U.S. patent application number 12/105394 was filed with the patent office on 2009-10-22 for impact absorbing frame and layered structure system for safety helmets.
Invention is credited to John A. Del Rosario.
Application Number | 20090260133 12/105394 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41199840 |
Filed Date | 2009-10-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090260133 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Del Rosario; John A. |
October 22, 2009 |
Impact Absorbing Frame and Layered Structure System for Safety
Helmets
Abstract
To be embedded within most customizable strong yet flexible
safety helmet shells, is a strong, lightweight, impact absorbing
"Frame" and a multi-layered impact absorbing cushioning
"structure". Two combined yet independent components designed to
protect the user's head and cranium and to reduce the violent
sudden acceleration and deceleration of the head and brain after
impact. One aspect consists of a solid, continuous and unbroken
"Frame" The frame comprises a number of semi-circular arched
segments or "panels" with several other smaller semi-circular
arched panels placed facing opposite the larger panels within the
frame. The additional cushioning in the structure comprises several
layers and levels of cushioning protection. These layers consist of
a cushioning interior impact liner, a soft silicone gel material, a
form fitting inner liner, and optional cloth liners.
Inventors: |
Del Rosario; John A.; (New
York, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
John A. Del Rosario
618 West 136th Street
New York
NY
10031
US
|
Family ID: |
41199840 |
Appl. No.: |
12/105394 |
Filed: |
April 18, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/412 ; 2/171.3;
2/411; 2/425 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A42B 3/063 20130101;
A42B 3/062 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/412 ; 2/411;
2/425; 2/171.3 |
International
Class: |
A42B 3/00 20060101
A42B003/00; A42C 5/04 20060101 A42C005/04 |
Claims
1. A protective headgear system to be embedded within most safety
helmet shells. Incorporated within said customizable, strong yet
flexible helmet shell is a strong, lightweight and impact absorbing
"Frame" herein referred to as "frame" and a multi-layered impact
absorbing cushioning "structure" herein referred to as "structure".
Said assembly herein collectively referred to as "system" or
"Impact Absorbing Frame and Layered Structure System for Safety
Helmets." The system may be manufactured as an integrated,
standalone protective layer that could be universally adapted and
incorporated onto any modifiable safety helmet shell design shaped
to correspond with the system and the user's head. Two combined yet
independent components designed to protect the user's head and
cranium and to reduce the violent sudden acceleration and
deceleration of the head and brain after impact.
2. The invention according to claim 0001 wherein any strong yet
flexible helmet shell would be the first protective layer. The
outer shell of the helmet can be contoured to fit the parameters of
the subsequent frame and layered structure.
3. The invention according to claim 0002 wherein the outermost
layer or "outer shell" can be made up of a strong yet flexible
construction preferably of fiber-reinforced composites or
thermoplastics or the like with the unique quality of minimal
sliding friction.
4. The invention according to claim 0001 wherein one component
consists of a solid, continuous and unbroken "Frame"
5. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein the frame
comprises a plurality of semi-circular arched segments or "panels"
which are shaped to extend over and about the skull.
6. The invention according to claim 0005 wherein the semi-circular
arched design of the panels within the frame allows them to
dissipate and absorb impact forces due to their capability of
spanning a space while supporting significant weight.
7. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein the frame is
preferably made of lightweight and flexible yet strong and durable
material made of fiber-reinforced composites or thermoplastics or
the like.
8. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein there is a
horizontal front panel which extends about the Frontal region of
the skull.
9. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein there is a
horizontal base panel which extends horizontally about the Frontal
Base region of the skull.
10. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein there are two
vertical base panels which extend vertically about the Frontal Base
region of the skull.
11. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein there is a
horizontal rear panel which extends horizontally about the
Occipital region of the skull.
12. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein there are two
vertical rear panels which extend vertically about the Occipital
region of the skull.
13. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein two semi-circular
arched top panels extend about the Parietal region of the
skull.
14. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein there is a
vertical cross-panel which extends about the Temporal and Parietal
regions of the skull.
15. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein there is a curved
mid-segment which extends throughout the Base region of the
skull.
16. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein there is a
plurality of inner opposite-facing arched panels.
17. The invention according to claim 0016 wherein said several
smaller semi-circular arched segments being of approximately but
not limited to equal degrees of curvatures are placed facing
opposite the larger segments within the frame.
18. The invention according to claim 0016 wherein these arches are
firmly coupled together at each end to the main unbroken part of
the frame.
19. The invention according to claim 0018 wherein in a preferred
embodiment, the ends of the inner opposite-facing arched panels are
attached by way of tight fitting clamps or by other suitable means
of attachment that would provide a firm hold yet allow the arches
the freedom of movement to compress and expand.
20. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein the panels are
spaced apart to provide for ventilation, with spacing between them
of approximately but not limited to one inch or more. Thus,
adequate ventilation is provided to dissipate heat and achieve a
reasonable level of comfort while protecting the wearer.
21. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein the width of a
panel is to be approximately but not limited to three quarters of
one inch.
22. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein there is a
cross-sectional thickness selected to provide the desired degree of
impact protection
23. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein The panels are
preferably single-layered, having one layer of approximately but
not limited to one-eighth of one inch of density.
24. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein in a preferred
embodiment, said frame is to be made continuous and unbroken with
the exception of the inner opposite-facing arched panels.
25. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein also in a
preferred embodiment, the frame is to be symmetrical from all
sides.
26. The invention according to claim 0004 wherein Providing rigid
protection under most circumstances, but upon impact the panels
move relative to one another around the user's head and helmet
compressing and expanding depending on the severity of the impact
forces thereby permitting impact forces to be dissipated and/or
redirected away from the cranium and brain within.
27. The invention according to claim 0001 wherein the additional
layers in the structure comprises several levels of cushioning
protection.
28. The invention according to claim 0027 wherein said layers would
encase the "frame" so as not to come in contact with the user's
head or helmet.
29. The invention according to claim 0027 wherein subsequent layers
consist of a commercially available soft silicone gel material or
the like, whose elasticity will allow for shock absorption, gently
dispersing energy.
30. The invention according to claim 0028 wherein said layer would
encase the entirety of the inner and outer portions of the frame,
with exclusion to any sections designated for ventilation and/or
visibility.
31. The invention according to claim 0028 wherein said layer would
also encase the entirety of the inner and outer portions of the
inner opposite-facing arched panels.
32. The invention according to claim 0027 wherein further
subsequent layers are comprised of several levels of impact
absorbing polymer material. These layers consist of a cushioning,
impact absorbing material of a commercially available polymer
structure such as polystyrene or polypropylene or the like, which
further absorbs the impact energy and reduces the generated
shockwave and simultaneously lowers the deceleration rate of the
user's head.
33. The invention according to claim 0031 wherein said layer would
encase the entirety of the inside of the helmet shell as well as
the outer regions of the frame, with exclusion to any sections
designated for ventilation and/or visibility.
34. The invention according to claim 0027 wherein the subsequent
and last layer designated for contact with the head of a user may
consist of a form fitting inner liner.
35. The invention according to claim 0034 wherein said liner is
preferably made of a polymer material such as a commercially
available foam material or the like, or a synthetic rubber polymer
or the like.
36. The invention according to claim 0034 wherein in a preferred
embodiment, said layer may contain optional detachable pads made of
the same polymer material, a soft durable foam or the like that can
be strategically placed inside the helmet by the wearer to
accommodate different head shapes and sizes.
37. The invention according to claim 0027 wherein optional
detachable inner liners to be worn for contact with the head of a
user made of commercially available soft flexible cloth or the like
may also be used.
38. The invention according to claim 0037 wherein in a preferred
embodiment said liner may be made of commercially available soft
flexible cloth or the like.
39. The invention according to claim 0037 wherein alternatively, a
fire-retardant material or the like for contact with the head of a
user may also be used.
40. The invention according to claim 0027 wherein each layer has a
different density than the other layers.
41. The invention according to claim 0027 wherein in a preferred
embodiment, the outermost layer farthest from the skull has the
highest density to deflect impact forces and retain shape, while
the subsequent inner layer has a lower density to absorb impact
forces to minimize transmission of these forces through the helmet.
Accordingly, the next and subsequent layer preferably has a lower
density than the preceding layer. Finally the inner most layer has
the lowest density so that it is pliable enough to conform to a
users head.
42. The invention according to claim 0041 wherein while preferably,
the layered structure may have a plurality of recurrent layers,
other density/layer arrangements, additions and/or omissions are
also useful.
43. The invention according to claim 0027 wherein there is a
cross-sectional thickness selected to provide the desired degree of
impact protection
44. The invention according to claim 0043 wherein said layers are
preferably of approximately but not limited to one-eighth of one
inch of density.
45. The invention according to claim 0027 wherein in a preferred
embodiment, said layers are bonded or held together by way of
commercially available processes.
46. The invention according to claim 0045 wherein said processes
may include but are not limited to applying commercially available
adhesive compounds, fabric hook-and-loop fasteners and/or
commercially available stitching processes.
47. The invention according to claim 0031 wherein in a preferred
embodiment of the invention, the layers are made of polystyrene or
polypropylene, the aforementioned may be used in conjunction with
other polymers and plastics to form the segments of the present
invention. In addition to polystyrene or polypropylene, the
segments may be made from, without limitation, a polybutylene, a
polyvinyl (including polyvinyl chloride), a polyester, a
polycarbonate, a polyurethane, a polyamine, a polyacrylic, a
polyamide, a polyurea, and any other suitable polymer.
48. The invention according to claim 0028 wherein in a preferred
embodiment of the invention, said layers are made of soft silicone
gel material or the like, the aforementioned may be used in
conjunction with other polymers and plastics to form the segments,
said layers may be made with any other suitable polymer.
49. The invention according to claim 0001 wherein the frame and
helmet shell are preferably made of lightweight and flexible yet
strong and durable material made of fiber-reinforced composites or
thermoplastics or the like, the aforementioned may be used in
conjunction with other suitable composites and thermoplastics or
any other suitable polymer to form the segments of the present
invention.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates generally to protective headgear and,
more specifically, to an impact absorbing frame and cushioning
structure that prevents injury and reduces damage to the user.
[0002] Protective headgear or helmets have been worn for a long
time now, by individuals to protect against head injuries. The use
of helmets is often a mandatory requirement for driving bicycles
and certain other motor vehicles, in high impact sports and in
material handling and other potentially hazardous locations.
[0003] The use of safety helmets has been just that--to reduce or
completely protect the user from any top, lateral and penetration
impact to the user's head. However, commonly used protective
headgear use a hard outer casing with an impact-energy absorbing
padding placed between the outer casing and the user's head. The
flaw in these hard casing helmets is that they actually permit the
generation of a high-impact shock wave and only after this shock
wave is generated are they designed to minimize the strength of the
shock wave and reduce its effects by the use of shock absorbing
material between the hard casing and the user's head. If a rider
wearing such a typical helmet falls off from a bicycle or a
motorbike from any angle and hits the surface hard with the helmet,
the impact of the hard shell meeting the hard surface generates a
shockwave and a high impact force, which is then absorbed (to a
limited extent) by the inner shock-absorbing material inside the
hard casing and in contact with the rider's head. Although these
and other conventional helmet liners have worked well, they have
failed to provide protection against both high and low degrees of
impact imparted on a helmet over the extended life of said helmet.
The impact force is often so great that the rider's helmet may even
initially bounce back upon contacting the surface and the head may
be thrust backwards subjecting the head and neck regions to
additional injury causing forces. If the impact is severe enough,
it may lead to a concussion (striking of the brain matter to the
skull with moderate force) or even a contusion (striking of the
brain matter to the skull with high force) and may also lead to
skull fracture.
[0004] Published research suggests that the human skull can
fracture at decelerations as low as 225 G's and that a concussion
can occur at substantially lower decelerations. Research has shown
that to offer maximum protection to the head, the rate of
deceleration should be as low as possible.
[0005] Further, mandatory rules by industry organizations and/or
government regulations often obligate the work force of specific
industries such as the construction industry to wear `hard hats`,
which again carry the limitations mentioned above--that of
permitting the initial generation of a shockwave and ensuing
attempts by shock absorbing padding in the headgear to absorb the
said impact forces that cause this shockwave.
[0006] Helmets from their first use to today have essentially been
an artificial skull over the human skull and thus only duplicate
the same protection the natural skull is already providing, without
adding any more safety dimensions. In fact, the extra "skull"
serves to increase the weight of the head relative to the neck
muscles, which is well-researched cause of both soft tissue and
bone injuries. More important for injuries, this additional weight
increases the acceleration potential ((increased)
mass.times.velocity) of the brain inside the cranium, after
impact.
[0007] There is an important disadvantage and negative safety
feature inherent with conventional helmet styles In order to
provide sufficient protection from impact forces, heretofore it has
been the practice of the helmet manufacturers to form the
cushioning shell layer with a thickness of one inch or more, and if
the padding is for comfort it is often of similar thickness. As a
result, when worn, these sports helmets project outwardly a
distance of two inches or more from the wearer's head, increasing
the diameter of the natural skull and adding physical disproportion
of head to shoulder/torso, for optimal muscular control.
[0008] Upon impact from anything other than a true perpendicular
force vector, the skull/helmet combination acts as a fulcrum as the
neck and body `bends` around it. With increased diameter, the range
and magnitude of `bend` at the fulcrum is dramatically increased
and ultimately, the quantity and quality of associated injuries.
This is one of the most common ways for avulsion of bone, discs and
muscles and it is the classical method for cervical nerve root
stretch, rupture or avulsion. Termed a `zinger` in its mild,
temporary form, permanent total nerve loss results when the
`bending` injury is more severe. Larger diameter and/or added
weight invariably increase rotational force potential and rotation,
according to whiplash research, is the most destructive.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,561,866 to Ross discloses a safety helmet
for motorcyclists. An outer shell of the helmet is formed as a
sandwich, with outer and inner composite layers made from
impact-resistant resinous material. Each composite layer is
separated from the other by an intermediate layer of resilient
material. The impact-resistant material is preferably a cloth of
high tensile strength fiber such as KEVLAR.TM., DYNEMA.TM., glass
fiber, or carbon fiber. Cork, foamed or other resilient plastic can
be used to form the resilient material. Preferably, the resilient
material is a honeycomb material composed of paper or aluminum. The
helmet is made by sequentially laying up, in or over a former, a
first composite layer of resin and sheets of impact-resistant
material, an intermediate layer of honeycomb material, and a second
composite layer of resin and sheets of impact-resistant material.
The outer shell has a polyhedral form comprising a plurality of
polygonal faces with abutting edges. Presence of high strength
outer and inner layers sandwiched with a resilient layer allows
movement of the outer and inner layers.
[0010] This process does not absorb impact shock. The thin outer
layer may crack under impact load, Adding to the shortcomings of
this patent are the legal hurdles that will arise when trying to
approve such a design for commercial use. Current specifications
for some regulatory agencies require helmets have smooth, rounded
outer surfaces and no straight or sharp edges. Furthermore,
aerodynamic problems would be a significant issue with this
design.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 5,794,271 to Hastings discloses a helmet shell
structure utilizing a first inner layer of epoxy resin shaped into
a head covering of a desired size and configuration. A second layer
of woven fabric is placed atop the first layer of epoxy. A third
outer layer of epoxy resin is laid atop the second layer and is
cured to a transparent state such that the second layer of woven
fabric is visible through the third outer layer of cured epoxy. The
disclosure details helmet shell structure for crash helmets. Such
crash helmets are formed by a first epoxy layer, a second layer of
woven fabric followed by a third layer of transparent epoxy. Plugs
composed of epoxy are used to maintain integrity of the three
layers. Critical areas of the helmet, such as flanges, receive a
fourth layer of fiberglass adjacent to the first layer.
[0012] Crash helmets disclosed by the '271 patent does not seem
likely to provide a significant improvement over current safety
helmet shells.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 6,154,889 to Moore discloses a protective
helmet for skiing, snowboarding, bicycling, rollerblading,
skateboarding, rock climbing and the like. The protective helmet
comprises a resilient shell having a plurality of slits. Each slit
has a first end located at a lower edge of the shell and an
adjustable width effective for adjusting the size of the shell. The
helmet also has an energy absorbing liner disposed inside the
shell. Such a shell is very stiff, to effectively distribute an
impact force. The '889 patent discloses a protective headgear for
use by cyclists and other recreational sports. Both the helmet
shell and the foam lining are serrated, so that the size of the
helmet can be reduced by tightening the belt. The helmet is molded
with a thermoplastic or thermosetting resin having predominantly
glass fibers to produce a stiff helmet.
[0014] Since fibers are high in volume and are distributed randomly
during the compression molding process, a shock absorbing structure
is not created. Consequently, the protective helmet disclosed by
the '889 patent would provide little or no protection to the
wearer.
[0015] Both Johnson, U.S. Pat. No. 3,946,441, and Marker, U.S. Pat.
No. 4,006,496 show a safety helmet with a hard outer shell, and a
shock-absorbing inner shell made of two different materials. The
different materials each appear to have different impact absorbing
properties, for performance during a range of different impact
loads. The helmets also have a fitting pad to encircle the wearer's
head for increased fit and comfort. Likewise, Mitchell et al., in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,534,068 and 4,558,470, appear to disclose a shock
attenuation system for use with protective headgear wherein on
outer shell is lined with a shock absorbing layer, a layer of
flexible slow recovery foam, and a layer of rapid recovery
foam.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 6,343,385 to Katz discloses a helmet for
protection against non-motorized injuries comprises a number of
arched segments with ventilation spaces between them, the arched
segments being shaped to extend about and engage the skull. The
helmet is constructed to cover the apical as well as the frontal,
temporal and occipital basilar skull. The arched segments are
convex on their outer surfaces, have flat, curved inner surfaces,
and are made of a cushioning, impact absorbing material such as
plastic foam. Reinforcing elements extend in longitudinal passages
in the arched segments to provide resistance against forces which
are only partly absorbed by the cushioning material. In an
alternate embodiment, support straps extend over the apical skull,
and an impact resistant helmet is worn over the apical skull. This
helmet seems geared toward non-motorized injuries, limiting the
potential for wide commercial use and would provide little to no
impact protection in high impact events.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 7,254,843 to Talluri discloses an impact
absorbing; modular helmet that uses impact absorbing layers outside
the hard casing of the helmet to prevent and/or reduce injury to
the user is described. The protective layers on the outer side of
the hard casing increase the time of impact and thereby reduces the
intensity of the impact forces to reduce their injury potential.
The outermost layer would preferably be made of lightweight yet
rigid, durable material made of polymers, composites or metal
alloys with a low friction coefficient. Subsequent layers may be
made up of a polymer honeycombed structure and a uniformly
consistent impact absorbing polymer material. These
impact-absorbing layers may also be made and used as an
independent, detachable, external protective cover that may be
attached universally over hard casing helmets.
[0018] This would provide little to no improvement over current
protective helmets of similar designs or size.
[0019] Moreover, U.S. Pat. No. 5,930,840 to Arai discloses a pad
for an interior body of a helmet includes a shaped cushion material
made of foamed urethane or the like, a stretchable first cloth on
one side of the cushion material for contact with a head of a user,
a non-stretchable second cloth disposed on a side of the cushion
material opposed to the cloth. The interior body includes a
plurality of pads connected to form a band shape around the head of
a user and so as not to bend in a vertical direction.
[0020] This design would only cover a limited amount of the head
area, leaving other critical areas vulnerable.
[0021] Lastly, Gameau, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,351,342 appears to
disclose a safety helmet which comprises of a hard outer shell, a
shock absorbing insert for contact with the wearer's head, and a
hard inner shell embedded in the shock absorbing insert for
additional impact protection. The hard inner shell has fingers
which project through the inner face of the shock absorbing insert
so as to come flush with the inner face of the insert, to better
anchor the hard inner shell within the insert. Finally, both
Morgan, U.S. Pat. No. 5,669,079 and Broersma, U.S. Pat. No.
5,309,576, appear to disclose a protective helmet with a hard outer
shell, an impact absorbing liner, and a material with separate
impact absorbing characteristics imbedded or inserted into the
liner material.
[0022] All these aforementioned helmets do not seem likely to
provide a significant improvement over current safety helmet
shells.
[0023] Hence, it is the object of the present invention to overcome
the aforementioned problems and create a novel and improved,
versatile, impact absorbing protective system.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0024] Accordingly, the present invention strives to overcome some
of the disadvantages of prior safety helmets by a) providing a
protective system that is closer in weight and size to the user's
anatomical head, thereby minimizing resultant disproportion between
the head with helmet and the neck/torso and by b) redirecting or
dissipating injurious forces away from the head and brain, by using
an internal frame and a cushioning structure that will move
relative to each other in predetermined directions and
increments.
[0025] An inner frame and an impact absorbing structure,
collectively referred to as "system", to be contained within any
strong yet flexible bonnet is provided. This system is particularly
for protection of the skull, in order to protect the skull in
accidents, the frame comprises a number of semi-circular arched
segments or "panels", each of which has an outer flat surface and
an inner flat surface for engaging a generally curved surface of
the skull. Along certain inside segments of said frame are a
plurality of inner opposite-facing arched panels of smaller length
but mostly of equal degrees of curvature (to the large part). These
smaller panels are joined or coupled firmly to the larger part of
the frame, yet at the same time shall be allowed to compress and
expand in a predetermined fashion in conjunction with the larger
parts of the frame. The panels are of strong yet flexible material,
capable of yielding under substantial impact forces to absorb some
of the energy of these forces. This frame shall be contained within
a "sandwiched" or layered cushioning structure to resist impact on
the skull from forces which are partly absorbed by the cushioning
movements of the frame.
[0026] A very important safety feature of this design is that
because of the frame absorbing or re-directing force vectors along
predetermined incremental stages, any rotational vectors at the
time of impact will be decreased or actually changed to linear
vectors, thereby reducing the risk of the very damaging rotational
injuries to the nerve roots and/or brain stem. Coupled with the
cushioning structure, this system is designed to absorb kinetic
and/or potential energy at the time of the fall/impact, and
transfer it along more controlled, less damaging vectors away from
the head and brain.
[0027] A practical consideration is that this frame and structure
design will be lightweight, comfortable and versatile enough to
accommodate most recreational and sporting activities including but
not limited to bicycling, snowboarding, skateboarding,
rollerblading, horseback riding and with minimal modifications to
protect the face, more aggressive activities such as hockey and
football. Thoughts have been given to aesthetics, since a helmet
cannot protect if it is not worn and thus, especially for the high
risk, energetic youths, this system allows for a wider range of
outer shell designs to provide "visual appeal".
[0028] There has been a desperate call from the professional
community treating head injuries, for a radically different safety
helmet design, away from the 'skull over the skull` concept, to one
that incorporates current knowledge of how head, neck and
especially `contre` coup` injuries occur. The design of this system
focuses first on accepted injury mechanisms and then simulates some
of the effective structural features commonly used in architectural
and engineering physics to reduce concentrated loads and earthquake
damage in large structures. Capable of spanning a space while
supporting significant weight, the arch is significant because, in
theory at least, it provides a structure which eliminates tensile
stresses in spanning an open space. All the forces are resolved
into compressive stresses.
[0029] The characteristics of this system design are accomplished
through overlapping levels of protection, where each aspect
addresses a specific range of impact magnitude which when exceeded,
transfers the forces to the next level of protection. The outer
shell of the helmet contoured to fit the parameters of the
subsequent frame and layered structure contribute to the first
level. The "sandwiched" or layered impact absorbing structure with
its' many redundant levels contribute to the second and subsequent
levels of protection following the frame. The frame, with its many
arched segments and opposite facing inner segments contribute to
the third level. All of these levels of protection function within
the helmet structure and design, leaving the head and skull inside
as little involved as possible.
[0030] The frame's panels will consist of one layer. Each panel is
separated by space but contained or "sandwiched" within the
cushioning structure. The frame shall also be continuous and
unbroken with the exception of the inner opposite-facing arched
panels.
[0031] With impact at either the Frontal, Occipital, Temporal,
Parietal or Base regions of the skull, it is to be appreciated that
the relative movement and gradual contraction and or expansion of
the frame act to gradually dissipate the energy of the impact
force, without translating the energy to the wearer's skull and
more importantly the brain.
[0032] Current testing standards for helmets is to drop them from a
height and if they do not crack or break, they are approved, but as
previously mentioned, most head injuries from recreational or
sporting activities are not associated with skull fractures. It is
easy to visualize what would happen to the egg or egg yolk
simulating the human brain when tested in this fashion.
Internationally, the medical experts and professionals who treat
head trauma are calling for a revolutionary new approach to
protecting the head and brain. This system design offers one. While
enhancing the inherent protection provided by the human skull, this
unique system also addresses the need to protect the brain inside
the skull by dampening forces, not transferring them across the
cranium and by re-directing force vectors across the skull, not
through it.
[0033] By means of a force re-directing frame and an impact
absorbing structure, this system design remains closer to the
natural head size and weight thereby; a) avoiding the increased
injury risks noted above and b) providing equitable skull
protection for simple direct impact and most important of all c)
uniquely minimizing the most common and destructive `contre coup`
injuries.
[0034] These and other objects of the invention will be apparent
from the following drawings and detailed description of the
invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] FIG. 01 is a front elevational view upon a human form and
helmet outline,
[0036] FIG. 02 is a side elevational view upon a human form and
helmet outline,
[0037] FIG. 03 is a front elevational view thereof;
[0038] FIG. 04 is a rear elevational view thereof;
[0039] FIG. 05 is a side elevational view thereof,
[0040] FIG. 06 is a top plan view thereof.
[0041] FIG. 07 is a bottom plan view thereof,
[0042] FIG. 08 is a perspective view of an Inner opposite-facing
arched panel coupled onto the main part of the frame and
[0043] FIG. 09 is a detailed view of portions of elements on a
larger scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0044] Referring now to the drawings wherein like or corresponding
reference numerals are used for like or corresponding parts
throughout the several views. The present invention incorporates a
frame 1, herein referred to as "frame", This frame is firmly
attached and encapsulated on the entirety of its surface by an
energy-absorbing structure No's 11, 12, 13 and 14, herein referred
to as "structure" FIG. 09. Said assembly herein collectively
referred to as "system" or "Impact Absorbing Frame and Layered
Structure System for Safety Helmets." The system may be
manufactured as an integrated, standalone protective layer that
could be universally adapted and incorporated onto any modifiable
safety helmet shell design shaped to correspond with the system and
the user's head. The following examples illustrate the benefits of
such a multi-layered protective system.
[0045] A strong yet flexible helmet shell 16 would be the first
protective layer. This layer increases the impact time (duration of
impact) by subjecting itself to deformation. The outer shell of the
helmet can be contoured to fit the parameters of the subsequent
frame and layered structure.
[0046] The outermost layer or "outer shell" 16 can be made up of a
strong yet flexible construction preferably of fiber-reinforced
composites or thermoplastics or the like with the unique quality of
minimal sliding friction. The reason for this material having a low
friction coefficient is that the helmet is supposed to slide along,
i.e. move the head of the user along with the rest of the body.
Researchers have remarked that while the helmet should protect the
user's head from impact forces, the helmet (when in contact with
the ground or any other large object) should not impede or resist
the movement of the head as compared to the rest of the body, which
might be carrying or moving forward with a good momentum when the
user has fallen off a moving vehicle or other impact event. Such a
restriction to the movement of the user's head vis-a-vis the user's
body had shown detrimental results with damages to the neck and
head region of the user--as the body would be moving with a higher
momentum and if the head's momentum is slowed by the helmet it
would induce severe stress on the neck region. As such, the outer
layer 16 would be made of a material that would protect the user's
head from the impact forces yet have a very low friction
coefficient with potential contact surfaces.
[0047] The helmet shell then comes in contact with the next layer
FIG. 07 such as a commercially available soft silicone gel material
or the like 12, whose elasticity will allow for shock absorption,
gently dispersing energy. This layer would encase the entirety of
the frame, with exclusion to any sections designated for
ventilation and/or visibility.
[0048] There is shown in FIGS. 03,04,05,06 and 07 the preferred
embodiment of separate views one significant part of the present
invention which consists of a single layered continuous and
unbroken frame. Also, in accordance with the present invention,
adjacent to a human form FIGS. 01 and 02. The frame comprises a
plurality of semi-circular arched segments 1 which extend over and
about the skull. There is a horizontal front panel 2, a horizontal
base panel 3, two vertical base panels 4, a horizontal rear panel
5, two vertical rear panels 6, arched top panels 7, vertical
cross-panel 8, mid-segment 9, and a plurality of inner
opposite-facing arched panels 10. In a preferred embodiment, the
inner opposite-facing arched panels 10 are firmly coupled or
attached at each end to the main unbroken part of the frame FIG.
08. In another preferred embodiment the ends of the inner
opposite-facing arched panels 10 are attached by way of tight
fitting clamps 17 or by other suitable means of attachment that
would provide a firm hold yet allow the arches the freedom of
movement to compress and expand. Providing rigid protection under
most circumstances, but upon impact the panels move relative to one
another around the user's head and helmet compressing and expanding
depending on the severity of the impact forces thereby permitting
impact forces to be dissipated and/or redirected away from the
cranium and brain within. Upon impact to the helmet there are
sequential stages of movement of the panels relative to each other,
these movements being recoverable.
[0049] As shown in FIG. 06 in particular, the panels are spaced
apart to provide for ventilation, with spacing between them of
approximately but not limited to one inch or more. Thus, adequate
ventilation is provided to dissipate heat and achieve a reasonable
level of comfort while protecting the wearer. In another preferred
embodiment, the width of a panel is to be approximately but not
limited to three quarters of one inch.
[0050] The semi-circular arched design of the panels within the
frame allows them to dissipate and absorb impact forces due to
their capability of spanning a space while supporting significant
weight. The arch is significant because it provides a structure
which eliminates tensile stresses in spanning an open space. All
the forces are resolved into compressive stresses. When the wearer
of this system experiences an event where severe impact is
incurred, the panels 1 and its inner opposite-facing inner panels
10 undergo elastic deformation and compress and expand, dissipating
the impact throughout its semi-circular nature. When the impact
force is no longer in effect, such as when the helmet is no longer
in contact with the ground or other object, the flexible nature of
the arches comes into play and the panels regain their original
shape. Unlike foam, the frame responds differently, to low, medium
and high impact, the arches start to collapse after the initial
impact. As the pressure builds the arches have the ability to
compress more completely than dense foam, this allow for the energy
to dissipate over a longer period, which reduces the impact
force.
[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the material of the frame is
preferably of strong yet flexible construction, preferably of
fiber-reinforced composites or thermoplastics or the like. These
materials would provide for the frame to be rigid or semi-rigid and
have a cross-sectional thickness selected to provide the desired
degree of impact protection FIG. 09. The panels are preferably
single-layered, having one layer of approximately but not limited
to one-eighth of one inch of density FIG. 09.
[0052] In a preferred embodiment, this frame is to be made
continuous and unbroken with the exception of the inner
opposite-facing arched panels 10. Also, in a preferred embodiment,
the frame is to be symmetrical from all sides.
[0053] In FIGS. 02 and 05, there is shown, respectively, a side
elevational view of a frame which comprises the aforementioned
panels which extend about the skull. In this view, a curved and
arched mid-segment panel 9 extends from the front Base region of
the skull where it is connected to a vertical frontal panel 4,
continues around the Temporal and Occipital regions of the skull in
a semi-circular manner where it connects again to the opposite
vertical frontal panel 4. It is also evident from this view that
the vertical cross-panel 8 which connects to the mid-segment panel
9 at approximately the mid section and extends in an arched manner
over and above the Temporal and Parietal regions of the skull where
it meets and crosses the arched top panels 7.
[0054] Also in FIGS. 02 and 05, there is shown, respectively, a
side elevational view of the horizontal base panel 3, a side
cross-sectional thickness view of the vertical base panels 4 and a
side cross-sectional thickness view of the vertical rear panels 6.
The arched nature of these panels would allow for adequate
compression and expansion during a frontal and or rear impact.
Additionally, in case of a severe frontal or rear impact event, any
additional forces on the these areas of the skull would then be
redirected towards the mid-segment panel 9, thus redirecting them
from the skull and absorbing a substantial amount of kinetic and/or
potential energy at the time of the fall/impact, and transfer it
along more controlled, less damaging vectors away from the head and
brain.
[0055] Also in FIGS. 02 and 05, there is shown, respectively, a
side elevational view of the horizontal front panel 2 and a side
elevational view of the horizontal rear panel 5. Respectively, in
case of a severe frontal or rear impact event on the Frontal and
Occipital areas of the skull, any additional stresses on these
areas would then be redirected towards the arched top panels 7. The
cohesive nature of these panels acts to gradually dissipate the
energy of the impact force without translating the energy to the
wearer's skull and more importantly the brain.
[0056] Also in FIGS. 02 and 05, there is shown, respectively, a
side cross-sectional thickness view of a plurality of the inner
opposite-facing arched panels 10. These panels are of equal width
yet of smaller size in comparison to the main panels of the frame
1. These inner panels are also at approximately but not limited to
equal degrees of curvature in comparison to the main part of the
frame 1. These panels would act as an integral part in impact
absorption. In the event of a frontal, side or rear impact where
the skull is thrust onto the inner wall of the helmet shell 16,
these inner opposite-facing arched panels 10 would compress and
expand, thus re-directing force vectors towards the main part of
the frame 1, which in turn would serve to reduce concentrated loads
by dampening forces, not transferring them across the cranium and
by re-directing force vectors across the skull, not through it.
[0057] In FIG. 08, there is shown, respectively, a perspective view
of an inner opposite-facing arched panel 10 coupled onto the frame
1. In this particular preferred embodiment, the ends of the inner
opposite-facing arched panels 10 are attached by way of tight
fitting clamps 17. In another preferred embodiment these panels may
be coupled by any other suitable means of attachment that would
provide a firm hold yet allow the arches the freedom of movement to
compress and expand.
[0058] In FIGS. 01 and 03, there is shown, respectively, a front
elevational view of the vertical base panels 4, a front elevational
view of the horizontal base panel 4, a front elevational view of
the horizontal front panel 2, a partial front elevational view of
the arched top panels 7, and a side cross-sectional thickness view
of the vertical cross-panel 8. Also evident from this perspective
is a side cross-sectional thickness view of a plurality of the
inner opposite-facing arched panels 10, the arched nature of all
these panels would allow for adequate compression and expansion
during a frontal impact event. Additionally, in case of a severe
frontal impact on the frontal or base areas of the skull, any
additional forces on the these areas of the skull would then be
redirected towards the mid-segment panel 9 and the arched top
panels 7, thus redirecting them from the skull and absorbing a
substantial amount of kinetic and/or potential energy at the time
of the fall/impact, and transfer it along more controlled, less
damaging vectors away from the head and brain. Also evident from
this view is the approximate manner in which the vertical
cross-panel 8 extends in a semi-circular arched manner over and
above the Temporal and Parietal regions of the skull where it runs
perpendicular to the arched top panels and connects to the
mid-segment panel 9. Additionally, evident from this view is the
spacing between each panel so as not to impede overall vision and
to provide for ventilation.
[0059] In FIG. 04, there is shown, respectively, a rear elevational
view of the vertical rear panels 6, a rear elevational view of the
horizontal rear panel 5, a partial rear elevational view of the
arched top panels 7, and a cross-sectional thickness view of the
vertical cross-panel 8. The arched nature of all these panels would
allow for adequate compression and expansion during a rear impact
event. Additionally, in case of a severe rear impact on the
occipital areas of the skull, any additional forces on the these
areas of the skull would then be redirected towards the mid-segment
panel 9 and the arched top panels 7, thus redirecting them from the
skull and absorbing a substantial amount of kinetic and/or
potential energy at the time of the fall/impact, and transfer it
along more controlled, less damaging vectors away from the head and
brain.
[0060] In FIG. 06, there is shown, respectively, a top plan view of
the arched top panels 7 and a partial view of the vertical
cross-panel 9 which runs perpendicular to the arched top panels
7.Also evident from this perspective is a side cross-sectional
thickness view of a plurality of the inner opposite-facing arched
panels 10. In addition, the arched nature of the horizontal front
panel 2 and the horizontal rear panel 5 along with a perspective of
their approximate cross-sectional thickness can also be seen. The
arched nature of all these panels would allow for adequate
compression and expansion during an impact event. Additionally, in
case of a severe impact on the parietal areas of the skull, any
additional forces on the these areas of the skull would then be
redirected towards the vertical cross-panel 8, thus redirecting
them from the skull and absorbing a substantial amount of kinetic
and/or potential energy at the time of the fall/impact, and
transfer it along more controlled, less damaging vectors away from
the head and brain.
[0061] In FIG. 07, there is shown, respectively, a bottom
cross-sectional thickness view of the horizontal base panel 3 as
well as the arched nature of the mid-segment 9 along with a
perspective of its' cross-sectional thickness. Also evident from
this perspective is a bottom plan view of the vertical base panels
4. The arched nature of all these panels would allow for adequate
compression and expansion during an impact event. In case of a
severe impact on the skull, this system would absorb a substantial
amount of kinetic and/or potential energy at the time of the
fall/impact, and transfer it along more controlled, less damaging
vectors away from the head and brain.
[0062] In FIG. 01, there is shown, respectively, a front
elevational view of a frame 1 surrounding a human form 15 and
within an outline of a helmet shell 16. This view illustrates the
relationship of the construction of the frame 1 to the anatomy of a
human skull 15 and how the frame 1 protects all parts of the
skull
[0063] In FIG. 02, there is shown, respectively, a side elevational
view of a frame 1 surrounding a human form 15 and within an outline
of a helmet shell 16. This view illustrates the relationship of the
construction of the frame 1 to the anatomy of a human skull 15 and
how the frame 1 protects all parts of the skull
[0064] In FIG. 09, there is shown, respectively, a detailed view of
portions of elements on a larger scale the preferred embodiment of
the multi-layered impact absorbing cushioning "structure." This
view illustrates the preferred arrangement of said structure,
comprising a plurality levels and layers which extend over and
about the skull. Also evident from this view is the preferred
placement of the frame panels 1 & 10 in accordance with said
layered structure. The apparent difference in material composition
and the impact absorbing nature of all these layers would allow for
adequate compression and expansion during an impact event, further
increasing the time of impact and further reducing the force of the
impact.
[0065] Following the frame 1 is the next layer within the structure
12, such as a commercially available soft silicone gel material or
the like FIG. 09, whose elasticity will allow for shock absorption,
gently dispersing energy. This layer would encase the entirety of
the inner and outer portions of the frame. These layers would
encase the "frame" structure so as not to come in contact with the
user's head or helmet. Accordingly, the inner and outer portions of
the inner opposite-facing arched panels 10 would also be encased by
this layer, with exclusion to any sections designated for
ventilation and/or visibility.
[0066] If the impact force is higher than that can be handled by
the preceding layers, the impact is then transferred to the next
inner layer 11, which being another energy absorbing layer further
increases the time of impact and further reduces the force of the
impact. In a preferred embodiment these subsequent layers are
comprised of several levels of impact absorbing polymer material
11. These layers consist of a cushioning, impact absorbing material
of a commercially available polymer structure such as polystyrene
or polypropylene or the like, which further absorbs the impact
energy and reduces the generated shockwave and simultaneously
lowers the deceleration rate of the user's head. This layer would
also encase the entirety of the inside of the helmet shell 16 as
well as the outer regions of the frame 1, with exclusion to any
sections designated for ventilation and/or visibility FIG. 09.
[0067] The subsequent and last layer designated for contact with
the head of a user may consist of a form fitting inner liner FIG.
09. In a preferred embodiment this layer may be made of a polymer
material such as a commercially available foam material or the like
13, or a synthetic rubber polymer or the like 13. In a preferred
embodiment, this layer may contain optional detachable pads made of
the same polymer material of a soft durable foam or the like that
can be strategically placed inside the helmet by the wearer to
accommodate different head shapes and sizes.
[0068] Optional detachable inner liners 14 made of commercially
available soft flexible cloth or the like may also be used to be
worn under this last layer FIG. 09. Alternatively a fire-retardant
material or the like for contact with the head of a user may be
used.
[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the layers in the structure are
bonded or held together by way of commercially available processes
which may include but are not limited to applying commercially
available adhesive compounds, fabric hook-and-loop fasteners and/or
commercially available stitching processes.
[0070] When the impact force is no longer in effect, the walls,
with the possible exception of the impact absorbing polymer
material 11 regain their original shape.
[0071] In a preferred embodiment each layer has a different density
than the other layers. In another embodiment of the invention as
depicted in FIG. 09, layer 16 has the highest density to deflect
impact forces and retain shape, while inner layer 12 has a lower
density to absorb impact forces to minimize transmission of these
forces through the helmet. Accordingly, layer 11 preferably has a
lower density than the preceding layer. Finally the inner most
layer 13 has the lowest density so that it is pliable enough to
conform to a users head. The preferred layered segments may have a
plurality of layers. Preferably, as explained above, but other
density-layer arrangements, additions and/or omissions are also
useful.
[0072] While in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the
segments in layers 11 are made of polystyrene or polypropylene, the
aforementioned may be used in conjunction with other polymers and
plastics to form the segments of the present invention. In addition
to polystyrene or polypropylene, the segments may be made from,
without limitation, a polybutylene, a polyvinyl (including
polyvinyl chloride), a polyester, a polycarbonate, a polyurethane,
a polyamine, a polyacrylic, a polyamide, a polyurea, and any other
suitable polymer.
[0073] In the foregoing specification, the invention has been
described with reference to an illustrative embodiment thereof.
However, it will be evident that various modifications and changes
may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and
scope of the invention. The specification and drawings are,
accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a
restrictive sense. Therefore, it is the object of the appended
claims to cover all such modifications and changes as come within
the true spirit and scope of the invention.
[0074] Although the preferred embodiment may at certain points
describe the system construction as preferably a motorsports safety
system, the invention is not so limited. It is to be appreciated
that the system construction of the present invention could be
modified for almost any sports or non-sports application where a
protective head covering could be required, including without
restriction its use as a horseback riding helmet, construction
helmet, football helmet, skateboard or snowboard helmet, a
motorcycle or race car driver helmet, and the like.
* * * * *