sport helmets |
US10820655B2 (en) * | 2013-12-03 | 2020-11-03 | University Of Massachusetts | Add-on impact energy absorbing pad structure for outside of military and sport helmets |
US11291263B2 (en) | 2013-12-06 | 2022-04-05 | Bell Sports, Inc. | Multi-layer helmet and method for making the same |
US11871809B2 (en) | 2013-12-06 | 2024-01-16 | Bell Sports, Inc. | Multi-layer helmet and method for making the same |
US10362829B2 (en) | 2013-12-06 | 2019-07-30 | Bell Sports, Inc. | Multi-layer helmet and method for making the same |
US10993496B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2021-05-04 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
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US11730222B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2023-08-22 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US11659882B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2023-05-30 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US11253771B2 (en) | 2014-02-21 | 2022-02-22 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US20160235133A1 (en) * | 2014-04-11 | 2016-08-18 | John Dana Chase, JR. | Impact reduction apparel and impact absorbing liner for apparel |
US10588360B2 (en) * | 2014-04-11 | 2020-03-17 | John Dana Chase, JR. | Impact reduction apparel and impact absorbing liner for apparel |
USD773120S1 (en) | 2014-07-25 | 2016-11-29 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
US10893718B2 (en) * | 2014-10-09 | 2021-01-19 | Gentex Corporation | Individually conforming impact attenuating liner for a helmet |
US20170295882A1 (en) * | 2014-10-09 | 2017-10-19 | Artisent, Llc | Individually Conforming Impact Attenuating Liner for a Helmet |
US10721987B2 (en) | 2014-10-28 | 2020-07-28 | Bell Sports, Inc. | Protective helmet |
US11638457B2 (en) | 2014-10-28 | 2023-05-02 | Bell Sports, Inc. | Protective helmet |
WO2016196724A1 (en) | 2015-06-03 | 2016-12-08 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
CN107708463A (en) * | 2015-06-03 | 2018-02-16 | 马奇希泰奇诺许可公司 | helmet liner system |
EP3302117A4 (en) * | 2015-06-03 | 2019-01-16 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US20170105461A1 (en) * | 2015-10-14 | 2017-04-20 | Impact Reduction Apparel, Inc. | Impact reduction apparel and impact absorbing liner for apparel |
WO2017147143A1 (en) * | 2016-02-22 | 2017-08-31 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US20180303187A1 (en) * | 2016-03-02 | 2018-10-25 | Poc Sweden Ab | Comfort Padding and a Helmet Comprising The Comfort Padding |
USD900398S1 (en) | 2016-10-31 | 2020-10-27 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
USD822905S1 (en) | 2016-10-31 | 2018-07-10 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
USD817553S1 (en) | 2016-10-31 | 2018-05-08 | Smith Optics, Inc. | Helmet |
WO2019010193A3 (en) * | 2017-07-07 | 2019-04-04 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet padding system |
US11540577B2 (en) | 2020-03-12 | 2023-01-03 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet system |
US11540578B2 (en) | 2020-03-12 | 2023-01-03 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Helmet system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2014186312A1 (en) | 2014-11-20 |
TW201509321A (en) | 2015-03-16 |
EP2996506A1 (en) | 2016-03-23 |
EP2996506A4 (en) | 2017-01-18 |
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Owner name: MATSCITECHNO LICENSING COMPANY, PENNSYLVANIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:VITO, ROBERT A.;FOERSTER, MICHAEL;REEL/FRAME:032875/0421 Effective date: 20140509 |
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