WO2016049115A1

WO2016049115A1 - Helmet cover assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2016049115A1
Application number: PCT/US2015/051600
Authority: WO
Inventors: Desmond Walsh; Matthew Hanudel; Emily HANCOCK
Original assignee: Gentex Corporation
Priority date: 2014-09-25
Filing date: 2015-09-23
Publication date: 2016-03-31
Also published as: EP3197308A4; EP3197308B1; US20160088891A1; IL251226A0; EP3197308A1

Abstract

A helmet cover assembly including a cover configured to extend over a helmet, at least one mounting device coupled to the cover; and one or more straps coupled to the at least one mounting device and configured to tighten the cover to the helmet. A helmet cover assembly including a cover configured to extend over a helmet, a first mounting device coupled to a first lateral side of the cover, a second mounting device coupled to a second lateral side of the cover, and an adjustable length strap coupled to the first mounting device and the second mounting device and configured to adjust the distance between the first mounting device and the second mounting device.

Description

TITLE OF THE INVENTION

[0001] Helmet Cover Assembly

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.

62/055,138 filed September 25, 2014, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/099,254 filed January 2, 2015, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/206,879 filed August 19, 2015, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention generally relates to a helmet cover assembly, and in some embodiments, a helmet cover assembly having one or more accessory mounting devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Helmets for head protection are worn in a variety of environments and for various purposes including adventure, sporting, police and military purposes. An example of a ballistic helmet 10 used in the military is shown in Fig. 1. Helmet 10 generally includes a helmet shell 10a having a peripheral edge 10b and a retention system (e.g., chinstrap) 14 that may be attached to helmet shell 10a using screws or bolts 12 that penetrate through helmet shell 10a. Accessory devices may be added or attached to helmet 10 according to the needs of the wearer and the demands of the environment in which helmet 10 is to be used. Accessory devices may include, for example, night vision goggles, lights, face shields, headsets, cameras, eye protection goggles or visors, oxygen masks and other devices. The method of attaching accessories to helmet 10 may include attaching a mount to helmet shell 10a that is configured to couple with an accessory device. The accessory may be releaseably coupled to the mount so that the accessory can be removed from helmet 10 when not in use. Mounts are typically attached to helmet shell 10a by using screws or snaps that require holes to be drilled in helmet shell 10a. However, drilling holes in helmet shell 10a may weaken the integrity of helmet 10 and/or decrease the amount of protection that helmet 10 can provide to a user. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In one embodiment there is a helmet cover assembly comprising: a cover configured to extend over a helmet; at least one mounting device coupled to the cover; and one or more straps coupled to the at least one mounting device and configured to tighten the cover to the helmet. In one embodiment, the at least one mounting device includes at least two mounting devices and the one or more straps are coupled between the at least two mounting devices, wherein the one or more straps are configured to pull the at least two mounting devices together and tighten the cover to the helmet. In one embodiment, the at least two mounting devices are coupled to one another by one or more fixed length straps. In one embodiment, the at least two mounting devices are coupled to the cover only through the use of the one or more straps.

[0006] In a further embodiment, the helmet cover assembly comprises a helmet retention system configured to retain the helmet to a user's head, the helmet retention system being coupled to the cover through the use of one or more straps. In one embodiment, at least one of the one or more straps is coupled to the at least one mounting device and configured to couple to an inner surface of the helmet. In one embodiment, the at least one mounting device includes a first rail, a second rail, and a shroud, the first rail being coupled to the second rail by an adjustable strap configured to pull the first rail and the second rail together to tighten the cover to the helmet, the first rail being coupled to the second rail by a first fixed length strap, and the shroud being coupled to the first rail by a second fixed length strap and coupled to the second rail by a third fixed length strap.

[0007] In one embodiment, one of the at least one mounting device includes a bolt configured to be coupled to the helmet through a bolt hole in the helmet. In one embodiment, the cover includes a window receiving the at least one mounting device and configured to allow the at least one mounting device to directly contact an outer surface of the helmet. In one embodiment, the cover extends over an entire outer surface of the helmet. In one embodiment, the cover extends over a peripheral edge of the helmet and is attachable to the helmet using only the one or more straps and one or more hook and loop fasteners. In one embodiment, the cover extends over a peripheral edge of the helmet and is attachable to a liner of the helmet using only the one or more straps and one or more hook and loop fasteners. In one embodiment, the cover is comprised of a non-elastic material.

[0008] In another embodiment there is a helmet cover assembly comprising: a cover configured to extend over a helmet; a first mounting device coupled to a first lateral side of the cover; a second mounting device coupled to a second lateral side of the cover; and an adjustable length strap coupled to the first mounting device and the second mounting device and configured to adjust the distance between the first mounting device and the second mounting device. In another embodiment, there is a helmet cover assembly comprising: a cover configured to extend substantially over an entire outer surface of a helmet, the cover including a plurality of hook and loop fasteners configured to attached to corresponding hook and loop fasteners on an inner surface of the helmet; a first mounting rail coupled to a first lateral side of the cover; a second mounting rail coupled to a second lateral side of the cover; a fixed length strap extending between the first mounting rail and the second mounting rail, the cover extending at least partially over at least a portion of the fixed length strap; an adjustable length strap coupled to the first mounting device and the second mounting device and configured to adjust the distance between the first mounting device and the second mounting device; and a retention system coupled to the first mounting device and the second mounting device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The following detailed description of embodiments of the helmet cover assembly, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings of exemplary embodiments. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

[0010] In the drawings :

[0011] Fig. 1 is an example of a helmet known in the art;

[0012] Fig. 2 is a front, top, left perspective view of a helmet cover assembly with a helmet in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [0013] Fig. 3 is a front, top, left perspective view of the helmet cover assembly shown in Fig. 2 mounted on the helmet;

[0014] Fig. 4 is a rear, top, left perspective view of the helmet cover assembly shown in Fig. 2 mounted on the helmet;

[0015] Fig. 5 is a front elevational view of the helmet cover assembly shown in Fig. 2 mounted on the helmet;

[0016] Fig. 6 is a left-side elevational view of the helmet cover assembly shown in Fig. 2 mounted on the helmet;

[0017] Fig. 7 is a right-side elevational view of the helmet cover assembly shown in Fig. 2 mounted on the helmet; [0018] Fig. 8 is a rear elevational view of the helmet cover assembly shown in Fig. 2 mounted on the helmet;

[0019] Fig. 9 is a top plan view of a helmet cover assembly shown in Fig. 2 mounted on the helmet; [0020] Fig. 10 is a bottom plan view of the helmet cover assembly shown in Fig. 2 mounted on the helmet;

[0021] Fig. 11 is a bottom plan view of the helmet cover assembly shown in Fig. 2 mounted on a helmet having a helmet retention system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Fig. 12 is a bottom plan view of the helmet cover assembly shown in Fig. 2 mounted on a helmet having a helmet liner according to a further embodiment of the present invention; and

[0023] Fig. 13 is a front, top, left perspective view of the helmet cover assembly of Fig. 2 shown without a helmet and in a partially collapsed configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The present subject matter will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures and examples, in which representative embodiments are shown. The present subject matter can, however, be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0025] Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like reference numerals indicate like elements throughout, there is shown in Figs. 2-13 a helmet cover assembly, generally designated 100, in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Helmet cover assembly 100 is preferably configured to be mounted to a head protection device, such as helmet 200. Helmet 200 may be any type of helmet known in the art, for example, those used for sporting, police, or military purposes. In certain embodiments, helmet 200 is a standard infantry ballistic helmet, advanced combat helmet (ACH), or light weight advanced combat helmet (LWACH). In other embodiments, helmet 200 may be a modular integrated communications helmet (MICH), a tactical ballistic helmet (TBH), a lightweight marine helmet, police general duty helmet, or a personnel armor system for ground troops (PASGT) helmet. In certain preferred embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 may be mounted to helmet 200 without the need for drilling any holes into helmet 200 or requiring holes to be pre-drilled or otherwise manufactured into helmet 200. In some embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 may be mounted to helmet 200 without the need for any tools. In some embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 may be mounted to helmet 200 without the need for modification of helmet 200. [0026] In some embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 is configured to cover all or at least a majority of exterior surface 210 of helmet 200 when mounted onto helmet 200. Exterior surface 210 refers to the surface of helmet 200 which faces away from the user's head during use. In some embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 is configured to fit snuggly over exterior surface 210 of helmet 200 when mounted onto helmet 200 such that no or minimal clearance exists between helmet cover assembly 100 and exterior surface 210. In some embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 generally includes a cover 110 to which one or more accessory mounts may be attached, for example, a left mounting rail 120, a right mounting rail 130, and/or a front shroud 140. In some embodiments, attaching the one or more accessory mounts (e.g., 120, 130, 140) to cover 110 avoids the need to attach these accessory mounts directly onto helmet 200, which in turn may eliminate or at least reduce the need for drilling holes into helmet 200 that could compromise or weaken helmet 200 according to certain embodiments. Furthermore, in some embodiments, having the one or more accessory mounts attached to cover 110 rather than directly to helmet 200 can provide for a quicker and/or more convenient method of adding and/or removing the one or more accessory mounts to or from helmet 200 since, for example, no additional tools may be required (e.g., drill, screw driver, etc.), and the one or more accessory mounts can be added or removed from helmet 200 all at the same time rather than individually.

[0027] In some embodiments, cover 110 is configured to substantially match the contour of exterior surface 210 of helmet 200. In some embodiments, cover 110 extends over all of or substantially all of exterior surface 210 of helmet 200. In other embodiments, cover 110 may include one or more cutouts to expose one or more areas of exterior surface 210. In some embodiments, cover 110 further extends over all or at least a portion of peripheral edge 220 of helmet 200. Peripheral edge 220 refers to the rim of helmet 200 which defines the opening through which the user may place his/her head during use of helmet 200. In some embodiments, cover 110 primarily includes one or more flexible panels that are configured to wrap around exterior surface 210 of helmet 200. In some embodiments, cover 110 is constructed from one or more textile or fabric panels. In some embodiments, cover 110 is constructed from one or more panels which may be made from, for example, cotton, canvas, linen, twill, synthetic fabrics (e.g. nylon, polyester), ripstop fabrics, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, when cover 110 is separated from helmet 200, cover 110 may be folded, rolled, or crumpled to reduce volume for easier packing. For example, Fig. 13 depicts helmet cover assembly 100 without a helmet where cover 110 is in a partially collapsed configuration. In some embodiments, cover 110 may be resistant to tearing, ripping and stretching. Cover 110 may also be chemically treated, for example, to be water or stain resistant. In some embodiments, cover 110 is made from a non-elastic material. In other embodiments, cover 110 is made from or includes at least some elastic materials. The panels may be sewn or stitched together at seams to form cover 110 or, in other embodiments, the panels may be glued or adhered together. Moreover, in some embodiments, cover 110 may be constructed from one or more panels that are colored, printed, or dyed to have a particular color (e.g., white, tan, olive drab, black) or particular designs and images, such as a camouflage pattern as shown. In some embodiments, one cover 110 could be switched for another having a different color or design to allow a user to quickly change appearance while keeping the same helmet (e.g., switching from a solid color to a camouflage pattern and vice versa). [0028] As shown in Figs. 3-9, according to some embodiments cover 110 may include at least a central panel 1 12 that is sized and configured to extend over a top portion of helmet 200 from the front of helmet 200 to the rear of helmet 200, a left panel 114 sized and configured to cover at least a portion of the left-side of helmet 200, and a right panel 116 sized and configured to cover at least a portion of the right-side of helmet 200. Central panel 112, left panel 114, and right panel 116 may be joined together at one or more seams to form cover 110 (e.g., by stitching, sewing, gluing, etc.). It should be appreciated that other panel arrangements and orientations may be utilized and that cover 110 is not necessarily limited to the specific arrangement shown in the illustrated

embodiments. For example, in some embodiments cover 110 may be made from a single panel or, in alternative embodiments, may include more panels than what is shown for illustrative purposes. In some embodiments, for example, each of central panel 112, left panel 114, and right panel 116 may in turn be made from several smaller panels that are shaped to fit the curved contours of helmet 200.

[0029] As discussed above, in some embodiments one or more accessory mounts can be attached to cover 110. The one or more accessory mounts are configured to couple with various accessory devices and allow the accessory devices to be removably mounted onto cover assembly 100 and, in turn, onto helmet 200 during use. Some non-limiting examples of accessory devices include night vision goggles, lights, beacons, face shields, headsets, cameras, communication devices, sensors, eye protection goggles or visors, oxygen masks and other devices known in the art that may be mounted onto helmets. In some embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 may be configured such that it can substantially support the weight of and forces exerted on the accessory devices as if the accessory mounts were attached directly to helmet 200. In some embodiments, the one or more accessory mounts are not configured to be directly secured onto helmet 200, but rather attached to cover 110 which in turn can be secured to helmet 200. In some embodiments, the one or more accessory mounts may lack any holes for screw or bolt mounting onto helmet 200. In alternative embodiments, the one or more accessory mounts may include one or more holes for accepting a screw or bolt for fastening onto helmet 200. In some embodiments the one or more holes, if present on the one or more accessory mounts, may be positioned to align with preexisting holes in a helmet (e.g., positioned to align with bolt 12 of helmet 10 of Fig. 1) such that no additional holes need to be made in the helmet.

[0030] In some embodiments, the one or more accessory mounts include hook or loop patches. As shown in Figs. 2-9, for example, in some embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 may include one or more hook or loop patches (e.g., VELCRO® fasteners) which may be attached (e.g., sewn, glued, etc.) onto the exterior of cover 110. The hook or loop patches may be configured to fasten onto additional items having opposing loops or hooks to allow attachment of onto cover 110. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 may include hook or loop patches 160a, 160b, 160c, and 160d which are positioned at different areas of cover 110. In some embodiments, patch 160a is positioned centrally along the top of cover 110, patch 160b is positioned along the left side of cover 110, patch 160c is positioned along the right side of cover 110, and patch 160d is positioned at the rear of cover 110 as shown. It should be understood that more or fewer hook and loop patches may be included according to other embodiments, or that their particular arrangement need not be limited to the arrangement shown in the figures. Furthermore, while patches 160a, 160b, 160c, and 160d are illustrated as being generally rectangular in shape, it should be also understood that any other shapes are also possible.

[0031] In some embodiments, the one or more accessory mounts may include, for example, a mounting rail such as Accessory Rail Connector (ARC) or Picatinny rail, and other mounts such as brackets for mounting night vision goggles (NVG) or other equipment. These accessory mounts may be included in the helmet cover assembly 100 in addition to the hook or loop patches (e.g., patches 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d). The one or more accessory mounts may be made from a substantially rigid plastic material and may be curved or shaped to generally match a contour of exterior surface 210 of helmet 200. As shown in Figs. 3-10, cover assembly 100 may include at least left mounting rail 120, right mounting rail 130, and/or shroud 140 which are configured to receive the various accessory devices. For example, except for how they are attached, in some embodiments left and right mounting rails 120 and 130 may have similar configurations to the mounting rails shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 7,908,667, U.S. Patent No. 8,028,344, and International Application Publication No. WO 2013/192070, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0032] As particularly shown in Figs. 3, 4, 6, and 8, left mounting rail 120, left mounting rail 120 may include a recessed groove 122 that slidably accepts an accessory device having an engagement member complementary to recessed groove 122. In some embodiments, recessed groove 122 is a dovetail recessed groove to forms a dovetail sliding joint with an accessory device received therein. Right mounting rail 130 may be similarly configured as left mounting rail 120. For example, as shown in Figs. 7 and 8, right mounting rail 130 may be generally symmetrical with left mounting rail 120 and include a recessed groove 132 that slidably accepts an accessory device therein. As with recessed groove 122 of left mounting rail 120, recessed groove 132 may be a dovetail recessed groove to form a dovetail sliding joint with an accessory device received therein. In some embodiments, left and/or right mounting rails 120 and 130 do not include any holes configured to receive screws, bolts, or other similar fasteners for mounting directly onto helmet 200. In other embodiments, left and/or right mounting rails 120 and 130 include one or more holes for receiving screws, bolts, or other similar fasteners, the one or more holes preferably being positioned to align with preexisting holes on helmet 200 (e.g., bolt holes that may be used to attach chin straps or other retention systems). Left and right mounting rails 120 and 130 may be positioned opposite each other on the exterior of cover 110 such that, when cover 110 is mounted onto helmet 200, the left and right mounting rails 120 and 130 are positioned along the left and right sides of helmet 200, respectively. In some embodiments, for example, left mounting rail 120 may be attached to left panel 114 of cover 110 and right mounting rail may be attached to right panel 116 of cover 110. In these positions, left and right mounting rails 120 and 130 may be particularly suited for mounting accessory devices including, but not limited to, earphones, headsets, hinges for face shields and visors, side lights, and other devices that may be preferably mounted on one or both sides of a helmet. In some embodiments of helmet cover assembly 100, left and/or right mounting rails 120 and 130 do not directly contact helmet 200 when helmet cover assembly 100 is mounted onto helmet 200. In some embodiments, cover 110 is sandwiched between exterior surface 210 and left and/or right mounting rails 120 and 130 during use. In other embodiments, cover 110 may include cutouts (not shown) that allow direct contact or access between left and/or right mounting rails 120 and 130 with exterior surface 210 of helmet 200 during use. Such cutouts, for example, may provide clearance for screws, bolts, or other similar fasteners, if present, for mounting and left and/or right mounting rails 120 and 130 directly onto helmet 200.

[0033] Shroud 140, as depicted in Figs. 2-7, 9, and 10, may be positioned centrally at the front of helmet cover assembly 100. In some embodiments, shroud 140 is attached to a front exterior portion of cover 110. In some embodiments, for example, shroud 140 may be attached to central panel 112 of cover 110. As best shown in Figs. 3, 5, and 9, in some embodiments, shroud 140 includes a recessed portion 142 configured to couple with at least one accessory device. The at least one accessory device that may be removably mounted onto shroud 140 includes, but is not limited to, night vision goggles, cameras, lamps, other optical equipment, communication devices, displays, masks or visors, and other equipment that are preferably mounted at the front of a helmet. In some embodiments, shroud 140 does not directly contact helmet 200 when helmet cover assembly 100 is mounted onto helmet 200. In some embodiments, cover 110 is sandwiched between exterior surface 210 and shroud 140 during use. In some embodiments, shroud 140 lacks any holes for receiving screws or bolts. In other embodiments, shroud 140 includes one or more holes (e.g., hole 146) for receiving a screw or bolt that can be used to help secure shroud 140 to helmet 200 during use. In some embodiments, cover 110 includes a cutout or window through which the screw or bolt may extend through. The cutout, if present, may be positioned between shroud 140 and the exterior surface 210 of helmet 200 during use according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the cutout allows direct contact or access between shroud 140 and exterior surface 210 of helmet 200 during use. In some embodiments, shroud 140 includes a rubber gasket that may be attached to the perimeter of the back surface of shroud 140 that faces toward helmet 200. [0034] According to certain preferred embodiments, the one or more accessory mounts (e.g., left mounting rail 120, right mounting rail 130, shroud 140) are attached to cover 110 using a plurality of straps. In some embodiments, the one or more accessory mounts are only attached to cover 110 using the plurality of straps. In some embodiments, the one or more accessory mounts are attached to each other using the plurality of straps. The plurality of straps are preferably a webbing material (e.g., nylon webbing), though other similar materials may also be suitable. In some embodiments, the straps are flexible but not elastic. In some embodiments, the straps do not substantially stretch. In alternative embodiments, the straps may be elastic. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of up to one inch (25.4 mm). In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 10 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 11 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 12 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 13 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 14 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 15 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 16 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 17 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 18 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 19 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 20 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 21 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 22 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 23 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 24 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of about 25 mm to about 26 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of at least 10 mm, at least 11 mm, at least 12 mm, at least 13 mm, at least 14 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 16 mm, at least 17 mm, at least 18 mm, at least 19 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 21 mm, at least 22 mm, at least 23 mm, at least 24 mm, at least 25 mm, or at least 25 mm. In some embodiments, each strap may have a width of less than 26 mm, less than 25 mm, less than 24 mm, less than 23 mm, less than 22 mm, less than 21 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 19 mm, less than 18 mm, less than 17 mm, less than 16 mm, less than 15 mm, less than 14 mm, less than 13 mm, less than 12 mm, less than 11 mm, or less than 10 mm. Each strap may have substantially the same width, or the straps may have different widths.

[0035] Referring again to Figs. 2, 3, and 5-7, helmet cover assembly 100 in certain embodiments includes front straps 150a and 150b which are used to connect left mounting rail 120, right mounting rail 130, and shroud 140 to cover 110. In some embodiments, front straps 150a and 150b connect mounting rail 120 and right mounting rail 130 to shroud 140. In some embodiments, each of front straps 150a and 150b is a fixed length strap. As shown in Figs. 3 and 5, in some embodiments, shroud 140 is connected to front portions of left mounting rail 120 and right mounting rail 130 by front straps 150a and 150b, respectively. In some such embodiments, a first end of front strap 150a is secured to the front portion of left mounting rail 120 while the second end of front strap 150a is secured to shroud 140. Similarly, a first end of front strap 150b is secured to the front portion of right mounting rail 130 while the second end of front strap 150b is secured to shroud 140. The ends of front straps 150a and 150b may be secured to left/right mounting rails 120/130 and shroud 140 using any means known in the art. In other embodiments, each of front straps 150a and 150b may be formed into a loop. In some embodiments, left and right mounting rails 120 and 130 and shroud 140 include slots through which front straps 150a and 150b may be looped or anchored. As shown in Figs. 3-7, front strap 150a may pass through slot 124a at a front portion of left mounting rail 120 and slot 144a of shroud 140 while front strap 150b may pass through slot 134a a front portion of right mounting rail 130 and slot 144b of shroud 140. The slots 124a, 134a, 144a, and 144b may have approximately the same or slightly larger width than the width of front straps 150a and 150b. [0036] In some embodiments, a portion of front straps 150a and 150b passes beneath the exterior of cover 110 (as shown in dashed lines) such that the portion of front straps 150a and 150b is positioned between the exterior of cover 110 and exterior surface 210 of helmet 200 during use. In some embodiments, cover 110 is provided with slits through which front straps 150a and 150b may extend. In some embodiments, cover 110 is provided with one or more pairs of slits for each of front straps 150a and 150b. The slits may be positioned adjacent to the accessory mounts (e.g., left mounting rail 120, right mounting rail 130, shroud 140) according to some embodiments. For example, front strap 150a may pass through a first slit on left panel 114 positioned by slot 124a and a second slit on central panel 112 positioned by slot 144a. Similarly, front strap 150b may pass through a first slit on right panel 116 positioned by slot 134a and a second slit on central panel 112 positioned by slot 144b. In some embodiments, a majority of front straps 150a and 150b extends beneath the exterior of cover 110. This can, for example, reduce that chance that front straps 150a and 150b will snag on objects. Moreover, by weaving front straps 150a and 150b through the slits of cover 110, this allows for cover 110 to be secured onto front straps 150a and 150b. As discussed cover 110 may include one or more prefabricated slits, cutouts, or other openings for receiving straps and accessory mounts. Such openings may have a sewn or otherwise reinforced edge to prevent fraying of cover 110 around the periphery of the opening.

[0037] In some embodiments, helmet cover assembly includes a central strap 152. In some embodiments, central strap 152 connects left mounting rail 120 with right mounting rail 130. In some embodiments, central strap 152 is a fixed length strap. In some embodiments, central strap 152 extends from a central portion of left mounting rail 120 to a central portion of right mounting rail 130 as shown, for example, in Fig. 9. In some embodiments, central strap 152 is positioned such that central strap 152 passes over the top of helmet 200 when helmet cover assembly 100 is mounted onto helmet 200. In some embodiments, central strap 152 may help provide vertical stability to left mounting rail 120 with right mounting rail 130 during use. In some embodiments, a first end of central strap 152 is secured to the central portion of left mounting rail 120 while the second end of front strap 152 is secured to the central portion of right mounting rail 130. The ends of central strap 152 may be secured to left and right mounting rails 120 and 130 using any means known in the art. In some embodiments, left and right mounting rails 120 and 130 include slots through which central strap 152 may be looped or anchored. As shown in Figs. 6, 7, and 9, in some embodiments, central strap 152 may pass through slot 124b at a top central portion of left mounting rail 120 and slot 134b at a top central portion of right mounting rail 130. The slots 124b and 134b may have approximately the same or slightly larger width than the width central strap 152. Central strap 152 may have the same or different width as front strap 150a and/or 150b.

[0038] In some embodiments, a portion of central strap 152 passes beneath the exterior of cover 110 (as shown in dashed lines) such that the portion of central strap 152 is positioned between the exterior of cover 110 and exterior surface 210 of helmet 200 during use. In some embodiments, cover 110 is provided with slits through which central strap 152 may extend. In some embodiments, cover 110 is provided with one or more pairs of slits through which central strap 152 may extend. The slits may be positioned adjacent to the accessory mounts (e.g., left mounting rail 120, right mounting rail 130) according to some embodiments. For example, central strap 152 may pass through a first slit on left panel 114 positioned by slot 124b and a second slit on right panel 116 positioned by slot 134b. In some embodiments, a majority of central strap 152 extends beneath the exterior of cover 110. This can, for example, reduce that chance that central strap 152 will snag on objects. Moreover, by weaving central strap 152 through the slits of cover 110, this allows for cover 110 to be secured onto central strap 152. In further embodiments, as shown in Fig. 9, cover 110 may include a loop 113 positioned on the interior of cover 110 through which central strap 152 may pass. For example, loop 113 may be positioned on an interior side of central panel 112. In some embodiments loop 113 is configured to prevent central strap 152 from substantially shifting forward or backward during use. Loop 113 may also assist in attaching cover 110 to central strap 152.

[0039] In further embodiments, as shown in Figs. 4 and 9, helmet cover assembly 100 includes a rear strap 154. In some embodiments, rear strap 154 connects left mounting rail 120 with right mounting rail 130. In some embodiments, rear strap 154 extends from a rear portion of right mounting rail 130 to a rear portion of left mounting rail 120 as shown, for example, in Fig. 8. In some embodiments, rear strap 154 is positioned such that rear strap 154 passes along the rear of helmet 200 when helmet cover assembly 100 is mounted onto helmet 200. In some embodiments, left and right mounting rails 120 and 130 include slots through which rear strap may be looped or anchored. As shown in Figs. 6-8, in some embodiments, rear strap 154 may pass through slot 124c at a rear portion of left mounting rail 120 and slot 134c at a rear portion of right mounting rail 130. The slots 124c and 134c may have approximately the same or slightly larger width than the width rear strap 154. Rear strap 154 may have the same or different width as front straps 150a and 150b or central strap 152.

[0040] In some embodiments, a portion of rear strap 154 passes beneath the exterior of cover 110 (as shown in dashed lines) such that the portion of rear strap 154 is positioned between the exterior of cover 110 and exterior surface 210 of helmet 200 during use. In some embodiments, cover 110 is provided with slits through which rear strap 154 may extend. In some embodiments, cover 110 is provided with one or more pairs of slits through which rear strap 154 may extend. The slits may be positioned adjacent to the accessory mounts (e.g., left mounting rail 120, right mounting rail 130) according to some embodiments. For example, rear strap 154 may pass through a first slit on by slot 134c and a second slit positioned by slot 124c. This can, for example, reduce that chance that central strap 152 will snag on objects. Moreover, by weaving rear strap 154 through the slits of cover 110, this allows for cover 110 to be secured onto rear strap 154.

[0041] In some embodiments, rear strap 154 may be configured to allow for adjustment of the tightness of helmet cover assembly 100 around helmet 200. In some embodiments, rear strap 154 is an adjustable length strap. As shown in Fig. 8, for example, in some embodiments, rear strap 154 extends from slot 134c of right mounting rail 130 to underneath cover 110 through a first slit in cover 110 proximate slot 134c. Rear strap 154 may then extend from underneath cover 110 through a second slit in cover 110 proximate slot 124c to left mounting rail 120. Rear strap 154 may be looped through slot 124c and terminate in an end tab 154a. It should be understood that a mirror image arrangement is also possible in other embodiments. In some embodiments, end tab 154a which may be pulled (e.g., in the direction shown by the arrow) to tighten helmet cover assembly 100 around helmet 200. In some embodiments, pulling end tab 154a causes components of helmet cover assembly 100 to cinch closer together. In particular, pulling end tab 154b may cause the rear portions of left mounting rail 120 and right mounting rail 130 to move closer together, causing helmet cover assembly 100 to tighten around helmet 200 during use. In certain embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 is preferably tightened such that helmet cover assembly 100 is substantially fixed onto helmet 200. In some embodiments, rear strap 154 may allow the user to tighten helmet cover assembly 100 without removing helmet cover assembly from helmet 200 or without first removing helmet 200 from his or her head. Preferably, in certain embodiments, rear strap 154 allows for single-handed tightening of helmet cover assembly 100.

[0042] In some embodiments, moving end tab 154a in an opposite direction may allow helmet cover assembly to be loosened around helmet 200 (e.g., when it is desired to remove helmet cover assembly 100 from helmet 200). In some embodiments, end tab 154a is provided with loops or hooks configured to fasten onto hook or loop patch 160d. In some such embodiments, end tab 154a may be fastened onto hook or loop patch 160d once the desired tightening has been achieved to prevent loosening of helmet cover assembly 100. In further embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 may further include a removable outer patch or flap (not shown) which may be positioned over end tab 154a. For example, end tab 154a may be sandwiched between hook or loop patch 160d and the outer patch or flap. Such an outer patch or flap, in some embodiments, may help prevent inadvertent detachment of end tab 154a from hook or loop patch 160d and loosening of helmet cover assembly 100. The outer patch or flap may include hooks or loops configured to fasten onto hook or loop patch 160d.

[0043] In some embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 may additionally or alternatively include a cabling system configured to connect together the one or more accessory mounts (e.g., left mounting rail 120, right mounting rail 130, shroud 140). In some such embodiments, the cabling system includes a cable or cord that is connected to each of left mounting rail 120, right mounting rail 130, and shroud 140 and which may be tightened to cinch left mounting rail 120, right mounting rail 130, and shroud 140 together. In some embodiments, the cable or cord is looped between left mounting rail 120 and right mounting rail 130 and/or shroud 140. In some embodiments, the cable or cord is crisscrossed between left mounting rail 120 and right mounting rail 130. In some embodiments, the cable or cord is a nylon cable. In some embodiments, the cable or cord is woven into cover 110. In some embodiments, the cable or cord is configured to be at least partially positioned between cover 110 and exterior surface 210 of helmet 200 during use. In some embodiments, the cable or cord is directly connected to left mounting rail 120, right mounting rail 130, and/or shroud 140. In other embodiments, the cable or cord is connected to one or more straps that are attached to left mounting rail 120, right mounting rail 130, and/or shroud 140. In further embodiments, the cabling system includes a tightening strap that when pulled, applies tension to the cable or cord to tighten the cabling system. [0044] In some embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 may further be secured to helmet 200 by one or more components which extend into the interior of helmet 200 during use. In some embodiments, at least a portion of cover 110 is configured to extend into the interior of helmet 200. In some embodiments, cover 110 includes one or more flaps that extend into the interior of helmet 200 to help secure helmet cover assembly 110 to helmet 200. As shown in Fig. 10, for example, helmet cover assembly 100 may include at least a left flap 118a and a right flap 118b that extends into the interior of helmet 200 when helmet cover assembly 100 is mounted onto helmet 200. Other flaps positioned, for example, at the front or rear of cover 110, may also be included according to other embodiments. In some embodiments, left flap 118a and right flap 118b may respectively include hook or loop patches 119a and 119b that are positioned and configured to fasten onto one or more hook or loop patches 240 (e.g., VELCOIN® fasteners) that may be positioned throughout interior surface 230 of helmet 200. Other attachment means for securing the flaps to interior surface 230 of helmet 200 may also be used according to other embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, snap buttons or other mechanical fasteners can be used to the flaps to interior surface 230 of helmet 200.

[0045] In yet further embodiments, helmet cover assembly 100 may include one or more fastening straps which are configured to extend into the interior of helmet 200 during use. The one or more fastening straps may be made of the same materials and have the widths described for the other straps present in helmet cover assembly 100 (e.g., front straps 150a and 150b). In some embodiments, the one or more fastening straps are configured to extend from an accessory mount into the interior of helmet 200. As shown in the illustrated embodiments of Figs. 2-10, helmet cover assembly 100 may include at least four fastening straps which include two front fastening straps 156a and 156b and two rear fastening straps 158a and 158b. In some embodiments, front fastening strap 156a may extend from a front portion of left mounting rail 120 (e.g., at slot 124d), front fastening strap 156b may extend from a front portion of right mounting rail 130 (e.g., at slot 134d), rear fastening strap 158a may extend from a rear portion of left mounting rail 120 (e.g., at slot 124e), and rear fastening strap 158b may extend from a rear portion of right mounting rail 130 (e.g., at slot 134e). Each of front and rear fastening straps 156a, 156b, 158a, and 158b, are sized to be able to extend over peripheral edge 220 of helmet 200 into the interior of helmet 200. As shown in Fig. 10, in some embodiments, front fastening straps 156a and 156b can include end portions 157a and 157b, respectively, which may have hook or loop portions configured to attach to one or more hook or loop patches 240 positioned on interior surface 230 of helmet 200. Similarly, rear fastening straps 158a and 158b may be provided with end portions 159a and 159b, respectively, which may have hook or loop portions that are also configured to attach to one or more hook or loop patches 240. It should be understood that additional fastening straps having similar configurations may also be included in helmet cover assembly 100 which may extend, for example, from shroud 140 or cover 110 according to further embodiments.

[0046] In further embodiments, helmet 200 may include a helmet liner which may be placed in the interior of helmet 200. The helmet liner may be sized and shaped to fit between interior surface 230 of helmet 200 and the user's head during use to provide additional protection, shock absorption, and/or cushioning. In some embodiments, the helmet liner may be made from or include a foam material, for example, expanded polypropylene, expanded polystyrene, open or closed cell polyurethane, etc. In some embodiments, the helmet liner includes a plurality of foam pads that may be positioned at different locations within the interior of helmet 200. A non- limiting example of a helmet liner is described in U.S. Patent No. 7,958,573, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the helmet liner may be positioned within the interior of helmet 200 such that one or more of the fastening straps (e.g., 156a, 156b, 158a, and/or 158b) are sandwiched between the helmet liner and interior surface 230 of helmet 200. The helmet liner may be removably attached to helmet 200 by way of hook or loop patches 240. In other embodiments, it may be possible to attach one or more of the fastening straps (e.g., 156a, 156b, 158a, and/or 158b) directly to the helmet liner. For example, the helmet liner may be provided with hook or loop patches that can attach to end portions 157a, 157b, 159a, and/or 159b. In some such embodiments, the helmet liner is attached to the interior surface 230 of helmet 200 (e.g., via hook or loop patches 240), and end portions 157a, 157b, 159a, and/or 159b of fastening straps 156a, 156b, 158a, and/or 158b are attached directly to the helmet liner. One exemplary embodiment is depicted in Fig. 12 where helmet 200 is provided with a helmet liner 300 having a plurality of removable pads 340, 350, 360. According to this embodiment, end portions 157a, 157b, 159a, and/or 159b may be attached to the helmet liner 300 and sandwiched between the helmet liner 300 and one or more of removable pads 340, 350, 360.

[0047] Fig. 11 shows attachment of front and rear fastening straps 156a, 156b, 158a, and 158b according to a further embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, front and rear fastening straps 156a, 156b, 158a, and 158b may be attached to a helmet retention system 170 that may be included with helmet 200. Helmet retention system 170 is configured to retain helmet 200 on the user's head during use and may include, for example, a chin strap and/or nape pad 176. An example helmet retention system that may be used with helmet 200 is described in U.S. Patent No. 8,353,066, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. In general, helmet retention system 170 includes a plurality of straps such as forward straps 172a and 172b that may be mounted at the front of helmet 200 and back straps 174a and 174b that may be mounted at the rear of helmet 200. In some embodiments, forward straps 172a and 172b and back straps 174a and 174b may be directly attached onto helmet 200 (e.g., similar to retention system 14 of Fig. 1). In other embodiments, forward straps 172a and 172b and back straps 174a and 174b may be mounted onto a helmet liner (as described above) that in turn may be removably attached to the interior of helmet 200 (see Fig. 12 for example). In the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 11, one or more straps of helmet retention system 170 are connected to one or more of front and rear fastening straps 156a, 156b, 158a, and 158b of helmet cover assembly 100. In some embodiments, front fastening straps 156a and 156b may be connected to forward straps 172a and 172b, respectively. In some embodiments, front fastening straps 156a and 156b may be connected to forward straps 172a and 172b at buckles or rings 173a and 173b. For example, each of forward strap 172a and front fastening strap 156a may pass through or loop around buckle or ring 173 a. Similarly, each of forward strap 172b and front fastening strap 156b may pass through or loop around buckle or ring 173b. In some embodiments, front fastening straps 156a and 156b are contiguous with forward straps 172a and 172b,

respectively. In some embodiments, rear fastening straps 158a and 158b may be connected to back straps 174a and 174b, respectively. In some embodiments, rear fastening straps 158a and 158b may be connected to back straps 174a and 174b at buckles or rings 175a and 175b. For example, each of back strap 174a and rear fastening strap 158a may pass through or loop around buckle or ring 175a. Similarly, each of back strap 174b and rear fastening strap 158b may pass through or loop around buckle or ring 175b. In some embodiments, rear fastening straps 158a and 158b are contiguous with back straps 174a and 174b, respectively. Connecting one or more straps of helmet retention system 170 to one or more of front and rear fastening straps 156a, 156b, 158a, and 158b in certain embodiments allows helmet retention system 170 to be coupled to the accessory mounts (e.g., left and/or right mounting rails 120 and 130) of helmet cover assembly 100.

[0048] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the exemplary embodiments shown and described above without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described, but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the claims. For example, specific features of the exemplary embodiments may or may not be part of the claimed invention and features of the disclosed embodiments may be combined. Unless specifically set forth herein, the terms "a", "an" and "the" are not limited to one element but instead should be read as meaning "at least one".

[0049] It is to be understood that at least some of the figures and descriptions of the invention have been simplified to focus on elements that are relevant for a clear understanding of the invention, while eliminating, for purposes of clarity, other elements that those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate may also comprise a portion of the invention. However, because such elements are well known in the art, and because they do not necessarily facilitate a better understanding of the invention, a description of such elements is not provided herein.

Claims

CLAIMS I/we claim:

1. A helmet cover assembly comprising: a cover configured to extend over a helmet; at least one mounting device coupled to the cover; and one or more straps coupled to the at least one mounting device and configured to tighten the cover to the helmet.

2. The helmet cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one mounting device includes at least two mounting devices and the one or more straps are coupled between the at least two mounting devices, wherein the one or more straps are configured to pull the at least two mounting devices together and tighten the cover to the helmet.

3. The helmet cover assembly of claim 2, wherein the at least two mounting devices are coupled to one another by one or more fixed length straps.

4. The helmet cover assembly of claim 2, wherein the at least two mounting devices are coupled to the cover only through the use of the one or more straps.

5. The helmet cover assembly of claim 1 further comprising a helmet retention system configured to retain the helmet to a user's head, the helmet retention system being coupled to the cover through the use of one or more straps.

6. The helmet cover assembly of claim 5, wherein at least one of the one or more straps is coupled to the at least one mounting device and configured to couple to an inner surface of the helmet.

7. The helmet cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one mounting device includes a first rail, a second rail, and a shroud, the first rail being coupled to the second rail by an adjustable strap configured to pull the first rail and the second rail together to tighten the cover to the helmet, the first rail being coupled to the second rail by a first fixed length strap, and the shroud being coupled to the first rail by a second fixed length strap and coupled to the second rail by a third fixed length strap.

8. The helmet cover assembly of claim 1, wherein one of the at least one mounting device includes a bolt configured to be coupled to the helmet through a bolt hole in the helmet.

9. The helmet cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the cover includes a window receiving the at least one mounting device and configured to allow the at least one mounting device to directly contact an outer surface of the helmet.

10. The helmet cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the cover extends over an entire outer surface of the helmet.

11. The helmet cover assembly of claim 1 , wherein the cover extends over a peripheral edge of the helmet and is attachable to the helmet using only the one or more straps and one or more hook and loop fasteners.

12. The helmet cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the cover extends over a peripheral edge of the helmet and is attachable to a liner of the helmet using only the one or more straps and one or more hook and loop fasteners.

13. The helmet cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the cover is comprised of a non-elastic material.

A helmet cover assembly comprising a cover configured to extend over a helmet; a first mounting device coupled to a first lateral side of the cover; a second mounting device coupled to a second lateral side of the cover; and an adjustable length strap coupled to the first mounting device and the second mounting device and configured to adjust the distance between the first mounting device and the second mounting device.

15. A helmet cover assembly comprising: a cover configured to extend substantially over an entire outer surface of a helmet, the cover including a plurality of hook and loop fasteners configured to attached to corresponding hook and loop fasteners on an inner surface of the helmet; a first mounting rail coupled to a first lateral side of the cover; a second mounting rail coupled to a second lateral side of the cover; a fixed length strap extending between the first mounting rail and the second mounting rail, the cover extending at least partially over at least a portion of the fixed length strap; an adjustable length strap coupled to the first mounting device and the second mounting device and configured to adjust the distance between the first mounting device and the second mounting device; and a retention system coupled to the first mounting device and the second mounting device.