U.S. patent application number 15/441875 was filed with the patent office on 2017-06-15 for head guard with coupled padding layer.
The applicant listed for this patent is 2ND SKULL, INC.. Invention is credited to Federico Olivares Velasco.
Application Number | 20170164677 15/441875 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59018318 |
Filed Date | 2017-06-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170164677 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Olivares Velasco; Federico |
June 15, 2017 |
HEAD GUARD WITH COUPLED PADDING LAYER
Abstract
A head guard is provided which has a fabric layer and a padding
layer. The padding layer can be attached to the fabric layer. The
head guard is stretchable between a relaxed configuration and an
expanded configuration. The expanding configuration has a convex
shape such that it can conform to a head of a wearer. The head
guard can be worn by a wearer in combination with a helmet.
Inventors: |
Olivares Velasco; Federico;
(Cranberry Township, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
2ND SKULL, INC. |
CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
59018318 |
Appl. No.: |
15/441875 |
Filed: |
February 24, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14155736 |
Jan 15, 2014 |
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15441875 |
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14076615 |
Nov 11, 2013 |
8997265 |
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14155736 |
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13750300 |
Jan 25, 2013 |
8613114 |
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14076615 |
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61675566 |
Jul 25, 2012 |
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62299619 |
Feb 25, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A42B 1/20 20130101; A42B
3/10 20130101; A42B 1/08 20130101; A42B 1/205 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A42B 3/04 20060101
A42B003/04; A42B 1/04 20060101 A42B001/04; A42B 1/08 20060101
A42B001/08; A42B 1/22 20060101 A42B001/22 |
Claims
1. A head guard, comprising: a plurality of multi-layered
sidewalls, wherein the plurality of multi-layered sidewalls are
sewn to collectively form a dome, wherein the dome defines a
circular opening for a head of a wearer, and wherein each of the
multi-layered sidewalls comprises: an inner stretchable fabric
layer, an outer stretchable fabric layer; and a side padding layer
positioned in between the inner stretchable fabric layer and the
outer stretchable fabric layer, wherein at least a portion of the
side padding layer being coupled to the inner stretchable fabric
layer, the outer stretchable fabric layer, or both the inner
stretchable fabric layer and the outer stretchable fabric layer,
and wherein the padding layer comprises a rate dependent padding
material; and wherein the side padding layer of one of the
plurality of multi-layered sidewalls is discontinuous from the
open-cell side padding layer of an adjacent one of the plurality of
multi-layered sidewalls, and wherein the inner stretchable fabric
layer and the outer stretchable fabric layer are expandable from a
relaxed state to and an expanded state.
2. The head guard of claim 1, wherein the padding layer is coupled
using one or more of stitching, heat welding, and an adhesive.
3. The head guard of claim 1, wherein the padding layer is an
open-cell side padding layer that is coupled to the inner
stretchable fabric layer and the outer stretchable fabric
layer.
4. The head guard of claim 1, consisting of four multi-layered
sidewalls.
5. The head guard of claim 1, wherein the padding layer is an
open-cell side padding layer that is coupled to only the inner
stretchable fabric.
6. The head guard of claim 1, wherein the padding layer is an
open-cell side padding layer that is coupled to only the outer
stretchable fabric.
7. The head guard of claim 1, wherein the padding layer is an
open-cell side padding layer that is coupled to the inner
stretchable fabric and the outer stretchable fabric.
8. A head guard, comprising: a first triangular multi-layered
sidewall and a second triangular multi-layered sidewall, wherein a
first portion of the first triangular multi-layered sidewall is
sewn to a first portion of the second triangular multi-layered
sidewall to collectively form at least a portion of a dome, wherein
the portion of the dome defines at least a portion of a circular
opening sized to receive a head of a wearer, and wherein each of
the first and second triangular multi-layered sidewalls comprises:
a stretchable fabric layer; and a side padding layer, wherein at
least a portion of the side padding layer is coupled to the
stretchable fabric layer, and wherein the side padding layer
comprises a rate dependent padding material; and wherein the side
padding layer of the first triangular multi-layered sidewall is
discontinuous from the side padding layer of the second triangular
multi-layered sidewalls, wherein the head guard is stretchable
between a relaxed configuration and an expanded configuration.
9. The head guard of claim 8, further comprising a third
multi-layered sidewall, the multi-layered sidewall comprising: a
stretchable fabric layer; and a side padding layer coupled to the
stretchable fabric layer, the side padding layer comprising a
padding material.
10. The head guard of claim 9, wherein the third multi-layered is
sewn to the first triangular multi-layered sidewall or the second
triangular multi-layered sidewall, or both.
11. The head guard of claim 9, further comprising an elastic band
coupled to the first triangular multi-layered sidewall and the
second triangular multi-layered sidewall and positioned proximate
to the circular opening of the dome.
12. The head guard of claim 11, wherein the side padding layers of
each of the first triangular multi-layered sidewall and the second
triangular multi-layered sidewall are substantially triangular and
are sewn into the respective pockets.
13. The head guard of claim 8, wherein each of the first and second
triangular multi-layered sidewalls comprises another stretchable
fabric layer, wherein the stretchable fabric layer and the another
stretchable fabric layer collectively define a pocket, and wherein
the side padding layer is positioned within the pocket.
14. The head guard of claim 8, wherein side padding layer of each
of the first and second triangular multi-layered sidewalls is
permanently secured within the pocket.
15. A head guard, comprising: a plurality of multi-layered
sidewalls, wherein each of the multi-layered sidewalls comprise: a
first stretchable fabric layer having an inner surface and an outer
surface; a second stretchable fabric layer having an inner surface
and an outer surface, wherein a pocket is defined between the inner
surface of the first stretchable fabric layer and the inner surface
of the second stretchable fabric layer; an open-cell padding layer
having a first side and a second side, the open-cell padding layer
positioned within the pocket such that the first side is proximate
to the inner surface of the first stretchable fabric layer and the
second side is proximate to the inner surface of the second
stretchable fabric layer, wherein the open-cell padding layer is
coupled to at least one of the first stretchable fabric layer and
the second stretchable fabric; and wherein the plurality of
triangular multi-layered sidewalls are assembled to define a dome
having a circular dimensioned to receive a head of a wearer.
16. The head guard of claim 15, comprising at least two
multi-layered sidewalls.
17. The head guard of claim 16, wherein the open-cell padding layer
is coupled to only the inner surface of the first stretchable
fabric layer.
18. The head guard of claim 16, wherein the open-cell padding layer
is coupled to only the inner surface of the second stretchable
fabric layer.
19. The head guard of claim 16, wherein the open-cell padding layer
is coupled to both the inner surface of the second stretchable
fabric layer and the inner surface of the second stretchable fabric
layer.
20. The head guard of claim 15, wherein each of the plurality of
multi-layered sidewalls are triangular.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/155,736, entitled "HEAD GUARD," filed Jan.
15, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 14/076,615, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,997,265, entitled "HEAD GUARD,"
filed Nov. 11, 2013, which is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/750,300, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,613,114,
entitled "HEAD GUARD," filed Jan. 25, 2013, which claims the
benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/675,566,
entitled "HEAD GUARD," filed Jul. 25, 2012, the disclosures of
which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
[0002] This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 62/299,619, entitled "HEAD GUARD WITH
COUPLED PADDING LAYER," filed Feb. 25, 2016, the disclosure of
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0003] The systems and methods described below relate generally to
the field of head protection. More particularly, the systems and
methods relate to head guards that can be worn during sporting, or
athletic, or other physical endeavors.
BACKGROUND
[0004] When an individual participates in contact sports activities
such as football, lacrosse, hockey, and the like, or other physical
activities, such as skiing, skateboarding, and the like, it is
common that parts of the individual's body are subject to impact
and other physical contact. Various attempts have been made to
provide padding as a means of protecting the individual during such
activities. Conventional protective equipment can include, as
nonlimiting examples, helmets, shoulder pads, thigh pads, and shin
pads. Typical protective equipment may include reinforced-sponge
type padding, such as a rubber sponge layer laminated with a stiff
plastic layer.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] The present disclosure will be more readily understood from
a detailed description of some example embodiments taken in
conjunction with the following figures:
[0006] FIGS. 1-3 show example head guards used in combination with
example helmets.
[0007] FIGS. 4-16C are perspective views of example head
guards.
[0008] FIG. 17A shows a side view of an example head guard.
[0009] FIG. 17B shows a cross-sectional view taken along line
17B-17B of FIG. 17A.
[0010] FIG. 17C is an enlarged view of the encircled portion of
FIG. 17B.
[0011] FIG. 18A is a perspective view of an example head guard.
[0012] FIG. 18B shows a side view of the head guard of FIG.
18A.
[0013] FIG. 18C shows a cross-sectional view taken along line
18C-18C of FIG. 18B.
[0014] FIGS. 19-21 show example arrangements of padding within
example head guards.
[0015] FIG. 22 shows a cross-sectional view of a head guard in
accordance with one non-limiting embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 23 shows an exploded view of a head guard in accordance
with one non-limiting embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 24 depicts the head guard of FIG. 23 being positioned
on the head of a wearer and stretching from a relaxed configuration
to an expanded configuration.
[0018] FIG. 25 shows an exploded view of a head guard in accordance
with one non-limiting embodiment.
[0019] FIGS. 26A-27B show example baseball hats that incorporate a
head guard.
[0020] FIGS 28-29 show example having a non-stick external
surface.
[0021] FIGS. 30-34A show example winter hats that incorporate a
head guard.
[0022] FIG. 34B shows a cross-sectional view of the winter hat of
FIG. 34A.
[0023] FIG. 35 shows an example hooded apparel that incorporates a
head guard.
[0024] FIGS. 36-37 show examples hoods that incorporate a head
guard.
[0025] FIG. 38 shows a head guard for placement on the outside of
an example helmet.
[0026] FIG. 39 shows an example head guard positioned on an example
helmet.
[0027] FIG. 40 shows another example head guard positioned on an
example helmet.
[0028] FIG. 41 shows a cross-sectional view of a head guard in
accordance with one non-limiting embodiment.
[0029] FIG. 42 shows a perspective view of an example head
guard.
[0030] FIG. 43 depicts a cross-sectional view of the head guard of
FIG. 42 taken along line 43-43.
[0031] FIG. 44 depicts an example head guard in a relaxed state and
an expanded state.
[0032] FIGS. 45A, 45B, 46A, and 46B depict example arrangements of
padding layers for dome-shaped head guards.
[0033] FIGS. 47-53 depict cross-sectional views of example head
guards to illustrate example techniques for coupling layer(s).
[0034] FIGS. 54-55 depict example of textured, non-planar padding
layers coupled to an outside surface of a head guard.
[0035] FIGS. 56-58 depict example padding layers in accordance with
various non-limiting embodiments
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] Various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure
will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the
principles of the structure, function, and use of the head guards
disclosed herein. One or more examples of these non-limiting
embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of
ordinary skill in the art will understand that systems and methods
specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying
drawings are non-limiting embodiments. The features illustrated or
described in connection with one non-limiting embodiment may be
combined with the features of other non-limiting embodiments. Such
modifications and variations are intended to be included within the
scope of the present disclosure.
[0037] The presently disclosed embodiments are generally directed
to head guard, head guard systems, methods of using a head guard,
and methods of manufacturing head guards. Such systems and methods
may be implemented in a wide variety of contexts and applications.
In one example embodiment, the head guard is compressive so that it
can be retained on a user's head without the use of a securing
strap, such as a chinstrap. The head guards can be constructed with
one or more layers, sections, or pockets of impact absorbing or
impact dissipating materials, referred to generally herein as
padding. The particular type of padding can vary based on a variety
of factors, such as style of head guard, sporting or athletic
application, type of user, size of head guard, and so forth. As
described in more detail below, in some embodiments, the head guard
can have three layers, including an inner layer, a middle layer,
and an outer layer. The middle layer can comprise the padding.
Other embodiments of head guards can have more than three layers or
less than three layers. The head guard can comprise, for example,
one or more thermal layers or at least portions of thermal
protection (e.g., around the ears). Such embodiments can be useful
for wearers participating in cold-weather endeavors. In some
example embodiments, the head guard can be washable without
necessarily removing the padding layer from the head guard. The
head guard can also have breathable characteristics, sweat wicking
characteristics, or other comfort related characteristics, such as
vents. The head guard can have water resistant or water repellant
qualities. In some embodiments, the head guard can include an
anti-bacterial agent, anti-microbial agent, anti-odor agent, or
other deodorizing or sanitizing compounds. In some embodiments, the
head guard is configured to provide protection against ultraviolet
rays using any suitable techniques, such as chemical treatments,
construction techniques, materials, and so forth. As described in
more detail below, the head guard can be sized for a child wearer
or an adult wearer.
[0038] In some embodiments, as described in more detail below, the
head guard may be worn underneath a wide variety of helmets, such
as football helmets, batting helmets, bicycle helmets, and so
forth. In some embodiments, the head guard may be incorporated
into, formed with, or otherwise coupled to various head coverings,
such as a baseball hat, a winter hat, a hood on a sweatshirt or
jacket, or other styles of hat. In some embodiments, the head guard
can be incorporated into apparel (hats, hoods, and so forth) in a
discrete fashion, such that it is not necessarily apparent from an
observer that the apparel includes the head guard.
[0039] In some embodiments, as described in more detail below, the
head guard may be worn over top of a wide variety of helmets, such
as football helmets, batting helmets, skateboarding helmets,
snowboarding helmets, and so forth.
[0040] As is to be appreciated, the head guard described herein can
be sized to accommodate different ages of users. In one example
embodiment, a child's "one size fits all" head guard is sized to
fit children and an adult's "one size fits all" head guard is sized
to fit adults. As described in more detail below, elastic
components incorporated into the head guard can aid in maintaining
the head guard on a user's head while also allowing the head guard
to accommodate different sized heads. In some embodiments, head
guards can be manufactured in different sizes (small, medium,
large, x-large, and so forth). In some embodiments, the head guard
may be selectively adjustable to accommodate different head
sizes.
[0041] Reference throughout the specification to "various
embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," "some example
embodiments," "one example embodiment," or "an embodiment" means
that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described
in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one
embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in various
embodiments," "in some embodiments," "in one embodiment," "some
example embodiments," "one example embodiment, or "in an
embodiment" in places throughout the specification are not
necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the
particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined
in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
[0042] Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, example embodiments of the
present disclosure show head guards are used in combination with
various example helmets. Referring first to FIG. 1, a head guard
100 is positionable upon a head 102 of a user. As described in more
detail below, the head guard 100 can include a plurality of layers
which includes a padding layer. The head guard 100 can be generally
compressive such that its position on the head 102 can be
maintained without the use of chin strap. Other embodiments,
however, can use additional fastening features. The head guard 100
in FIG. 1 comprises an elastic member 106 which aids in securing
the head guard 100 to the head 102. The elastic member 106 may
encircle the entire head guard (as shown) or may be limited to
certain portions of the head guard, such as the front and/or rear.
The elastic member 106 can comprise, for example, an elastic band
or cord positioned in a hem. Subsequent to placing the head guard
100 on the head 102, a helmet 104 can be placed onto the head 102
and over top of the head guard 100. The head guard 100 can be
relatively thin as compared to the helmet 104 such that the head
guard 100 does not interfere with the usability and comfort offered
by the helmet 104. As illustrated, helmet 104 is a football helmet.
It is noted that the present disclosure is not limited to football
helmets. Instead, a wide array of different helmets can be used in
in combination with the head guard 100, such as helmets worn by
pilots, firemen, construction workers, or by any other person
wearing any type of helmet or head protection. FIG. 2, for example,
illustrates a motocross helmet 124 for a head 122 of a user. A head
guard 120 can be positioned over the head 122 and under the
motocross helmet 124. In the illustrated embodiment, the head guard
120 comprises a neck panel 126. As is to be appreciated, any
suitable configuration of head guard can be used with any suitable
helmet. Similar to the head guard 100, the head guard 120 also
comprises an elastic member 126 which generally aids in retaining
the head guard 120 on the head 122 of the user. In some
embodiments, drawstrings, buckles, or other tightening features may
be used.
[0043] As is to be appreciated, the particular configuration of the
head guard can be based on, for example, the type of helmet to be
worn with the head guard and/or the type of activity to be
performed while wearing the head guard. FIG. 3, for example,
illustrates an example head guard 130 for use with a bicycle helmet
134. The head guard 130 can be placed on a head 132 of the user
prior to securing the bicycle helmet 134 to the head 132. In the
illustrated embodiment, the compressive nature of the head guard
130 generally maintains the placement of the head guard 130 on the
head 132 without the use of an additional elastic feature. While a
football helmet, motocross helmet, and bicycle helmet are
illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the present disclosure is not limited to
these particular application types. Instead, the head guards
described herein can be used in combination with any suitable
helmet type or form of head protection.
[0044] FIGS. 4-16 illustrate non-limiting examples of head guard
configurations. As is to be appreciated, features of head guards of
some embodiments can be incorporated into the head guards of other
embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
Head guard 200 in FIG. 4, for example, is comprised of a
circumferential panel 202, sometimes referred to as a sidewall, and
a plurality of top panels 204. The top panels 204 can be generally
triangular such that, when they are coupled to each other, they
generally form a disc. As described in more detail below, various
types of padding can be incorporated into one or more of
circumferential panel 202 and one, more than one, or none of the
top panels 204. While FIG. 4 shows an elastic member 206 coupled to
the circumferential panel 202, other embodiments may use other
types of retention features. For example, elastic characteristics
of the circumferential panel 202 may be used to maintain the head
guard 200 on the head of a user. As with other head guards
described herein, the size of the head guard 200 can be designed
such that it is appropriate for the particular type of user (child,
teenage, adult, and so forth).
[0045] Head guard 220 illustrated in FIG. 5 shows an embodiment
that does not cover the top of a user's head. Instead, the top of
the head guard 220 is open (e.g., a band-like configuration). The
head guard 220 can be used, for example, for non-contacting sports.
For instance, it can be worn by a soccer player who may frequently
use the top of their head to contact the soccer ball. Other
examples of non-contacting sports can include, without limitation,
basketball, running, volleyball, or any other sport or endeavor
that does not necessarily utilize a rigid helmet. While the head
guard 220 is shown constructed of a plurality of panels 224, other
constructions techniques may be utilized without departing from the
scope of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 shows yet another
embodiment of a head guard 240 in accordance with the present
disclosure. The head guard 240 shown in FIG. 6 includes a rear
aperture 242. A wearer of the head guard 240 that has a pony tail
can pull the pony tail through the rear aperture 242. The aperture
242 can have any suitable dimension or configuration. In one
embodiment, the aperture 242 has a diameter in the range of about
1'' to about 3''. While the aperture 242 is illustrated as being
circular, it is to be appreciated that any suitable shape can be
used, such as rectangular, oblong, triangular, and so forth.
Referring now to FIG. 7, a head guard 260 is shown having temple
guards 262. The head guard 260 also has a tightening feature 264.
In the illustrated embodiment, the tightening feature 264 is a
strap 266 that is fixed to the head guard at a fixed end and
comprises a hook-and-loop fastener assembly 268 at the other end. A
user can selectively attach and detach the hook-and-loop fastener
assembly 268 to select an appropriate fit for the head guard 260.
FIG. 8 shows yet another embodiment of a head guard 270 in
accordance with the present disclosure. The head guard 270 shown in
FIG. 8 includes a rear aperture 272. A wearer of the head guard 270
that has a pony tail can pull the pony tail through the rear
aperture 242. The aperture 272 shown in FIG. 8 is a slot or slit in
a vertical orientation. In other embodiments, the aperture 272 can
be a slot or slit in a horizontal orientation, an oblique
orientation, or a plurality of slots or slits arranged in a
suitable formation, for example.
[0046] The head guard 210 shown in FIG. 9 comprises a sidewall 212
and a top panel 214. The sidewall 212 can be a multi-layered
sidewall comprising at least one fabric layer and at least one
padding layer, as described in more detail below. The top panel 214
can also comprises at least one fabric layer and at least padding
layer. In the illustrated embodiment, the top panel 214 is attached
to the sidewall 212 using stitching 216, although any suitable
attachment technique can be used, such as a gluing, heat welding,
and so forth. The head guard 210 also comprises an elastic portion
218 that is positioned proximate to an opening defined by the
sidewall 212. The head guard 210 can be in a generally cylindrical
shape when in a relaxed configuration (as shown). When the head
guard 210 is placed on the head of a wearer, however, the top panel
214 and the sidewall 212 can stretch to generally conform to the
shape of the wearer's head. Accordingly, the head guard 210 can
stretch to a convex-shaped configuration, which may be referred to
as hemispherical, when being worn by a user. In its stretched
configuration, the head guard 210 delivers a compressive force to
the wearer's head in order to substantially maintain the position
of the head guard 210 relative to the wearer's head.
[0047] FIG. 10 illustrates a head guard 230 that defines an
aperture 235. As with other embodiments, the aperture 235 is not
limited to any particular configuration. In fact, a wide variety of
aperture configurations can be utilized, such as a horizontal slit,
a vertical slit, a vertically-oriented oblong opening, a
horizontally-oriented oblong opening, a circular opening, or a
rectangular opening, for example. The head guard 230 comprises a
sidewall 232 and a top panel 234, each with an internal padding
layer 236, 238. The padding layer 236 of the sidewall 232 extends
circumferentially about the head guard with a gap that is aligned
with the aperture 235. FIG. 11 illustrates a head guard 250 that
comprises a sidewall 252 and a top panel 254. Similar to other
embodiments, at least one of the sidewall 252 and the top panel 254
can comprise a padding layer. In this embodiment an aperture 255 is
defined by the sidewall 252 and the top panel 254. Such
configuration of the aperture 255 may be desirable, for example, to
a wearer having dreadlocks. When the head guard 250 is placed on
that wearer's head, the dreadlocks can be routed through the
aperture 255.
[0048] FIG. 12 illustrates a head guard 280 having a band-like
configuration, as it does not include a top panel. A sidewall 282
comprises a padding layer 286 that extends circumferentially about
the head guard 280 and an elastic portion 284 positioned proximate
to an opening defined by the sidewall 282. The head guard 280
defines an aperture 285. As illustrated, the padding layer 286 is
configured to have a gap which aligns with the aperture 285. While
the head guard 280 in FIG. 12 has one elastic portion 284, other
embodiments can utilize additional elastic portions, as illustrated
by the head guard 290 in FIG. 13, for example. The head guard 290
has a band-like configuration, with a top opening and a bottom
opening defined by a sidewall 292. A first elastic portion 294 is
positioned proximate to the top opening and a second elastic
portion 296 is positioned proximate to the bottom opening. Head
guards having a band-like configuration can be worn by a user, for
example, participating in a non-contact sport or other type of
non-contact physical endeavor.
[0049] In some embodiments, additional components can be
incorporated into the head guard. The head guard 213 illustrated in
FIG. 14, for example, includes a brim 215 that is attached to a
sidewall 217. While the head guard 213 is shown with a top panel
219, other band-like embodiments can also include a brim 215.
Further, the brim can be in any suitable arrangement, such as a
generally rigid visor having a cardboard core or a relatively soft
visor, such as a lip comprised of fabric, or any other suitable
type of bill.
[0050] FIG. 15 illustrates yet another example embodiment of a head
guard 233. The head guard 233 comprises a side wall 237 which can
include a padding layer and a top panel 239. In the illustrated
embodiment, the top panel 239 comprises a mesh portion to provide
added airflow and ventilation to a wearer's head. Some embodiments
incorporating a mesh top panel 239 utilize a top padding layer,
while others do not. Additionally, or alternatively, the sidewall
237 can be mesh, or at least comprise one or more portions that are
mesh or otherwise provide air flow to the wear.
[0051] The particular orientation, location, and/or placement of
the padding layer can vary. In some embodiments, for example, the
padding layer is positioned within a pocket defined by two fabric
layers. In other embodiments, the padding layer can be exposed,
either internally or externally. FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate example
configurations of a head guard 281 that includes an external side
padding layer 283 and an external top padding layer 288. The side
padding layer 283 is attached to a side panel 287 to collectively
define a sidewall and the top padding layer 288 is coupled to a top
layer 289 to collectively define a top panel. FIG. 16A illustrates
that the side padding payer 283 and the top padding layer 288 can
be of unitary construction. FIG. 16B illustrates that the side
padding payer 283 and the top padding layer 288 can be a collection
of individual modules or pods that are attached to the top layer
289 and the side panel 287. FIG. 16C illustrates that the side
padding payer 283 and the top padding layer 288 can be stitched, or
otherwise moulded or shaped to form a pattern. As is to be
appreciated, any suitable technique can be used to couple the
padding layers to the head guard 281, such as using stitching or
using adhesives, such as glue, for example. In some configurations,
an entire surface of the padding layer is coupled to the side
panel, whereas in other configurations, only a portion of the
padding layer (such as the perimeter) is coupled to the side panel.
Additional examples of head guards having padding layers that are
stitched, laminated, or otherwise coupled are described in more
detail in FIGS. 42-58.
[0052] It is noted that while various head guards are illustrated
having an elastic member around the lower periphery, such elastic
members are not necessary for some configurations. Instead, the
head guard can have compressive qualities or characteristics that
maintain the head guard on the wearer's head. In other words, some
or all of the head guard can be manufactured from stretchable
materials that allow the head guard to stretch when placed on the
head of a user and contract when removed from the head of a user.
In some embodiments, the head guard can have one or more elastic
members or portions and can also be stretchable.
[0053] Referring now to FIGS. 17A-17C, a head guard 300 in
accordance with one non-limiting embodiment is shown. FIG. 17A
shows a side view of the head guard 300 which has an elastic member
302 positioned around its lower periphery. The elastic member 302
can be an elastic band positioned inside a hem, for example. In
some embodiments, an elastic member can be fed through hoops or
other retention members. FIG. 17B shows a cross-sectional view of
the head guard 300 taken along line 17B-17B of FIG. 17A. FIG. 17C
shows an enlarged view of the encircled area of FIG. 17B and
illustrates various layers of the head guard 300. As shown in FIGS.
17A-17C the head guard 300 of the illustrated embodiment comprises
an outer layer 320, a padding layer 340, and an inner layer 360. In
some embodiments, the head guard may be constructed with only an
outer layer and padding layer, while in other embodiments the head
guard may be constructed with only a padding layer and inner layer.
Further, in some embodiments, the padding layer 340 is disconnected
from each of the inner layer 360 and the outer layer 320. In some
embodiments, the padding layer 340 is coupled to one or both of the
inner layer 360 and the outer layer 320.
[0054] The head guard 300, or other head guards described herein,
can define an internal diameter "D" (FIG. 17B), which can be
selected to accommodate a particular type of user, such as a child,
an adult, a person with a lot of hair, a person with short hair,
and so forth. Thus, in certain embodiments, the head guard 300 can
be manufactured to accommodate a child's head. In other
embodiments, the head guard 300 can be manufactured to accommodate
an adult's head. In other embodiments, the head guard 300 can be
configured to accommodate both smaller-sized heads and larger-sized
heads. In some embodiments, the value of "D" for adult head guards
can be based on Table 1, below, and the value of "D" for child head
guards can be based on Table 2, below.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Adult Head Guard Example Sizes Stretch
Diameter "D" Size Fit/Adjustable 63/4 Small 67/8 (S) 7 Medium One
Size Fits 71/8 (M) Most 71/4 Large 73/8 (L) 71/2 XL 75/8 73/4 XXL
77/8 8
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Child Head Guard Example Sizes Diameter
Stretch "D" Size Fitted Kids Infant 6 XSM 61/8 S Toddler 61/4 S/M
63/8 M Child 61/2 65/8 L L/X Youth 63/4 67/8 XL 7
[0055] The padding layer utilized by head guards in accordance with
the present disclosure can be comprised of any suitable material
that provides the desirable characteristics and response to impact.
For example, the padding layer can comprise one or more of the
following materials: thermoplastic polyurethane (available, for
example, from Skydex Technologies), military-grade materials,
impact absorbing silicone, D30.RTM. impact absorbing material,
impact gel, wovens, non-wovens, cotton, elastomers, IMPAXX.RTM.
energy-absorbing foam (available from Dow Automotive), DEFLEXION
shock absorbing material (available from Dow Corning), styrofoam,
polymer gels, general shock absorbing elastometers, visco-elastic
polymers, PORON.RTM. XRD impact protection (available from Rogers
Corporation), Sorbothane.RTM. (available from Sorbothane Inc.),
Neoprene (available from DuPont), Armourge.RTM.I energy absorbing
material (available from Armourgel Ltd.) Ethyl Vinyl Acetate,
impact-dispersing gels, foams, rubbers, and so forth. The padding
layer can be breathable and/or generally porous to provide
ventilation. In some embodiments, the padding layer is a mesh
material that aids in the breathability of the associated head
guard. In some embodiments, the padding layer is perforated,
slitted, or otherwise comprises one or more apertures or openings.
Such structure can aid in breathability of the associated head
guard, for example. The padding layer can be attached to one or
more layers (such as the outer layer 320 and the inner layer 360 of
FIG. 17C, for example). In some embodiments, the padding layer 340
can be generally disconnected and "floating" between the layers. In
some embodiments, the padding layer is attached to an elastic
member or other portions of the head guard.
[0056] In some embodiments, padding layers in accordance with the
present systems and methods can comprise a rate dependent material,
such as a rate dependent low density foam material. Examples of
suitable low density foams include polyester and polyether
polyurethane foams. In some embodiments, such foams to have a
density ranging from about 5 to about 35 pounds per cubic foot
(pcf), more particularly from about 10 to about 30 pcf, and more
particularly still from about 15 to about 25 pcf. PORON.RTM. and
PORON XRD.RTM. are available from Rogers Corporation, which are
open cell, microcellular polyurethane foams, is an example of one
suitable rate dependent foam. However, in order to provide impact
resistance, the padding layer can be any suitable energy absorbing
or rate dependent materials. As such, other rate dependent foams or
other types of materials can be used without departing from the
scope of the present disclosure.
[0057] The other layers of head guards in accordance with the
present disclosure can either be the same material or different
material. The material can be, for example, and without limitation,
polyester, nylon, spandex, ELASTENE (available from Dow Chemical),
cotton, materials that glow in the dark or are fluorescent, and so
forth. Either of the inner or outer layers can also be of a mesh or
otherwise porous material. In some embodiments, the inner and/or
outer layers can be a blend of a variety of materials, such as a
spandex/polyester blend. In some embodiments, the head guard is
water proof, water resistant, or water repellant. Other durable
materials can be used for the outer layer of any embodiment,
including knit, woven and nonwoven fabrics, leather, vinyl or any
other suitable material. In some instances, it can be desirable to
use materials for the layer than are somewhat elastic; therefore,
stretchable fabrics, such as spandex fabrics, can be desirable.
Such materials can help provide compressive forces to maintain
placement of head guard on a wearer's head without the need for a
chin strap, for example.
[0058] Various head guards in accordance with the systems and
methods described herein can be manufactured with or otherwise
include various coatings, agents, or treatments to provide
anti-microbial or anti-bacterial properties. Some embodiments, for
example, can utilize Microban.RTM. offered by Microban
International, Ltd. for antibacterial protection. In some
embodiments, the padding layer comprises antimicrobial agents and
one or more other fabric layers of the head guard also treated with
antimicrobial agents. Antimicrobial protection for the fabric
layers can be in the form of a chemical coating applied to the
fabric, for example. Generally, antimicrobial technologies combat
odor by fighting bacteria resulting in fresher smell for longer and
minimizing the frequency of laundering or washing. Any suitable
technique can be used to provide head guards with antimicrobial
properties. In one embodiment, for example, AEGIS Microbe
Shield.RTM. offered by DOW Corning Corp. is utilized. Other
examples of antimicrobial agents include SILVADUR.RTM. offered by
The Dow Chemical Company is utilized, Smart Silver offered by
NanoHorizons, Inc., and HealthGuard.RTM. Premium Protection offered
by HealthGuard.
[0059] In some embodiments, a head guard, or at least various
components of a head guard are configured to provide moisture
wicking properties. Generally, moisture wicking translates into
sweat management, which works by removing perspiration from the
skin in an attempt to cool the wearer. Any suitable moisture
wicking can be used. In one embodiment, a topical application of a
moisture wicking treatment to a fabric of the head guard is
utilized. The topical treatment is applied to give the head guard
the ability to absorb sweat. The hydrophilic (water-absorbing)
finish or treatment generally allows the head guard to absorb
residue, while the hydrophobic (water-repellent) fibers of the head
guard help it to dry fast, keeping the wearer more comfortable. In
one embodiment, the blend of fiber is used to deliver moisture
wicking properties by combining a blend of both hydrophobic (such
as polyester) with hydrophilic fibers. Certain blends of these
fibers allow the hydrophilic fibers to absorb fluid, moving it over
a large surface area, while the hydrophobic fibers speed drying
time. One benefit of head guards utilizing these types of fiber
blends is that moisture management properties are inherent in the
fiber blend, meaning they will never wash or wear out.
[0060] FIGS. 18A-18C illustrate a head guard 400 in accordance with
various non-limiting embodiments. FIG. 18A is a perspective view of
the head guard 400, which comprises a plurality of panels 402. The
panels 402 can be arranged such that the head guard 400 is
generally a convexshape. FIG. 18B is a side view of the head guard
400 and FIG. 18C is a cross-sectional view of the head guard 400 of
FIG. 18B taken along line 18C-18C. As shown in FIG. 18C, each panel
402 may include an inner pocket. Padding 420 can be positioned
within the inner pocket of each panel 402. In some embodiments,
padding 420 can semi-rigid (such as Styrofoam), while other
embodiments can utilize flexible or generally pliable padding 420.
As is described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 47-53,
in some configurations, the padding 420 can be coupled to various
portions of the panel 402.
[0061] The arrangement or placement of the padding within the head
guard can vary. FIGS. 19-21 illustrate non-limiting embodiments of
head guards having a variety of padding orientations. The head
guard 500 shown in FIG. 19, for example, shows a padding layer 502
that is generally convex-shaped. The head guard 520 shown in FIG.
20 shows a first padding 522 positioned at a first position and a
second padding 524 positioned at a second position. The head guard
540 shown in FIG. 21 shows a plurality of different padding layer
types arranged at various positions on the head guard 540. As
illustrated, a first padding is positioned at first padding layer
542 and a second padding is positioned at second padding layer 548.
A third padding is positioned at third padding layer 546. The third
padding layer 546 can be, for example, a different type of padding
material than the padding material of the first and second padding
layers 542, 548. The first and second padding layers 542, 548 can
be a semi-rigid padding (such as Styrofoam) while the third padding
layer 546 is can be a pliable or semi-pliable layer. In some
embodiments, the placement or configuration of the padding can
depend on the type of helmet a user may wear in combination with
the head guard. The padding layers 502, 522, 542, 546, and 548 can
be any suitable type of material, such as, without limitation, one
or more of the materials described above with reference to padding
layer 340.
[0062] FIG. 22 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a head guard
600 in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment. The head guard
600 comprises an outer layer 602, and inner layer 606, and a
padding layer 608. Each of the layers can be manufactured from a
wide variety of materials, as described above. The overall
thickness (D1) of the head guard 600 can vary based on application.
In some embodiments, for example, D1 can be in the range of about
0.1'' to about 0.5''. In some embodiments, for example, D1 can be
in the range of about 0.5'' to about 1.0''. In some embodiments,
for example, D1 can be larger than about 1.0''. The thickness can
be based on, for example, the type of helmet worn with the head
guard (if any), the type of sport being played while wearing the
head guard, or characteristics of the wearer. While FIG. 22 shows
three layers, this disclosure is not so limited. As is to be
appreciated, in some embodiments, head guards can have more or less
layers. For example, various head guards may not utilize an inner
layer. In any event, FIG. 22 shows the respective thicknesses of
the outer layer 602 (D2), the padding layer 608 (D3), and the inner
layer 606 (D4). In some embodiments, each of D2, D3, and D4 are
generally equal. In some embodiments, D2 and D4 are generally equal
while D3 differs. In some embodiments, two of the layers have
similar thickness while the third layer differs. In some
embodiments, all three layers have different thicknesses. In any
event, D2, D3, and D4 can each be any suitable thickness. For
example, the thickness of any layer can be less than about 0.01'',
the thickness of any layer can be in the range of about 0.01'' to
about 0.125'', or the thickness of any layer can be in range of
about 0.125'' to 0.5''. In some embodiments, the thickness of any
layer can be greater than 0.5''. Moreover, in some embodiments, the
thickness of the padding layer is greater than about 30% of the
thickness D1. In some embodiments, the thickness of the padding
layer is greater than about 50% of the thickness D1. In some
embodiments, the thickness of the padding layer is greater than
about 70% of the thickness D1. In some embodiments, the thickness
of the padding layer is greater than about 90% of the thickness D1.
In some embodiments, the thickness of the padding layer is greater
than about 99% of the thickness D1.
[0063] In some embodiments the padding layer 608 is disconnected
from the outer layer 602 and inner layer 606, such that it is
generally "floating" between the two. In other embodiments the
padding layer 608, or at least portions thereof, is attached to one
or both of the outer layer 602 and inner layer 606. Finally, it is
noted that while FIG. 22 shows each layer having a generally
uniform thickness, this disclosure is not so limited. In fact, the
thickness of any particular layer may vary at different locations
of the head guard 600. For example, the thickness of the padding
layer 608 may be thicker at a first location of the head guard 600
and thinner at a second location of the head guard 600.
[0064] FIG. 23 is an exploded view of a head guard 610 in
accordance with one non-limiting embodiment. The head guard 610 has
a longitudinal axis "L" and comprises a multi-layered top panel 632
and a multi-layered sidewall 634. The multi-layered top panel 632
can be attached to the multi-layered sidewall 634 using suitable
stitching techniques, for example. The multi-layered top panel 632
comprises a top fabric layer 612 and a bottom fabric layer 616. The
multi-layered top panel 632 can be generally flat-shaped with the
head guard 610 is in a relaxed configuration. The multi-layered top
panel 632 can be generally convex-shaped with the head guard 610 is
in an expanded configuration. The top fabric layer 612 and the
bottom fabric layer 616 can be manufactured from a stretchable
material, as described in more detail below. A padding layer 614 is
positioned between the top fabric layer 612 and the bottom fabric
layer 616. In some embodiments, the surface area of the padding
layer 614 is slightly smaller than the surface area of the top
fabric layer 612. Furthermore, the padding layer 614 can also be
stretchable, though not necessarily as stretchable as the top
fabric layer 612 and the bottom fabric layer 616. The top fabric
layer 612 and the bottom fabric layer 616 can cooperate to define a
pocket, with the padding layer 614 positioned in the pocket.
[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the multi-layered sidewall
634 comprises an inner fabric layer 618, a padding layer 620, an
outer fabric layer 622, and an elastic member 624. The
multi-layered sidewall 634 can be generally cylindrical-shaped with
the head guard 610 is in a relaxed configuration. The multi-layered
sidewall 634 can be generally frustoconically-shaped with the head
guard 610 is in an expanded configuration. The inner fabric layer
618 and the outer fabric layer 622 can be manufactured from a
stretchable material, as described in more detail below. The inner
fabric layer 618 can define an aperture 619 having any suitable
size, configuration, or arrangement. The outer fabric layer 622 can
define an aperture 623 having any suitable size, configuration, or
arrangement that generally aligns with the aperture 619 when the
head guard 610 is an assembled configuration. Furthermore,
stitching or other attachment techniques can be used to join the
periphery of the aperture 619 with the periphery of the aperture 23
in the assembled configuration. The side padding layer 620 is
positioned between the inner fabric layer 618 and the outer fabric
layer 622. In some embodiments, the surface area of the padding
layer 620 is slightly smaller than the surface area of the outer
fabric layer 622. Furthermore, the side padding layer 620 can also
be stretchable, though not necessarily as stretchable as the inner
fabric layer 618 and the outer fabric layer 622. The inner fabric
layer 618 and the outer fabric layer 622 can cooperate to define a
pocket, with the side padding layer 620 positioned in the pocket.
In some embodiments, the inner fabric layer 618 and the outer
fabric layer 622 are attached in an arrangement that forms a
plurality of pockets and a padding layer is positioned within each
pocket such that a collection of individual padding modules or pods
generally forms the padding layer. As described in more detail
below, the side padding layer 620 can be attached to the inner
fabric layer 618 and/or the outer fabric layer 622. Similarly, the
padding layer 614 can be attached to the top fabric layer 612
and/or the bottom fabric layer 616.
[0066] The side padding layer 620 can be the same or different
material as the padding layer 614. Further, these two layers can
have the same or different thicknesses. The side padding layer 620
can be any suitable shape or configuration. In the illustrated
example, the side padding layer 620 has a top surface 621, a first
end surface 630, a second end surface 628, and a bottom surface
(not shown). While the side padding layer 620 is illustrated as
being generally rectangular and circumferentially extending about
the head guard 610, other embodiments can utilize side padding
layers 620 having different shapes. In any event, in the assembled
configuration, the top surface 621 is positioned proximate to the
multi-layered top panel 632. The first end surface 630 and the
second end surface 628 can be opposed and circumferentially spaced
to define a gap 638. While the gap 638 is shown as being generally
rectangular, the gap 638 can have any suitable shape or size. In
some embodiments, the gap 638 is positioned such that it generally
aligns with the aperture 619 defined by the inner layer 618 and the
aperture 622 defined by the outer layer 622. In other embodiments,
the first end surface 630 and the second end surface 628 are joined
together to form a contiguous ring of padding. Moreover, in some
embodiments, the padding layer 620 can generally be a contiguous
ring of padding that also defines an aperture therethrough. It is
noted that as with other head guards illustrated herein, the head
guard 610 shown in FIG. 23 is merely an illustrative example
embodiment. Thus, while the lower periphery of the head guard 610
is illustrated being flat, other embodiments of head guards can
have different shapes and configurations without departing from the
scope of the present disclosure. For example, some embodiments of
the head guard 610 can include a lower periphery having a wave-like
configuration, such that the side and rear part of the
multi-layered sidewall 634 extend further from the multi-layered
top panel 632 to cover a user's ears and wrap around the back of
their head, as shown in FIGS. 28-29, for example.
[0067] FIG. 24 depicts the head guard 610 shown in FIG. 23
stretching from a relaxed configuration shown by the head guard
610A to an expanded configuration by the head guard 610C. As shown,
head guard 610A in generally cylindrical in the relaxed
configuration. As head guard is placed on the head of a wearer, the
multi-layered sidewall 634 begins to expand, as shown by head guard
610B. As the head of the wearer is inserted further into the head
guard, the head guard continues to stretch until it reaches an
expand configuration, shown by head guard 610C. As shown by head
guard 610C, the multi-layered top panel 632 changes from a flat
shape to a convexshape when the head guard is placed on wearer's
head. Additionally, the multi-layered sidewall 634 also changes
shape in order to accommodate the wearer's head. As is to be
appreciated, due to the stretchability of the head guard 610, it
can accommodate a range of head sizes and shapes. When the head
guard 610C is removed from the wearer's head, it will return to the
shape illustrated by head guard 610A.
[0068] FIG. 25 is an exploded view of a band-like head guard 650 in
accordance with one non-limiting embodiment. The head guard 650 has
a longitudinal axis "L" and comprises a multi-layered side panel
662. The multi-layered sidewall 662 comprises an inner fabric layer
654, a padding layer 656, an outer fabric layer 658, and elastic
members 652, 660. The multi-layered sidewall 662 of the illustrated
embodiment is generally frustoconically-shaped with the head guard
650 is in a relaxed configuration. As is to be appreciated, other
embodiments can have other shapes in the relaxed configuration,
such as cylindrical or toroidal, for example.
[0069] The inner fabric layer 654 and the outer fabric layer 658
can be manufactured from a stretchable material, as described in
more detail below. The padding layer 656 is positioned between the
inner fabric layer 654 and the outer fabric layer 658. In some
embodiments, the surface area of the padding layer 656 is slightly
smaller than the surface area of the outer fabric layer 658.
Furthermore, the padding layer 656 can also be stretchable, though
not necessarily as stretchable as the inner fabric layer 654 and
the outer fabric layer 658. The inner fabric layer 654 and the
outer fabric layer 622 can cooperate to define a pocket, with the
padding layer 656 positioned in the pocket.
[0070] The padding layer 656 can be any suitable shape or
configuration. In the illustrated example, the padding layer 656
has a top surface 664, a first end surface 666, a second end
surface (not shown), and a bottom surface (not shown). In the
assembled configuration, the top surface 664 is positioned
proximate to elastic member 652 and the bottom surface is
positioned proximate to the elastic member 660. The first end
surface 660 and the second end surface can be opposed and
circumferentially spaced to define a gap 668. The gap 668 can have
any suitable shape or size. In some embodiments, the gap 668 is
positioned such that it aligns with an aperture through the head
guard. In other embodiments, the first end surface 666 and the
second end surface 628 are joined together to form a contiguous
ring of padding. The padding layer 656 can be floating or attached
to the inner fabric layer 654 and/or the outer fabric layer
658.
[0071] In some embodiments, head guards in accordance with the
present disclosure can be integrated, incorporated, coupled to,
formed with, or otherwise associated with various forms of
headwear. For example, head guards can be built into baseball hats,
softball hats, winter hats, cowboy hats, or other types of
headwear. FIGS. 26A, 26B, 27A, and 27B illustrate baseball hats
with built-in head guards in accordance with example embodiments.
Referring first to FIGS. 26A and 26B, the baseball hat 700 includes
a padding layer 702 that is generally convex-shaped. While the
baseball hat 700 depicted in FIG. 26B does not illustrate an
interior fabric layer, some embodiments can include an interior
fabric layer. For example, the baseball hat 700 may be constructed
with three layers, as illustrated in FIG. 22, for example.
[0072] The baseball hat 720 of FIGS. 27A-27B comprises a plurality
of panels 722 that are stitched together to form the hat. As
illustrated, each individual panel 722 includes a padding layer
724. In some embodiments, each panel 722 forms an internal pocket
that houses the padding layer 724. While the baseball hat 720
depicted in FIG. 27B does not illustrate an interior fabric layer,
some embodiments can include an interior fabric layer. In some
embodiments, the padding layer is discretely incorporated into the
baseball hat. In other words, the baseball hat can have the general
appearance of a baseball hat that does not include a padding layer.
The padding layers 702 and 724 can be any suitable type of
material, such as, without limitation, one or more of the materials
described above with reference to padding layer 340. As is to be
appreciated, a padding layer can be incorporated (discretely or
otherwise) into other types of hats, such as, golf hats, visors,
cowboy hats, police hats, fireman hats, military hats or head
coverings, and so forth.
[0073] As illustrated in FIGS. 28-29, in some embodiments, a head
guard can comprise a non-stick exterior surface. The head guard 740
shown in FIG. 28 comprises a multi-layer top panel 743 that is
attached to (or integral with) a multi-layer lower panel 742. Each
of the multi-layer top panel 743 and the multi-layer lower panel
742 can include a padding layer, as described above. Further, the
multi-layer top panel 743 has an exterior surface 744 and the
multi-layer lower panel 742 has an exterior surface 746. These
exterior surfaces 744, 746 can come in direct contact with the
interior surface of a helmet, or other type of head gear, when both
pieces of gear are worn by the user at the same time. Referring now
to FIG. 29, a head guard 760 is shown that comprises a multi-layer
top panel 765 and a multi-layer side panel 763 that is attached to
a multi-layer lower panel 762. Each of the multi-layer panels 762,
763, 765 can include a padding layer as described above. Further,
the multi-layer top panel 765 has an exterior surface 767, the
multi-layer side panel 763 has an exterior surface 764 and the
multi-layer lower panel 762 has an exterior surface 766. These
exterior surfaces 764, 766, 767 can come in direct contact with the
interior surface of a rigid helmet when both pieces of gear are
worn by the same user.
[0074] The exterior surfaces 744, 746, 764, 766, 767 can have
non-stick (or non-slipstick) properties that generally reduces a
coefficient of friction of the exterior surface of the head guard.
While a variety of friction-reducing treatments or coatings can be
used to provide the non-stick properties, in one example embodiment
a Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) treatment is used. Example PTFE
treatments include the Teflon polymer products from DuPont
(Teflon.RTM. PTFE fluoropolymer) and Chemfab from Saint Gobain.
Beneficially, PTFE also provides repellency against oil- and
waterbased stains, dust and dry oil. In some embodiments a topical
application of a coating or film is used. In other embodiments, a
PTFE fiber, such as a Teflon.RTM. PTFE fiber from DePont) can be
integrated into the fabric (such as polyester or nylon) material
mix. It is noted that in addition to other benefits, the lower
panels 742, 762 can increase the amount of exterior surface area of
the head guard that is treated with the non-stick coating.
[0075] Providing an exterior non-stick surface can be beneficial
when the user wears the head guard in combination with a helmet.
For example, due to the low coefficient of friction, the helmet
will easily slide over top of the head guard when the user is
putting on their helmet. Additionally, when the helmet receives an
impact, the helmet can rotate relative to the head guard, perhaps
only slightly, but thus resulting in less rotational movement for
the wearer's head due to the rotational force generated by the
impact. It is noted that while head guards 740 and 760 are
configured to cover the top of a wearer's head, it is to be
appreciated that similar configurations can be used for band-like
head guards. As such, a band-like head guard can have non-stick
properties and can also include a lower panel similar to those
illustrated in FIGS. 28-29.
[0076] FIGS. 30-33 illustrate winter headgear incorporating head
guards in accordance with various embodiments. In some embodiments,
the padding layer is discretely incorporated into the winter hat.
In other words, the winter hat can have the general appearance to
an observer of a winter hat that does not include a padding layer.
Referring first to FIG. 30, winter hat 800 is an aviator style hat
having insulating properties. A padding layer 802 is incorporated
into the structure of the winter hat 800. The padding layer 802 can
be rigid, pliable, or a combination of rigid components and pliable
components. The winter hat 800 can include chin straps 804 to
secure the winter hat 800 to a wearer. The winter hat 800 can
include a plurality of layers, such as an inner fur-lined layer, a
middle padding layer, and an outer fabric layer. Additional
insulating layers can also be used. Winter hat 820 shown in FIG. 31
is another style of winter headgear that incorporates a head guard.
The head guard comprises a first padding layer 822 and a second
padding layer 824. The particular material for the first padding
layer 822 and the second padding layer 824 may differ. For example,
a relatively thick padding can be used for first padding layer 822
while padding having high insulating properties can be used for
second padding layer 824 due to its proximity to a wearer's ears.
Winter hat 820 has chin straps 826 to allow a user to securely
fasten the winter hat 820 to their head.
[0077] FIG. 32 is yet another embodiment showing a winter hat 830
that includes a first padding layer 832 and a second padding layer
834. The first padding layer 832 can be in a convexconfiguration
and either be a single unitary piece or a plurality of components
that form the generally convexshape. In some embodiments, the first
padding layer 832 does not form a complete dome, but instead is
localized to certain areas, such as the front and the back of the
hat, for example. As illustrated, the second padding layer 834 can
be in the headband portion 836. The first and second padding layers
832, 834 can be manufactured from the same or different types of
materials. For example, the first padding layer 832 can be
Styrofoam while the second padding layer 834 can be an impact gel.
Alternatively, both the first and second padding layers 832, 834
can both be impact gel. FIG. 33 shows another embodiment of a
winter hat 840 that comprises a padding layer 842. As is to be
appreciated, the present disclosure is not limited to any
particular type or style of winter hat or winter head gear.
[0078] FIG. 34A depicts another embodiment of a winter hat 850 that
incorporates a padding layer 854. FIG. 34B is a cross-sectional
view of the winter hat 850. The winter hat 850 can comprise a
fabric layer 856 that is configured to cover a wearer's head. A
thermal layer 858 can have a band-like configuration and be
attached to an interior surface of the fabric layer to form a
pocket 860. A padding layer 854 is positioned in the pocket 860. In
some embodiments, the thermal layer 858 is an extension of the
fabric layer 856 that is folded and stitched to create a pocket to
house the padding layer 854.
[0079] Referring to FIGS. 30-34B, the padding layers 802, 822, 824,
832, 834, and 842, 854 can be any suitable type of material, such
as, without limitation, one or more of the materials described
above with reference to padding layer 340.
[0080] In some embodiments, head guards in accordance with the
present disclosure can be integrated, incorporated, coupled to,
formed with, or otherwise associated with various types of apparel.
FIG. 35 illustrates an example embodiment of a hooded sweatshirt
900 that incorporates a head guard in its hood. The hooded
sweatshirt 900 shown in FIG. 35 is for illustrative purposes only.
In fact, the head guard could be incorporated into the hood of any
form of apparel, such as a jacket, a pull-over sweatshirt, a
windbreaker, a winter coat, or any other article of clothing with a
hood. In any event, the hooded sweatshirt 900 has a hood 902 that
includes a padding layer 904. The hood 902 can be constructed using
any suitable technique, such as the three layer technique
illustrated in FIG. 22. The hood 902 can be sized to generally
conform closely to the wearer's head. In some embodiments, the
padding layer 904comprises a Styrofoam or other semi-rigid core.
Drawstrings 906 can be routed through a hem 908 in the hood 902. By
drawing the drawstrings 906 downward, the hood 902 can be
positioned in close proximity to the wearer's head.
[0081] As shown in FIG. 36, in some embodiments, a plurality of
tightening or adjustment features can be used. The hood 920 in FIG.
36 comprises a padding layer 930. A first set of drawstrings 922
are positioned within a first hem 926 of the hood 920 and a second
set of drawstrings 924 are positioned within a second hem 928 of
the hood 920. By selectively drawing the first and/or second set of
drawstrings 922, 924, the hood 920 can be tightened around the head
of a wearer. As is to be appreciated, other forms of tightening
features can be utilized, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, elastic
members, cord locks, and so forth.
[0082] FIG. 37 illustrates yet another embodiment of a hood 940
incorporating a padded feature. The hood 940 comprises a first
padding layer 942 and a second padding layer 944. The second
padding layer 944 is positioned so that it is generally proximate
the wearer's forehead. Drawstrings 946 can be selectively drawn to
tighten the hood 940 around a wearer's head. The padding layers
904, 930, 942, and 944 can be any suitable type of material, such
as, without limitation, one or more of the materials described
above with reference to padding layer 340.
[0083] In some embodiments, head guards in accordance with the
system and methods described herein can be worn by an athlete
external to a helmet. An example head guard that can be worn on the
outside of a helmet is illustrated in FIG. 38. The head guard 1000
can be compressive, or stretchable, such that it can be placed
snugly around an outside surface 1006 of a football helmet 1004. In
some configurations, the position of the head guard 1000 can be
maintained through the compressive characteristics of the head
guard 1000. In other embodiments, additional techniques can be
utilized to attach the head guard to the helmet, such as adhesives,
straps, buckles, hook-and-loop fasteners, and so forth. In any
event, the head guard 1000 can comprise a padding layer 1002,
similar to the other padding layers described herein. The head
guard 1000 can comprise an inner surface 1008 that is generally
slip-resistant that can aid in maintaining the proper positioning
of the head guard 1000, even during an impact event. The head guard
1000 can comprise an outer surface 1010 that is a material that has
a relatively low coefficient of friction that can allow the head
guard 1000 (and underlying helmet) to generally slide across an
object during impact, such as another football player. Example
materials for outer surface 1010 include, without limitation,
polyester and nylon combinations, including spandex or elastane.
The head guard 1000 can also comprise ports 1012 that are
positioned to generally align with the helmet port 1014 when the
head guard 1000 is placed over the helmet 1004. The ports 1012 can
be configured to generally allow sound to travel through the head
guard 1000 so that the athlete's hearing is not affected when the
head cover 1000 is positioned on the helmet 1004. As is to be
appreciated, the particular design of the ports 1012 can vary in
various embodiments. For example, in one embodiment the ports 1012
can comprise a single large port, while in another embodiment the
port 1012 can comprise a series of slots.
[0084] FIGS. 39-40 show example head guards used in combination
with various types of sporting helmets. FIG. 39 shows a head guard
1100 coupled to a football helmet 1110. The head guard 1100 cab be
selectively removable from the helmet 1110 and be manufactured in
different sizes to accommodate different helmet sizes. The outer
surface of the head guard 1100 can be clear, a solid color, or a
combination of colors. The outer surface can also include
numbering, letters, words, graphics, and so forth. The head guard
1100 can also comprise one or more padded ridges or other areas of
increased padding. In the illustrated embodiment, the head guard
1100 comprises a top ridge 1102, a rear ridge 1104, and side ridges
1106. These ridges can be unitary, or otherwise integral, with the
head guard 1100 and can be manufactured from any suitable
materials, such as foam, impact gel, Styrofoam, or any other
suitable impact absorbing or dissipating materials. It is to be
appreciated, that the head guards disclosed herein can be used or
configured to be worn on the outside of a variety of helmet types.
FIG. 40, for example, shows a head guard 1120 positioned over top
of a hockey helmet 1124. The head guard 1120 comprises vents 1122
that can align with vents in the hockey helmet 1124. In some
embodiments, the head guard 1120 can also include padded ridges, or
other areas of increased thickness or density.
[0085] FIG. 41 shows an example cross-sectional view of a head
guard 1200 that can be positioned on the outside of a sporting
helmet. The head guard 1200 comprises three layers, including an
outer layer 1202, a padding layer 1204, and an inner layer 1206. In
some embodiments, fewer or additional layers can be used. In the
illustrated embodiment, the head guard 1200 also comprises ridges
1208. As discussed above, the inner layer 1206 can have a
relatively high coefficient of friction, such that it has a
tendency to adhere to or grip the outside surface of an associated
helmet. The padding layer 1202 can comprise any suitable materials,
including the variety of materials described above. The outer layer
1202 can have a relatively low coefficient of friction as compared
to the inner layer 1206. Depending on the associated sporting
event, the outer layer 1202 may be in contact with various objects,
such as other player's jerseys, helmets, and so forth. With the
outer layer 1202 having a relatively low coefficient of friction,
during those impact events, the head guard 1200 can behave
similarly to the outer surface 1006 (FIG. 36) of the underlying
helmet. The head guard 1200 (with or without the ridges 1208) can
be used in combination of a wide variety of helmet types,
including, without limitation, baseball, hockey, bicycling, and
skateboarding, for example.
[0086] In some embodiments, head guards can include a padding layer
that is coupled to at least a portion of the head guard. As used
herein, coupled generally refers to any type of technique or
mechanism for affixing, attaching, mating or otherwise temporarily
or permanently mounting the padding layer to the head guard. For
example, a padding layer can be coupled to a fabric layer of the
head guard. For head guards having multiple fabric layers (e.g., an
inner layer and an outer layer) a padding layer can be coupled to
the inner layer, the outer layer, or both the inner and outer
layers. The technique for coupling the padding layer to the various
portions of the head guard can vary. In some embodiments, for
example, a padding layer can be stitched, glued, heat welded,
laminated, and/or combinations thereof. The technique for coupling
the padding layer can generally interact with the entire surface of
the padding layer (e.g., adhesive-based techniques and/or
lamination techniques) or interact with only a portion of the
padding layer (i.e., stitching-based techniques). Some head guards
can utilize a plurality of different coupling techniques to provide
desired the functionality and/or durability.
[0087] A padding layer can be coupled to an outer surface of a head
guard, an inner surface of a head guard, and/or positioned and
coupled between two or more fabric layers of a head guard. In some
embodiments, the portions of the fabric layer(s) coupled to the
padding layer may not expand or stretch as much as the portions of
the fabric layer(s) not coupled to the padding layer. Nevertheless,
the head guard can be constructed and configured such that
compressive forces maintain the head guard on a wearer's head. As
described in more detail below, portions of the head guard that are
not coupled to the padding layer can expand to assist with
conforming the head guard to the wearer.
[0088] In some embodiments, the padding layer can be generally
rigid so that its shape is generally maintained when the head guard
is in a relaxed state or an expanded state. For example, the
padding layer can comprise a plurality of generally curved
semi-rigid segments that are coupled to the head guard. The
curvature of the semi-rigid segments can be designed to generally
conform to the curvature of a wearer's head.
[0089] The padding layer can have any suitable dimensions and
structure. For instance, the padding layer can be generally planar
or the padding layer can be non-planar. In some embodiments, the
padding layer comprises a plurality of absorption members, such as
nodules, ribs, domes, etc., that generally extend outwardly or
inwardly from the head guard. The absorption members can be of any
suitable shape or configuration.
[0090] The padding layer and/or other layers of the head guard can
be manufactured using any of a variety of suitable manufacturing
techniques. For instance, in some embodiments, the padding layer is
injection moulded using forms (or moulds). The forms can be
configured such that the padding layer can be formed to include
through-holes, divots, slits, notches, or other physical features.
The padding layer can also vary in thickness, as may be desirable.
In other embodiments, the padding layer is extruded as a solid
layer. Post-extrusion manufacturing processes (i.e., die cut,
perforating, etc.) can be performed on to create the desired format
of the padding layer.
[0091] Non-limiting illustrations of example head guards are
provided in FIGS. 42-58. As is to be appreciated, the figures are
not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather depicted to convey
example structures, configurations and/or relative positionings of
various layers and components of the illustrated head guards.
[0092] Referring first to FIG. 42, a perspective view of an example
head guard 1300 is depicted. FIG. 43 depicts a cross-sectional view
of the head guard 1300 taken along line 43-43 in FIG. 42. The head
guard comprises an outer fabric layer 1320 and an inner fabric
layer 1360. In the illustrated embodiment, an elastic member 1396
is coupled to the lower periphery of the head guard 1300. In this
embodiment, a padding layer 1340 is positioned between the outer
fabric layer 1320 and the inner fabric layer 1360. The padding
layer 1340 can be coupled to the outer fabric layers 1320 and/or an
inner fabric layer 1360 through any of a variety of coupling
techniques, such as stitching, gluing, riveting, heat welding,
ultrasonic welding, and so forth. In the illustrated embodiment,
the outline shape of the components of the padding layer 1340
generally mimics the outline shape of the components of the inner
and outer layers 1320, 1360 (i.e., triangular). However, this
disclosure is not so limited. In some embodiments, the inner and
outer layers 1320, 1360 can be of a first shape while the padding
layer 1340 can be of a different shape. While the padding layer
1340 is depicts as being generally planar for illustration
purposes, it is to be appreciated that any suitable structure of
padding layer 1340 can be utilized, as described herein. By way of
example, padding layer 1340 can be perforated or mesh, have
multi-dimensional features (such as ribs or nubs), and so
forth.
[0093] FIG. 44 depicts an example head guard in a relaxed state
(shown as head guard 1400A) and an outwardly expanded state (shown
as head guard 1400B). The padding layer 1440 comprises a plurality
of segments that are positioned between an outer layer 1420 and an
inner layer 1460. In some embodiments, one or more segments of the
padding layer 1440 can be positioned so that they are visible to an
observer (i.e., positioned on the outer surface of the outer layer
1420 or the inner surface of the inner layer 1460). The padding
layer 1440 in FIG. 44 is coupled to the outer layer 1420. In some
embodiments, the padding layer 1440 can additionally or
alternatively be coupled to the inner layer 1460. As provided
above, a variety of different techniques can be used to couple the
padding layer 1440 to the head guard 1400. Once coupled to the head
guard, the padding layer 1440 can define a plurality of spacings,
which are devoid of the padding layer (shown as 1480A, 1480B).
While the spacings 1480A, 1480B are depicted as being generally
rectangular, this disclosure is not so limited. As is to be
appreciated, depending on the shape of the padding layer 1440 and
the shape of the head guard 1400A, 1400B, the shape of the spacings
can vary. The shape of the spacings can also vary depending on
whether the head guard is in a relaxed state or an expand state.
Since the spacings 1480A, 1480B are not coupled to the padding
layer 1440, they are generally free to flex and expand. As shown in
head guard 1400B, the spacings 1480B have expanded when the head
guard 1400B is in the expanded state. This expansion, and the
resulting compressive forces generated by the spacings 1480B can
help to maintain the head guard 1400B on a wearer's head.
[0094] FIGS. 45A, 45B, 46A, and 46B depict example arrangements of
padding layers for dome-shaped head guards. FIG. 45A depicts a
partial cross-sectional view of a head guard 1500 having a padding
layer 1540 comprised of a plurality of segments coupled to an inner
surface 1580 of a layer 1560 through an adhesive, stitching, or any
other suitable coupling technique. The segments of the padding
layer 1540 are therefore visible to an observer that is viewing the
inside of the dome-shaped head guard 1500. By comparison, the head
guard 1600 in FIG. 46A has a padding layer 1640 with a plurality of
segments having similar shapes as the padding layer 1540. In this
embodiment, however, the segments of the padding layer 1640 are
coupled to the outer surface 1690 of a layer 1620 through an
adhesive, stitching, or any other suitable coupling technique. The
segments of the padding layer 1640 are therefore visible to an
observer that is viewing the outside of the dome-shaped head guard
1600. FIG. 45B depicts an embodiment of a head guard 1500A in which
the padding layer 1540 substantially covers the inner surface 1580.
FIG. 46B depicts an embodiment of a head guard 1600A in which the
padding layer 1640 substantially covers the outer surface 1690. As
shown in FIGS. 45B and 46B the padding layers 1540, 1640 can be
segmented. The arrangement and configuration of the segments can
vary. In certain embodiments, the padding layers 1540, 1640 are
non-segmented. It is also noted that the overall shape and
configuration of the padding layers 1540, 1640 depicted in FIGS.
45A, 45B, 46A, and 46B are merely for illustration, as a wide
variety of different shapes and configurations can be used without
departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Further, in
some configurations, a fabric layer can be positioned to cover the
padding layers 1540, 1640 so that they are no longer visible, but
instead are obscured by the surrounding fabric layers.
[0095] FIGS. 47-53 depict cross-sectional views of example head
guards to illustrate example techniques for coupling a padding
layer 1740 to an inner layer 1760 and/or an outer layer 1720. As is
to be appreciated, the cross-sectional views can be associated with
a variety of different head guard configurations, as described
herein. For instance, the head guards depicted in FIGS. 47-53 can
include, without limitation, dome-shaped head guards,
headband-shaped head guards, baseball hat head guards, as well as a
variety of other type of head guards. FIG. 47 depicts the padding
layer 1740 coupled to an inner layer 1760. FIG. 48 depicts the
padding layer 1740 coupled to an outer layer 1720. FIG. 49 depicts
the padding layer 1740 coupled to both an inner layer 1760 and an
outer layer 1720. FIG. 50 depicts the padding layer 1740 having a
first portion coupled to an inner layer 1760 and a second portion
coupled to an outer layer 1720. FIG. 51 depicts the padding layer
1740 coupled to an inner layer 1760 such that the padding layer
1740 is on the outside surface of the head guard. FIG. 52 depicts
the padding layer 1740 coupled to an outer layer 1720 such that the
padding layer 1740 is on the inside surface of the head guard. FIG.
53 depicts the padding layer 1740 having a first portion coupled to
an outer surface of an inner layer 1760 and a second portion
coupled to an inner surface of the inner layer 1760.
[0096] FIGS. 54-55 depict portions of head guards having textured,
non-planar padding layers coupled to an outside surface thereof.
Referring first to the head guard 1800 shown in FIG. 54, the
padding layer 1840 comprises a plurality of segments coupled to the
outside surface and each having a plurality of ribs. While the ribs
are depicts as being horizontally-oriented, in some embodiments the
ribs have any other suitable orientation, size, and configuration.
Referring next to the head guard 1900 shown in FIG. 55, the padding
layer 1940 comprises a plurality of nodules coupled to the outside
surface. While the nodules are depicts as being
cylindrically-shaped, in some embodiments the nodules can be domed,
cubed, hexagonal, or a variety other symmetric or asymmetric
structures. Depending on the construction of the associated head
guard, the padding layers 1840, 1940 can be visible to the observer
of the head guard or hidden from view by being positioned between
two layers of material.
[0097] FIGS. 56-58 depict example portions of padding layers in
accordance with various non-limiting embodiments. The padding layer
2040 in FIG. 56 defines a plurality of apertures 2042, the size of
which may be, for instance, between about 1 mm and 4 cm. While the
apertures 2042 are shown as being round, this disclosure is not so
limited. In other embodiments, apertures 2042 can be a variety of
other shapes, such as triangular, square, star-shaped, and so
forth. In some embodiments, divots or other types of recessed are
utilized. The apertures 2042 can be, for example, punched or cut
into the padding layer 2040 (i.e., perforated) or otherwise created
at the formation of the padding layer 2040. The size, placement,
and arrangement of the apertures 2042 can vary. FIG. 57, for
instance, depicts a padding layer 2140 having apertures 2142 that
are square-shaped and linearly aligned. FIG. 58 depicts a padding
layer 2240 having nodules 2242 that extend outwardly from a surface
of the padding layer 2240. The nodules 2242 can be solid, hollow,
or have apertures extending there through, as illustrated.
[0098] Head guards in accordance with the presently disclosed
embodiments may be manufactured using a variety of manufacturing
techniques, such as ultrasonic welding, stitching, gluing, and/or
quilting, for example. Stitching can be used to couple an interior
fabric layer to an external fabric layer to create a pocket to
house the padding layer. In some embodiments, double needle
stitching is utilized to attach various components of the head
guard. With a double stitching technique, twin needles create
parallel double stitching using two needles mounted in a plastic
holder. A standard needle shank is added to the plastic holder so
it can be inserted in the needle holder on the sewing machine. One
needle can be shorter than the other so that a bobbin can catch
both stitches. The head guards can be manufactured in different
sizes so that they can accommodate both children head sizes and
adult head sizes.
[0099] The head guards disclosed herein can be used in a wide
variety of endeavors, either as standalone units or in combination
with existing protective gear, including both activities involving
contact and non-contacting activities. Example applications
include, without limitation, mixed martial arts, boxing, paintball,
lacrosse, racquetball, water polo, ice skating, roller skating,
water skiing, wind surfing, surfing, wrestling, rock climbing, ice
hockey, roller hockey, basketball, soccer, wrestling masks,
motocross, auto racing, cricket, BMX racing, parkour, and
volleyball. Additional applications can include, without
limitation, rodeo (for both riders and clowns), track & field
events, cross-country running, hang gliding, bobsledding, and luge,
for example. Other applications for the head guards described
herein include, for example, skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding,
rugby, polo, equestrian sports, martial arts, and base jumping. In
some embodiments, the head guard may be worn as a component under
the athlete's helmet. In some embodiments, the head guard may be
incorporated into the athlete's apparel. In some embodiments, the
head guard can be worn over top of a sporting helmet. In some
embodiments, the head guard can be worn without a helmet.
[0100] When a head guard is worn under a helmet (such as a football
helmet, hockey helmet, bicycle helmet, and the like), an impact
delivered to the wearer's head may be reduced as compared to
receiving the impact when wearing the rigid helmet without a head
guard. When tested in general accordance with to the National
Operating Committee of Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE)
Documner (ND) 002-11m12, a head guard worn in combination with
various types of football helmets can dissipate an impact force
applied to the helmet as measured by severity index. For example, a
severity index of an impact to a helmet can be higher than the
severity index of the same impact delivered to the rigid helmet
worn in combination with a head guard. Such impact dissipation can
also occur when worn in combination with other helmets, such as
lacrosse helmets, hockey helmets, and batting helmets in accordance
with ND 041-11m12, ND 030-11m12, and ND 022-10m12, respectively.
Such impact dissipation can also occur when worn in combination
with other types of helmets, such as ski helmets, for example. As
described herein, head guards in accordance with the present
disclosure do not necessarily have to be worn in combination with a
helmet. For such uses, an impact delivered to the wearer's head
while wearing a head guard may be reduced as compared to receiving
the impact when not wearing a head guard. Moreover, head guards in
accordance with the present disclosure do not necessarily have to
be worn with rigid helmets but can be worn in connection with
baseball hats or other types of non-rigid hats. For such uses, an
impact delivered to the wearer's head may be reduced as compared to
receiving the impact when wearing the non-rigid hat without a head
guard.
[0101] The particular combination of materials for the various
layers of head guards manufactured in accordance with the systems
and methods described herein can vary. Below are some non-limiting
examples of material combinations. As is to be readily appreciated,
other combinations are envisioned and are within the scope of the
present disclosure. For some head guards, one or more layers can
comprise about 80-90% polyester or Nylon and about 10-20% Spandex
or Elastene. In one embodiment, one or more layers can comprise
about 86% polyester and about 14% Spandex. One or more layers can
also be a mesh-type material for increased breathability and
ventilation. The layers of the head guard can have various fabric
weights. In some embodiments, the fabric weight of an outer or
inner lay can be in the range of about 5 to about 12 ounces, for
example.
[0102] In some embodiments, one or more of the fabric layers can
comprise about 60% polyester and about 40% cotton. In one
embodiment, one or more fabric layers can comprise about 100%
cotton. In one embodiment, one or more fabric layers can comprise
about 80% polyester and about 20% spandex. In one embodiment, one
or more fabric layers can comprise about 90% polyester and about
10% Spandex. In one embodiment, one or more fabric layers can
comprise about 86% polyester and about 14% Spandex. In some
embodiments, one or more fabric layers can comprise about 100%
acrylic. In one embodiment, one or more layers can comprise about
85% acrylic and about 15% nylon.
[0103] In some embodiments, one or more fabric layers can comprise
about 100% cotton. In one embodiment, one or more fabric layers can
comprise about 80% cotton and about 20% polyester. Furthermore,
various head guards can be manufactured from colored materials,
dyed particular colors, or manufactured with glow in the dark
and/or reflective materials.
[0104] In various embodiments disclosed herein, a single component
may be replaced by multiple components and multiple components may
be replaced by a single component to perform a given function or
functions. Except where such substitution would not be operative,
such substitution is within the intended scope of the embodiments.
While various embodiments have been described herein, it should be
apparent that various modifications, alterations, and adaptations
to those embodiments may occur to persons skilled in the art with
attainment of at least some of the advantages. The disclosed
embodiments are therefore intended to include all such
modifications, alterations, and adaptations without departing from
the scope of the embodiments as set forth herein.
* * * * *