US20220031003A1 - Helmet - Google Patents
Helmet Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20220031003A1 US20220031003A1 US17/504,792 US202117504792A US2022031003A1 US 20220031003 A1 US20220031003 A1 US 20220031003A1 US 202117504792 A US202117504792 A US 202117504792A US 2022031003 A1 US2022031003 A1 US 2022031003A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- helmet
- web
- user
- soft
- outer shell
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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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
- A42B3/06—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets
- A42B3/062—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets with reinforcing means
- A42B3/063—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets with reinforcing means using layered structures
- A42B3/064—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets with reinforcing means using layered structures with relative movement between layers
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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
- A42B3/06—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets
- A42B3/069—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets with soft external layer, e.g. for use in impact sports
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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
- A42B3/124—Cushioning devices with at least one corrugated or ribbed layer
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/08—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
- A63B71/10—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the head
Definitions
- the present specification generally relates to helmets. More specifically, the present specification relates to a helmet having improved energy absorption qualities.
- Helmets for use in a variety of different sporting events, as well as for a variety of different recreational activities or non-recreational activities, are well known.
- the primary purpose of these helmets is to protect a wearer's head from injury. Accordingly, it is the function of helmets, particularly helmets for sporting events, is safety.
- Helmets used by those engaged in certain sports typically have a hard outer shell that covers some type of energy-absorbing material, such as a foam.
- the hard outer shell of most sport helmets is typically comprised of a plastic material.
- the outer shell typically covers an expanded inner layer that lies between the outer shell and the wearer's head.
- the inner layer is intended to absorb energy in the event it becomes necessary in order to minimize the energy transmitted to a wearer's head.
- the composition of the outer shell may vary.
- the composition of the outer shell when used for military purposes, is typically formed of polymeric or metallic material that is capable of resisting any type of ordnance, including ammunition for weapons as well as explosives or similar items.
- the present specification generally discloses a helmet having a semi-soft outer shell adjacent to a web and spaced apart from a tight fitting inner shell.
- the semi-soft outer shell is made from a high absorbent material.
- the web is made of a plurality of strips that compress on impact and become more rigid the more they are compressed.
- An air space separates the web from the inner shell.
- the inner shell is also made of the soft and highly absorbent material that the outer shell is made from.
- the inner shell is configured to be tightly fitting around the cranium of the user.
- a helmet configured to protect the skull of a user having a semi-soft outer shell, a resilient web positioned internally with respect to the outer shell, an inner shell configured to fit tightly around the head of the user and an air gap positioned between the inner shell and the resilient web to aid in protecting the skull of the user when the helmet is in use.
- protrusions extending from the web wherein the protrusions are configured to further protect the skull of the user.
- the web may be generally rectangular in configuration or angled.
- the protrusions may be square, rectangular, rounded, triangular or any other suitable geometrical configuration.
- the web is configured to become more rigid as pressure is applied to the surface.
- the inner shell may include a plurality of outwardly facing protrusions extending away from the skull of the user where the protrusions extend into the air gap.
- the protrusion of the web additionally, extend from the web away from the skull of the user.
- the protrusions directly abut an inner surface of the semi-soft outer shell.
- the helmet includes a semi-soft outer shell positioned adjacent to a rigid middle web and a soft inner shall spaced apart from the rigid middle web, the soft inner shell configured to form for the users cranium wherein the semi-soft outer shell, the rigid middle web and the soft inner shell are configured to have a modular and replaceable configuration wherein each or all of the semi-soft outer shell, the rigid middle web or the soft inner shell may be replaced at any time to provide for adjustability and longevity of the helmet.
- protrusions extending from the web wherein the protrusions are configured to further protect the skull of the user.
- the web may be generally rectangular in configuration or angled.
- the protrusions may be square, rectangular, rounded, triangular or any other suitable geometrical configuration,
- the web is configured to become more rigid as pressure is applied to the surface.
- the inner shell may include a plurality of outwardly faring protrusions extending away from the skull of the user where the protrusions extend into the air gap.
- the protrusion of the web additionally, extend from the web away from the skull of the user. In this embodiment, the protrusions directly abut an inner surface of the semi-soft outer shell.
- a helmet for wear on the skull of a user, the helmet includes a semi-soft outer shell positioned directly adjacent to a rigid web, a soft inner shell, the soft inner shell positioned directly adjacent to the user's skull so as to tightly fit the user's skull, and an air gap positioned between the soft inner shell and the rigid web.
- the web includes a first set of outwardly facing protrusions, wherein said protrusions abut the semi-soft outer shell.
- the soft inner shell includes a second set of outwardly facing protrusions extending into the air gap.
- FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of the helmet of the present specification according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;
- FIG. 2 depicts a side cross-sectional view being worn by a user of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;
- FIG. 3 depicts a side partial cross-sectional view of the web of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;
- FIG. 4 depicts a partial cutaway top view of the web of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;
- FIG. 5 depicts a detail view of the web of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;
- FIG. 6 depicts a side view of the web of the helmet as shown in FIG. 5 according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;
- FIG. 7 depicts an alternative detail view of the web of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;
- FIG. 8 depicts the alternative web in side view of the web of the helmet as shown in FIG. 7 according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;
- FIG. 9 depicts yet another alternative view of the top of the web of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein.
- the Figures provided herein generally depicts a helmet having a semi-soft outer shell adjacent to a web and spaced apart from a tight fitting inner shell.
- the semi-soft outer shell is made from a high absorbent material.
- the web is made of a plurality of strips that compress on impact and become more rigid the more they are compressed.
- An air space separates the web from the inner shell.
- the inner shell is also made of the soft and highly absorbent material that the outer shell is made from.
- the inner shell is configured to be tightly fitting.
- a helmet 100 includes a semi-soft outer shell 102 positioned adjacent to a web 106 .
- the semi-soft outer shell 102 and the web 106 is spaced directly adjacent thereto.
- an air gap is positioned between the outer shell 102 and the web 106 .
- the outer shell 102 and the web are positioned directly adjacent to each other.
- An inner shell 112 is configured to tightly fit against the user's cranium 110 .
- the inner shell 112 may include a plurality of blisters 114 to further aid in shock absorption.
- the blisters 114 may also be referred to as protrusions.
- the blusters extend 114 extend into the air gap 108 .
- the large air gap 108 is positioned between the inner shell 112 and web 106 .
- the helmet 100 of the present embodiment varies dramatically from traditional helmets in that the outer shell or layer of the helmet is generally less hard than tradition helmets, being semi-soft or partially rigid. Conversely, traditional helmets have a very hard outer shell or layer.
- the semi-soft outer shell or layer of the present helmet aids in softening impact to the user's cranium.
- the inner shell 112 and the web 106 are spaced apart a predetermined distance T 1 (the air gap).
- This thickness T 1 in the present embodiment, ranges between 0.25 inches to 2 inches (6.2 millimeters to 50.8 millimeters).
- This air gap 108 having a predetermined thickness T 1 is utilized and incorporated to further assist in the shock absorption to the cranium 110 .
- the air gap allows for space of movement of the cranium (skull) to move allowing the velocity of the cranium to lessen as the cranium moves towards the layers of the web 106 and the outer shell 102 .
- a predetermined thickness T 2 is the thickness of the semi-soft outer shell 102 .
- the semi-soft outer shell 102 is comprised of a material having a high durometer of approximately 50-60.
- the material comprised of the semi-soft outer shell 102 is resilient.
- the semi-soft outer shell 102 having the predetermined thickness T 2 acts as the initial shock absorbing layer to the helmet 100 .
- the predetermined thickness T 2 ranges between 1 millimeter to 10 millimeters, but may vary depending on the type of material used for the semi-soft outer shell 102 .
- the web 106 includes a predetermined thickness T 3 . While the overall web 106 , as show in the subsequent figures, includes a plurality of apertures, the thickness of the physical portions of the web 106 have a predetermined thickness T 3 where T 3 ranges between 1 millimeter and 5 millimeters. As illustrated in FIGS. 5 through 9 , the web 106 may have various configurations and arrangements.
- the predetermined overall thickness T 4 includes the entire thickness of the outer shell, the web, the air gap and the inner shell.
- the overall thickness T 4 ranges between 8.2 millimeters to 65.8 millimeters.
- FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate a first embodiment of the web 106 .
- the web 106 includes a plurality of similar dimensioned strips 188 .
- the strips 118 are interconnected and molded together to form a one piece web material and portion, such as illustrated at 106 .
- FIG. 3 illustrates a cross sectional view of the strips 118 when the web is installed into the helmet configuration. The spacing of the strips 118 may vary depending on testing and the needs of the user. Furthermore, the materials of the strips 118 may also vary depending on the required shock absorption, cost and weight.
- FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a web 206 .
- the web 206 includes a plurality of strips 218 crossing upon one another in a rectangular configuration.
- the strips 218 may vary and have different spacing with respect to each other.
- the material of the strips 218 may also vary depending on the requirements of the user and shock absorption requirements.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a cross sectional view of the web 206 having the strips 218 .
- the strips 218 have a generally triangular cross section which further facilitates shock absorption of the overall helmet 100 .
- FIG. 9 illustrates yet another alternative embodiment of a web 306 .
- the web 306 includes a plurality of strips 318 crossing upon one another in a diagonal configuration.
- the strips 318 may vary and have different spacing with respect to each other.
- the material of the strips 318 may also vary depending on the requirements of the user and shock absorption requirements.
- the strips 318 have a generally triangular cross section which further facilitates shock absorption of the overall helmet 100 .
- FIG. 3 generally illustrates the helmet 100 from a top view having a partial cross sectional view illustrating the cranium 110 .
- FIG. 2 illustrates a top view where the face mask 120 is visible.
- the web 106 is illustrated in yet another alternative embodiment where webbing is only used in a portion of the helmet.
- the inner shell 112 made be customized to fit the users head to ensure a tighter and better fit.
- the inner shell 112 may also have some stretch and give to allow the user to have a more snug fit on the cranium 110 .
- the various layers of the helmet 100 including the semi-soft outer layer 102 , the web 106 , and the inner shell 112 are connected to a base portion (not shown) to secure each layer and element together.
- the soft configuration of the outer shell 102 decreases the overall weight of the helmet 100 , increases comfort to the user, and improves shock absorption upon initial impact.
- the incorporation of the semi-soft outer layer 102 with the webbing 106 and the inner shell 112 allow for a lighter and more comfortable helmet to be worn by the user.
- the helmet of the present specification may be of a modular configuration.
- the various layers may be replaceable and substitutable with other layers of portions of the helmet.
- the ability to provide for a modular helmet offers several advantages in that broken parts of layers can be replaced. This may extend the life of the helmet as worn by the user.
- the modularity is also advantageous in that the helmet may be able to be customized as prescribed by the user. This may include providing softer materials, more resilient materials or materials or layers having different sizing so as to better fit the users head.
- the materials used to make the semi-soft outer layer, the web and the inner shell may vary depending on the needs of the specific helmet and based on the needs of the user.
- the semi-soft outer shell is a form of a plastic, plastic or similar material having similar properties as plastic such as various polymers, plastic-like materials, polymer-like materials, rubber or any other suitable material.
- the web is a form of a plastic, plastic or similar material having similar properties as plastic such as various polymers, plastic-like materials, polymer-like materials, rubber or any other suitable material.
- the soft inner shell in most embodiments, is a soft cloth like material such as Sorbothane® or having material and energy absorption characteristics similar to Sorbothane®.
- the inner shell may also be (or have an additional layer) any suitable cloth or cloth like material having elastic properties.
- the elastic properties ensure a tight and secure fit for the user.
- Other suitable materials for any of the layers may also be provided so long as they exhibit the resiliency, adsorption properties and elasticity properties required for the helmet and as required by the user or the sport or activity that a theoretical user is participating in.
- the layers are removably connected together by means of a fastener or their clip so as to connect the layers of the helmet together.
- This clip or fastener is provided at the outer edges of the layers of the helmet as proved above.
Abstract
A helmet having a semi-soft outer shell adjacent to a web and spaced apart from a tight fitting inner shell. The semi-soft outer shell is made from a high absorbent material. The web is made of a plurality of strips that compress on impact and become more rigid the more they are compressed. An air space separates the web from the inner shell. The inner shell is also made of the soft and highly absorbent material that the outer shell is made from. The inner shell is configured to be tightly fitting.
Description
- The application claims priority and benefit to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/420,115 filed on Nov. 10, 2016.
- The present specification generally relates to helmets. More specifically, the present specification relates to a helmet having improved energy absorption qualities.
- Helmets for use in a variety of different sporting events, as well as for a variety of different recreational activities or non-recreational activities, are well known. The primary purpose of these helmets is to protect a wearer's head from injury. Accordingly, it is the function of helmets, particularly helmets for sporting events, is safety.
- Helmets used by those engaged in certain sports typically have a hard outer shell that covers some type of energy-absorbing material, such as a foam. The hard outer shell of most sport helmets is typically comprised of a plastic material. The outer shell typically covers an expanded inner layer that lies between the outer shell and the wearer's head. The inner layer is intended to absorb energy in the event it becomes necessary in order to minimize the energy transmitted to a wearer's head.
- For non-recreational activities, the composition of the outer shell may vary. For example, the composition of the outer shell, when used for military purposes, is typically formed of polymeric or metallic material that is capable of resisting any type of ordnance, including ammunition for weapons as well as explosives or similar items.
- Regardless of the intended use, it is generally well known that current protective helmets do not provide a high degree of comfort. Furthermore, current protective helmets are bulky. This is primarily because the helmet itself and the inner lining are designed principally for safety purposes and not for comfort. As such they can be relatively heavy and cumbersome.
- Accordingly, a need exists for alternative helmet assembly providing both comfort and safety to the user.
- The present specification generally discloses a helmet having a semi-soft outer shell adjacent to a web and spaced apart from a tight fitting inner shell. The semi-soft outer shell is made from a high absorbent material. The web is made of a plurality of strips that compress on impact and become more rigid the more they are compressed. An air space separates the web from the inner shell. The inner shell is also made of the soft and highly absorbent material that the outer shell is made from. The inner shell is configured to be tightly fitting around the cranium of the user.
- More specifically, in some embodiments, a helmet is provided configured to protect the skull of a user having a semi-soft outer shell, a resilient web positioned internally with respect to the outer shell, an inner shell configured to fit tightly around the head of the user and an air gap positioned between the inner shell and the resilient web to aid in protecting the skull of the user when the helmet is in use. In some embodiments, protrusions extending from the web wherein the protrusions are configured to further protect the skull of the user. The web may be generally rectangular in configuration or angled. The protrusions may be square, rectangular, rounded, triangular or any other suitable geometrical configuration. The web is configured to become more rigid as pressure is applied to the surface. The inner shell may include a plurality of outwardly facing protrusions extending away from the skull of the user where the protrusions extend into the air gap. The protrusion of the web, additionally, extend from the web away from the skull of the user. In this embodiment, the protrusions directly abut an inner surface of the semi-soft outer shell.
- In other embodiments, the helmet includes a semi-soft outer shell positioned adjacent to a rigid middle web and a soft inner shall spaced apart from the rigid middle web, the soft inner shell configured to form for the users cranium wherein the semi-soft outer shell, the rigid middle web and the soft inner shell are configured to have a modular and replaceable configuration wherein each or all of the semi-soft outer shell, the rigid middle web or the soft inner shell may be replaced at any time to provide for adjustability and longevity of the helmet. in some embodiments, protrusions extending from the web wherein the protrusions are configured to further protect the skull of the user. The web may be generally rectangular in configuration or angled. The protrusions may be square, rectangular, rounded, triangular or any other suitable geometrical configuration, The web is configured to become more rigid as pressure is applied to the surface. The inner shell may include a plurality of outwardly faring protrusions extending away from the skull of the user where the protrusions extend into the air gap. The protrusion of the web, additionally, extend from the web away from the skull of the user. In this embodiment, the protrusions directly abut an inner surface of the semi-soft outer shell.
- In yet another embodiment, a helmet is provided for wear on the skull of a user, the helmet includes a semi-soft outer shell positioned directly adjacent to a rigid web, a soft inner shell, the soft inner shell positioned directly adjacent to the user's skull so as to tightly fit the user's skull, and an air gap positioned between the soft inner shell and the rigid web. As in the previously listed embodiments, the web includes a first set of outwardly facing protrusions, wherein said protrusions abut the semi-soft outer shell. In some embodiments, the soft inner shell includes a second set of outwardly facing protrusions extending into the air gap.
- The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments can be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, where like structure is indicated with like reference numerals and in which:
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FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of the helmet of the present specification according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; -
FIG. 2 depicts a side cross-sectional view being worn by a user of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; -
FIG. 3 depicts a side partial cross-sectional view of the web of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; -
FIG. 4 depicts a partial cutaway top view of the web of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; -
FIG. 5 depicts a detail view of the web of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; -
FIG. 6 depicts a side view of the web of the helmet as shown inFIG. 5 according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; -
FIG. 7 depicts an alternative detail view of the web of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; -
FIG. 8 depicts the alternative web in side view of the web of the helmet as shown inFIG. 7 according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and -
FIG. 9 depicts yet another alternative view of the top of the web of the helmet according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein. - The Figures provided herein generally depicts a helmet having a semi-soft outer shell adjacent to a web and spaced apart from a tight fitting inner shell. The semi-soft outer shell is made from a high absorbent material. The web is made of a plurality of strips that compress on impact and become more rigid the more they are compressed. An air space separates the web from the inner shell. The inner shell is also made of the soft and highly absorbent material that the outer shell is made from. The inner shell is configured to be tightly fitting.
- Referring now to
FIG. 2 , ahelmet 100 includes a semi-softouter shell 102 positioned adjacent to aweb 106. The semi-softouter shell 102 and theweb 106 is spaced directly adjacent thereto. In other embodiments, an air gap is positioned between theouter shell 102 and theweb 106. In this alternative embodiment, theouter shell 102 and the web are positioned directly adjacent to each other. - An
inner shell 112 is configured to tightly fit against the user'scranium 110. Theinner shell 112 may include a plurality ofblisters 114 to further aid in shock absorption. Theblisters 114 may also be referred to as protrusions. The blusters extend 114 extend into theair gap 108. Thelarge air gap 108 is positioned between theinner shell 112 andweb 106. - The
helmet 100 of the present embodiment varies dramatically from traditional helmets in that the outer shell or layer of the helmet is generally less hard than tradition helmets, being semi-soft or partially rigid. Conversely, traditional helmets have a very hard outer shell or layer. The semi-soft outer shell or layer of the present helmet aids in softening impact to the user's cranium. - In the present embodiment, the
inner shell 112 and theweb 106 are spaced apart a predetermined distance T1 (the air gap). This thickness T1, in the present embodiment, ranges between 0.25 inches to 2 inches (6.2 millimeters to 50.8 millimeters). Thisair gap 108 having a predetermined thickness T1 is utilized and incorporated to further assist in the shock absorption to thecranium 110. The air gap allows for space of movement of the cranium (skull) to move allowing the velocity of the cranium to lessen as the cranium moves towards the layers of theweb 106 and theouter shell 102. - A predetermined thickness T2 is the thickness of the semi-soft
outer shell 102. The semi-softouter shell 102 is comprised of a material having a high durometer of approximately 50-60. The material comprised of the semi-softouter shell 102 is resilient. The semi-softouter shell 102 having the predetermined thickness T2 acts as the initial shock absorbing layer to thehelmet 100. In the present embodiment, the predetermined thickness T2 ranges between 1 millimeter to 10 millimeters, but may vary depending on the type of material used for the semi-softouter shell 102. - The
web 106 includes a predetermined thickness T3. While theoverall web 106, as show in the subsequent figures, includes a plurality of apertures, the thickness of the physical portions of theweb 106 have a predetermined thickness T3 where T3 ranges between 1 millimeter and 5 millimeters. As illustrated inFIGS. 5 through 9 , theweb 106 may have various configurations and arrangements. - The predetermined overall thickness T4 includes the entire thickness of the outer shell, the web, the air gap and the inner shell. The overall thickness T4 ranges between 8.2 millimeters to 65.8 millimeters.
-
FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate a first embodiment of theweb 106. In this embodiment, theweb 106 includes a plurality of similar dimensioned strips 188. In the embodiment as illustrated inFIG. 4 , thestrips 118 are interconnected and molded together to form a one piece web material and portion, such as illustrated at 106.FIG. 3 illustrates a cross sectional view of thestrips 118 when the web is installed into the helmet configuration. The spacing of thestrips 118 may vary depending on testing and the needs of the user. Furthermore, the materials of thestrips 118 may also vary depending on the required shock absorption, cost and weight. - Similarly,
FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a web 206. In this embodiment, the web 206 includes a plurality of strips 218 crossing upon one another in a rectangular configuration. Such as in the prior embodiment, the strips 218 may vary and have different spacing with respect to each other. The material of the strips 218 may also vary depending on the requirements of the user and shock absorption requirements.FIG. 5 illustrates a cross sectional view of the web 206 having the strips 218. In this present alternative embodiment, the strips 218 have a generally triangular cross section which further facilitates shock absorption of theoverall helmet 100. - Similarly,
FIG. 9 illustrates yet another alternative embodiment of aweb 306. In this embodiment, theweb 306 includes a plurality ofstrips 318 crossing upon one another in a diagonal configuration. Such as in the prior embodiment, thestrips 318 may vary and have different spacing with respect to each other. The material of thestrips 318 may also vary depending on the requirements of the user and shock absorption requirements. In this present alternative embodiment, thestrips 318 have a generally triangular cross section which further facilitates shock absorption of theoverall helmet 100. -
FIG. 3 generally illustrates thehelmet 100 from a top view having a partial cross sectional view illustrating thecranium 110.FIG. 2 illustrates a top view where theface mask 120 is visible. Theweb 106 is illustrated in yet another alternative embodiment where webbing is only used in a portion of the helmet. - In some embodiments, the
inner shell 112 made be customized to fit the users head to ensure a tighter and better fit. Theinner shell 112 may also have some stretch and give to allow the user to have a more snug fit on thecranium 110. - In an assembled position, the various layers of the
helmet 100 including the semi-softouter layer 102, theweb 106, and theinner shell 112 are connected to a base portion (not shown) to secure each layer and element together. - The soft configuration of the
outer shell 102 decreases the overall weight of thehelmet 100, increases comfort to the user, and improves shock absorption upon initial impact. The incorporation of the semi-softouter layer 102 with thewebbing 106 and theinner shell 112 allow for a lighter and more comfortable helmet to be worn by the user. - In some embodiments, the helmet of the present specification may be of a modular configuration. In his situation, the various layers may be replaceable and substitutable with other layers of portions of the helmet. The ability to provide for a modular helmet offers several advantages in that broken parts of layers can be replaced. This may extend the life of the helmet as worn by the user. The modularity is also advantageous in that the helmet may be able to be customized as prescribed by the user. This may include providing softer materials, more resilient materials or materials or layers having different sizing so as to better fit the users head.
- The materials used to make the semi-soft outer layer, the web and the inner shell may vary depending on the needs of the specific helmet and based on the needs of the user. In some embodiment, the semi-soft outer shell is a form of a plastic, plastic or similar material having similar properties as plastic such as various polymers, plastic-like materials, polymer-like materials, rubber or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, the web is a form of a plastic, plastic or similar material having similar properties as plastic such as various polymers, plastic-like materials, polymer-like materials, rubber or any other suitable material. The soft inner shell, in most embodiments, is a soft cloth like material such as Sorbothane® or having material and energy absorption characteristics similar to Sorbothane®. The inner shell may also be (or have an additional layer) any suitable cloth or cloth like material having elastic properties. The elastic properties ensure a tight and secure fit for the user. Other suitable materials for any of the layers may also be provided so long as they exhibit the resiliency, adsorption properties and elasticity properties required for the helmet and as required by the user or the sport or activity that a theoretical user is participating in.
- To promote modularity, the layers are removably connected together by means of a fastener or their clip so as to connect the layers of the helmet together. This clip or fastener is provided at the outer edges of the layers of the helmet as proved above.
- It is noted that the terms “substantially” and “about” may be utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation.
- These terms are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.
- While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.
- Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination.
- It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter.
Claims (20)
1. A helmet configured to protect the skull of a user comprising:
a semi-soft outer shell;
a resilient web positioned internally with respect to the outer shell;
an inner shell configured to fit tightly around the head of the user;
an air gap positioned between the inner shell and the resilient web to aid in protecting the skull of the user when the helmet is in use.
2. The helmet of claim 1 wherein the web includes a plurality of protrusions extending therefrom wherein the protrusions are configured to further protect the skull of the user.
3. The helmet of claim 1 wherein the web is configured in a rectangular configration.
4. The helmet of claim 1 wherein the web is configured in an angled configuration.
5. The helmet of claim 1 wherein the inner shell includes a plurality of outwardly facing protrusions extending away from the skull of the user.
6. The helmet of claim 5 wherein the protrusions extend into the air gap.
7. The helmet of claim 2 wherein the protrusions extend from the web away from the skull of the user.
8. The helmet of claim 7 wherein the protrusions directly abut an inner surface of the semi-soft outer shell.
9. A helmet comprising:
a semi-soft outer shell positioned adjacent to a rigid middle web; and
a soft inner shall spaced apart from the rigid middle web, the soft inner shell configured to form for the users cranium;
wherein the semi-soft outer shell, the rigid middle web and the soft inner shell are configured to have a modular and replaceable configuration wherein each or all of the semi-soft outer shell, the rigid middle web or the soft inner shell may be replaced at any time to provide for adjustability and longevity of the helmet.
10. The helmet of claim 9 wherein the web includes a plurality of protrusions extending therefrom wherein the protrusions are configured to further protect the skull of the user.
11. The helmet of claim 9 wherein the web is configured in a rectangular configuration.
12. The helmet of claim 9 wherein the web is configured in an angled configuration.
13. The helmet of claim 9 wherein the inner shell includes a plurality of outwardly facing protrusions extending away from the skull of the user.
14. The helmet of claim 13 wherein the protrusions extend into the air gap.
15. The helmet of claim 10 wherein the protrusions extend from the web away from the skull of the user.
16. The helmet of claim 15 Wherein the protrusions directly abut an inner surface of the semi-soft outer shell.
17. The helmet of claim 9 wherein the thickness of the semi-soft outer shell is at least double that of the rigid middle layer.
18. A hehnet for wear on the skull of a user, the helmet comprising:
a semi-soft outer shell positioned directly adjacent to a rigid web;
a soft inner shell positioned directly adjacent to the user's skull so as to tightly, fit the user's skull; and
an air gap positioned between the soft inner shell and the rigid web,
19. The helmet of claim 18 wherein the web includes a first set of outwardly facing protrusions, wherein said protrusions abut the semi-soft outer shell.
20. The helmet of claim 18 wherein the soft inner shell includes a second set of outwardly facing protrusions extending into the air gap.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US17/504,792 US20220031003A1 (en) | 2016-11-10 | 2021-10-19 | Helmet |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201662420115P | 2016-11-10 | 2016-11-10 | |
US15/809,028 US20180125141A1 (en) | 2016-11-10 | 2017-11-10 | Helmet |
US17/504,792 US20220031003A1 (en) | 2016-11-10 | 2021-10-19 | Helmet |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US15/809,028 Continuation US20180125141A1 (en) | 2016-11-10 | 2017-11-10 | Helmet |
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US20220031003A1 true US20220031003A1 (en) | 2022-02-03 |
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ID=62065562
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US15/809,028 Abandoned US20180125141A1 (en) | 2016-11-10 | 2017-11-10 | Helmet |
US17/504,792 Abandoned US20220031003A1 (en) | 2016-11-10 | 2021-10-19 | Helmet |
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US15/809,028 Abandoned US20180125141A1 (en) | 2016-11-10 | 2017-11-10 | Helmet |
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US (2) | US20180125141A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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USD958464S1 (en) * | 2019-01-04 | 2022-07-19 | Vicis Ip, Llc | Athletic helmet facemask |
US11918070B2 (en) | 2020-01-03 | 2024-03-05 | Vicis Ip, Llc | Facemask system |
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US10433610B2 (en) * | 2017-11-16 | 2019-10-08 | Choon Kee Lee | Mechanical-waves attenuating protective headgear |
US11375764B2 (en) | 2017-11-28 | 2022-07-05 | Cincyguys, LLC | Shock absorptive helmet—facemask interconnect |
US10694803B2 (en) | 2017-11-28 | 2020-06-30 | Cincyguys, LLC | Shock absorptive face mask |
USD917101S1 (en) * | 2018-09-26 | 2021-04-20 | Dana Ratliff | Football helmet |
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US20180125141A1 (en) | 2018-05-10 |
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