U.S. patent application number 14/329033 was filed with the patent office on 2015-09-03 for ballistic and impact protective system for military helmet assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to Revision Military S.a.r.L.. The applicant listed for this patent is Revision Military S.a.r.L.. Invention is credited to Dominic Giroux Bernier, Edward R. Hall, Stephane Lebel, Michael James McGinn.
Application Number | 20150245682 14/329033 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54006139 |
Filed Date | 2015-09-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150245682 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McGinn; Michael James ; et
al. |
September 3, 2015 |
BALLISTIC AND IMPACT PROTECTIVE SYSTEM FOR MILITARY HELMET
ASSEMBLY
Abstract
A helmet assembly including a mandible bracket configured to
connect a mandible to a helmet, with at least one strap connected
to the mandible bracket and configured to extend from the mandible
bracket to a helmet. The assembly includes at least one strap guide
having a strap engaging portion connected to the strap along a
length of the strap for connecting the strap to a helmet. The strap
guide is removably attachable to the helmet, and in some
embodiments the strap guide may be attached and/or removed through
movement along a lengthwise direction of the strap, including in a
horizontal direction. The assembly may secure an accessory other
than a mandible to the helmet, and sufficient force on the
accessory may remove the strap guide from the helmet.
Inventors: |
McGinn; Michael James;
(Montreal, CA) ; Giroux Bernier; Dominic;
(Montreal, CA) ; Lebel; Stephane; (St. Redempteur,
CA) ; Hall; Edward R.; (Montreal, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Revision Military S.a.r.L. |
Luxembourg |
|
LU |
|
|
Assignee: |
Revision Military S.a.r.L.
Luxembourg
LU
|
Family ID: |
54006139 |
Appl. No.: |
14/329033 |
Filed: |
July 11, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14115759 |
|
|
|
|
PCT/US12/36499 |
May 4, 2012 |
|
|
|
14329033 |
|
|
|
|
13101320 |
May 5, 2011 |
|
|
|
14115759 |
|
|
|
|
12875106 |
Sep 2, 2010 |
|
|
|
13101320 |
|
|
|
|
61334923 |
May 14, 2010 |
|
|
|
61265707 |
Dec 1, 2009 |
|
|
|
61246701 |
Sep 29, 2009 |
|
|
|
61239733 |
Sep 3, 2009 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/422 ;
2/424 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A42B 3/205 20130101;
A42B 3/221 20130101; A42B 3/04 20130101; A42B 3/185 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A42B 3/22 20060101
A42B003/22; A42B 3/18 20060101 A42B003/18 |
Claims
1. An accessory attachment assembly for a helmet, comprising: at
least one strap guide configured to connect a strap with a helmet;
the strap guide having a fastener engaging portion for releasably
receiving a fastener secured to a rear portion of a helmet, and a
strap holding portion configured to hold a strap relative to the
guide.
2. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 1, wherein the
fastener engaging portion comprises a first channel having an open
end opposite a closed end.
3. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 2, wherein the first
channel has at least one locking nub located along a length of the
channel between the open end and the closed end to secure a portion
of the fastener between the locking nub and the closed end.
4. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 2, wherein the
fastener engaging portion has an upper second channel located
adjacent to the first channel, the second channel having a width
that is greater than the first channel.
5. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 4, wherein the second
channel is a fastener head receiving channel.
6. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 2, wherein the strap
holding portion comprises at least one strap slot configured to
receive a strap through the strap slot, the strap slot adjacent to
the first channel.
7. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 2, wherein the strap
holding portion comprises at least two strap slots configured to
receive a strap through the strap slots, the strap slots located on
opposite sides of the first channel.
8. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 4, wherein the strap
holding portion comprises at least two strap slots configured to
receive a strap, the strap slots located on opposite sides of the
second channel.
9. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 7, wherein the first
channel is configured to be located under a head of a fastener, the
second channel is configured to engage at least a portion of the
head of a fastener, and wherein the first and second channels are
slide channels configured to slidably receive a fastener.
10. An accessory attachment assembly for a helmet, comprising: at
least one mandible bracket configured to connect a mandible to a
helmet; at least one strap connected to the mandible bracket and
configured to extend from the mandible bracket to a rear portion of
a helmet; at least one strap guide having a strap engaging portion
connected to the strap along a length of the strap, and a fastener
engaging portion configured to connect to a fastener attached to a
helmet.
11. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 10, comprising first
and second strap connectors configured to connect at a rear of a
helmet; the at least one mandible bracket comprises first and
second mandible brackets configured to connect a mandible to a
helmet, and wherein the at least one strap comprises first and
second straps, the first strap connected to the first mandible
bracket at a first end of the first strap and the first strap
connector at an opposite second end of the first strap, the second
strap connected to the second mandible bracket at a first end of
the second strap and to the second strap connector at an opposite
second end of the second strap; and wherein the at least one strap
guide comprises first and second strap guides, the first strap
guide connected to the first strap between the first mandible
bracket and the first strap connector and configured to be secured
by a fastener to a rear portion of a helmet, the second strap guide
connected to the second strap between the second mandible bracket
and the second strap connector and configured to be secured by a
fastener to a rear portion of a helmet.
12. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 10, comprising a
mandible configured to be positioned about a user's mandibular
region, the mandible attached to the mandible bracket.
13. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 10, comprising a
mandible mount configured to be attached about a front opening of a
helmet, the mandible bracket connected to the front mount.
14. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 13, wherein the
front mount comprises a mandible mounting channel, the mandible
bracket has a pin configured to be received in the mounting channel
to provide a pivotable connection of the mandible to the
helmet.
15. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 13, wherein the
mandible bracket is pivotably connected to the mandible mount.
16. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 11, comprising a
mandible configured to be positioned about a user's mandibular
region, the first and second mandible brackets attached to opposite
sides of the mandible; the mandible has a deployed position and a
raised position, the straps having a connected position where the
first strap connector is attached to the second strap connector,
and a released position; the straps when in the connected position
secure the mandible in the deployed position.
17. The accessory attachment assembly of claim 10, wherein the
fastener engaging portion comprises a first channel having an open
end opposite a closed end; and the strap holding portion comprises
at least two strap slots configured to receive a strap, the strap
slots located on opposite sides of the first channel.
18. A method of securing a face protector to a helmet, comprising :
connecting a face protector about a front portion of the helmet by
face protector brackets; bringing straps connected to the face
protector from opposite sides of the face protector to the rear of
the helmet; sliding each of one or more strap guides onto a
fastener attached to the helmet, each of the one or more strap
guides being attached to one of the straps; and connecting the
straps together at a rear of the helmet.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein the act of connecting is
performed before the step of sliding.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein the act of sliding comprises
the step of sliding a channel of the strap guide between the head
of the fastener and the surface of the helmet until the fastener is
placed between at least one locking nub of the channel and the end
of the channel.
21. The method of claim 18 wherein the act of sliding comprises
sliding each of the one or more strap guides horizontally onto a
fastener attached to the helmet.
22. An accessory attachment assembly for a helmet, comprising: at
least one strap guide configured to connect a strap with a helmet;
the strap guide having one of a fastener and a fastener engaging
portion for releasably receiving the other of a fastener and a
fastener engaging portion secured to a portion of a helmet, the
strap guide further having a strap holding portion configured to
hold a strap relative to the guide.
23. An accessory attachment assembly for a helmet, comprising: at
least one mandible bracket configured to connect a mandible to a
helmet; at least one strap connected to the mandible bracket and
configured to extend from the mandible bracket to a rear portion of
a helmet; at least one strap guide having a strap engaging portion
connected to the strap along a length of the strap, and a fastener
or a fastener engaging portion configured to connect to the other
of a fastener or a fastener engaging portion that is attached to a
helmet.
24. A method of securing a face protector to a helmet, comprising :
connecting a face protector about a front portion of the helmet by
face protector brackets; bringing straps connected to the face
protector from opposite sides of the face protector to the rear of
the helmet; sliding each of one or more strap guides onto a
fastener or fastener engaging portion attached to the helmet, each
of the one or more strap guides being attached to one of the
straps; and connecting the straps together.
25. The method of claim 24, wherein connecting the strap together
comprises connecting the straps together at a rear of the
helmet.
26. A method comprising: disconnecting a connector which is
connecting two strap portions of an accessory-securing strap that
is arranged to be mounted to a helmet; exerting a force on an
accessory that is being secured by the strap arrangement; and
through the exertion of force on the accessory, disengaging at
least one strap guide from the helmet, the strap guide holding a
strap portion of the two strap portions.
27. The method of claim 26, wherein exerting a force on the
accessory pulls on each of the two strap portions, which each in
turn pull a respective strap guide off of an associated engaging
portion that is attached to the helmet.
28. The method of claim 27, wherein the two strap portions are
arranged horizontally on the helmet when the strap guides are
engaged with the helmet.
29. An accessory attachment assembly for a helmet, comprising: a
strap to secure an accessory to a helmet; a first strap guide
holding the strap relative to the first strap guide, the first
strap guide including a first engaging portion to engage with a
second engaging portion which is connected to the helmet, wherein
when the first strap guide is attached to the helmet through the
engagement of the first and second engaging portions, the assembly
is constructed and arranged such that a force on the strap along a
lengthwise direction of the strap and more than a threshold force
disengages the first engaging portion from the second engaging
portion.
30. The accessory attachment assembly as in claim 29, wherein the
strap includes a first strap portion and a second strap portion,
and the assembly further comprises a connector to connect the first
and second strap portions together.
31. The accessory attachment assembly as in claim 30, wherein the
first strap guide holds the first strap portion relative to the
first strap guide, and further comprising a second strap guide
which holds the second strap portion relative to the first strap
guide, the second strap guide including a third engaging portion to
engage with a fourth engaging portion which is connected to the
helmet, wherein when the second strap guide is attached to the
helmet through the engagement of the third and fourth engaging
portions; wherein the assembly is constructed and arranged such
that a force on the strap along a lengthwise direction of the strap
and more than a threshold force disengages the third engaging
portion from the fourth engaging portion.
32. The accessory attachment assembly as in claim 31, wherein the
first engaging portion includes a channel having an open end, and
the second engaging portion includes a fastening element attached
to the helmet.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation application of
U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/115,759, filed
Nov. 5, 2013, and entitled "BALLISTIC AND IMPACT PROTECTIVE SYSTEM
FOR MILITARY HELMET ASSEMBLY," which is a national stage filing
under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.371 of International Patent Application No.
PCT/US2012/036499, filed May 4, 2012, and entitled "BALLISTIC AND
IMPACT PROTECTIVE SYSTEM FOR MILITARY HELMET ASSEMBLY," which is a
continuation-in-part application of U.S. Non-Provisional patent
application Ser. No. 13/101,320, filed May 5, 2011, and entitled
"BALLISTIC AND IMPACT PROTECTIVE SYSTEM FOR MILITARY HELMET
ASSEMBLY," which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S.
Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 12/875,106, filed Sep.
2, 2010, and entitled "BALLISTIC AND IMPACT PROTECTIVE SYSTEM FOR
MILITARY HELMET ASSEMBLY," which claims priority under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
61/334,923, filed May 14, 2010, and entitled "BALLISTIC AND IMPACT
PROTECTIVE VISOR SYSTEM FOR MILITARY HELMET ASSEMBLY," U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/265,707, filed Dec. 1,
2009, and entitled "MULTI-COMPONENT HELMET ASSEMBLY," U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/246,701, filed Sep. 29,
2009, and entitled "HELMET ASSEMBLY HAVING MULTIPLE COMPONENTS,"
and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/239,733, filed
Sep. 3, 2009, and entitled "MULTI-COMPONENT HELMET ASSEMBLY," each
of which is incorporated herein by reference its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to helmet assemblies having
multiple components such as face shields, mandibles or mouth guards
and accessories for use on helmets.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Military and law-enforcement helmets with face shields are
known such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,901,369 and 4,536,892.
These face shields provide pivot arrangements on opposite lateral
sides of the face shield to allow the face shield to be pivoted
upward away from the user's face when the face shield is not
deployed. The face shield is held in a deployed position in front
of the user's face by locking of the pivot arrangements.
SUMMARY
[0004] The present inventors have recognized that it is desirable
to provide a helmet assembly with an improved attachment system for
attaching a face shield, a mandible, goggles and other
accessories.
[0005] The present inventors have also recognized that it is
desirable to provide an attachment system that is quickly and
easily installed onto, or removed from, a helmet.
[0006] The present inventors recognize the desirability of a
mandible attachment system for a helmet that is deployable with or
without a side and rear rail system.
[0007] An exemplary embodiment of the invention provides a helmet
assembly that includes a mandible bracket configured to connect a
mandible to a helmet, with at least one strap connected to the
mandible bracket and configured to extend from the mandible bracket
to a rear portion of a helmet. The assembly includes at least one
strap guide having a strap engaging portion connected to the strap
along a length of the strap for connecting the strap to a helmet,
and a fastener engaging portion configured to connect to a fastener
attached to a helmet.
[0008] In one embodiment, the assembly has first and second strap
connectors configured to connect at a rear of a helmet. The
assembly has first and second mandible brackets configured to
connect the mandible to a helmet. The assembly has first and second
straps. The first strap is connected to the first mandible bracket
at a first end of the first strap, and is connected to the first
strap connector at an opposite second end of the first strap. The
second strap is connected to the second mandible bracket at a first
end of the second strap and is connected to the second strap
connector at an opposite second end of the second strap. The
assembly has first and second strap guides. The first strap guide
is connected to the first strap between the first mandible bracket
and the first strap connector and is configured to be secured by a
fastener to a rear portion of a helmet. The second strap guide is
connected to the second strap between the second mandible bracket
and the second strap connector and is configured to be secured by a
fastener to a rear portion of a helmet.
[0009] In one embodiment the assembly includes a mandible and a
mandible mount or front mount configured to be attached about a
front opening of a helmet. The mandible brackets are attached to
opposite sides of the mandible and connect the mandible to a helmet
via the mount.
[0010] In one embodiment, the front mount comprises a mandible
mounting channel. The mandible bracket has a pin configured to be
received in the mounting channel to provide a pivotable connection
of the mandible to the helmet.
[0011] In one embodiment, the mandible has a deployed position
about the user's mandibular region and a raised standby position
providing access to a user's mouth. The straps have a connected
position where the first strap connector is attached to the second
strap connector, and a released position. The straps, when in the
connected position, secure the mandible in the deployed
position.
[0012] In one embodiment, the fastener engaging portion of the
strap guide has a first channel having an open end opposite a
closed end; and the strap holding portion comprises at least two
strap slots configured to receive a strap. The strap slots are
located on opposite sides of the first channel.
[0013] In one embodiment, the fastener engaging portion of the
strap guide comprises a first channel having an open end opposite a
closed end.
[0014] In one embodiment, the first channel has at least one
locking nub located along a length of the channel between the open
end and the closed end to secure a portion of the fastener between
the locking nub and the closed end.
[0015] In one embodiment, the fastener engaging portion of the
strap guide has an upper second channel located adjacent to the
first channel. The second channel has a width and length that is
greater than the first channel. The second channel configured to
receive the head of a fastener.
[0016] In one embodiment, the strap holding portion of the strap
guide comprises at least two strap slots configured to receive the
strap through the strap slots. The strap slots are located on
opposite sides of the first channel. The first channel is
configured to be located under a head of a fastener. The second
channel is configured to engage at least a portion of the head of a
fastener. The first and second channels are slide channels
configured to slidably receive a fastener therein.
[0017] An exemplary embodiment of the invention provides a method
of securing a face protector, which maybe a mandible, to a helmet,
comprising the steps of, connecting a face protector about a front
portion of the helmet by face protector brackets, drawing straps
from opposite sides of the face protector to the rear of the
helmet, sliding at least one strap guide attached to each strap, on
to a fastener attached to the helmet, connecting the straps
together at a rear of the helmet.
[0018] In one embodiment, the step of connecting is performed
before the step of sliding. In one embodiment, the step of sliding
is performed before the step of connecting.
[0019] In one embodiment, the step of sliding comprises the step of
sliding a channel of the strap guide between the head of the
fastener and the surface of the helmet until the fastener is placed
between at least one locking nub of the channel and the closed end
of the channel.
[0020] In some embodiments, an accessory attachment assembly for a
helmet includes at least one strap guide configured to connect a
strap with a helmet, with the strap guide having one of a fastener
and a fastener engaging portion for releasably receiving the other
of a fastener and a fastener engaging portion secured to a portion
of a helmet. The strap guide further has a strap holding portion
configured to hold a strap relative to the guide.
[0021] In some embodiments, an accessory attachment assembly for a
helmet is provided, with the assembly including at least one
mandible bracket configured to connect a mandible to a helmet, and
at least one strap connected to the mandible bracket and configured
to extend from the mandible bracket to a rear portion of a helmet.
The at least one strap guide has a strap engaging portion connected
to the strap along a length of the strap, and a fastener or a
fastener engaging portion configured to connect to the other of a
fastener or a fastener engaging portion that is attached to a
helmet.
[0022] In some embodiments, a method of securing a face protector
to a helmet includes connecting a face protector about a front
portion of the helmet by face protector brackets, bringing straps
connected to the face protector from opposite sides of the face
protector to the rear of the helmet, and sliding each of one or
more strap guides onto a fastener or fastener engaging portion
attached to the helmet. Each of the one or more strap guides is
attached to one of the straps. The method also includes connecting
the straps together, in some cases at a rear of the helmet.
[0023] According to some embodiments, a method includes
disconnecting a connector which is connecting two strap portions of
an accessory-securing strap that is arranged to be mounted to a
helmet. The method further includes exerting a force on an
accessory that is being secured by the strap arrangement, and,
through the exertion of force on the accessory, disengaging at
least one strap guide from the helmet, the strap guide holding a
strap portion of the two strap portions.
[0024] According to some embodiments, an accessory attachment
assembly for a helmet includes a strap to secure an accessory to a
helmet, a first strap guide holding the strap relative to the first
strap guide, the first strap guide including a first engaging
portion to engage with a second engaging portion which is connected
to the helmet. When the first strap guide is attached to the helmet
through the engagement of the first and second engaging portions,
the assembly is constructed and arranged such that a force on the
strap along a lengthwise direction of the strap and more than a
threshold force disengages the first engaging portion from the
second engaging portion.
[0025] An exemplary embodiment of the invention provides a helmet
assembly that includes a face shield and the front mount is a
center top mounting arrangement that operatively connects a center
top location of the face shield to a center front mount on the
helmet. The face shield can be raised and lowered about a pivot
axis provided in the mounting arrangement between a tilted up,
non-use position and a lowered, deployed position. The mounting
arrangement can include a detent and two recesses, wherein the
detent engages a first recess at a slightly forwardly displaced
position to allow ventilation between the helmet and mandible and
the face shield and a second recess at the tilted up, non-use
position. The recess and detent engagement can be overcome by an
easy manual force acting on the face shield to reposition the face
shield.
[0026] The exemplary embodiment provides a helmet attachment system
that attaches other devices such as goggle straps, night vision
devices, and other devices. The exemplary embodiment of the present
invention provides an attachment system that is quickly and easily
installed onto or removed from a helmet.
[0027] In one embodiment, the front mount or front rail may be
substantially contiguous with side rails mounted to the helmet
which extend rearward from side edges of the front mount. The rear
edges of the side rails can be substantially contiguous with a back
rail mounted on the helmet. The side rails are configured to
provide attachment locations for further components, such as
lights, electronics, communication equipment, etc.
[0028] The combination of a front mount, side rails and back rail
form a substantially circumferential reinforcement of the helmet
and provides front side and rear mounting platforms for
accessories, electronics and other tools and devices according to
the needs of the wearer.
[0029] The mandible brackets or attachment bases may be arranged on
a side of the helmet near to an ear covering of the helmet. The
attachment bases each include a metal base plate covered by an
attached body block. Each attachment base provides provisions for
attaching one or more devices to the attachment base, such as for
attaching opposite ends of a mandible to the bases. The metal base
plate includes hooks for engaging an edge of the helmet. A pair of
strap assemblies is provided, each strap assembly connected to one
attachment base. The mandible is screwed onto the attachment bases.
The mandible is easily installed by insertion of a headed pin or
rivet extending from each attachment base inward, through channels
formed on the front mount or front rail and sliding the attachment
bases with the mandible mounted thereto through the channel until
the hooks engage the rim of the helmet. The straps are then drawn
rearward and buckled.
[0030] The face shield mounting arrangement provides an effective,
cost efficient mechanism for holding the face shield in either the
downward deployed position or the upwardly tilted, non-use
position. A wearer can raise and lower the face shield with only
one hand in some embodiments. This attribute allows a soldier to
raise or lower his face shield without putting down his rifle.
[0031] Advantageously, a front mount attached to the helmet can
accommodate either the face shield mounting arrangement or a night
vision appliance. Thus the mounting apparatus for a helmet is
simplified and the number of parts and mounting complexities are
reduced.
[0032] In one embodiment the face shield is a visor system that has
a lens with optics that are designed to provide not only impact
protection but also high energy ballistic protection while
providing clarity by reduced refractive power, astigmatism, and
prism in the horizontal direction as well as in the vertical
direction. According to one embodiment the lens has a thickness
defined between the inner and outer surfaces. The thickness is
greatest at the centerpoint and tapers at a substantially constant
rate toward the edges. The radius of curvature of the outer surface
of the lens is longer and offset forwardly of the radius of
curvature of the inner surface of the lens causing the lens
surfaces to be eccentric.
[0033] Numerous other advantages and features of the present
invention will be become readily apparent from the following
detailed description of embodiments of the invention, and from the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a helmet assembly outfitted
with the attachment system of the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 2A is a left side view of the helmet assembly shown in
FIG. 1;
[0036] FIG. 2B is a side view showing the helmet assembly with a
face shield in a slightly tilted up position;
[0037] FIG. 2C is a side view showing the helmet assembly with the
face shield in a fully tilted up non-use position;
[0038] FIG. 2D is a perspective view showing the helmet assembly in
a fully tilted up, non-use position;
[0039] FIG. 3 is a right side view of the helmet assembly shown in
FIG. 1;
[0040] FIG. 4A is a rear view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG.
1;
[0041] FIG. 4B is a rear view identical to FIG. 4A but with
portions removed for explanation of underlying features;
[0042] FIG. 4C is a perspective view of the helmet assembly in an
alternate configuration wherein the face shield is replaced by
goggles;
[0043] FIG. 4D is a rear perspective view of the helmet assembly in
an alternate configuration wherein a top rail is added;
[0044] FIG. 4E is a right side perspective view of the helmet
assembly of FIG. 4D;
[0045] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG.
1;
[0046] FIG. 6A is a left side perspective view of the helmet
assembly shown in FIG. 1 with portions removed for explanation of
underlying features;
[0047] FIG. 6B is a left side vide of the helmet assembly shown in
FIG. 1 with portions removed for explanation of underlying
features;
[0048] FIG. 6C is a left side vide of the helmet assembly shown in
FIG. 1 with portions removed for explanation of underlying features
and with the shock cord 10 channel cover shown transparent;
[0049] FIG. 7 is a right side perspective view of portions of the
helmet assembly shown in FIG. 1 with portions removed for
explanation of underlying features;
[0050] FIG. 8 is a front view of the helmet assembly portions shown
in FIG. 7;
[0051] FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of a face shield portion
of the portion of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 8;
[0052] FIG. 10A is an enlarged, fragmentary front perspective view
of the helmet assembly portion shown in FIG. 1 with portions
removed for explanation of underlying features;
[0053] FIG. 10B is a perspective view of a cap;
[0054] FIG. 10C is an enlarged, fragmentary front perspective view
of the helmet assembly portion with a second embodiment helmet
mount;
[0055] FIG. 10D is a side view of the helmet assembly portion;
[0056] FIG. 10E is an enlarged, fragmentary front perspective view
of the helmet assembly portion with a second embodiment helmet
mount;
[0057] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the face shield
portion shown in FIG. 10A with portions of the face shield
added;
[0058] FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken generally along line 12-12
of FIG. 11;
[0059] FIG. 13A is a front perspective view of the helmet assembly
shown in FIG. 11 with portions removed for explanation of
underlying features;
[0060] FIG. 13B is a perspective view of a portion of a mounting
arrangement baseplate;
[0061] FIG. 13C is a perspective view of the mounting arrangement
with portions removed for explanation of underlying features;
[0062] FIG. 13D is a perspective view of the mounting arrangement
with portions removed for explanation of underlying features;
[0063] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of a face shield assembly
shown in FIG. 1 with portions removed for explanation of underlying
features;
[0064] FIG. 15 is a front view of the face shield assembly shown in
FIG. 14;
[0065] FIG. 16 is a left, rear perspective view of the helmet
assembly shown in FIG. 1 with portions removed for explanation of
underlying features;
[0066] FIG. 17 is a left side view of the helmet assembly shown in
FIG. 16 with portions removed for explanation of underlying
features;
[0067] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of the helmet assembly
of FIG. 1 with portions removed for explanation of underlying
features;
[0068] FIG. 19A is a front perspective view of the helmet assembly
of FIG. 18 with further portions removed for explanation of
underlying features;
[0069] FIG. 19B is a perspective outside view of a side rail;
[0070] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view taken from of FIG. 1
with portions removed for explanation of underlying features
showing a mandible;
[0071] FIG. 21 is a front perspective view taken from of FIG. 20
with portions removed for explanation of underlying features
showing an underlying tubular framework of the mandible;
[0072] FIG. 22 is a front perspective view taken from FIG. 1 with
portions removed for explanation of underlying features showing a
back rail;
[0073] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a goggle strap clip shown
in FIG. 22;
[0074] FIG. 24A is a perspective view of a helmet assembly with a
mandible or lower jaw protection configuration;
[0075] FIG. 24B is a perspective view of a helmet assembly with a
mandible or lower jaw protection configuration;
[0076] FIG. 24C is a perspective view of a helmet assembly with a
mandible or lower jaw protection configuration;
[0077] FIG. 24D is a perspective view of a helmet assembly with a
mandible or lower jaw protection configuration;
[0078] FIG. 24E is a perspective view of a helmet assembly with a
mandible or lower jaw protection configuration;
[0079] FIG. 24F is a perspective view of a helmet assembly with a
mandible or lower jaw protection configuration;
[0080] FIG. 24G is a perspective view of a helmet assembly with a
mandible or lower jaw protection configuration;
[0081] FIG. 24H is a perspective view of a helmet assembly with a
mandible or lower jaw protection configuration;
[0082] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the face shield and
mounting arrangement shown in FIG. 1, shown in a lowered, use
position, but slightly open for ventilation, such as shown in FIG.
2B;
[0083] FIG. 26A is a sectional view taken generally along line
26-26 shown in FIG. 25;
[0084] FIG. 26B is a sectional view of a first embodiment of a
pivot pin;
[0085] FIG. 26C is a sectional view of the first embodiment of a
pivot pin with a ball;
[0086] FIG. 26D is a sectional view of a second embodiment of a
pivot pin;
[0087] FIG. 26E is a sectional view of the second embodiment of a
pivot pin with a ball;
[0088] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the face shield and
mounting arrangement shown in FIG. 1 but shown in a raised, non-use
position, such as shown in FIG. 2C;
[0089] FIG. 28 is a sectional view taken generally along line 28-28
shown in FIG. 27;
[0090] FIG. 29 is an enlarged, front perspective view of the lever
for raising the face shield, shown in FIG. 1;
[0091] FIG. 30 is a rear perspective view of the lever shown in
FIG. 29;
[0092] FIG. 31 is a rear view of the lever shown in FIG. 30;
[0093] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of an attachment base taken
from FIG. 1;
[0094] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the attachment base of FIG.
32 with portions removed for explanation of underlying
features;
[0095] FIG. 34 is an inside perspective view of the attachment base
shown in FIG. 33;
[0096] FIG. 35 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective view of a
left side of the 20 helmet assembly;
[0097] FIG. 36 is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view taken
generally along line 36-36 of FIG. 6A with an added functional
attachment;
[0098] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of an alternate mandible
attachment system;
[0099] FIG. 38 is a fragmentary side view of a helmet with mandible
using the alternate mandible attachment system of FIG. 37;
[0100] FIG. 39 is a fragmentary side view similar to FIG. 38 with
portions removed to show underlying features;
[0101] FIG. 40A is a side view of the helmet assembly having a
second alternate adjustable mandible attachment system;
[0102] FIG. 40B is a top view of the helmet assembly having a
second alternate adjustable mandible attachment system;
[0103] FIG. 40C is an inside perspective view of the attachment
base of the second alternate adjustable mandible attachment
system;
[0104] FIG. 41 is a sectional side view taken along 41-41 from FIG.
40B with the standoff mechanism in a lowered position;
[0105] FIG. 42 is a detailed view from FIG. 41;
[0106] FIG. 43 is a sectional side view from FIG. 40B generally
along line 41- 41, with the standoff mechanism in a raised
position;
[0107] FIG. 44 is a detailed view from FIG. 43;
[0108] FIG. 45 is a rear view of the helmet assembly having an
alternate adjustable back rail system;
[0109] FIG. 46 is a rear view of the helmet assembly having the
alternate adjustable back rail system in a contracted position,
where the helmet is not shown;
[0110] FIG. 47 is a rear view of the helmet assembly having the
alternate adjustable back rail system in an expanded position,
where the helmet is not shown;
[0111] FIG. 48 is a fragmentary view of a portion of the center
back rail and an outer rear rail of the adjustable back rail
system;
[0112] FIG. 49 is a fragmentary view of a portion of the center
back rail of the adjustable back rail system;
[0113] FIG. 50 is a sectional view taken from FIG. 48 generally
along line 50-50;
[0114] FIG. 51 is a section view taken from FIG. 48 generally along
line 51-51;
[0115] FIG. 52 is a fragmentary view of a portion of the center
back rail and an outer rear rail of an alternative toothed back
rail embodiment of the adjustable back rail system;
[0116] FIG. 53 is a fragmentary view of a portion of the center
back rail of the alternative toothed back rail embodiment of the
adjustable back rail system;
[0117] FIG. 54 is a sectional view from taken from FIG. 52
generally along line 54-54;
[0118] FIG. 55 is a perspective front view of the center back rail
of the toothed back rail embodiment of the adjustable back rail
system;
[0119] FIG. 56 is a perspective rear view of the center back rail
of the toothed back rail embodiment of the adjustable back rail
system;
[0120] FIG. 57 is a second perspective front view of the center
back rail of the toothed back rail embodiment of the adjustable
back rail system;
[0121] FIG. 58 is a perspective view of a buckle member;
[0122] FIG. 59 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a lens of
a visor system;
[0123] FIG. 60 is a front view of the lens of FIG. 59;
[0124] FIG. 61 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the lens
taken along line 61-61 of FIG. 60 showing tapering thickness of the
lens;
[0125] FIG. 62 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the lens taken
along line 62- 62 of FIG. 60;
[0126] FIG. 63 is side view of the lens of FIG. 59;
[0127] FIG. 64 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a lens;
[0128] FIG. 65 is a front view of the lens of FIG. 64;
[0129] FIG. 66 is a top view of a lens positioned in front of a
user; FIG. 67 is a side view of a lens positioned in front of a
user;
[0130] FIG. 68 is a perspective view of a head cap;
[0131] FIG. 69 is a perspective view of the helmet assembly having
the head cap;
[0132] FIG. 70 is fragmentary perspective view of a helmet with one
embodiment of a side rail;
[0133] FIG. 71 is a front perspective view of the second embodiment
of the 20 helmet mount;
[0134] FIG. 72 is an enlarged view of a portion of the second
embodiment of the helmet mount;
[0135] FIG. 73 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the
helmet assembly showing an alternate embodiment mandible strap
attachment system;
[0136] FIG. 74 is a section view taken along line 74-74 of FIG.
73;
[0137] FIG. 75 is a perspective view of components of the alternate
embodiment mandible strap attachment system of FIG. 73;
[0138] FIG. 76 is a side perspective view of components of the
alternate embodiment mandible strap attachment system of FIG.
73;
[0139] FIG. 77 is a rear perspective view of the alternate
embodiment mandible strap attachment system of FIG. 73;
[0140] FIG. 78 is a section view taken along the line 78-78 of FIG.
77;
[0141] FIG. 79 is a rear perspective view of the alternate
embodiment mandible strap attachment system of FIG. 73;
[0142] FIG. 80 is a rear perspective view of a helmet having bolts
and C-clips installed;
[0143] FIG. 81 is a side perspective view of bolts and c-clips;
[0144] FIG. 82 is a section view taken along line 82-82 of FIG.
80;
[0145] FIG. 83 is a rear perspective view of a helmet embodiment
including one embodiment of a strap attachment system;
[0146] FIG. 84 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of a
strap attachment system shown in FIG. 83, with the strap guides
attached to the helmet;
[0147] FIG. 85 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of a
strap attachment system shown in FIGS. 83 and 84, with the strap
guides attached to the helmet and a connector engaged;
[0148] FIG. 86 is a top view of a strap guide according to one
embodiment; and
[0149] FIG. 87 is a perspective view of the strap guide shown in
FIG. 86.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0150] While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many
different forms, there are shown in the drawings, and will be
described herein in detail, specific embodiments thereof with the
understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an
exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not
intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments
illustrated.
[0151] It should be noted that the helmet assembly described herein
is symmetrical across a vertical, front-to-back centerplane as
evidenced by the figures and any description of a right side
component will also describe the left side component as a minor
image thereof.
[0152] FIGS. 1-5 illustrate a helmet assembly 30 to be worn by a
wearer 31 (FIG. 3) according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention. The helmet assembly includes a helmet, such as a
military helmet 34. A mandible 36 is operatively connected to the
helmet 34. A protective face shield, such as a transparent visor or
transparent face shield 38 is also operatively connected to the
helmet, substantially between a front of the helmet 34 and the
mandible 36. A mounting arrangement 42 is operatively connected to
the helmet 34 and to the face shield 38 which allows movement of
the face shield 38 with respect to the helmet. The mounting
arrangement 42 includes a shield mount 43 and a helmet mount
44.
[0153] The helmet mount 44 extends across at least a partial width
of the helmet and is contiguous on the right and left sides of the
helmet to a left side rail 46 and a right side rail 48 (left and
right orientations mentioned herein are according to the helmet
wearer's perspective). The side rails are minor image identical
across a vertical, front-to-back center plane of the assembly 30.
Rear portions of the rails 46, 48 are contiguous with a back rail
52. The mount 44, the side rails 46, 48 and the back rail 52
together substantially surround a perimeter of the helmet 34.
[0154] The helmet mount includes two side channels 44a, 44b used
for mounting the mandible 36 as described below.
[0155] The helmet assembly can also be used with goggles 54 rather
than the face shield 38, as shown in FIG. 4C. The goggles include
straps 55a, 55b that are connected to goggle clips to the back rail
52, as described below. The back rail is design so that the back
rail retains an unreleased goggle clip. In this way one the goggle
clip and accompanying strap may be retained in the back rail even
when the other goggle clip is released. This provides that a goggle
may be quickly deployed by reattaching the released goggle a
clip.
[0156] The mandible 36 is operatively mounted to the helmet 34 by
left and right attachment bases 62, 64. For simplicity, only the
left attachment base 62 will be describes as the right side
attachment base is minor image identical across the vertical,
front-to-back center plane of the assembly.
[0157] The mandible 36 is fastened to the attachment base by two
screws 71, 72. The attachment base 62 engages the helmet as
described below and is drawn rearward by a strap system 76. Only
the left side strap system 76 will be described but it is to be
understood that a right side strap system 78 would be mirror image
identical across the vertical, front-to-back center plane of the
assembly. The front rail or mount 44, side rails and the back or
rear rail provide support as a system for the mandible.
[0158] The left side strap system includes a strap 82 that is
connected by a loop 85 to the base 62 at one end and to a buckle
member 87 at an opposite end. The buckle member 87 engages a buckle
receiving slot 90 formed in the back rail 52.
Face Shield and Mounting Arrangement
[0159] The details of the face shield 38 and the mounting
arrangement 42 are shown in FIGS. 7-15 and 25-31.
[0160] The face shield 38 comprises a lens 94 and a frame 95. The
lens 94 fits within a groove 97 (FIG. 9) in the frame 95 and is
fixed to the frame by three screws 96. For military use
particularly, the face shield lens 94 should be ballistic impact
resistant. It can be of a laminated construction and can feature a
variable light transmission system. Such a variable light
transmission system can incorporate an electronic control system to
vary the light transmission according to the ambient light
conditions.
[0161] The face shield frame 95 is mounted to the mounting
arrangement 42 via the shield mount 43. The shield mount 43
comprises parallel lugs 98a, 98b (FIG. 14). The lugs 98a, 98b
include holes 99a, 99b for receiving pins 99c (only one shown, FIG.
13A). Each pins 99c passes through a hole 101 (FIG. 12) formed
through sides in a base portion 102 (FIG. 11) of a lever 100, and
are held in place by the head of the pin and a circlip or lock
washer 99d. The lever 100 includes a hole 103 (FIG. 11) through a
distal end thereof. A pivot pin 107 (FIG. 12) is fit though the
hole 103 and is fixed to sidewalls 110a, 110b (FIG. 13A) which
extend outward from a baseplate 112. L-shaped side links 114a, 114b
are pinned at one end to the lugs 110a, 110b and at an opposite end
to the lugs 98a, 98b.
[0162] The lever 100 has a central recess 116 (FIGS. 11 and 12). An
opening 118 is provided within the central recess 116. A
hook-shaped latch 122 (FIGS. 11, 12 and 13A) has a base end
pivotally attached to the sidewalls 110a, 110b by a through pin 124
(FIG. 12). The latch extends outwardly through the opening 118. The
latch is biased to rotate upward to a latched position by a torsion
spring 130 (FIG. 13A). When the face shield is moved from the
upward, non-use position down to the deployed position as shown in
FIG. 1, the lever slides over the angular face 122a of the latch,
which causes rotation of the latch downward as the hook end passes
through the opening 118. Once the hook end of the 10 latch is
through the opening 118, the latch rebounds by the urging of the
torsion spring to rotate upward and the hook end overlies a first
recessed surface 116a of the lever adjacent to the opening 118. The
latch 122 holds the lever 100 and the face shield 38 in the
deployed position. The latch 122 can also be made to overlie a
second recessed surface 116b to hold the face shield in a slightly
open position with respect to the helmet and mandible. To move the
face shield 38 to the slightly open position or the tilted up,
non-use position, the hook end 122a of the latch are depressed
downward by a finger to release the latch from the lever and the
face shield can be pivoted upward.
[0163] The pivot pin 107 is fixed to the sidewalls 110a, 110b by
use of a threaded screw 123a and a spring pin 123b on each end of
the pivot pin 107 for each sidewall 110a, 110b. The spring pin 123b
is a pin having a portion that is larger than a hole in the pivot
pin 107 such that it is resiliently or deformable forced into the
hole to hold the pivot pin 107 fixedly to the side walls 110a,
110b. The use of a spring pin prevents unscrewing of the screw 123a
due to the repetitive raising and lowering of the face shield.
[0164] The pivot pin 107 includes two recesses 126a, 126b at two
spaced apart, circumferential positions. A detent mechanism 127 is
shown in FIGS. 26A and 28. The detent mechanism includes three
spring mechanisms 127a arranged in parallel. Each mechanism
includes a compression spring 127b that urges a ball 127c toward
the pivot pin 107. All the compression springs are braced by a
backing through pin 127d. The compression spring 127b and the ball
127c are captured within a cylindrical passage 100a formed in the
lever 100, by the backing pin 127d and the pivot pin 107. When
installed, the springs 127b are pre-compressed between the backing
pin 127d and the pivot pin 107 to the degree necessary to allow the
balls 127c to be urged into the appropriate recess 126a, 126b when
the recess presents itself to the balls 127c upon rotation of the
lever 100 with respect to the pivot pin 107. The balls 127c fit
into the recess 126a when the face shield is moved slightly away
from the helmet and mandible to allow for increased ventilation
(FIG. 2B), and fit into the recess 126b when the face shield is
pivoted into the raised, non-use position (FIGS. 2C and 20). The
engagement between the detent mechanism 127 and either of the
recesses 126a, 126b provides a resilient hold that can be overcome
by force from the wearers hand to pivot the face shield.
[0165] FIGS. 26A-26C show the first embodiment of the pivot pin
107. FIGS. 26D-26E show the second embodiment of the pivot pin 108.
The recesses 126a, 126b of the first embodiment have a recess wall
126c that has a constant radius of curvature along its arc length.
The first recess 126a is identical geometrically to the second
recess 126b. As shown in FIG. 26C, the constant radius of curvature
allow the ball 127c to fully contact the recess along the entire
recess wall.
[0166] The second embodiment of the pivot pin 108 provides a recess
wall 108c, 108d, 108e that does not have a constant radius of
curvature along its length. In this configuration the ball 127c
does not make contact with the recess along the entire recess wall
as shown in FIG. 26E. The first recess 108a is identical
geometrically to the second recess 108b. Referring to recess 108b,
the recess has two flat walls 108c, 108e are connected by a curved
section 108d. At least a portion of the flat walls 108c, 108e
contact the ball 127c when it engages the recess 108b. This leaves
a gap 108h between the ball and at least a portion of the curved
portion 108d of the recess wall. The recess has full contact areas
108g, 108f and a non-contact area 108k therebetween. The
arrangement prevents full contact between the ball and the entire
length of the recess wall to reduce force needed to overcome the
spring pressure transferred to the ball. As less force is needed
with the second embodiment of the pivot pin 108 as compared to the
first embodiment of the pivot pin 107, it is easier for a user to
move the mounting arrangement 42 between the deployed position and
the standby position. In one embodiment, the contact area 108g
corresponds to the flat wall 108e, and the contact area 108f
corresponds to the flat wall 108c, and the non-contact area 108k
corresponds to the curved section 108d.
[0167] The face shield is operable with one hand to raise and lower
the face shield. One finger depresses the latch 122 as the rest of
the hand lifts the face shield to a raised position. The face
shield can be lowered with one hand and the latch is
self-engaging.
[0168] FIG. 13C shows the baseplate 112 includes a main body
portion 132, a backing plate 133 (FIG. 13B), a spring 134, and a
latching tongue 136. The main body portion 132 includes an upper
edge 138 (FIGS. 9 and 12). The spring 134 biases the latching
tongue 136 in a direction away from the upper edge 138. A handle
140 is connected to the latching tongue through a side clearance
within the main body portion 132.
[0169] The backing plate 133 is a metal piece and includes side
walls 133a having holes 133b which allow resin of the main body
portion 132 to flow through the holes during overmolding to
integrate the backing plate 133 with the main body portion 132.
[0170] The mount 44 includes a top front formation or central
accessory mount 144 (FIG. 10) that includes an inverted U-shaped
retainer portion 148, surface depressions 150, 152, 154, 156, 158,
a top slot 160 and a bottom slot 162. The surface depressions
150-158 are sized and shaped to receive protrusions 163, 164, 165,
166 (FIG. 9) on a back of the baseplate 112.
[0171] The front mount is also compatible to mount a night vision
appliance or night vision goggle.
[0172] The front mount or front rail is mounted on the helmet using
screws 360, 362 and a center screw 363 (FIG. 10).
[0173] To mount the baseplate 112 to and into the formation 144,
the top edge 138 is fit into the top slot 160, the baseplate is fit
snugly within the retainer portion 148 and the tongue 136 is
retracted upwardly by force on the handle 140 until the tongue can
be fit into the bottom slot 162.
[0174] The mount side channels 44a, 44b each include a wide mouth
44c and a narrow region 44d (FIG. 6A). The side channels are used
to mount mandible attachment bases as described below.
[0175] The face shield frame 95 can also incorporate a removable
gasket to seal against the helmet brim to prevent ingress of
fluids.
[0176] FIG. 14 shows the frame 95 includes frame supports 95a that
brace against the helmet gasket 240 when the face shield is
properly seated.
[0177] A second embodiment of the mount or rail 1161 is shown in
FIGS. 10B-10D. The mount 1161 includes a top front formation or
central accessory mount 1164 (FIG. 10B-10D) that includes an
inverted U-shaped retainer portion 1168, a surface depression 1166,
lateral tabs 1168a, 1168b, a top slot 1160 and a bottom slot 1162.
The U-shaped retainer portion 1168 has side walls 1168a, 1168b,
1168c. A recessed bottom edge 1168d is opposite the top side wall
1168b. The surface depression 1166 and lateral tabs 1168a, 1168b
are sized and shaped to receive protrusions on a back of the
accessory (not shown).
[0178] The helmet assembly may include a central accessory mount
cap 45 as shown in FIG. 10B, 10D, and 10E. The cap forms a
concavity on a back side. The concavity is defined by side walls
45g, 45h, 45i, 45j, top walls 45c, 45d, 45e, 45f, an upper tab 45a,
and a lower tab. The upper tab is positioned along the top side
wall 45h and the bottom tab is positioned along the bottom side
wall 45i. Opposite the top walls is an open side. The open side
faces the top front formation or central accessory mount and is
received thereon. The upper tab 45a engages the top slot 1160 of
the central accessory mount. After the top tab is in location the
cap is rotated downward in the direction G shown in FIG. 100 so
that the bottom tab engages the bottom slot 1162 of the central
accessory mount. When the cap is secured over the central accessory
mount a storage area is provided between the cap and the central
accessory mount. The cap 45 may also be used on the central
accessory mount 144 of the first embodiment of the 10 mount 44.
[0179] The second embodiment mount or rail 1161 is shown in FIG.
71. The rail includes two upper rail segments 1190, 1191 that flank
the top front formation or central accessory mount 1164. The rail
also includes the bottom rail portion 1192 that extends under the
upper rail segments 1190, 1191 and under the top front formation or
central accessory mount 1164. Mounting apertures 1186, 1187 are
located at opposed end areas of the rail. The mounting apertures
allow that mount 1161 to be connected to the front area of a helmet
as shown in FIG. 10E. Also, mandible support slots 1188, 1189 are
provided at the opposite ends of the rail and adjacent to the
mounting apertures 1186 and 1187 respectively. Adjacent the
mounting apertures on a side opposite the mandible support slots
are anchor receivers 1170, 1180. The right anchor receiver 1180 is
minor image identical to the left anchor receiver across the
vertical front to back mid-plane of the helmet system as shown in
FIG. 71.
[0180] The anchor receiver has a top recess, 1171, a bottom recess
1173, an anchor bar 1172, a vertical passage 1174, and a horizontal
passage 1175. As shown in FIGS. 71 and 72, the anchor bar separates
the top and bottom recesses. The recesses have a back wall 1171b,
1173b, a first side wall 1171a, 1173a, an opposite second side wall
1171c, 1173c. The vertical passage 1174 extends behind the anchor
bar 1172 vertically through to connect the top and bottom recesses.
The horizontal recess extends from the back side of the anchor bar
1172 out the back of the rail portion 1190.
[0181] A night vision device when mounted to the central accessory
mount 1164 may be stabilized by connecting one or more shock or
elastic cords from the night vision device to the anchor receivers
1170, 1180. The anchor receivers may be used to anchor a visor or
any other accessory that is mounted to the central accessory mount
1164. The front anchor receivers are advantageous for, among other
things, stabilizing the mounted accessory when the front mount 1161
is used alone on a helmet, and side and or back rails are not
used.
Visor System
[0182] In one embodiment, the face shield 38 is a visor system 38.
In one embodiment, the visor system comprises the lens 94 and a
frame 95. In another embodiment, the visor system comprises the
lens 94, the frame 95, the mounting arrangement 42, and a helmet
mount 44.
[0183] Referring to FIGS. 59-63, in one embodiment the lens 94 has
a top edge 1136 that slopes downward from a top center point to
first right and left curve points 1134, 1133. At the first curve
points the top edge begins to slope more aggressively toward second
right and left curve points 1134a, 1133a, and more aggressively
toward right and left side edge points 1132, 1131. On the left
side, between the first curve point 1133 and second curve point
1133a is a top side beginning point 1133b. The left side of the
lens extends from the side beginning point 1133b to the outermost
point of the side edge 1131 to a bottom side beginning point 1141
(FIG. 63).
[0184] As is shown in FIG. 62, the plane of sight 1150 along the
vertical extent of the lens is displaced above the plane 1151
intersecting the side edge points 1132, 1131. The plane of sight is
the straight-ahead-view plane of sight when the line of view is
normal to the internal surface of the lens. In one embodiment, the
plane of sight 1150 is located at the vertical mid-point on a lens
blank that has not been cut into a particular shape.
[0185] A portion of the bottom edge extends from the bottom side
beginning point 1141 along an outer bottom edge 1153 of the lens to
a nose cutout portion 1144. The bounds of the nose cutout portion
1144 are defined by opposite upward angled portions 1127a, 1129a
that are connected by a top horizontal nose cutout portion 1121a.
The upward angled portions 1127a, 1129a meet the outer bottom edge
portions 1153, 1154 at bottom nose cutout corners 1127, 1129,
respectively. The upward angled portions 1127a, 1129a meet the top
horizontal nose cutout border 1121a at top nose cutout corners
1123, 1125, respectively. The nose cutout border 1121a has a
midpoint 1121 that is coincident with the vertical midplane 120 of
the lens 94.
[0186] The vertical midplane 120 intersects a mounting hole 1138
that is configured to receive screw 96. The mounting hole is at
least partially located in a mounting protruding portion or tab
1140 of the lens. The mounting tab 1140 extends above the left and
right top edges of the lens 1128, 1130. The mounting tab is
configured to be received in the frame 95 and to securely engage
the visor therewith. The lens 94 has a thickness defined between
the inner surface 1204 and the outer surface 1202. In one
embodiment, the lens is a tapering thickness lens. FIG. 61 shows a
cross sectional view taken along line 61-61 of FIG. 60, at 10 the
plane of sight. The outer surface 1202 is convex and the inner
surface 1204 is concave. The outer surface 1202 has an outer
surface radius of curvature RE originating at outer centerpoint of
curvature CE. The inner surface 1204 has an inner surface radius of
curvature RI originating at inner centerpoint of curvature CI. The
surfaces 1202 and 1204 have different radii of curvatures where the
centerpoints of those radii are shifted relative to each other. In
this embodiment, the inner radius RI is shorter than the outer
radius RE. The thickness of the lens tapers from a centerpoint 1226
towards opposite left and right endpoints 1225, 1227. The thickness
of the lens is greatest at the midpoint to 1226. In one embodiment,
the thickness of the lens is the smallest at the endpoints to
1225,1227. The thickness of the lens tapers at a constant rate from
the midpoint 1226 towards opposite endpoints 1225, 1227.
[0187] The arc of the outer surface and the arc of the inner
surface do not have a common centerpoint. In one embodiment, the
maximum arc 1214 between a centerline 1205 and a reference ray 1216
extending from the inner centerpoint CI to the outer edge 1225 is
80 degrees. Therefore in that embodiment, the arc of the lens
extends for 160 degrees about inner centerpoint CI. In one
embodiment, the thickness of the lens at the midpoint 1226 is
greater than the distance between the centers of curvature CI and
CE.
[0188] According to one embodiment, the thickness of the lens
tapers at a substantially constant rate from the thickest portion
of the lens to the edges. The lens thickness may vary smoothly from
the maximum thickness at the center to the minimum thickness at or
near the edges. The radius RI may not be constant at the opposite
left and right side ends of the lens, such as beyond 75 degrees
from the center line 1205. This variation area provides a minimum
thickness at the edge. Moreover, this variation from the constant
radius RI at the edges is allowable in some cases. It may be less
important that the radius of curvature be constant at these end
areas because this area is in the detection area of view of a user
and beyond the focusable field of view of the user. However, it is
important to maintain a minimum thickness at the edges 1131, 1132
to provide sufficient ballistic protection and impact
protection.
[0189] According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 61, the tapering
thickness lens has the radii of the inner and outer surface offset
from one another. The 20 centerpoint CE is offset forwardly from CI
along the frontal direction along Z axis as shown in FIG. 59.
Correspondingly RE is offset from RI in the frontal direction along
Z axis. In one embodiment, CI and CE are not offset vertically
along the Y axis and are not offset laterally in the horizontal
plane along the X axis.
[0190] FIG. 61 shows a horizontal cross-sectional view of the
tapering thickness lens that demonstrates a tapering lens thickness
in the horizontal direction. The lens tapers similarly in the
vertical direction. The lens has a vertical midpoint that comprises
a maximum thickness and the lens tapers toward both a top edge 1136
and a bottom edge 1127 from the vertical midpoint.
[0191] According to one embodiment, the tapering thickness lens has
an RI of about 104 mm, and an RE of about 106 mm, and the lens has
a thickness at the midpoint 1226 of about 5 mm. The lens has a
radius of curvature in the vertical direction along the inner
surface of about 127 mm and a radius of curvature in the vertical
direction along the outer surface of about 130 mm.
[0192] In another embodiment of the tapering thickness lens as
shown in FIG. 65, the radius RI is about 109 mm and the radius RE
is about 111 mm and the lens has a thickness at the midpoint 1226
of about 5 mm. The lens has a radius of curvature in the vertical
direction along the inner surface of about 127 mm and a radius of
curvature in the vertical direction along the outer surface of
about 130 mm.
[0193] In one aspect, the lens has a minimum thickness of about 3
mm at the center 1226 in order to provide adequate impact
protection and ballistic protection. In another aspect, it has been
found that a vertical radius between 20 about 127 mm and about 130
mm with an about 5 mm center thickness provides optics that reduce
aberrations when the eyes are looking upward and downward through
the lens. Moreover the lens achieves improved vertical field of
view desirable for life-threatening situations. Lenses having large
vertical curvatures need to be taller, bigger, and/or heavier to
make sure that the edges of the lens are not blocking the useful
field of view in military operations. The lens according to certain
embodiments of the invention avoids the problems of large vertical
curvatures. Also, large vertical curvatures restrict the ability to
use the lens with ballistic mandible or jaw protectors, such as
mandible 36.
[0194] Tapering thickness lens with vertical curvatures in the
range of about 127 mm to about 130 mm have a desirable low-profiled
design. Such lens provides optics with low refractive power, low
astigmatism, and low prism power in both the horizontal and the
vertical direction. The type of lens is advantageous for soldier
activities, such as inspecting the roof of buildings, crouching and
looking upward to use a weapon, inspecting grounds and running. The
tapering thickness lens provides optics in the primary viewing area
where the optical aberrations need to be minimized for sharp
precise vision. The primary viewing area extends up to about 40
degrees sideways of eye rotation from the straight 15 ahead viewing
position in the horizontal direction and 40 degrees upward and
downward vertically from the straight ahead viewing position, each
of which is considered a limit where eye rotation stops and head
rotation starts.
[0195] FIG. 66 demonstrates the horizontal extent of the primary
viewing area of the lens. A lens 94 is shown positioned in front of
a user's eyes 1401, 1402. The straight ahead line of sight 1403,
1404 from each eye is shown. Regarding the primary viewing area of
the lens corresponding to the right eye 1401, the primary viewing
area extends forty degrees to the right as shown by angle 1408 and
forty degrees to the left as shown by angle 1410 Likewise,
regarding the primary viewing area of the lens corresponding to the
left eye 1402, the primary viewing area extends forty degrees to
the right as shown by angle 1411 and forty degrees to the left as
shown by angle 1409. Therefore the lens has a primary viewing area
between the ray 1406 corresponding to forty degrees to the right of
straight ahead view of the right eye 1401 and ray 1407
corresponding to forty degrees to the left of straight ahead view
of the left eye 1402.
[0196] FIG. 67 demonstrates the vertical extent of the primary
viewing area. The lens 94 is shown positioned in front of a user's
eyes 1401, 1402. The straight ahead line of sight 1422 from for
each eye is shown. The primary viewing area of the lens extends
forty degrees upward as shown by the upward angle 1426. The primary
viewing area of the lens extends downward forty degrees as shown by
the downward angle 1425. Therefore the vertical extent of the
primary viewing area extends 80 degrees between the lower bound ray
1423 and the upper bound ray 1424. FIGS. 66 and 67 show the extent
of the primary viewing area when the lens is positioned a distance
from the user's eye of about 50 mm to about 60 mm, as for example
positioned by mounting the lens to the helmet assembly 30 and
placing the lens in the deployed position in front of the user's
eyes. In one embodiment, the lens is positioned a distance from the
user's eye of about 55 mm. One skilled in the art will recognize
that the forgoing demonstrates a primary viewing area having a
rectangle or square shape, but that the actual primary viewing area
defined by the limitations of a user's eye may be elliptical in
shape as a user tends to roll the eye downward or upward somewhat
from the maximum upward or downward position when the user turns
the eye sideways while also looking up or down. Therefore, the
actual primary viewing area of a user may be slightly smaller than
the primary viewing area of the lens.
[0197] In one embodiment, the tapering thickness lens has the
following arc lengths. The lens has a vertical arc length from
bottom nose cutout corner 1127 following a vertical plane to a
corresponding point 1124 on the top edge 1128 is about 98 mm along
the inner surface 1204 and is about 103 mm along the outer surface
1202. The lens has a minimum center vertical arc length in the nose
cutout portion from the top 1121 of the nose cutout portion 1144 to
the top 1142 of the lens, excluding the mounting tab 1140, of about
68 mm along the internal surface and about 73 mm along the external
surface. The lens has a maximum horizontal arc length from one side
edge 1132 to the other 1131 of about 317 mm along the inner surface
and about 331 mm along the outer surface. The nose cut out area has
a maximum width from the first bottom nose cutout corner 1127 to 15
the second bottom nose cutout corner 1129 of about 70 mm. The nose
cut out area has a minimum width at the top from 1123 to 1125 of
about 35 mm. The lens has a top edge 1136 horizontal arc length
from 1133b one side to the corresponding position on the other side
of about 224 mm along the inner surface and about 236 mm along the
outer surface. The lens has an arc length along the lower edge and
across the nose cutout area of about 266 mm along the inner surface
and about 278 mm along the outer surface. In one embodiment, the
lens will have a minimum height arc length of about 68 mm and a
maximum height or vertical arc length of about 103 mm. The lens
will have a minimum width or horizontal arc length of about 224 mm
and a maximum width arc length of about 331 mm.
[0198] FIGS. 64-65 show a tapering thickness lens 1301 of an
alternative embodiment. The lens 1301 conforms to the properties
provided of the lens described in FIG. 61. The lens 1301 has a
smaller nose cutout area 1344 than that of lens 94. The lens 1301
may be used with a different mandible than the mandible 36.
Alternatively, it may be use without a mandible.
[0199] In one embodiment, the tapering thickness lens of FIG. 64
has the following arc lengths. The arc length of the lens 1301 from
bottom nose cutout corner 1327 following a vertical plane to a
corresponding point 1324 on the top edge 1328 is about 78 mm along
the inner surface and is about 80 mm along the outer surface. The
lens has a minimum center vertical arc length in the nose cutout
portion from the top 1321 of the nose cutout portion 1344 to the
top 1342 of the lens, excluding the mounting tab 1340, of about 48
mm along the internal surface and about 51 along the external
surface. The lens has a maximum horizontal arc length from one side
edge 1332 to the other 1331 of about 315 mm along the inner surface
and about 337 mm along the outer surface. The nose cut out area has
a maximum width from the first bottom nose cutout corner 1327 to
the second bottom nose cutout corner 1329 of about 38 mm. The nose
cut out area has a minimum width at the top from 1323 to 1325 of
about 35 mm. The lens has a top edge 1336 horizontal arc length
from 1333b one side to the corresponding position on the other side
1333c of about 223 mm along the inner surface and about 241 mm
along the outer surface. The lens has an arc length along the lower
edge and across the nose cutout area of about 238 mm along the
inner surface and about 266 mm along the outer surface. In one
embodiment, the lens will have a minimum height arc length of about
48 mm and a maximum height or vertical arc length of about 80 mm.
The lens will have a minimum width or horizontal arc length of
about 223 mm and a maximum width arc length of about 337 mm.
[0200] While several arc length parameters are given, it will be
appreciated that the invention is not limited to lenses of those
arc lengths, but rather a tapering thickness lens having a
horizontal radius of curvature in the range of 100 mm to 10 120 mm,
a vertical radius of curvature in the range of 120 mm to 135 mm,
and a maximum lens thickness in the range of about 5 mm to about 8
mm will accrue the advantages of embodiments of the invention
including ballistic and impact protection while reducing refractive
power, astigmatism and prism in the horizontal direction as well as
in the vertical direction. Moreover, the lens may be used with or
without a mandible or jaw protector. The lens may or may not have a
nose cutout portion such as 1144.
Mandible and Attachment
[0201] For military applications particularly, the mandible should
be ballistic impact resistant. The mandible could advantageously be
used for motorcycle helmet, winter sport or auto racing
applications. The mandible should have a high mass impact
resistance.
[0202] FIG. 20-21 illustrates two embodiments of a mandible of the
present invention. The mandible 36 shown in FIG. 20 is a unitary
structure. The mandible includes an upstanding rim 259 that
provides a surface against which the lens 94 can be supported when
closed.
[0203] The mandible 180 shown in FIG. 21 comprises a rigid material
mandible frame 180. The frame can be used alone to form a wire
frame guard such as shown in FIG. 24E, or can be covered by a
ballistic resistant fabric 182 as shown in FIG. 24F wherein the
wire frame guard frame 180 is not visible. The mandible frame 180
is a tubular space frame or wire frame structure to reduce
weight.
[0204] The fabric 182 is attached to an outside of the frame 180
such as by wrapping around the frame and secured in place by hook
and loop fasteners (VELCRO). In this way the fabric is removable.
The frame 180 includes two plates 183a, 183b which include holes
for mounting the mandible frame 180 to the attachment bases 62, 64
as described below.
[0205] As illustrated in FIGS. 18, 19A and 32-34, the attachment
base 62 comprises a base plate 230 and an overlying body block 232.
The block 232 can include a surface 232a which can support ends of
the face shield frame 95 as shown in FIG. 1. The base plate 230
includes hooks 234, 236 that engage a lower front edge 239 of a
brim gasket 240 of the helmet 34. The base plate 230 also includes
two threaded bosses (or bosses terminating in captured nuts) 242,
244 that fit into holes 260, 262 (FIGS. 19A, 20 and 21) through the
mandible 36 or frame 180 and receive screws 71, 72 that fasten
together the mandible 36 (or frame 180), the base plate 230 and the
body block 232. The mandible provides holes 260, 262 that receive
the bosses 242, 244 and screws 71, 72 (FIG. 20).
[0206] The body block 232 includes a slot 263 that is engaged by
the strap loop 85 of the strap assembly 76.
[0207] As shown in FIG. 33, the base plate 230 also includes a
fixed, headed pin or rivet 380 having a shaft 382 and a head
386.
[0208] As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the buckle member 87 includes a
resilient latch 320 that is depressed inwardly as the buckle member
87 is forced into the slot 90 of the back rail 52. The buckle
member 87 also includes a base 324 that fits against a front
surface 328 of the back rail. The buckle member also includes a
plug portion 330 that fits snugly into a socket formation 334
contiguous with the slot 90.
[0209] To don the mandible or guard, the wearer moves the heads 386
of the headed pins 380 of each attachment base 62, 64, with
mandible 36 or frame 180 attached, into the wide mouth 44c of the
two side channels 44a, 44b. As shown in FIG. 35, the wide mouth 44c
is wide enough to receive the head 386 therein and the narrow
region 44d is wide enough to allow sliding of the shaft 382
therethrough. Beneath the narrow regions 44d is a parallel passage
44e that is wide enough to allow sliding passage of the head 386.
The attachment bases are slid downward until the headed pins are
stopped within the narrow regions 44d. The mandible or frame and
attachment bases are then rotated back and the hooks 234, 236 of
the attachment bases will then be oriented to brace against the rim
gasket 240 as the strap assemblies 76, 78 are strapped to the back
rail 52 by the buckle members 87. To open the mandible for
hydration (drinking), the buckle members 87 are released and the
mandible can be rotated forward without separating from the helmet
due to the headed pins 386.
[0210] Both the mandible hooks and the face shield frame supports
rest against the helmet brim in the same area; should there be an
impact, the load should be absorbed by the helmet.
Side Rails
[0211] The side rails 46, 48 are fastened to the helmet by screws
360, 362 (FIGS. 1-3) at front ends of the side rails and by being
engaged to the back rail at rear sides thereof. The screws 360, 362
also serve to fasten the front mount 44 to the helmet as well.
[0212] The side rails include an extending hook tab 370 (FIG. 19B)
that fits into and interlocks with a hook recess 872 formed on
opposite ends of the back rail (FIG. 22). When the back rail 52 is
attached to the helmet the rear ends of the side rails are fixedly
clamped to the helmet via the hook tabs 370.
[0213] As shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C, the side rails include
integrated night vision goggle (NVG) shock cords 47b, one on each
side which are used to stabilize and secure either the NVG or the
face shield 38. Shock cords are elastic cords. FIG. 6C shows a
shock cord channel where the shock cord channel cover is
transparent or not shown. Each side rail 46 contains a shock cord
channel 47a that extends along a length of the side rail. The shock
cord is anchored with an anchor 47c that attaches the cord at one
end of the channel 47a. The cord extends along the length of the
channel to the outlet 47d. The outlet is widens beyond the width of
the channel as shown in FIG. 6B and 6C. The widened outlet allow
for a hook 47e attached to the end of the cord to reset within the
widened outlet when the cord is in the retracted position as shown
in FIG. 6C. When an accessory needs to be stabilized with the shock
cords, the user pulls and stretches the shock cord to an extended
condition, such as shown FIG. 6B, and attaches it the accessory
(not shown in FIGS. 6B, 6C).
[0214] The side rails 46, 48 include mounting formations 376, 377
(FIG. 4A) for mounting an additional rail between the formations.
FIG. 40A and 4E illustrate a top rail 378 that includes legs 378a,
378b connected to a top pod or housing 379.
[0215] The formations include a guide recess 376a and a slot 376c
(FIG. 16). To mount the top rail 378, the legs are engaged to the
mounting formations wherein narrow end portions of the legs are
inserted through the slots 378c of each formation 376, 377. The
distal end of each leg includes a hook latch 378c that retains the
legs 378a, 378b engaged with the respective side rail 46, 48. The
legs 378a, 378b can be articulated at the pod 379 to act as latch
tighteners to securely draw the hook latches 378c tightly against
the slots 376c.
[0216] Additionally, the slots 376c can be made dimensionally
identical to the slots 90 on the back rail 52. Therefore, if the
top rail is not used, the wearer has alternate locations to insert
the buckles 87 or can use the slots 376c for mounting another
component.
[0217] The pod 379 is thus held onto a top region of the helmet 34.
The pod 379 can contain electronics, communication equipment, or
other equipment or can contain a beacon or other signal generating
device which helps to identify the wearer to others as "friend"
instead of "foe", or help in locating the wearer by friendly
forces. The signal generated by the beacon can be a visual signal
or radio signal or other signal. Where the signal indicator is an
IR designator, since it is emitting IR signals, it will be seen at
night by other soldiers in the back of the helmet wearer, when the
other soldiers wear night vision goggles.
[0218] FIGS. 6A and 36 illustrate the side rails 46, 48 include
attachment formations 46a that include an upper and lower row of
depressions 46b and a dovetail slot 46c, between the rows of
depressions. A component attachment base 46d includes a plurality
of pins 46f that insert into a plurality of depressions. This
insertion fixes the front-to-back position of the base 46d. The
base 46d includes a reverse dovetail profile 46g that interlocks
with the dovetail slot 46c. The dovetail profile 46g is slid into
the dovetail slot and the pins 46f and/or the base 46d and/or the
rail 46 has sufficient flexibility that the base can be forcibly
positioned along the length of the rail until the desired position
of the base, corresponding to registration of the pins 46f into the
desired depressions 46b is reached.
[0219] The base 46d can be the mounting base for a camera,
flashlight or other equipment.
Back Rail
[0220] Further details of the back rail 52 are illustrated in FIG.
22. The back rail 52 includes major openings 380, 382 having
pie-shaped minor recesses 380a, 382a contiguous therewith. Also
shown are goggle clips 386, 387 that engage recesses 380a, 382a by
hook portions 386a, 387a. The pie-shape of the recesses allows for
a range of angular movement of the goggle clips with respect to the
back rail 52. The back rail is mounted to the helmet by two screws
390, 392 (FIG. 4B).
[0221] The hook portions 386a, 387a allow one side of the goggles,
one hook portion, to be released from the back rail 52 while the
other hook portion retains the goggles, hanging down, onto the back
rail. This is advantageous for a wearer to disengage the goggles
without separating the goggles from the remaining helmet
equipment.
[0222] One clip 386 is shown in FIG. 23. The clip includes a body
portion 386b having slots 386c, 386d for receiving a goggle strap
end, and formed with the hook portion 386a.
[0223] The back rail can also be configured to hold a power source
such as a battery pack.
Adjustable Rear Rail System
[0224] FIGS. 45-51 illustrate an alternate embodiment of an
adjustable back rail 852 that includes a first outer back rail 810,
an opposite second outer back rail 820, and a center back rail 830.
The first and second outer back rails are constructed in minor
image fashion across a vertical centerline of the helmet. The
adjustable rear rail system allows the parts of the helmet assembly
30 excluding the helmet, to be used on different sized helmets and
will accommodate the variation in helmet through hole location,
which may arise for example during helmet mass production. The
adjustable back rail system 852 is shown in an expanded position in
FIG. 47 and a retracted position in FIG. 46 for accommodating
different sized helmets. The adjustable back rail system 852 may
have an adjustable range beyond that shown in FIGS. 46 and 47.
[0225] As shown in FIG. 50, each outer back rail 810, 820 has a
hook recess 872 (not shown for outer rail 820). The extending hook
tab 230 (FIG. 19B) of the side rails fit into and interlock with
the hook recesses 872 of the outer back rails.
[0226] The center rear rail has U-shaped anchor slots 842, 844
(partially shown in FIG. 47). The anchor slots 842, 844 correspond
to outer anchor slots 812, 824, respectively of the first and
second outer rear rails. The anchor slots are at least partially
alignable with the outer anchor slot for receiving anchor screws
(not shown, but similar to the screws 390, 392) to secure the back
rail system 852 to the helmet. In another embodiment the U-shaped
anchor slots may be oblong, circular, or oval shape.
[0227] The center back rail has an alignment point or line 836 for
positioning the center rear rail at the front-back center line of a
helmet. The outer back rails are positioned over outer ends 838
(second outer end not shown) of the center back rail. The outer end
838 has two engagement tabs 839a, 839b extending laterally from an
end of the center rear rail for engaging and sliding within
corresponding receiving channels 816, 818 of the outer back rail
810. Each engagement tab 839a, 839b has a forwardly extending tab
839c, 839d, respectively. The forwardly extending tabs correspond
to forwardly extending recesses 816c, 818d of the receiving
channels 816, 818, respectively.
[0228] When fitting the back rail system to the side rails and a
helmet, the center back rail is aligned with the helmet at the
alignment point 836. The side rails are attached to the outer rear
rails. The outer rear rails are placed over the outer ends of the
center back rail 830, and the engagement tabs 839a, 839b mate with
the receiving channels 816, 818. Screws are then placed through the
outer anchor slots 812, 824 and through the anchor slots 842, 844
to secure the back rail system to the helmet.
[0229] In an alternative embodiment, toothed back rail embodiment
of the adjustable back rail system, as shown in FIGS. 52-57, the
outer ends 936 (right outer end not shown) of the center back rail
930 has a plurality of locking teeth on the outward facing surface
throughout an engagement portion 938 of the outer end 936. The
right outer end is minor image identical to the left outer end 936
across a vertical centerline of the helmet. The center back rail
930 is similar to the center back rail 830 except as described
herein. The outer end 936 has two engagement tabs 939a, 939b within
the engagement portion 938. The two tabs 939a, 939b form a U-shaped
anchor slot 942 for receiving an anchor screw or fastener (not
shown) to secure the back rail system to the helmet.
[0230] The outer back rails 910 have a corresponding toothed
section 912 having locking teeth 914 on a rearward facing portion
916 of the outer back rail 910. Locking teeth 935 of the center
back rail 930 engage the locking teeth 914 of the outer back rail
910 when the outer back rail is placed over the outer end of the
center back rail. The toothed engagement between the center back
rail and the outer back rails create a locked engagement when a
screw or other fastener holds the outer back rail securely against
the center back rail. When the a screw or fastener is loosed the
outer back rails may be adjusted laterally to accommodate different
sized helmets and/or accommodate the variation in helmet through
hole location, which may arise for example during helmet mass
production.
[0231] In another embodiment, the tab engaging channel embodiment,
as shown in FIGS. 48-51, is combined with the toothed back rail
embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 52-57, so that outer ends 838
comprise a toothed engagement portion similar to the toothed
engagement portion 938 while still having engagement tabs like
those of 839a, 839b with forwardly extending tabs 839c, 839d, and
the outer back rail 810, 820 comprising a rearward facing portion
having teeth similar to the rearward facing portion 916 while still
having forwardly extending recesses like those of 816c, 818d.
[0232] As shown in FIGS. 55-57, the center back rail 930 has slots
950, 960 for holding goggle straps and securing goggles against a
user's face or helmet. The center back rail 930 includes slots 950,
960 configured to receive buckle members 970. The buckle member 970
includes a resilient latch 972 that is depressed inwardly as the
buckle member 970 is forced in the direction F of FIG. 55 into the
slot 960 of the back rail 930, or direction E for the case of
engaging slot 950. The buckle, as shown in FIG. 58, also has
flanking supports 944a, 974b that are spaced apart in the lateral
direction from the latch 972. The latch 976 has a first raised area
977, and a second raised area 978 separated by a recessed area
979.
[0233] The slots have a first raised portion 961 with lateral
guiding segments 962a, 962b on each lateral side. A gap 963
separates the first raised portion from a main guide portion 962.
Extending longitudinally inward of the slot from the first raised
portion 961 is a second raised portion 964. The second raised
portion 964 slopes upwards in a longitudinal direction outward of
the slot as it approaches the first raised portion to form a
receiving area for receiving the second raised area 978 of the
latch 976. The buckle locks into the slot by the second raised area
978 of the latch engaging the second raised portion 964 of the slot
and the recessed area 979 of the latch engaging the first raised
portion 961 of the slot, and the first raised area 977 of the latch
engaged with an outward facing surface 961a of the first raised
portion 961. The flanking supports 974a, 974b are guided by the
lateral guiding segments 962a, 962b of the slot on one side and the
main guide portion 962 on the other when the buckle member enters
and leaves the slot. The buckle member has a strap slot 972 for
holding a strap at one end where the strap maybe connected to a
goggle at the other end. It will be understood by one skilled in
the art that in other embodiments, the back rail 52 or back rail
830 may comprise slots such as slot 950, 960 of the back rail 930,
which are configured to receive buckle members 970.
Variations in Mandibles and Guards
[0234] FIGS. 24A-24H illustrate multiple variations of the mandible
attached to the helmet. FIG. 24A illustrates the mandible 36
previously described mounted to the helmet 34. FIG. 24B illustrates
a rigid guard 502 mounted to the helmet 34. The guard has a shorter
profile than the rigid mandible. FIG. 240 illustrates a rigid guard
502 mounted to the helmet 34 and carrying a removable ballistic
resistant fabric 504 to extend protection below the guard. FIG. 24D
illustrates a rigid guard and an integrated non-removable ballistic
resistant fabric 508 mounted to the helmet 34. FIG. 24E illustrates
a rigid wireframe guard 180 mounted to the helmet 34. FIG. 24 F
illustrates the wireframe guard 180 (not visible) having a
ballistic resistant fabric 510 applied over the guard. FIG. 24G
illustrates a lower semi-flexible frame 512. FIG. 24H illustrates
the lower semi-flexible frame 512 with a ballistic resistant fabric
516 to extend protection below the frame.
[0235] Semi flexible frame mandibles or guards provide the benefit
of conforming to a weapon when the wearer is aiming with a stock of
the weapon proximate the cheek.
Alternate Mandible Attachment System
[0236] FIGS. 37-39 illustrate an alternate mandible attachment
system that includes revised attachment bases 662, 664, constructed
in minor image fashion across a vertical centerplane of the helmet.
The bases 662, 664 include revised base plates 630, which are
similar to the baseplates 230 (FIGS. 33-34) except as described
herein, and a revised helmet mount 644 compared to the mount
44.
[0237] As illustrated in FIGS. 37-39, the attachment base 662
comprises a base plate 630, and an overlying body block 632 (the
block 632 is missing in the attachment base 662 in FIG. 37 in order
to see underlying features) similar in construction and attachment
as the body block 232 shown in FIG. 32. The block 632 can include a
surface 632a which can support ends of the face shield frame 95 as
shown in FIG. 1.
[0238] The base plate 630 includes a hook 234 that engage a lower
front edge 239 of a brim gasket 240 of the helmet 34 as previously
described. The base plate 630 also includes an upstanding hook 636
having hook concavities 636a open forwardly.
[0239] The base plate 630 also includes two threaded bosses (or
bosses terminating in captured nuts) 242, 244 that fit into holes
260, 262 (FIGS. 19A, 20 and 21) through the mandible 36 or frame
180 and receive screws 71, 72 that fasten together the mandible 36
(or frame 180), the base plate 630 and the body block 632, as
previously described. The mandible provides holes 260, 262 that
receive the bosses 242, 244 and screws 71, 72 as previously
described (FIG. 20).
[0240] The body block 232 includes a slot 263 that is engaged by
the strap loop 85 of the strap assembly 76.
[0241] The mount 644 includes a concave area 644a at each end
thereof to form a shaped void 644b between the mount 644 and the
helmet 34, having an open receiving slot 644d.
[0242] The shaped void is partly defined by a hook- shaped support
644c that has a concavity open upwardly and rearward.
[0243] To don the mandible or guard, the wearer moves the
upstanding hooks 636 of each attachment base 662, 664, with
mandible 36 or frame 180 attached, into the open receiving slots
644d of the two shaped voids 644b on opposite sides of the helmet.
The relative position of the mandible or frame with respect to the
helmet is shown in FIG. 38. As shown in FIG. 38-39, each void 644b
receives the hook concavity 636a in mutual engagement with the
hook-shaped support 644c. After the hooks 636 and the supports 644c
are engaged, the mandible or frame and attachment bases are then
rotated down and back from the orientation shown in FIG. 38 to the
orientation shown in
[0244] FIG. 39. The hooks 234 of the attachment bases 662, 664 will
then be oriented to brace against the rim gasket 240 as the strap
assemblies 76, 78 are strapped to the back rail 52 by the buckle
members 87 as previously described.
[0245] To open the mandible for hydration (drinking), the buckle
members 87 are released and the mandible can be rotated forward.
The degree of engagement of the hooks 636 and the supports 644c can
be designed that the mandible or frame can be rotated sufficiently
to hydrate without separating from the helmet.
[0246] Both the mandible hooks and the face shield frame supports
rest against the helmet brim in the same area; should there be an
impact, the load should be absorbed by the helmet.
Mandible Adjustment System
[0247] FIGS. 40A-44 illustrate an alternative embodiment having a
mandible adjustment system that includes revised attachment bases
762, 764, constructed in minor image fashion across a vertical
centerline of the helmet. The second alternate adjustable mandible
attachment system provides the ability to move the mandible between
an upper limit position, as for example shown in FIGS. 43 and 44,
and a lower limit position, as for example shown in FIGS. 41 and
43, to ensure optimal interface between the bottom portion of the
visor 94 and the mandible 36. The adjustable mandible attachment
system is adjustable to positions within a continuously variable
range between the upper limit position and the lower limit
position.
[0248] The bases 762, 764 include revised base plates 730 as shown
in FIG. 40C. The base plate 730 includes a fixed, headed pin or
rivet 780. The body block 732 includes a slot 763 that is engaged
by the strap loop 85 of the strap assembly 76. The base plate
includes a corresponding slot 763a for engaging the strap loop 85.
The base plate 730 also includes two threaded bosses (or bosses
terminating in captured nuts) 742, 744 that fit into holes 260, 262
(FIGS. 19A, 20 and 21) through the mandible 36 or frame 180 and
receive screws (not shown) that fasten together the mandible 36 (or
frame 180), the base plate 730 and the body block 732.
[0249] FIG. 40C also shows an inner plate 737 that mates with an
inner side of the mandible to secure the mandible between the inner
plate and the base plate. The inner plate has two fastener holes
733a, 733b that correspond to the threaded bosses 742, 744. The
inner plate has a retainer 736 that engages the lower edge 239 of
the brim gasket 240 of the helmet 34 (see FIG. 19A).
[0250] The base plate 730 has a standoff mechanism 791. The
standoff mechanism 791 has a contact plate 793, a base nut 795 and
a set screw 797. The contact plate is flexible and is positioned
between the lower edge 239 of the brim gasket 240 of the helmet 34
(see FIG. 19A) or a lower edge 734 of the helmet 34 and the set
screw 797, as shown in FIG. 42. The base nut 795 is fixed to the
inside surface of the base plate 730. In one embodiment, the base
nut 795 is located at a rearward position on the base plate 730
near the slot 763. The contact plate prevents the set screw from
wearing on the lower edge of the helmet. The base nut is threaded
to receive threads of the set screw 797. The set screw has an Allen
key (not shown) at the bottom 799 of the set screw, which is
configured to receive an Allen wrench for turning the set screw.
Other turning mechanisms may also be employed.
[0251] As shown in FIG. 40C, the contact plate 793 has a T-shaped
end 793a. The opposite lateral ends of the T-shaped portion engage
a contact plate slot 731 of the base plate on one side and a
contact plate slot 736c of the inner plate on the other side. The
T-shaped portion holds the T-shaped portion of the contact plate in
position between the base plate and the inner plate and the contact
plate flexes from this location.
[0252] When the standoff mechanism is in the lowered position, as
shown in FIGS. 41 and 42, the set screw is in a lowered position
with respect to the base nut. The base plate may rest against the
top of the base nut, when the standoff mechanism is in the lowered
position. When the standoff mechanism is in the lowered positioned
the mandible is in a lowered position as shown in FIG. 41. To move
the mandible upward the set screw is turned to raise the set screw
relative to the base nut. As the set screw rises, it engages the
contact plate 793 which puts pressure on the lower edge of the
helmet. As the set screw is moved upward relative to the base nut,
the base plate 730 pivots about the rivet 780 that is within the
side channel 44a, and thereby raises the mandible closer to the
front bottom edge of the helmet.
[0253] As shown in FIG. 44, the rear portion of the base plate is
driven downward as the set screw is moved upward relative to the
base nut. This causes the contact plate to flex, remaining
connected to the base plate at one end and positioned between the
set screw and the bottom edge of the helmet at an opposite end of
the contact plate. The upper and lower limit positions are
determined, at least in part, by the length of the set screw.
Protective Head Cap
[0254] As shown in FIGS. 68 and 69, the helmet system may include a
protective head cap 1300. The cap has a front opening 1306 that
corresponds to the top front formation or central accessory mount
144. The central accessory mount may also be a mount for receiving
the visor mounting arrangement 42. The front opening allows the
accessory mount 144 to be received there through. The cap includes
side rail engagement members 1304 (not shown for right side). The
left side rail engagement member 1302 mirror image identical across
the vertical midplate extending front to back of the helmet
system.
[0255] A second embodiment of the side rail 1310 is shown in FIG.
70. The side raid is identical to the side rail 46 except as
described. The rail 1310 includes two raised portions 1314, 1316
and a recessed portion 1312 therebetween. The raised portions have
a plurality of first accessory engagement recesses 1308, 1309
Similar first accessory engagement recesses 46f, 46g are shown in
rail 46 in FIG. 6. The recessed portion contains a plurality of
second accessory engagement recesses. The second engagement
recesses are larger than the first engagement recessed. The
engagement recesses can be used to secure accessories to the side
rail.
[0256] The side rail engagement members 1302 contain an attachment
mechanism for securing the protective cap to the side rails of the
helmet system as shown in FIG. 69. The attachment mechanisms may
comprise flexible protrusion on the underside of the side rail 1302
or an upper portion of the side rail 1304. The flexible protrusions
engage one or more of corresponding second or first engagement
recesses 1311, 1308 of the rail 1310. The flexible protrusion
secure the cap 1300 to the side rails until a predetermined amount
of force is applied in the H direction, as shown in FIG. 69, to
remove the cap from the side rails.
[0257] Alternatively the cap 1300 may have an attachment mechanism
having engagement members that are manually releasable by a
mechanical locking mechanism. The engagement member engages the
second or first engagement recesses 1311, 1308. The cap is
removable by releasing the mechanical locking mechanism. The
attachment mechanism may provide a sliding one-way lock engagement
that allows the cap to be slid on in the direction F as shown in
FIG. 68, but not removed without the release of the lock mechanism.
In another embodiment, the lock mechanisms by be electronically
controlled.
[0258] The cap 1300 may be made of composite material such as
KEVLAR and thermoplastic or High-density polyethylene and
thermoplastic.
Alternate Embodiment Mandible Strap Attachment System
[0259] FIGS. 73-82 show various components of an alternate
embodiment mandible strap attachment system 1230. The alternate
mandible strap attachment system 1230 allows a mandible to be used
with the helmet assembly when a rear rail, such as rail 52 or 930
is not used. The alternate mandible strap attachment system 1230
also allows a mandible to be used when side rails 46, 48 and a rear
rail 52, 930 are both not used, such as when mount 1164 is
used.
[0260] The mandible strap attachment system 1230 comprises a left
mandible strap 1240, a right mandible strap 1246, a left strap
guide 1260, and right strap guide 1262, a female strap connector
1250, a male strap connector 1252, a left mounting bolt or fastener
1270, a right mounting bolt or fastener 1272, a C-clip 1280. Each
of the left and right side straps 1240, 1246 have a mandible
attachment end 1242 (not shown for right side) and an opposite
connector end 1244, 1248 respectively. The body block 232 of the
attachment base 62 includes the slot 263 that is engaged by the
strap loop 1242 of the left mandible strap 1240. The right side
strap connects to the attachment base 64 in a minor image identical
fashion across the vertical, front-to-back center plane of the
assembly. The connector end 1244 is attached to a strap bar 1250c
of the female strap connector 1250. The female strap connector 1250
has an opening 1250d opposite the strap bar for receiving the male
strap connector 1252. The female strap connector 1250 has upper and
lower openings 1250a, 1250b for releasably receiving flexible
expanding tongs 1252a, 1252b respectively of the male strap
connector 1252. The connector end 1248 is attached to the strap bar
1250c of the male strap connector 1250.
[0261] Before the straps 1240, 1246 are connected to either the
attachment base or the strap connector or both, the strap is fed
through the corresponding left mandible guide or right mandible
guide. The strap guides 1260, 1262 are shown in detail in FIGS. 75
and 78 Referring to strap guide 1260, the guide has a first strap
slot 1263 opposite a second strap slot 1264. The strap slots extend
vertically on opposite sides of the guide. The strap slots are
sized large enough to receive the width of strap 1240. Between the
strap slots are a head receiving U-shaped channel 1265 and lower
U-shaped channel 1266. Both U-shaped channels create an open bottom
so that the strap slots are held together at the top section 1267.
The head receiving U-shaped channel 1265 is sized to receive a head
1273 of the bolts 1270, 1272. The lower U-shaped channel is sized
to receive a transition region 1274, a washer 1279 located around a
shaft 1275, or a shaft 1275 of the bolts 1270, 1272. In one
embodiment, the lower U-shaped channel is sized to receive a
transition region 1274 or the washer 1279 located around the shaft
1275. The width of the lower U-shaped channel 1266 is less than the
width of the head receiving U-shaped channel 1265 so that the head
is not allowed to pass below the lower U-shaped channel 1266.
[0262] Referring to FIG. 75, the lower U-shaped channel 1266 has
opposite side walls 1266a, 1266b. Each side wall has locking nubs
1269 (not shown for right side wall) located along its length so
that the transition region 1274, the washer 1279, or another part
of the bolt 1270 may be secured in the channel between the locking
nubs and the closed end wall 1266c. The locking nub not shown for
the right side wall 1266b is positioned along the length of the
channel 1266 the same distance from the open end 1266d of the
channel as locking nub 1269 on the opposite side wall 1266a is
located from the open end 1266d. The bolt may be moved further into
the channel 1266 by sufficient hand-applied force to the strap
guide to cause the channel 1266 to flex outward slightly to allow
the bolt to move past the locking nub and to be held between the
locking nub and the end 1266c of the channel. In one embodiment,
the channel 1266 has a narrowing width along at least a portion of
the channel between the open end 1266d and the closed end 1266c to
provide an increasing friction engagement with the transition
region 1274 or the washer 1279.
[0263] Referring to FIG. 78, the strap guide 1260 receives the bolt
head in an at least partially recess fashion within the head
receiving U-shaped channel 1265 relative to the strap slots so that
the strap can be threaded through the strap slots 1263, 1264 and
over the bolt head 1273. In this way, the strap guides direct the
strap in close proximity to the helmet and guide them towards their
connection at the rear of the helmet via the strap connectors 1250,
1252 above the lower edge of the helmet.
[0264] Referring to FIG. 76, the system may be used with at least
two types of bolts 1270, 1276 for mounting the strap guides 1260,
1262. One bolt is a step bolt 1270, 1272.
[0265] The step bolt has a head 1273, and a transition region 1274
extending between the head and a shaft 1275 below the head. The
step bolt has the transition region 1274 permanently connected
adjacent the underside of the head 1273. Alternatively, a shaft
only bolt 1276 may be used having a head 1277 connected to a shaft
wherein a washer 1279 is fit over the shaft slid up against the
bottom side of the bolt head and configured to engage the lower
U-shaped channel 1266 of the guides 1260, 1262.
[0266] The mounting bolts 1270, 1272 may be located in helmet
threaded holes located laterally in the helmet between the front to
back midplane 34a at the rear and the ear cups 34b as shown in FIG.
73. FIG. 79 shows the strap attachment system in the engaged mode
providing stabilizing force for the attachment bases.
[0267] When the strap guides 1260, 1262 are not in use, a c-clip
1280 may be used with the bolts 1270, 1272 to reduce the chance
that anything is snagged on the head of the bolt as shown in FIGS.
80-82. A C-clip has an inside surface 1282 and a first angled
surface 1381 that may contact the transition of the bolt or the
washer. Extending out from the inside surface 1282 is the first
substantially horizontal surface 1281 adjacent an opposite
declining surface 1283.
[0268] Once the fasteners 1270, 1272 are set to a proper depth in
the helmet, the strap guides 1260, 1262 may be engaged with the
helmet by sliding the strap guides down in the direction 1290 shown
in FIG. 73 until they are secured such as shown in FIG. 79 where
the bolts are seated against the closed end 1266 of the channel or
in close proximity to the closed end of the channel. Tension on the
strap tends to keep the strap guides engaged and down against the
bolts. The strap guides can be removed by moving them in the
direction opposite of direction 1290 in FIG. 73.
[0269] The mandible 36 can be removed by unbuckling the straps
1240, 1246, removing the strap guides 1260, 1262 from the fasteners
bolts, and sliding the headed pins of the attachment bases 62, 64
up out of the channels formed in the front mount or front rail 44,
1164.
[0270] According to further embodiments, a single or dual motion
accessory removal method may be facilitated by a strap guide
arrangement. Strap guides 1260, 1262 are shown engaging with bolts
1270, 1272 via movement in a vertical direction. In some
embodiments, straps guides may be provided which attach to and
detach from the helmet through movement in a direction other than
vertical. For example, referring to FIGS. 83-87, in some
embodiments one more strap guides 1560, 1562 may be engaged to,
and/or disengaged from, bolts 1270, 1272 through horizontal
movement.
[0271] Strap guides 1560, 1562 are shown in FIG. 83 unattached to
bolts 1270, 1272. The strap guides are moved horizontally to engage
with bolts 1270, 1272. For example, strap guide 1560 is moved to
the right in the direction of arrow 1584 to engage with bolt 1270.
Once each strap guide has been engaged with its respective bolt,
female strap connector 1250 and male strap connector 1252 may be
engaged as described above to secure an accessory, such as a
mandible, to the helmet.
[0272] To remove the strap from the helmet, and consequently also
remove the accessory from the helmet, straps guides 1560, 1562 may
be arranged such that a horizontal force on the strap guides equal
to or greater than a threshold force disengages the strap guides
from the bolts or other fasteners. For example, a user may directly
grip the strap guide(s) and push or pull the strap guide(s)
horizontally to remove each strap guide from its respective bolt.
Another manner of disengaging the strap guides includes the user
pulling the mandible (or other accessory), which tensions the strap
and pulls on the strap guide(s). The resulting force on the strap
guides pulls the strap guides 1560, 1562 off of their bolts 1270,
1272. In this manner, the user can remove one or both strap guides
with a single motion. In the particular arrangement shown in FIGS.
83-85, the single motion is a pulling motion of the accessory away
from the face, but other motions could be used in other
embodiments.
[0273] In this embodiment, the user can thus remove an accessory
with only two actions, namely disconnecting a connector and pulling
on the accessory, while still taking advantage of the utility of
two strap guides. In other embodiments, the user can remove an
accessory with two actions which may differ from the two actions of
this embodiments. For example, after disconnecting a connector,
instead of pulling on an accessory, the user may push on a portion
of the accessory, which in turn through a lever action pulls on a
strap. Of course, other embodiments may include accessory removal
methods which include more than two actions.
[0274] One embodiment of strap guide 1562 is shown in FIGS. 86 and
87. Similar to the strap guide embodiment illustrated in FIG. 75,
strap guide 1562 includes a head receiving U-shaped channel 1565
and a lower U-shaped channel 1566. Different from the embodiment
shown in FIG. 75, however, is that strap guide 1562 is arranged
such that the lengthwise direction of the strap travels in the
direction of the U-shaped channels. In this manner, tension on the
strap can pull strap guide 1562 off of a corresponding engaging
portion, such as a bolt, that is affixed to the helmet.
[0275] Strap guide 1562 has a first strap slot 1563 and a second
strap slot 1564. The strap slots are sized to receive the width of
strap 1246. In some embodiments, the head receiving U-shaped
channel 1565 is sized to receive an upper portion of a fastener.
For example, referring to FIG. 78, head receiving U-shaped channel
1565 may be configured to receive a head 1273 of a bolt. The lower
U-shaped channel 1566 may be constructed and arranged to receive
another part of a fastener. For example, referring again to FIG.
78, the lower U-shaped channel may be configured to receive a shaft
1275 of the bolt, a transition region 1274, or a washer 1279
located around the shaft 1275. The width of the lower U-shaped
channel 1566 may be less than the width of the head receiving
U-shaped channel 1565 so that the head is prevented from passing
below the lower U-shaped channel.
[0276] Locking nubs 1569 may be provided to restrain the part of
the bolt or other fastener that is held within lower U-shaped
channel 1566 between the nubs 1569 and an end wall 1566c.
Accordingly, when a user pulls on the strap or the slide clip to
remove slide clip 1562 from its associated fastener, at least a
threshold force is applied to overcome the resistance of the nubs
1569 before the slide clip disengages from the fastener.
[0277] In various embodiments disclosed herein, strap guides are
described as having channels or other fastener engaging portions
which engage with fasteners that are attached to a helmet. In some
embodiments, these features may be reversed such that structures
having fastener engaging portions (such as channels) may be affixed
to a helmet, and the associated strap guides may include fasteners
such as bolts or shafts.
[0278] Grip protrusions 1580 may be provided on one or both sides
of slide clip 1562 to facilitate gripping of the slide clip when
directly engaging or disengaging the slide clip with its associated
fastener. The protrusions 1580 may be especially helpful when the
user is wearing gloves. Other grip features such as a textured
material or a textured material finish on the slide grip may be
provided.
[0279] In other embodiments, strap guides may be moved in a
diagonal direction to engage with bolts, posts or other fasteners.
Movement in an engagement direction also may include a first
movement in a first direction and a second movement in a second
direction. For example, a strap guide may be moved horizontally to
initially engage with a bolt that is fixed to the helmet, and then
moved vertically to complete the engagement.
[0280] In still further embodiments, a strap attachment system may
be arranged such that straps are oriented vertically or diagonally
on a helmet, and tension on the strap in a lengthwise direction of
the strap disengages the strap guide(s) from the helmet.
[0281] While embodiments disclosed herein illustrate the securement
of a mandible to a helmet through the use of a strap attachment
system, the systems and methods described herein may be used with
accessories other than mandibles.
[0282] Exemplary materials of construction for the various
embodiments of the helmet assembly include:
[0283] Helmet: Aramid fiber textile with either thermoplastic
matrix or thermoset matrix
[0284] Front mount: Glass reinforced nylon for the plastic part and
Aluminum for the insert (where the visor attaches/anchors) Side
rails: Glass reinforced nylon
[0285] Back Rail: Glass reinforced nylon
[0286] Top rail: Glass reinforced nylon
[0287] Attachment bases for mandible: Glass reinforced nylon over
Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel or Titanium
[0288] Rigid mandible: It can be a combination of various materials
such as: 1) aramid fiber textile and thermoplastic or thermoset
matrix 2) aramid fiber textile and thermoplastic or thermoset
matrix wrapped in carbon fiber textile 3) High Density Polyethylene
wrapped in carbon fiber textile Soft mandible: Semi-Flexible Frame
made of Nylon while the curtain (hanging from the frame) is made
out of aramid fiber textile (many layers).
[0289] The presently described embodiments provides flexibility in
outfitting a military helmet. The back rail can be used without the
side rails. A top rail is optional. The mandible or frame is
optional, and when used, can be used without the side rails. Other
permutations are possible with some minor modifications.
[0290] From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous
variations and modifications may be effected without departing from
the spirit and scope of the invention. It is to be understood that
no limitation with respect to the specific apparatus illustrated
herein is intended or should be inferred.
* * * * *