WO2011047284A1

WO2011047284A1 - Helmet removal system and method

Info

Publication number: WO2011047284A1
Application number: PCT/US2010/052875
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bill Best; Steve Washburn; Jay Turkbas
Original assignee: Shock Doctor, Inc.
Priority date: 2009-10-15
Filing date: 2010-10-15
Publication date: 2011-04-21

Abstract

A protective helmet may include a helmet removal system. The helmet removal system is useful in helping to remove the protective helmet, particularly after an accident or other incident that renders the wearer unable to easily remove the protective helmet without assistance. The protective helmet may include a mechanical helmet removal system. The protective helmet may include a pneumatic helmet removal system.

Description

HELMET REMOVAL SYSTEM AND METHOD

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Serial No. 61/251 ,860 entitled

"HELMET REMOVAL SYSTEMS" filed October 15, 2009,which application is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The disclosure relates generally to head protective gear. More specifically, the disclosure pertains to helmets having a helmet having a helmet removal apparatus.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Various approaches have been proposed for removing helmets from injured wearers, such as motorcycle riders, football players, hockey players, and others. For example, U.S. Patents 5,428,845 and 5,566,398 by inventor John C. Deagan describe use of an inflatable bladder inside a helmet to more safely remove the helmet from an injury victim. First responders, such as EMT's, can remove a helmet without causing further unwanted movement to a victim's head or neck using a bladder that sits inside the victim's helmet. Following a crash the bladder is easily inflated by first responders by using a squeeze bulb or fluid cartridge (e.g., C0₂ cartridge), lifting the helmet from the victim's head and thereby reducing risk of further aggravating any potential neck injury.

SUMMARY

[0004] In some embodiments, the invention relates to a protective helmet that includes a helmet removal system. The helmet removal system is useful in helping to remove the protective helmet, particularly after an accident or other incident that renders the wearer unable to easily remove the protective helmet without assistance.

[0005] In an embodiment, the invention is a protective helmet that is

configured for removal from a wearer's head after an accident when the wearer is not able to remove the protective helmet without assistance. The protective helmet includes a rigid outer shell, a resilient inner liner and a padding layer disposed between the rigid outer shell and the resilient inner liner. A mechanical helmet removal system is disposed within the rigid outer shell.

[0006] In another embodiment, the invention is a protective helmet that is configured for removal from a wearer's head after an accident when the wearer is not able to remove the protective helmet without assistance. The protective helmet includes a rigid outer shell, a resilient inner liner and a padding layer disposed between the rigid outer shell and the resilient inner liner. A pneumatic helmet removal system is disposed within the rigid outer shell.

[0007] In another embodiment, the invention is a method of removing a protective helmet from an individual that is wearing a protective helmet equipped with a helmet removal system. An engagement point of the helmet removal system is located, and the engagement point of the helmet removal system is engaged in order to urge the protective helmet away from the wearer's head.

[0008] While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figures 1A, 1 B and 1 C provide inverted views of a helmet equipped with a helmet removal system including a jack assembly.

[0010] Figures 1 D and 1 E provide back and top views, respectively, of the helmet of Figures 1A, 1 B and 1 C.

[0011] Figures 2A, 2B and 2C provide inverted views of a helmet equipped with a helmet removal system including a spring assembly.

[0012] Figures 3A, 3B and 3C provide inverted views of a helmet equipped with a helmet removal system including a telescoping assembly.

[0013] Figures 4A, 4B and 4C provide inverted views of a helmet equipped with a helmet removal system including a balloon. [0014] Figures 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D and 5E provide inverted views of a helmet equipped with a helmet removal system including a balloon integrated into the liner.

[0015] Figures 6A, 6B and 6C provide inverted views of a helmet equipped with a helmet removal system including multiple balloons.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The disclosure pertains generally to helmets having a helmet removal apparatus at least partially built into the helmet. If an individual wearing such a helmet is involved in an accident necessitating removal of the helmet, the individual or an emergency responder such as a paramedic can activate the helmet removal apparatus to assist in removing the helmet from the individual without causing undue stress to the individual's neck and spine. In some embodiments, the helmet removal apparatus may be self-contained within the helmet. For example, if the helmet removal apparatus is fluid-activated, the fluid source may be on-board the helmet.

[0017] In some embodiments, the helmet removal apparatus may rely at least partially upon external components that may be carried by the emergency responder. If the helmet removal apparatus is fluid-activated, the helmet may include a fluid port to which an inflation source may be connected. In some embodiments, the helmet removal apparatus may be mechanically activated. In such cases, the emergency responder may carry an activating element such as a clip release device, a handle, or the like.

[0018] Figures 1A, 1 B and 1 C provide inverted views of a helmet 10 that, in some embodiments, includes one or more of an outer shell 12, an inner liner 14, a padding layer 16 that may be disposed between the outer shell 12 and the inner liner 14, and a removal system 18. While not seen in this orientation, the helmet 10 may include additional structure such as, but not limited to, a visor, venting, chin strapping, and other additional or alternate features as desired. In some

embodiments, the outer shell 12 may be formed of a rigid or substantially rigid material such as, for example, fiberglass, a carbon fiber composite or rigid polymers. The inner liner 14 may be formed of a polymeric material or a fabric. In some embodiments, the padding layer 16 may be composed of one or more pads formed of foam or other suitable material.

[0019] In some embodiments, as illustrated, the removal system 18 includes an engagement pad 20 and a jack assembly 22. The engagement pad 20 may be formed of any suitable material such as a resilient material and may be covered with a polymeric or fabric layer. In some embodiments, the engagement pad 20 may have a shape or profile such as a slightly dished profile that is complementary to the shape of the top of the helmet wearer's head. As shown, the engagement pad 20 is disposed between the padding layer 16 and the inner liner 14. The inner liner 14 may be configured to pull away from the padding layer 16 as the removal system 18 is activated (as will be discussed hereinafter).

[0020] In some cases, at least a portion of the inner liner 14 may be sufficiently elastic such that the inner liner 14 can stretch in response to movement of the engagement pad 14. In some embodiments, the inner liner 14 may be formed of a relatively inelastic material, and instead may include one or more accordion folds or flaps that can permit movement of the inner liner 14. Alternatively, the engagement pad 20 may be disposed above (in the illustrated orientation) the inner liner 14 while the jack assembly 22 is disposed under the inner liner 14, extending through an aperture formed within the inner liner 14.

[0021] In some embodiments, the jack assembly 22 may have a scissors jack configuration in which the jack assembly 22 includes several jack legs 24 that pivot about a pivot point 26. In a retracted configuration, as shown in Figure 1A, the jack legs 24 are at least substantially horizontal (relative to the illustrated orientation), permitting the engagement pad 20 to be in a retracted position. As the jack assembly 22 is activated, it can be seen in Figure 1 B that the jack legs 24 have begun to pivot about the pivot point 26 and are now arranged at an angle with respect to the horizontal. Consequently, the engagement pad 20 has begun to move towards an extended position. Figure 1 C shows the jack assembly 22 in an extended position in which the jack legs 24 are in a position in which they form a substantial angle with the horizontal and the engagement pad 20 is in an extended position. [0022] Activation of the jack assembly 22 may be accomplished in several different ways, depending on the configuration of the jack assembly 22. In some cases, a scissors jack may be activated via a threaded engagement with a centrally located portion of the scissors jack. Thus, in some embodiments and as shown in black box fashion in Figure 1 D, the helmet 10 may include an engagement point 21 that is configured to accommodate a tool such as a screwdriver, jack handle or similar structure such that the toll may engage the jack assembly 22. The

engagement point 21 is positioned to permit the tool to engage the jack legs 24 proximate the pivot point. The jack assembly 22 can be driven towards its retracted position or its extended position, depending on which direction the engagement point 21 is driven.

[0023] In some embodiments, a scissors jack may be actuated in an axial manner. Thus, and as shown in black box fashion in Figure 1 E, the helmet 10 may include an engagement point 23 that is configured to accommodate a tool such as a screwdriver, jack handle or similar structure such that the tool may engage the jack assembly 22 in an axially aligned manner. The jack assembly 22 can be driven towards its retracted position or its extended position, depending on which the direction the engagement point 23 is driven.

[0024] Figures 2A, 2B and 2C provide inverted views of a helmet 30 that, in some embodiments, includes one or more of an outer shell 12, an inner liner 14 and a padding layer 16 as discussed above. The helmet 30 may include a removal system 32. The helmet 30 may also include additional structure such as, but not limited to, a visor, venting, chin strapping, and other additional or alternate features as desired. In some embodiments, the outer shell 12 may be formed of a rigid or substantially rigid material such as, for example, fiberglass, a carbon fiber composite or rigid polymers. The inner liner 14 may be formed of a polymeric material or a fabric. In some embodiments, the padding layer 16 may be composed of one or more pads formed of foam or other suitable material.

[0025] In some embodiments, as illustrated, the removal system 32 includes an engagement pad 34 and a spring assembly 36. The engagement pad 34 may be formed of any suitable material such as a resilient material and may be covered with a polymeric or fabric layer. In some embodiments, the engagement pad 34 may have a shape or profile such as a slightly dished profile that is complementary to the shape of the top of the helmet wearer's head. As shown, the engagement pad 34 is disposed between the padding layer 16 and the inner liner 14. The inner liner 14 may be configured to pull away from the padding layer 16 as the removal system 32 is activated (as will be discussed hereinafter).

[0026] In some cases, at least a portion of the inner liner 14 may be sufficiently elastic such that the inner liner 14 can stretch in response to movement of the engagement pad 34. In some embodiments, the inner liner 14 may be formed of a relatively inelastic material, and instead may include one or more accordion folds or flaps that can permit movement of the inner liner 14. Alternatively, the engagement pad 34 may be disposed above (in the illustrated orientation) the inner liner 14 while the spring assembly 36 is disposed under the inner liner 14, extending through an aperture formed within the inner liner 14.

[0027] The removal system 32 may be actuated in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the removal system 32 may be actuated in an all-at-once fashion in which the spring assembly 36 is released from a compressed configuration. The spring assembly 34 may, for example, be held in a compressed configuration by one or more clips that can be releasably engaged from a position exterior to the helmet 30 in order to release the spring assembly 36. In Figure 2A, the removal system 32 is shown in its retracted position. In Figure 2C, however, it can be seen that the removal system 32 is in its extended position.

[0028] In some embodiments, the removal system 32 may be actuated in a staged or step-wise fashion in which the spring assembly 34 is incrementally released. This may be seen, for example, by comparing Figures 2A, 2B and 2C. In Figure 2A, the removal system 32 is in a retracted position. In Figure 2B, it can be seen that the removal system 32 has moved from the retracted position but it not yet in the fully extended position shown in Figure 2C. It will be appreciated that while the Figures show a single intermediate position, the removal system 32 may be configured to have any desired number of intermediate positions.

[0029] A staged or step-wise release may be accomplished in several different ways. For example, in some embodiments, the clips or other structure (not illustrated) that hold the spring assembly 36 in place may be positioned at one end of the spring assembly 36 such that the clips or other structure regulate an overall length (and hence the level of compression) of the spring assembly 36. By moving the clips or other structures in an axial direction, thereby changing the length of the spring assembly 34, the force provided by the spring assembly 34 may be regulated.

[0030] In some embodiments, the clips or other structures that hold the spring assembly 36 in place may be positioned such that the clips releasably hold distinct portions of the spring assembly 36 in a compressed position. By selectively releasing particular clips, one or more distinct portions of the spring assembly 36 can be permitted to expand towards their relaxed length, thereby exerting a force on the engagement pad 34.

[0031] In some embodiments, the removal system 32 may be actuated in a continuous manner. For example, the spring assembly 36 may be held in a compressed fashion by a clip or similar structure that is attached or otherwise secured to a rotatable structure. In some embodiments, the spring assembly 36 may be held in place by a threaded rod having threads that are dimensioned to extend radially and engage the spring assembly 36 (from a position exterior to the spring assembly 36 ) such that the threads hold the spring assembly 36 in place. By rotating the threaded rod, the spring assembly 36 is permitted to expand into its relaxed configuration, thereby providing an axial force to the engagement pad 34.

[0032] Figures 3A, 3B and 3C provide inverted views of a helmet 40 that, in some embodiments, includes one or more of an outer shell 12, an inner liner 14 and a padding layer 16 as discussed above. The helmet 40 may include a removal system 42. The helmet 40 may also include additional structure such as, but not limited to, a visor, venting, chin strapping, and other additional or alternate features as desired. In some embodiments, the outer shell 12 may be formed of a rigid or substantially rigid material such as, for example, fiberglass, a carbon fiber composite or rigid polymers. The inner liner 14 may be formed of a polymeric material or a fabric. In some embodiments, the padding layer 16 may be composed of one or more pads formed of foam or other suitable material.

[0033] In some embodiments, as illustrated, the removal system 42 includes an engagement pad 44 and a telescoping assembly 46. The engagement pad 34 may be formed of any suitable material such as a resilient material and may be covered with a polymeric or fabric layer. In some embodiments, the engagement pad 34 may have a shape or profile such as a slightly dished profile that is

complementary to the shape of the top of the helmet wearer's head. As shown, the engagement pad 44 is disposed between the padding layer 16 and the inner liner 14. The inner liner 14 may be configured to pull away from the padding layer 16 as the removal system 42 is activated (as will be discussed hereinafter).

[0034] In some cases, at least a portion of the inner liner 14 may be sufficiently elastic such that the inner liner 14 can stretch in response to movement of the engagement pad 44. In some embodiments, the inner liner 4 may be formed of a relatively inelastic material, and instead may include one or more accordion folds or flaps that can permit movement of the inner liner 14. Alternatively, the engagement pad 44 may be disposed above (in the illustrated orientation) the inner liner 14 while the telescoping assembly 46 is disposed under the inner liner 14, extending through an aperture formed within the inner liner 14.

[0035] The removal system 42 may be actuated in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the removal system 42 may be actuated in an all-at-once fashion in which the telescoping assembly 46 is released from a retracted configuration. The telescoping assembly 46 may, for example, be biased towards an extended position, and may be held in place by one or more clips. The clips can be releasably engaged from a position exterior to the helmet 40 in order to release the telescoping assembly 46. In Figure 3A, the removal system 42 is shown in its retracted position. In Figure 3C, however, it can be seen that the removal system 42 is in its extended position. It will be appreciated that this embodiment permits a rapid and controlled activation of the removal system 42 and thus removal of the helmet 10 from a wearer after an accident or other incident may be done quickly and safely.

[0036] In some embodiments, the removal system 42 may be actuated in a staged or step-wise fashion in which the telescoping assembly 46 is incrementally released, particularly if the telescoping assembly 46 is biased towards an extended position. This may be seen, for example, by comparing Figures 3A, 3B and 3C. In Figure 3A, the removal system 42 is in a retracted position. In Figure 3B, it can be seen that the removal system 42 has moved from the retracted position but it not yet in the fully extended position shown in Figure 3C. It will be appreciated that while the Figures show a single intermediate position, the removal system 32 may be configured to have any desired number of intermediate positions.

[0037] A staged or step-wise release may be accomplished in several different ways. For example, in some embodiments, the clips or other structure (not illustrated) that hold the telescoping assembly 46 in place may be positioned at one end of the spring assembly 46 such that the clips or other structure regulate an overall length (and hence the level of compression) of the telescoping assembly 46.

[0038] In some embodiments, the clips or other structures that hold the telescoping assembly 46 in place may be positioned such that the clips releasably hold distinct portions of the spring assembly 46 in a compressed position. By selectively releasing one or more clips, one or more distinct portions of the telescoping assembly 46 can be permitted to expand towards their relaxed length, thereby exerting a force on the engagement pad 54. The telescoping assembly 46 can be seen, particularly with reference to Figure 3C, to have distinct portions or segments 48, 50,52 and 54. It will be appreciated that the telescoping assembly 46 may have either a greater number (or a lower number) of distinct portions or segments.

[0039] In some embodiments, the telescoping assembly 46 is not biased towards an extended position. In some embodiments, the telescoping assembly 46 may be considered to have or define an interior volume. The telescoping assembly 46 may be expanded into an extended configuration by, for example, increasing a fluid pressure within this interior volume (not illustrated).

[0040] In some embodiments, the helmet 40 may include a tube or similar structure that is in fluid communication with the interior volume of the telescoping assembly 46 and that extends to a position proximate the outer shell 12 such that a source of compressed fluid may, if necessary, be placed in fluid communication with the interior volume of the telescoping assembly 46. The source of compressed fluid may increase the fluid pressure within the interior volume and thus cause the telescoping assembly 46 to expand and push the engagement pad 44 outwards towards the helmet wearer's head. Illustrative but non-limiting examples of sources of compressed fluids include compressed air and CO₂ from a CO2 cartridge.

[0041] In some embodiments, the telescoping assembly 46 may be expanded by injecting an expanding foam into the interior volume such as via the

aforementioned tube leading from the telescoping assembly 46 to a position proximate the outer shell 12. A variety of different expanding foams, which expand when released from compressed storage, may be used. It will be appreciated that different expanding foams are chemically configured to expand at a particular expansion rate, and/or to expand to a particular relative volume increase. Thus, a particular expanding foam may be selected for use, depending on factors including, but not limiting, helmet size and/or the severity of the accident and thus how quickly the helmet 40 needs to be removed.

[0042] In some embodiments, the fluid pressure within the interior volume of the telescoping assembly 46 may be increased via fluid generated within the helmet 40. For example, a chemical reaction that produces one or more gaseous reaction products may be used to expand the telescoping assembly 46. In some

embodiments, the chemical reactants are separated in some manner within the helmet 40 so that the chemicals do not react prematurely. For example, the chemical reactants may be physically separated by a barrier that can be removed, if

necessary, from exterior to the helmet 40. In some cases, one or more of the chemical reactants are not within the helmet 40, but rather are injected into the helmet 40 when chemical reaction is desired. The helmet 40 may include an injection port for this purpose.

[0043] Figures 4A, 4B and 4C provide inverted views of a helmet 60 that, in some embodiments, includes one or more of an outer shell 12, an inner liner 14 and a padding layer 16 as discussed above. The helmet 60 may include a removal system 62. The helmet 60 may also include additional structure such as, but not limited to, a visor, venting, chin strapping, and other additional or alternate features as desired. In some embodiments, the outer shell 12 may be formed of a rigid or substantially rigid material such as, for example, fiberglass, a carbon fiber composite or rigid polymers. The inner liner 14 may be formed of a polymeric material or a fabric. In some embodiments, the padding layer 16 may be composed of one or more pads formed of foam or other suitable material.

[0044] In some cases, at least a portion of the inner liner 14 may be sufficiently elastic such that the inner liner 14 can stretch in response to movement and/or expansion of the removal system 62. In some embodiments, the inner liner 14 may be formed of a relatively inelastic material, and instead may include one or more accordion folds or flaps that can permit movement of the inner liner 14. Alternatively, the removal system 62 may be disposed above (in the illustrated orientation) the inner liner 14. In some embodiments, the removal system 62 includes an elastic balloon 64 that is formed of a suitably strong material. It will be appreciated that by having an elastic balloon 64, the volume of the removal system 62 when inflated can be controlled and/or varied in accordance with the needs of a particular situation.

[0045] In some embodiments, the elastic balloon 64 may include one or more folds or flaps 66 that are configured to permit the elastic balloon 64 to fit within a minimal space within the helmet 60 when in a deflated configuration. In some cases, the folds or flaps 66 help the elastic balloon 64 to inflate in an appropriate manner. The elastic balloon 64 may be inflated in any suitable manner. In some cases, the helmet 60 may include an on-board source of inflating fluid such as a C0₂ cartridge or an on-board chemical reaction such as those discussed above with respect to the helmet 40. [0046] In some embodiments, the helmet 60 may include an inflation tube 61 that is fluidly coupled to the elastic balloon 64 and extends to a free end 63 that terminates exterior to the helmet 60 such that a source of inflating fluid can be provided to the elastic balloon 64 from a source of compressed air and the like. In some embodiments, the inflation tube 61 may pass between the inner liner 14 and the padding layer 16. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the inflation tube 61 may pass within a tunnel formed within the padding layer 16.

[0047] As noted above, by regulating the flow of inflating fluid, the expansion rate as well as the overall inflated size of the elastic balloon 64 may be controlled. Figure 4A shows the removal system 62 in a deflated configuration. In Figure 4C, the elastic balloon 64 is shown in a fully inflated configuration while Figure 4B shows a partially inflated configuration in which the elastic balloon 64 is unfolding.

[0048] Figures 5A-5E provide inverted views of a helmet 70 that, in some embodiments, includes one or more of an outer shell 12, an inner liner 14 and a padding layer 16 as discussed above. The helmet 70 may include a removal system 72. The helmet 70 may also include additional structure such as, but not limited to, a visor, venting, chin strapping, and other additional or alternate features as desired. In some embodiments, the outer shell 12 may be formed of a rigid or substantially rigid material such as, for example, fiberglass, a carbon fiber composite or rigid polymers. The inner liner 14 may be formed of a polymeric material or a fabric. In some embodiments, the padding layer 16 may be composed of one or more pads formed of foam or other suitable material.

[0049] In some embodiments, the removal system 72 includes a balloon 74 that is either secured to the liner 14 or is integrally formed as part of the liner 14. In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 5A, the balloon 74 includes one or more folds 76 that facilitate storage of the balloon 74 while permitting easy inflation of the balloon 74. In some cases, if the balloon 74 is formed of a sufficiently elastic material, the folds 76 may be excluded. As discussed above, if the balloon 74 is elastic, the volume of the removal system 72 when inflated can be controlled and/or varied in accordance with the needs of a particular situation. [0050] The removal system 72 may be inflated in any suitable manner. In some cases, the helmet 70 may include an on-board source of inflating fluid such as a CO₂ cartridge or an on-board chemical reaction such as those discussed above with respect to the helmet 40.

[0051] In some embodiments, the helmet 70 may include an air tube (not shown) that extends from the removal system 72 to a position proximate the outer shell 12 so that inflating fluid can be provided to the removal system 72 from a source of compressed air and the like. As noted above, by regulating the flow of inflating fluid, the expansion rate as well as the overall inflated size of the removal system 72 may be controlled. Figure 5A shows the removal system 72 in a deflated

configuration. In Figure 5C, the removal system 72 is shown in a fully inflated configuration while Figure 5B shows a partially inflated configuration in which the removal system 72 is unfolding and expanding in a direction generally indicated by arrows 78.

[0052] In some embodiments, the removal system 72 is reusable. In Figure

5D, it can be seen that the removal system 72 is folding and deflating in a direction generally indicated by arrows 80. Depending on how the removal system 72 is inflated, deflation may be accomplished simply by removing the inflation source and permitting the interior of the removal system 72 to deflate back to atmospheric pressure. In some embodiments, it may be useful to apply a reduced pressure to the interior of the removal system 72 to aid in deflation and refolding of the folds 76.

[0053] Figures 6A, 6B and 6C provide inverted views of a helmet 80 that, in some embodiments, includes one or more of an outer shell 12, an inner liner 14 and a padding layer 16 as discussed above. The helmet 80 may include a removal system 82. The helmet 80 may also include additional structure such as, but not limited to, a visor, venting, chin strapping, and other additional or alternate features as desired. In some embodiments, the outer shell 12 may be formed of a rigid or substantially rigid material such as, for example, fiberglass, a carbon fiber composite or rigid polymers. The inner liner 14 may be formed of a polymeric material or a fabric. In some embodiments, the padding layer 16 may be composed of one or more pads formed of foam or other suitable material.

[0054] In some cases, at least a portion of the inner liner 14 may be sufficiently elastic such that the inner liner 14 can stretch in response to movement and/or expansion of the removal system 82. In some embodiments, the inner liner 14 may be formed of a relatively inelastic material, and instead may include one or more accordion folds or flaps that can permit movement of the inner liner 14. Alternatively, the removal system 82 may be disposed above (in the illustrated orientation) the inner liner 14.

[0055] In some embodiments, the removal system 82 includes two or more elastic balloons. In the illustrated embodiment, the removal system 82 includes a first balloon 84 and a second balloon 86. In other embodiments, a greater number of balloon may be used, if desired. Each of the balloons 84 and 86 may be formed of a suitably strong material. It will be appreciated that by having elastic balloons 84 and 86, the volume of the removal system 82 when inflated can be controlled and/or varied in accordance with the needs of a particular situation.

[0056] In some embodiments, each of the balloons 84 and 86 may include one or more flaps or folds 88 that are configured to permit each of the balloons 84 and 86 to fit within a minimal space within the helmet 80 when in a deflated configuration. In some cases, the folds or flaps 88 help the balloons 84 and 86 to inflate in an appropriate manner. The balloons 84 and 86 may be inflated in any suitable manner. In some cases, the helmet 80 may include an on-board source of inflating fluid such as a CO₂ cartridge or an on-board chemical reaction such as those discussed above with respect to the helmet 40.

[0057] In some embodiments, the helmet 80 may include one or more air tubes (similar to the inflation tube 61 discussed with respect to Figures 4A-4C) that each extend from one of the balloons 84 and 86 to a position proximate the outer shell 12 so that inflating fluid can be provided to the balloons 84 and 86 from a source of compressed air and the like. As noted above, by regulating the flow of inflating fluid, the expansion rate as well as the overall inflated size of the balloons 84 and 86 may be controlled. Figure 6A shows the removal system 82 in a deflated configuration. In Figure 6C, the removal system 82 is shown in a fully inflated configuration while Figure 6B shows a partially inflated configuration in which the removal system 82 is unfolding.

[0058] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, while the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the above described features.

Claims

[0059] WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A protective helmet configured for removal from a wearer's head after an accident when the wearer is not able to remove the protective helmet without assistance, the protective helmet comprising:

a rigid outer shell;

a resilient inner liner;

a padding layer disposed between the rigid outer shell and the resilient inner liner; and

a mechanical helmet removal system disposed within the rigid outer shell.

2. The protective helmet of claim 1 , wherein the mechanical helmet removal system comprises an engagement pad configured to engage a wearer's head and a jack assembly configured to be engaged from exterior the helmet to extend the jack assembly and thus urge the engagement pad against the wearer's head.

3. The protective helmet of claim 2, wherein the jack assembly is a scissors jack that is configured to be engaged by an engagement tool at a location proximate a pivot point of the scissors jack, and the protective helmet thus includes an access point disposed within a back of the protective helmet.

4. The protective helmet of claim 2, wherein the jack assembly is configured to be engaged by an engagement tool axially aligned with the jack assembly, and the protective helmet thus includes an access point disposed at or near a top of the protective helmet.

5. The protective helmet of claim 1 , wherein the mechanical helmet removal system comprises an engagement pad configured to engage a wearer's head and a spring assembly configured to selectively push against the engagement pad and thus urge the engagement pad against the wearer's head.

6. The protective helmet of claim 5, further comprising one or more release mechanisms that be engaged from exterior the protective helmet in order to at least partially release the spring assembly.

7. The protective helmet of claim 1 , wherein the mechanical helmet removal system comprises an engagement pad configured to engage a wearer's head and a telescoping assembly configured to selectively push against the engagement pad and thus urge the engagement pad against the wearer's head.

8. The protective helmet of claim 7, further comprising one or more release mechanisms that can be engaged from exterior the protective helmet in order to at least partially release the telescoping assembly.

9. The protective helmet of claim 7, wherein the telescoping assembly defines an interior volume, and the telescoping assembly is configured to expand when the interior volume is pressurized via compressed gas or an expanding foam provided to the interior volume via an inflation line.

10. The protective helmet of claim 7, wherein the telescoping assembly defines an interior volume, and includes separated chemical reactants that, when combined, produce gaseous reaction products that pressurize the interior volume and thus urge the engagement pad against the wearer's head.

1 1. A protective helmet configured for removal from a wearer's head after an accident when the wearer is not able to remove the protective helmet without assistance, the protective helmet comprising:

a rigid outer shell;

a resilient inner liner;

a padding layer disposed between the rigid outer shell and the resilient inner liner; and a pneumatic helmet removal system disposed within the rigid outer shell.

12. The protective helmet of claim 1 1 , wherein the pneumatic helmet removal system includes an inflation line that extends from the pneumatic helmet removal system to a point where a rescuer can attach an inflation source.

13. The protective helmet of claim 1 1 , wherein the pneumatic helmet removal system comprises an elastic balloon disposed between the resilient inner liner and the padding layer, the elastic balloon configured to expand sufficiently upon pressurization to urge the protective helmet at least partially off the wearer's head.

14. The protective helmet of claim 1 1 , wherein the pneumatic helmet removal system comprises an expansion element that is integrally formed with the resilient inner liner. 5. The protective helmet of claim 4, wherein the expansion element comprises an elastic balloon.

16. The protective helmet of claim 14, wherein the expansion element comprises a folded bladder.

17. The protective helmet of claim 1 1 , wherein the pneumatic helmet removal system comprises two or more elastic balloons.

18. A method of removing a protective helmet from an individual wearing a a protective helmet equipped with a helmet removal system, the method comprising steps of:

locating an engagement point of the helmet removal system; and engaging the engagement point of the helmet removal system in order to urge the protective helmet away from the wearer's head.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the helmet removal system comprises a mechanical helmet removal system and engaging the engagement point includes releasing a release mechanism.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the helmet removal system comprises a pneumatic helmet removal system and engaging the engagement point includes securing a source of compressed gas to an inflation line connected to the pneumatic helmet removal system.