U.S. patent application number 14/275046 was filed with the patent office on 2014-11-20 for helmet padding system.
This patent application is currently assigned to MATSCITECHNO LICENSING COMPANY. The applicant listed for this patent is MATSCITECHNO LICENSING COMPANY. Invention is credited to Michael Foerster, Robert A. Vito.
Application Number | 20140338104 14/275046 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51894590 |
Filed Date | 2014-11-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140338104 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Vito; Robert A. ; et
al. |
November 20, 2014 |
HELMET PADDING SYSTEM
Abstract
Helmet padding systems are disclosed. One helmet padding system
includes a baseball cap and a spacing pad. The baseball cap has a
body portion and a brim portion. The cap includes a pair of side
portions extending downward from the cap body below a point at
which the brim portion meets the body portion. The spacing pad is
positioned within the baseball cap, and includes a layer of
elastomeric material.
Inventors: |
Vito; Robert A.; (Kennett
Square, PA) ; Foerster; Michael; (Newtown Square,
PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MATSCITECHNO LICENSING COMPANY |
Kennett Square |
PA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
MATSCITECHNO LICENSING
COMPANY
Kennett Square
PA
|
Family ID: |
51894590 |
Appl. No.: |
14/275046 |
Filed: |
May 12, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61824537 |
May 17, 2013 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/414 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A42B 1/08 20130101; A42B
3/127 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/414 |
International
Class: |
A42B 3/12 20060101
A42B003/12 |
Claims
1. A helmet padding system comprising: a baseball cap having a body
portion and a brim portion, the cap comprising a pair of side
portions extending downward from the cap body below a point at
which the brim portion meets the body portion; and a spacing pad
positioned within the baseball cap, the spacing pad including a
layer of elastomeric material.
2. The helmet padding system of claim 1, wherein the side portions
are sized to cover at least 50% of a user's ear when the helmet
padding system is worn by the user.
3. The helmet padding system of claim 1, further comprising a rear
portion extending downward from the cap body, the rear portion
forming a continuous extended portion with the pair of side
portions.
4. The helmet padding system of claim 3, wherein the rear portion
extends downward from the cap body a same distance as the pair of
side portions.
5. The helmet padding system of claim 3, wherein the rear portion
extends downward from the cap body a shorter distance than the pair
of side portions.
6. The helmet padding system of claim 1, wherein each of the pair
of side portions includes an opening therein.
7. The helmet padding system of claim 6, wherein the openings are
positioned over a user's ear when the helmet padding system is worn
by the user.
8. The helmet padding system of claim 1, wherein the spacing pad
comprises a central portion and a plurality of extending portions
projecting outward from the central portion
9. The helmet padding system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of
extending portions includes at least a first extending portion
extending to a position forward of a user's ear and a second
extending portion extending to a position rearward of the user's
ear when the helmet padding system is worn by the user, thereby
defining a gap over the user's ear.
10. The helmet padding system of claim 8, wherein each extending
portion has an end portion with a greater width than a portion of
the respective extending portion coupled to the central portion
11. The helmet padding system of claim 8, wherein the body portion
of the baseball cap includes a cutout in a rearward area, and
wherein an extending portion of the spacing pad extending toward
the rearward area is shorter than the remaining extending portions
of the spacing pad.
12. The helmet padding system of claim 1, wherein the spacing pad
consists of a single layer of the elastomeric material.
13. The helmet padding system of claim 1, wherein the spacing pad
comprises a plurality of layers of elastomeric material.
14. The helmet padding system of claim 13, wherein the spacing pad
further comprises a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material
between two layers of elastomeric material.
15. The helmet padding system of claim 1, further comprising a
rigid frame coupled to the baseball cap, the rigid frame comprising
a plurality of rigid members defining a space in an area of a
user's ear when the helmet padding system is worn by the user.
16. The helmet padding system of claim 1, further comprising a
rigid liner extending around a peripheral edge of the body portion
of the baseball cap.
17. The helmet padding system of claim 16, wherein the baseball cap
comprises a pocket extending around the peripheral edge of the body
portion, and the rigid liner is positioned within the pocket.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates generally to the field of protective
headgear, and more particularly, to impact-resistant padding for
protective headgear.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Conventionally, participants in "contact" sports (e.g.,
wrestling, football, rugby) wear protective headgear to cushion the
force of impacts that are regularly received during those events.
In recent years, the negative health effects of the impacts to the
head experienced during such contact sports have been a matter of
focus. These negative health effects can be diminished or minimized
by effectively cushioning participants from the forces of impacts.
Accordingly, improved structures, such as impact-resistant
headgear, are desired to lessen the impact forces experienced by
those participants.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Aspects of the present invention are directed to helmet
padding systems. In accordance with one aspect of the present
invention, a helmet padding system includes a baseball cap and a
spacing pad. The baseball cap has a body portion and a brim
portion. The cap includes a pair of side portions extending
downward from the cap body below a point at which the brim portion
meets the body portion. The spacing pad is positioned within the
baseball cap, and includes a layer of elastomeric material.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] The invention is best understood from the following detailed
description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings,
with like elements having the same reference numerals. When a
plurality of similar elements are present, a single reference
numeral may be assigned to the plurality of similar elements with a
small letter designation referring to specific elements. When
referring to the elements collectively or to a non-specific one or
more of the elements, the small letter designation may be dropped.
According to common practice, the various features of the drawings
are not drawn to scale unless otherwise indicated. To the contrary,
the dimensions of the various features may be expanded or reduced
for clarity. Included in the drawings are the following
figures:
[0005] FIG. 1 is an image illustrating an exemplary helmet padding
system in accordance with aspects of the present invention;
[0006] FIG. 2 is an image illustrating an exemplary helmet shell of
the helmet padding system of FIG. 1;
[0007] FIG. 3 is an image illustrating exemplary absorption pads of
the helmet padding system of FIG. 1;
[0008] FIG. 4 is an image illustrating an exemplary spacing pad of
the helmet padding system of FIG. 1;
[0009] FIG. 5 is an image of the exemplary spacing pad of FIG. 4 in
a helmet shell;
[0010] FIG. 6 is an image illustrating another exemplary spacing
pad of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1;
[0011] FIG. 7 is an image of the exemplary spacing pad of FIG. 6 in
a helmet shell;
[0012] FIG. 8 is an image illustrating yet another exemplary
spacing pad of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1;
[0013] FIGS. 9A-9D are images illustrating an exemplary
impact-resistant pad in accordance with aspects of the present
invention;
[0014] FIG. 10A-10C are images illustrating an exemplary protective
headgear system in accordance with aspects of the present
invention;
[0015] FIG. 11 is an image illustrating another exemplary
protective headgear system in accordance with aspects of the
present invention;
[0016] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating another
exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the
present invention;
[0017] FIG. 13 is an image illustrating another exemplary spacing
pad of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1;
[0018] FIGS. 14A-14D are images illustrating another exemplary
helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the present
invention;
[0019] FIGS. 15A-15C are images illustrating an alternative
embodiment of the exemplary helmet padding system of FIGS. 14A-14D;
and
[0020] FIGS. 16-18 are images illustrating embodiments of another
exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0021] The embodiments of the invention described herein relate to
helmet padding and protective headgear systems that incorporate
impact-resistant pads beneath a user's helmet to cushion impacts on
the helmet from the user's head. As used herein, the term "helmet"
is not intended to be limited, but is meant to encompass any
headgear worn for protection during an activity in which an impact
to the head may occur. Additionally, as used herein, the term
"impact-resistant" is intended to encompass any object that
partially or fully lessens, diminishes, dissipates, deflects, or
absorbs the mechanical force of an impact.
[0022] The exemplary systems and apparatus disclosed herein are
configured to lessen the force of an impact on the user's head.
This makes them particularly suitable for use by participants in
athletic activities, and particularly suitable for participants in
traditional "contact" sports, such as wrestling, American football,
or rugby, where high-force impacts may be commonly experienced.
While the exemplary embodiments of the invention are described
herein with respect to athletic activities, it will be understood
that the invention is not so limited. Suitable applications for the
systems and apparatus of the present invention include, for
example, military helmets or construction helmets. Other suitable
applications will be readily understood by one of ordinary skill in
the art from the description herein.
[0023] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an
exemplary helmet padding system 100 in accordance with aspects of
the present invention. Helmet padding system 100 may be worn by a
user during an athletic activity. As a general overview, system 100
includes a helmet shell 110, a spacing pad 130, and a plurality of
absorption pads 150. Additional details of system 100 are described
herein.
[0024] Helmet shell 110 is configured to be positioned on a user's
head. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, helmet shell 110 completely
encloses the upper portion of the user's head. This may be
desirable in order to ensure any impacts to the user's head are
absorbed by helmet padding system 100. Helmet shell 110 may include
one or more straps 112 for securing helmet shell 110 to the user's
head. The size of helmet shell 110 is selected such that helmet
shell 110 can accommodate the remaining components of system 100
while still being securely positioned on the user's head. Where
helmet shell 110 is a conventional helmet shell, it will be
understood that helmet shell 110 may include its own integral,
connected foam pads in addition to the pads described with respect
to system 100. It will be understood that the pads described with
respect to system 100 may be pads provided in addition to the pads
provided in conventional helmet shells 110. Suitable helmet shells
110 for use with the present invention will be known to one of
ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.
[0025] Spacing pad 130 is positioned within the interior of helmet
shell 110. As shown in FIGS. 4-8, spacing pad 130 comprises a
central portion 132 and a plurality of extending portions 134
projecting outward from the central portion. Spacing pad 130 may or
may not be coupled to the interior of helmet shell 110. When
spacing pad 130 is coupled to helmet shell 110, central portion 132
is coupled to a central region of the interior of helmet shell 110,
such that extending portions 134 project toward the peripheral
edges of helmet shell 110.
[0026] Spacing pad 130 is formed from impact-resistant materials.
For example, spacing pad 130 may include a layer of elastomeric
material. The elastomeric material may provide impact-resistance by
absorbing and dissipating the force of impacts laterally along the
surface of the elastomeric material. In one exemplary embodiment,
spacing pad 130 consists of only a single layer of elastomeric
material. In another exemplary embodiment, spacing pad 130
comprises two or more layers of elastomeric material. Spacing pad
130 may include the layers of elastomeric material directly
adjacent each other, or in a more preferred embodiment, may include
a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material between the
layers of elastomeric material.
[0027] Suitable materials for forming the elastomeric layer(s)
include, but are not limited to, urethane rubbers, silicone
rubbers, nitrile rubbers, butyl rubbers, acrylic rubbers, natural
rubbers, styrene-butadiene rubbers, and the like. In general, any
suitable elastomer material can be used to form the above-described
elastomeric layers without departing from the scope of the present
invention. Suitable materials for forming the layer of high tensile
strength fibrous material include, but are not limited to, aramid
fibers, fiberglass, or other high tensile strength fibers. The
fibers may be woven to form a cloth layer that is disposed between
and generally separates the opposing elastomeric layers. The high
tensile strength fibrous material layer may desirably block and
redirect impact energy that passes through one of the elastomeric
layers. Additional description of materials for forming spacing pad
130 may be found in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/331,004, the contents of which are incorporated herein by
reference in their entirety.
[0028] As shown in FIG. 4, spacing pad 130 may comprise an array of
raised portions 131 formed on a surface thereof. Raised portions
131 may have a rectangular shape, as shown in FIG. 4. However, one
of ordinary skill in the art will understand that other shapes may
be chosen. For example, raised portions 131 may have a square shape
or a diamond shape. Raised portions 130 desirably enable air
circulation across spacing pad 130 and concentrate the load from an
impact on spacing pad 130. An array of raised portions 131 having a
diamond shape may be particular desirable, as these raised portions
131 may enable greater flexibility of spacing pad 130.
[0029] As set forth above, spacing pad 130 may or may not be
coupled to the interior helmet shell 110. When spacing pad 130 is
coupled to the interior of helmet shell 110, such coupling may be
effected, for example, using adhesive. It may be desirable that the
surface of spacing pad 130, including the entire lengths of
extending portions 134, be adhered to the interior of helmet shell
110. The lengths of extending portions 134 may be limited, to
prevent separation of extending portions 134 from helmet shell 110
during an impact that deforms helmet shell 110.
[0030] Absorption pads 150 may be coupled to spacing pad 130. As
shown in FIG. 3, the plurality of absorption pads 150 includes a
first large absorption pad 152 and a number of remaining absorption
pads 154. As shown in FIG. 1, absorption pad 152 is configured to
be coupled to the central portion of spacing pad 130, and
absorption pads 154 are configured to be coupled to the ends of the
extending portions of spacing pad 130.
[0031] Absorption pads 150 are desirably shaped such that they do
not directly contact helmet shell 110 when spacing pad 130 is
coupled to helmet shell 110. Absorption pads 150 may be insulated
from helmet shell 110 by the ends of spacing pad 130, and/or may be
formed with a preferential curve, in order to create a gap between
the outer surfaces of pads 150 and the interior of helmet shell
110. Suitable materials for use in forming absorption pads 150
include, for example, conventional closed or open-cell foams,
elastomeric and/or polymer materials. Other materials will be known
to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description
herein.
[0032] FIGS. 4-8 and 13 show different embodiments of spacing pads
130a, 130b, 130c, 130d for use with the present invention. Each
spacing pad 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d includes a respective central
portion 132a, 132b, 132c, 132d and a respective plurality of
extending portions 134a, 134b, 134c, 134d. Features of these
extending portions 134 will be described herein. It will be
understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that any of the
features described herein with respect to one embodiment of spacing
pad 130 may be provided in any of the other embodiments.
[0033] As shown in FIGS. 4-8, extending portions 134 project
outward at regular intervals from their respective central portions
132. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the regular intervals may be
approximately every 45.degree.. As shown in FIG. 8, the regular
intervals may be approximately every 90.degree..
[0034] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, extending portions 134b of
spacing pad 130b have end portions 136b. End portions 136b have a
width greater than the width of the remainder of the respective
extending portion 134b. The wider end portions 136b of spacing pad
130b may be desirable in order to provide a large base for
absorption pads 150. The wide end portions 136b may be made
sufficiently wide that the end portions 136b of adjacent extending
portions 134b overlap with each other when spacing pad 130b is
positioned within the helmet shell.
[0035] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, spacing pad 130b
may be contained in a liner 137. Liner 137 may be configured to
surround spacing pad 130b in order to provide a comfortable contact
between the user and spacing pad 130b.
[0036] As shown in FIG. 8, extending portions 134c may be arranged
axially symmetrically relative to central portion 132c.
Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 4, extending portions 134a may be
arranged axially asymmetrically. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 4,
extending portions 134a may have varying lengths projecting from
central portion 132a.
[0037] The shapes and sizes of extending portions 134a, 134b, 134c
may also be dependent on the configuration of helmet shell 110, as
set forth below.
[0038] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the varying lengths of extending
portions 134 may be selected to correspond to a peripheral contour
of helmet shell 110. In other words, if the periphery of the helmet
shell 110 has a varying contour, the lengths of extending portions
134 may be selected such that, when spacing pad 130 is coupled to
helmet shell 110, the end of each extending portion 134 projects to
within a specified distance of the periphery of helmet shell 110.
In an exemplary embodiment, extending portions 134 project to
within 0.125-2.0 inches of the periphery of helmet shell 110.
[0039] Helmet shell 110 may include features that would interfere
with the path of extending portions 134. Accordingly, as shown in
FIGS. 6 and 7, extending portions 134b may be shaped to avoid
interfering features in helmet shell 110, i.e., by changing
direction. As shown in FIG. 6, at least one of the extending
portions 134b may have a first portion 138 extending in a first
direction and a second portion 139 extending from the first portion
138 in a second direction different from the first direction. This
may desirably ensure that the entire length of extending portion
134b is adhered to the interior of helmet shell 110.
[0040] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 13, a spacing pad 130d may be
intended for use in a baseball cap having a rear cut-out (e.g., for
access to an adjustable strap). In this embodiment, one of
extending portions 134d may be shortened and have a rounded edge
relative to the other extending portions. This extending portion
may be positioned to extend toward the rear cut-out of the baseball
cap. This feature may desirably enable all of spacing pad 130d to
fit comfortably within the baseball cap.
[0041] The width and number of extending portions 134 may be
selected based on the circumference and size of helmet shell 110.
As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, spacing pad 130 may include a relatively
large number of thin extending portions 134. Alternatively, as
shown in FIG. 8, spacing pad 130 may include a relatively small
number of thick extending portions 134. In an exemplary embodiment,
extending portions 134 have a width of approximately 1'' to
approximately 4''.
[0042] It will be understood that the number, shape, and size of
extending portions 134 in FIGS. 4-8 is shown merely for the
purposes of illustration, and is not intended to be limiting.
Spacing pads 130 having different numbers of extending portions 134
or differently shaped and sized extending portions 134 may be used
without departing from the scope of the present invention, as would
be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art from the
description herein.
[0043] FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate an exemplary impact-resistant pad 200
in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Impact-resistant pad 200 may be worn by a user as part of a
protective headgear system during an athletic activity, such as a
wrestling match. As a general overview, impact-resistant pad 200
includes a top portion 220 and side portions 240 and 250.
Additional details of impact-resistant pad 200 are described
herein.
[0044] Top portion 220 is configured to be positioned covering a
top of the user's head. As shown in FIGS. 9A-9D top portion 220 may
be approximately circular, and is sized to cover substantially the
entire top of the user's head. In an exemplary embodiment, top
portion 220 includes a plurality of openings 222. Openings 222
desirably provide ventilation to the user's head during use of
impact-resistant pad 200. As shown in FIG. 9D, openings 222 are
formed around the periphery of top portion 220.
[0045] Side portions 240 and 250 extend downward from top portion
220. As used herein, the term "side portion" is not intended to
mean that portions 240 and 250 are on the "side" of the user's head
(as opposed to the front or back). To the contrary, portions 240
and 250 may be located on any side of the user's head. As shown in
FIGS. 9B and 9C side portions 240 and 250 cover a front portion and
a back portion of the user's head, respectively. As further
illustrated in FIG. 9A, back portion 250 extends a greater distance
from top portion 220 than front portion 240. This may be desirable
in order to provide greater protection to the back of the user's
head, and to prevent obstructing the user's view.
[0046] Side portions 240 and 250 are not directly connected to each
other, as shown in FIG. 9A. In particular, a circumferential gap
260 is formed between side portions 240 and 250. This may be
particularly desirable so that impact-resistant pad 200 may be worn
by users of different head sizes. For example, when a user has a
relatively small head, the gap 260 will be relatively narrow, and
side portions 240 and 250 will sit close to each other (or possibly
in contact with each other) when placed on the user's head.
However, when a user has a relatively large head, the gap 260 will
be relatively large, and side portions 240 and 250 will sit far
from each other when placed on the user's head.
[0047] It will be understood that the number, shape, and size of
side portions 240 and 250 in FIGS. 9A-9D is shown merely for the
purposes of illustration, and is not intended to be limiting. Side
portions 240 and 250 in different numbers or having different
shapes or sizes may be used without departing from the scope of the
present invention, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill
in the art from the description herein. Impact-resistant pad 200 is
formed from substantially the same materials described above with
respect to spacing pad 130.
[0048] Impact-resistant pad 200 is unconnected to any supporting
structure. As will be discussed in further detail herein,
impact-resistant pad 200 is configured to be worn under a helmet.
To this end, impact-resistant pad 200 is desirably thin. In an
exemplary embodiment, impact-resistant pad 200 has a thickness of
no greater than approximately 23 mm, and even more preferably, a
thickness of no greater than approximately 3 mm. The thickness of
impact-resistant pad 200 may be selected based on a number of
factors, including for example the type of helmet, the desired
level of impact protection, and the type of material encasing the
pad (such as moisture-wicking, moisture-absorbent, cloth, or
neoprene).
[0049] FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate an exemplary protective headgear
system 300 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Protective headgear system 300 may be worn by a user during an
athletic activity, such as a wrestling match. As a general
overview, protective headgear system 300 includes an
impact-resistant pad 320 and a helmet 340. Additional details of
protective headgear system 300 are described herein.
[0050] Impact-resistant pad 320 is formed from materials designed
to dissipate the force of impacts on the user's head. In an
exemplary embodiment, impact-resistant pad 320 is an
impact-resistant pad substantially as described above with respect
to impact-resistant pad 200. In particular, impact-resistant pad
320 includes a top portion 322 configured to be positioned covering
a top of the user's head, and side portions 324 and 325 extending
downward from top portion 322. Side portions 324 and 325 are not
directly connected to each other, and define a circumferential gap
(not shown) therebetween.
[0051] Helmet 340 is configured to be positioned on a user's head
overtop of impact-resistant pad 320. Helmet 340 is unconnected to
impact-resistant pad 320. When helmet 340 is positioned overtop of
impact-resistant pad 320, helmet 340 covers the circumferential
portions of impact-resistant pad 320. In an exemplary embodiment,
helmet 340 comprises conventional wrestling headgear, as shown in
FIGS. 10A-10C. Helmet 340 includes a plurality of straps 342 for
securing helmet 340 to the user's head. Straps 342 extend over top
portion 322 of impact-resistant pad 320. Impact-resistant pad 320
may include guide portions (not shown) for receiving and properly
positioning straps 342 of helmet 340.
[0052] It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art
that helmet 340 is not limited to the embodiment shown in FIGS.
10A-10C FIG. 11 illustrates another exemplary protective headgear
system 400 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. As
a general overview, protective headgear system 400 includes an
impact-resistant pad 420 and a helmet shell 440, as shown in FIG.
11. Helmet shell 440 is configured to completely cover the user's
head. This may be desirable in order to provide an additional layer
of impact-resistance on top of impact-resistant pad 420. The size
of helmet shell 440 is selected such that helmet 440 can
accommodate impact-resistant pad 420 therein while still being
securely positioned on the user's head. In an exemplary embodiment,
helmet shell 440 is a helmet shell substantially as described with
respect to helmet shell 110. Suitable helmet shells 440 for use
with the present invention will be known to one of ordinary skill
in the art from the description herein.
[0053] FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary helmet padding system 500
in accordance with aspects of the present invention. FIG. 12 shows
an exploded cross-sectional diagram of helmet padding system 500
through a central portion thereof. Helmet padding system 500 may
also be worn by a user during an athletic activity. As a general
overview, system 500 includes a helmet shell 510, a spacing pad
530, and a deflection layer 570. Additional details of system 500
are described herein.
[0054] Helmet shell 510 is configured to be positioned on a user's
head. Helmet shell 510 may be a helmet shell substantially as
described with respect to helmet shell 110, or may be a helmet
substantially as described above with respect to helmet 340. The
size of helmet shell 510 is selected such that helmet shell 510 can
accommodate the remaining components of system 500 while still be
securely positioned on the user's head.
[0055] Spacing pad 530 is positioned within the interior of helmet
shell 510. Spacing pad 530 may be a spacing pad substantially as
described with respect to spacing pad 130. Alternatively, spacing
pad 530 may be an impact-resistant pad substantially as described
above with respect to impact-resistant pad 200. Likewise, spacing
pad 530 may be formed from any of the materials set forth above
with respect to spacing pad 130 or impact-resistant pad 200, and
may take any of the shapes described above with respect to spacing
pad 130 and/or impact-resistant pad 200. Alternatively, spacing pad
530 may have any other shape suitable for covering a space between
the user's head and the helmet shell 510. Spacing pad 530 may also
comprise an array of raised portions 531 formed on a surface
thereof, as described above with respect to raised portions
131.
[0056] Spacing pad 530 is not adapted to be coupled to the interior
of helmet shell 510. In other words, spacing pad 530 remains
unconnected to helmet shell 510 (or from any other component that
is connected to helmet shell 510, e.g., conventional helmet padding
provided with helmet shell 510). This enables relative movement
between spacing pad 530 and helmet shell 510, which may be
important to assist in dissipation of the force from impacts, as
explained in further detail below with respect to deflection layer
570.
[0057] Helmet padding system 500 may include a plurality of
absorption pads 550 coupled to spacing pad 530. Absorption pads 550
may be substantially the same as those described above with respect
to absorption pads 150.
[0058] Deflection layer 570 is positioned between helmet shell 510
and spacing pad 530. Deflection layer 570 is formed from a material
that is less flexible (i.e. stiffer) than spacing pad 530. This
enables the hard surface of deflection layer 570 to deflect a
portion of the force from impacts along a surface thereof, rather
than transmitting that force through deflection layer 570 to
spacing pad 530. In other words, it assists in converting forces
from impacts into tangential forces (which propagate along the
surface) as opposed to normal forces (which propagate through the
surface to the user's head). In an exemplary embodiment, deflection
layer 570 comprises a sheet of polycarbonate material. Deflection
layer 570 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of spacing
pad 530, such that the deflection layer 570 completely covers the
space between spacing pad 530 and helmet shell 510.
[0059] Deflection layer 570 is also not coupled to the interior of
helmet shell 510. This creates a "slip plane" between deflection
layer 570 and helmet shell 510, and enables relative movement
between the two components. Put another way, this allows
independent movement of the user's head (with which spacing pad 530
and deflection layer 570 are in contact) and helmet shell 510.
[0060] Helmet padding system 500 may also include a plurality of
deflection plates 580. Deflection plates 580 may be coupled to the
interior of helmet shell 510 in positions such that they slidably
abut deflection layer 570. Deflection plates 580 may be coupled to
helmet shell 510, e.g., with an adhesive. Deflection plates 580 are
formed from the same materials as deflection layer 570. The use of
deflection plates 580 coupled to helmet shell 510 may further
promote a sliding interface between deflection layer 570 and helmet
shell 510, and thereby promote deflecting the force of impacts in a
tangential direction along deflection layer 570, rather than
through deflection layer 570 to spacing pad 530.
[0061] Helmet padding system 500 may also include a deformation
layer 590. Deformation layer 590 may be positioned between
deflection layer 570 and spacing pad 530. Deformation layer 590 is
configured to deform upon experiencing the force from an impact.
Deformation layer 590 may undergo elastic (i.e. reversible) or
plastic (i.e. irreversible) deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, deformation layer 590 comprises a sheet of corrugated
plastic material configured to undergo plastic deformation. As
shown in FIG. 12, the sheet of corrugated plastic material may
comprise a pair of plastic surface layers separated by a plurality
of plastic ridges defining air gaps therebetween. Like deflection
layer 570, deformation layer 590 may have a shape corresponding to
the shape of spacing pad 530, such that the deformation layer 590
completely covers the space between spacing pad 530 and deflection
layer 570.
[0062] Deformation layer 590 may undergo plastic deformation, for
example, by crumpling, bending, fracturing, or other irreversible
changes. Accordingly, deformation layer 590 may need to be
periodically replaced following impacts to helmet padding system
500, where such impacts are sufficient to cause significant plastic
deformation of deformation layer 590.
[0063] The above components of helmet padding system 500 may be
contained in a liner (not shown). In particular, a liner may be
configured to surround and contain spacing pad 530, deflection
layer 570, and deformation layer 590, to maintain their relative
positioning and arrangement. The liner may be formed, for example,
from a cloth or nylon material to provide a comfortable contact
between the user and the components of helmet padding system
500.
[0064] FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate another exemplary helmet padding
system 600 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Helmet padding system 600 may be worn by a user during military
activities, e.g., under a standard military helmet. As a general
overview, system 600 includes a frame 610 and a spacing pad 630.
Additional details of system 600 are described herein.
[0065] Frame 610 is configured to be positioned on a user's head.
Frame 610 comprises a rigid material such as, for example, a
plastic or polycarbonate material. The size of frame 610 is
selected such that helmet shell 610 can accommodate spacing pad 630
while still be securely positioned on the user's head.
[0066] Spacing pad 630 is coupled to frame 610. Spacing pad 630 may
be a spacing pad substantially as described with respect to spacing
pad 130, and/or may be formed from any of the materials described
with respect to spacing pad 130. In particular, spacing pad 630
comprises a central portion 632 and a plurality of extending
portions 634 projecting outward from the central portion 632. The
plurality of extending portions 634 are fixed to frame 610.
[0067] As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, each extending portion 630
has an end portion with a greater width than a portion of the
respective extending portion coupled to central portion 632.
Specifically, extending portions 630 get wider as they extend
outwardly from central portion 632. The end portions of extending
portions 634 are fixed to frame 610.
[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, frame 610 comprises a groove
612, as shown in FIG. 14B. The end portions of each of the
plurality of extending portions 634 are inserted within groove 612.
The end portions of the plurality of extending portions 634 may be
additionally secured to the frame via one or more attachment
mechanisms. Suitable attachment mechanisms 615 include, for
example, rivets, adhesives, or stitching.
[0069] Frame 610 may be configured to be coupled to a helmet, as
shown in FIG. 14D. In an exemplary embodiment, frame 610 is
configured to be coupled to a standard-issue military helmet. The
standard-issue military helmet includes a plurality (e.g. four)
pre-arranged mounting points, such as drill holes, in the helmet.
In this embodiment, frame 610 includes a plurality of through holes
614 positioned to align with the pre-arranged mounting points in
the military helmet. This may desirably simplify the attachment of
frame 610 to the helmet. Spacing pad 630 is fixed to frame 610 in
such a way that spacing pad does not contact the helmet when frame
610 is coupled to the helmet.
[0070] In one exemplary embodiment, frame 610 has a ring shape, as
shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C. The plurality of extending portions 634
extend upward from frame 610, such that central portion 623 is
positioned above frame 610. This creates a cavity within frame 610
in which the top of the user's head is positioned during use.
[0071] FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate another exemplary helmet padding
system 700 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. The
helmet padding system 700 is substantially the same as helmet
padding system 600, and only the differences between those two
embodiments will be described hereinafter.
[0072] In an exemplary embodiment, frame 710 of helmet padding
system 700 has a dome shape, as shown in FIGS. 15A-15C. The
standard-issue military helmet includes a plurality (e.g. four)
pre-arranged mounting points, such as drill holes, in the helmet.
In this embodiment, frame 710 includes a plurality of through holes
714 positioned to align with the pre-arranged mounting points in
the military helmet.
[0073] Spacing pad 730 is positioned within the dome, and may be
adhered to an inner surface of the dome. The dome-shaped frame 710
includes a plurality of ridges 716 formed on an outer surface
thereof. As shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, ridges 716 extend along
frame 710 from edge to edge through a top portion of frame 710.
When dome-shaped frame 710 is coupled to a helmet, frame 710
contacts the helmet only along the outermost surfaces of the
plurality of ridges 716. This may be desirable in order to minimize
the transfer of impact force from the helmet to frame 710. In this
embodiment, frame 710 may also include a plurality of straps 718
for enhancing fit and comfort of system 700 when worn by a user, as
shown in FIG. 15C.
[0074] Helmet padding systems 600 and 700 may also include a
deformation layer. The deformation layer may be a layer
substantially as described with respect to deformation layer 590.
In one embodiment, the deformation layer is positioned between the
frame and the spacing pad. In an alternative embodiment, the
deformation layer is positioned such that it is between the frame
and the helmet when the frame is coupled to the helmet.
[0075] As explained above with respect to FIG. 13, the helmet
padding systems 800, 900, 1000 of the present invention may be used
with baseball caps. In accordance with another aspect of the
present invention, a helmet padding system usable with such a
baseball-style cap is disclosed. New FIGS. 16-18 disclose
alternative embodiments of such a system.
[0076] The baseball cap of this system has the style of a normal
baseball cap except on sides of the cap. The body of the cap may be
formed from flexible material such as cotton or synthetic textiles.
The rear of the cap may be fitted to the user's head, or may
include a conventional adjustable strap. As shown in FIG. 16, the
side 810 of the cap extends downward to cover the user's temple,
and at least a portion (preferably at least 50%) of the user's ear.
A downward extended portion is formed on both sides of the cap. As
shown in FIG. 16, the downward extended portion may extend across
the rear of the cap. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18,
the downward extended portion may end (or grow more narrow) across
the rear of the cap. As shown in FIG. 16, the cap body may include
an opening 820 in the area of the user's ear. The opening may be
desirable in order to promote aeration within the cap, and to
provide the user better hearing.
[0077] Within the cap, a spacing pad is provided. In an exemplary
embodiment, spacing pad 130d illustrated in FIG. 13 is provided.
Alternatively, the cap may include any of the spacing pads and
accompanying components described herein. Still further, this
system may use conventional foam padding in place of the spacing
pad.
[0078] The shape of the spacing pad may be selected to maximize
coverage of the user's head while minimizing interference with the
user's comfort (e.g., by obstructing the user's hearing). In an
exemplary embodiment, the spacing pad has one extending portion
that extends from the top of the cap to a position forward of the
user's ear, to cover the user's temple, and another extending
portion that extends from the top of the cap to a position rearward
of the user's ear, to cover the base of the user's skull behind
their ear. The spacing pad is shaped to leave a gap in the area of
the user's ear, to avoid obstructing the user's hearing.
[0079] To protect the area of the user's ear, the cap may include a
rigid frame. The rigid frame may be formed, for example, from rigid
plastic. In an exemplary embodiment, the rigid frame comprises a
plurality of rigid outer members extending along the periphery of
the gap (adjacent the edges of the spacing pad). The frame may have
a substantially round, rectangular, or triangular shape. The frame
further comprises an open area between the rigid outer members. The
open area in the central portion of the rigid frame is desirable in
order to avoid obstructing the user's hearing.
[0080] The cap may also include a rigid liner around a peripheral
edge of the cap. In an exemplary embodiment, the rigid liner
comprises a thin, rigid structure extending around the peripheral
edges of the cap. The rim may be formed, for example, from rigid
plastic. The rim may desirably be positioned within a fold or
pocket of the outer cloth body of the cap, in order to enhance the
user's comfort.
[0081] Although the invention is illustrated and described herein
with reference to specific embodiments, the invention is not
intended to be limited to the details shown. Rather, various
modifications may be made in the details within the scope and range
of equivalents of the claims and without departing from the
invention. In particular, any of the features described herein with
respect to one embodiment may be provided in any of the other
embodiments.
* * * * *