U.S. patent application number 15/686775 was filed with the patent office on 2017-12-07 for helmet for attenuating impact event.
The applicant listed for this patent is Linares Medical Devices, LLC. Invention is credited to Miguel A. Linares, JR., Miguel A. Linares.
Application Number | 20170347737 15/686775 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53366896 |
Filed Date | 2017-12-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170347737 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Linares; Miguel A. ; et
al. |
December 7, 2017 |
HELMET FOR ATTENUATING IMPACT EVENT
Abstract
An impact attenuation helmet construction, including a rigid
outer shell and a rigid inner shell adapted to being worn upon a
wearer's head and arranged a spatially separated distance from the
outer shell. A plurality of resilient plasticized members extend
between the inner and outer shells in a three dimensional array in
order to spatially support the outer shell a distance from an outer
surface of the inner shell, the resilient plasticized members
further including a plurality of support tendons.
Inventors: |
Linares; Miguel A.;
(Bloomfield Hills, MI) ; Linares, JR.; Miguel A.;
(Bloomfield Hills, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Linares Medical Devices, LLC |
Auburn Hills |
MI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53366896 |
Appl. No.: |
15/686775 |
Filed: |
August 25, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14575170 |
Dec 18, 2014 |
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15686775 |
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61917708 |
Dec 18, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A42B 3/18 20130101; A42B
3/064 20130101; A42B 3/0473 20130101; A42B 3/20 20130101; A42B
3/065 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A42B 3/06 20060101
A42B003/06; A42B 3/04 20060101 A42B003/04 |
Claims
1. An impact attenuation helmet construction, comprising: a rigid
outer shell; a rigid inner shell adapted to being worn upon a
wearer's head and arranged a spatially separated distance from said
outer shell; and a plurality of resilient plasticized members
extending between said inner and outer shells in a three
dimensional array in order to spatially support said outer shell a
distance from an outer surface of said inner shell, said resilient
plasticized members further including a plurality of support
tendons.
2. The helmet construction of claim 1, said support tendons each
further comprising a resilient and elastic material.
3. The helmet construction of claim 2, said resilient and elastic
material further comprising including any of a thermoplastic
elastomer (TPE) or thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) providing
flexing and/or bending in response to an impact of said outer
shell.
4. The helmet of claim 1, said support tendons each further
comprising a generally polygonal cross sectional shaped
intermediate stem terminating in flattened engaging portions
secured to opposing surface locations of said outer and inner rigid
layers.
5. The helmet of claim 1, further comprising at least one
cushioning support applied to an inner surface of said inner
shell.
6. The helmet of claim 1, further comprising a face mask secured
extending edges of said outer shell and defining forward viewing of
a wearer.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This Application is a divisional application of U.S. Ser.
No. 14/575,170 filed Dec. 18, 2014. The '170 application claims the
benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 61/917,708 filed on Dec.
18, 2013, the contents of which are incorporated herein in its
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is directed to a variety of helmet
designs incorporating active force cushioning and redirection
structure for absorbing the effects of an impact event in a manner
which minimizes damage to the wearer's skull and upper cervical
spinal vertebrae. The helmet incorporates inner and outer rigid
layers or shells, between which are supported a variety of
cushioning force absorption and redirectional components.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The prior art is documented with numerous examples of impact
absorbing and protecting helmet designs. The objective in each
instance is to provide a head and neck protection to the
wearer.
[0004] A first example is the shock balance controller of Harris,
U.S. Pat. No. 7,603,725 and which teaches a support structure
having a chamber including a port disposed in a side of the
chamber, the port providing an opening to a housing, and a bladder
coupled to the housing, the bladder being filled with a first
material configured to receive pressure from a shock, wherein the
first material, when receiving the shock pushes a first piston that
compresses a spring disposed in the housing, the spring pushing a
second piston that increases the pressure of a second material
stored in the chamber. A shock balance controller may also include
a structure configured to support the shock balance controller, the
structure having a chamber, a port, and a housing assembly, and a
bladder coupled to the structure using the housing assembly, the
bladder and housing assembly being configured to transfer energy
between the bladder and the chamber.
[0005] Anderson, US 2013/0312161, teaches an impact energy
attenuation material, impact energy attenuation module employing
the material and a fit system for optimizing the performance
thereof is provided. Non-linear energy attenuating material
consisting of a plurality of loose particles is employed for impact
energy dissipation. The loose particles are preferably spherical
elastomeric balls. An impact energy attenuation module includes a
container that holds the loose particles. The impact energy
attenuation module can be provided in a wide range of sizes and
shapes and the loose particles can be provided in different
materials, sizes, density, compaction and hardness to suit with the
application at hand. A matrix of impact energy attenuation module
are provided about the surface of a shell to provide the required
impact energy attenuation. The material, impact energy attenuation
module and system of the present invention are well suited for
protection of body parts and other cushioning and protection
needs.
[0006] Abernathy, U.S. Pat. No. 8,739,317, teaches a liner adapted
to be interposed between the interior surface of a protective
headgear and a wearer's head and includes a plurality of networked
fluid cells adapted to distribute and dissipate an impact force to
the liner, and/or headgear with which the liner is used, across a
larger area of the wearer's head as compared with the impact
location, and also to dampen the tendency of the wearer's head from
rebounding back from the impact location by transferring fluid
through the network from fluid cells at the impact location those
in an opposed region. Discrete fluid cells interspersed among the
networked fluid cells maintain the liner and/or the headgear in a
predetermined orientation on the wearer's head. Fluid flow within
the liner may be restricted or directed by configuring the fluid
passageways. A liner may further include means for moving fluid
into or out of the fluid cells.
[0007] Suddaby, US 2014/0173810, teaches a protective helmet having
multiple zones of protection suitable for use in construction work,
athletic endeavors, and similar activities. The helmet includes a
hard outer protective that is suspended over a hard anchor zone by
elastic bladders are positioned in the elastomeric zone and bulge
through one or more of a plurality of apertures located in the
outer zone. In one embodiment, an additional crumple zone is
present. The structure enables the helmet to divert linear and
rotational forces away from the user's braincase.
[0008] Also referenced is the helmet structure of Brown, US
2014/0068841, without any hard outer shell and which has axially
compressible cell units contained in a hemispheric frame by a thin
fabric covering stretched over cup shaped cell retainers that have
sidewalk of compressible foam. The frame is supported on the
wearer's head on plastic foam posts that space the inner ends of
compressible bladders from the wearer's head, and ambient air in
the bladders compresses at impact, being vented then through
openings for gradually absorbing such impact forces. Each bladder
is vented into a space between the cup "bottom" and the outer end
of a bladder. At least two cell sizes are provided, and some of
these are on depending lobes in the frame, for protecting the
wearer's ears and neck.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention teaches a force attenuating helmet
construction including a rigid outer shell and a rigid inner shell
adapted to being worn upon a wearer's head and arranged a spatially
separated distance from the outer shell. A plurality of resilient
plasticized members extend between the inner and outer shells in a
three dimensional array in order to spatially support the outer
shell a distance from an outer surface of the inner shell, the
resilient plasticized members further including a plurality of
support tendons such that, in response to an impact event, the
outer rigid layer deflecting relative to the inner layer by virtue
of either stretching or compressing one or more selected support
tendons. The elastic support tendons each further exhibit a
generally polygonal cross sectional shaped intermediate stem
terminating in flattened engaging portions which can be
mechanically or chemically secured to opposing surface locations of
the outer and inner rigid layers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] Reference will now be made to the attached drawings, when
read in combination with the following detailed description,
wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the
several views, and in which:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a helmet construction
according to a first embodiment and illustrating a ventilated outer
shell in combination with a lower rim projecting and spring biased
cushioning member for attenuating the bending motions of the head
relative to the neck and spine which are associated with an impact
event;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the helmet of FIG. 1 removed
and which illustrates a combination of additional and internal
cushioning components associated with the present design and
including a top inner located compressible bladder in combination
with an inner and intermediate extending cushioning ring, along
with cheek (malar or zygmotic) bone located cushioning support
members;
[0013] FIG. 3 is an underside rotated view of the helmet in FIG. 1
and illustrating the combination of inner cushioning components of
FIG. 2 in combination with the outer lower rim cushioning
member;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a spatially perspective arrayed illustration
similar to FIG. 2 with the wearer's head, neck and upper
extremities removed and better illustrating the support
configuration collectively provided by the collection of inner and
outer supporting portions in combination with the hard shell;
[0015] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a selected cheek (zygmotic)
bone located cushioning support member and better exhibiting the
inner surface projecting array of stem supported compressible
portions which respond to compressive forces by bending and/or
collapsing in combination with increasing their collective diameter
dimensions in a counter force attenuating fashion;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a phantom perspective of an innermost portion
associated with the lower spring biased cushioning member and which
exhibits interior baffles with control collapse venting, around
which is configured a soft foam material;
[0017] FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective of the inner intermediate
extending cushioning ring and which likewise illustrates control
collapse baffling structure for responding to compressive forces
associated with an impact event;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a side illustration showing the rigid helmet in
partial phantom and illustrating the pseudo pancake configuration
of the top inner located compressible bladder with upper and lower
flattened portions and intermediate bridging stem portion;
[0019] FIG. 9 is an environmental illustration of the helmet of
FIG. 1 responding to a side impact event and in which the lower rim
extending spring biasing members cushion in counterforce generating
fashion against a shoulder of the wearer;
[0020] FIG. 10 is an environmental illustration of a front impact
event and in which the rear spaced rim extending spring biased
member cushions in counterforce generating fashion against the
upper back and based of the cervical portion of the spinal
column;
[0021] FIG. 11 is a further environmental illustration of a rear
impact event in which forward terminating ends of a pair of
outermost spaced and rim extending cushioning members bias in
counterforce generating fashion against locations of the wearer's
collar bone;
[0022] FIG. 12 is an environmental front view of a dual layer
helmet construction according to a second embodiment and
illustrating a plurality of flexible and elastic support tendons
extending between the spaced apart inner and outer rigid helmet
layers;
[0023] FIG. 13 is a side line art view of the dual layer helmet of
FIG. 12 and illustrating an arrangement of the inner bridging
support tendons between the inner and outer rigid layers;
[0024] FIG. 14 is a side cutaway of the helmet of FIG. 12;
[0025] FIG. 15 is a succeeding view to FIG. 14 and illustrating the
dynamic deflecting characteristics of the elastic tendon supported
outer helmet in response to a forward impact event;
[0026] FIG. 16 is an alternate view to FIG. 15 illustrating the
dynamic deflecting characteristics of the elastic tendon supported
outer helmet in response to a rear impact event;
[0027] FIG. 17 is an alternate view to FIGS. 15 and 16 and
illustrating a side impact event;
[0028] FIG. 18 is an illustration of a dual layer helmet
construction according to a third embodiment and illustrating a
foam insert positioned between the inner and outer rigid layers
alternative to the support tendons shown in FIG. 12;
[0029] FIG. 19 is a cutaway view of the helmet shown in FIG. 18 and
better illustrating the inner and outer rigid helmet layers,
intermediate foam support with interior air circulation and venting
characteristics, and the inner cushioning pad support configured
between the inner rigid helmet layer and the surface of the wearers
head;
[0030] FIG. 20 is a succeeding illustration to FIG. 19 and
illustrating the dynamic characteristics of the helmet in response
to a side-impact event;
[0031] FIG. 21 illustrates a further partial illustration of a dual
layer helmet according to a yet further variant and further showing
an energy absorbing column support extending between the layers
and, upon the outer helmet experiencing an impact event, providing
for multi-directional energy absorbing properties;
[0032] FIG. 22 is a further rotated partial perspective in cutaway
of the helmet of FIG. 21 and illustrating a dual compression spring
arrangement associated with a given face mask mounting location
with the outer helmet, such providing for bi-directional force
absorbing displacement;
[0033] FIG. 23 is a front view of a related helmet construction to
that depicted in FIG. 21 and illustrating a modified construction
of a force absorbing component arranged in combination with the
energy absorbing column support for supporting the inner and outer
helmet layers in spatial fashion, the additional component
exhibiting an outer disk for providing optimal force
deflection/absorption of impact forces exerted against the outer
helmet;
[0034] FIG. 24 is partial frontal side illustration of a
modification of the force absorbing component in the form of an
outer disk in combination with an inner integrally configured cross
configuration for providing optimal force deflection/absorption of
impact forces exerted against the outer helmet;
[0035] FIG. 25 is a similar view to FIG. 24 and depicting a
selected force absorbing component in the configuration of an
internally hollow sphere; and
[0036] FIG. 26 presents a yet further variant of force absorbing
component in the form of first and second disks arranged in
rotatably offset and overlapping/intersecting fashion.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0037] As previously described, the present invention is directed
to a variety of helmet designs incorporating active force
cushioning and redirection structure which is constructed in order
to both absorb and actively redirect the effects of an impact event
in a manner which minimizes damage to the wearer's skull and upper
cervical spinal vertebrae. The helmet designs, described in more
detail with reference to FIGS. 1-26, are further constructed to
provide enhanced force absorption associated with an impact event,
combined with dynamic counter force generating, or reactive,
properties (such as which are facilitated by springs or other
internal structure) to further ameliorate the effects of the
resultant forces resulting from the impact event.
[0038] FIG. 1 is a perspective view, generally at 10, of a helmet
construction according to a first embodiment which is worn upon the
head of an individual 2. As also illustrated in FIG. 3, the helmet
includes a rigid outer shell 12 and which is appropriately
configured so as to be placed over the head of the wearer and
illustrating appropriate ventilated locations, see inner rim
defined apertures 14, 16, 18 et seq., formed in an upper or crown
portion of the rigid shell. Additional apertures in the rigid shell
are provided, such as ear hole locations at 19. Without limitation,
the shell 12 can be constructed of any type rigid and impact
resistant plastic, carbon fiber or composite thereof.
[0039] As best shown by the underside rotated perspective of FIG.
3, a lower rim projecting cushioning member is provided and
includes one or more (three shown) rim extending portions 20, 22
and 24 which are secured to lower rim extending locations of the
rigid shell 12 via individual sets of support springs, these shown
in FIG. 1 by springs 26 and 28 for supporting cushioning portion
20, springs 30, 32 and 34 (FIG. 4) for supporting cushioning
portion 22, and finally springs 36 and 38 for cushioning portion
24. The springs are supported upon inner contoured surfaces of each
cushioning member 20, 22 and 24 in spaced apart fashion (as again
best shown in FIG. 4) and so that the spring biased cushioning
members collectively project from the lower rim of the rigid
wearable shell 12 in a manner which facilitates attenuating the
bending motions of the head relative to the neck and spine which
are associated with an impact event, and as will be further
described.
[0040] Without limitation, the cushioning portions 20, 22 and 24
can be constructed of any semi-soft or other suitable material,
such as which can include an inner support portion, around which
can be formed an outer cushioning portion. As further best shown in
FIG. 4, the cushioning portions 20, 22 and 24 each exhibit an
arcuate elongated configuration with a substantially "U" shape in
cross section. As shown, the intermediate/middle cushioning portion
22 exhibits an open channel along its entire arcuate lengths, the
with outer portions 20 and 24 having closed front ends, see at 21
and 25, respectively, and which overlay the bottom rim of the rigid
shell 12 at the front side locations.
[0041] As further shown, the springs 26-38 anchor to exterior lower
rim proximate locations of the rigid shell 12 and extend outwardly
(and as further shown in FIG. 4 in a slightly upwardly angled
fashion) to inner side locations of each "U" shape configuration in
order to support the cushioning portions 20, 22 and 24. This can
further include the outwardly projecting ends of the springs being
anchored to the inner support portion of each cushioning member
and, in this manner, the cushioning portions are adequately
structurally supported to the helmet's rigid shell in a force
absorbing and counter force generating fashion. Alternative to the
springs shown, it is also envisioned that any other cushioning
member supporting and counterforce generating components can be
utilized, these not limited to any other type of spring, air
pressure generating/cushioning device or the like.
[0042] FIG. 2 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1 with the
rigid shell 12 removed and which illustrates a combination internal
cushioning components associated with the present design. These
include such as a top inner located compressible bladder, generally
at 40 (also termed a pancake bladder as will be further described),
in combination with an inner and intermediate extending cushioning
ring 42 about an upper perimeter/periphery of the skull, and along
with cheek (zygomotic) bone located cushioning support members
(pair at 44). Additional internal cushioning components include a
lower and rear perimeter extending ring 46 supported upon the
inside of the rigid shell 12 for supporting the rear base of the
skull and the upper connecting location of the spinal column.
[0043] As shown in each of FIGS. 2-4 and, as best shown in the
phantom side illustration of FIG. 8, the bladder 40 exhibits a
pseudo pancake configuration with upper 48 and lower 50 flattened
portions which are interconnected by an intermediate bridging stem
portion 52. The top inner pancake style bladder is intended to
provide cushioning for the top of the wearer's head and, as
described above, can incorporate any style of inner cylinder or air
intake/outflow bladder as well as any other style of controlled
collapse and reformable valving structure such that the body with
hollow interior can deform in a force attenuating fashion,
following which it self-refills and resets with a ballasting air
volume. Although not shown, the pancake bladder can include any
other configuration of bi-directional valving for communicating the
exterior of the bladder to its hollow interior and in order to
provide controlled collapsing discharge in response to a top head
impact event, in combination with subsequent self-refilling and
re-expansion of the bladder.
[0044] The material construction of the top pancake bladder 40 is
further such that it can be formed of any soft plastic (can also
include but is not limited to a thermoplastic elastomer or
thermoplastic vulcanizate) or can include other suitable material
including any type of solid (including a foam) or other suitable
material. Other features associated with the pancake style bladder
include the ability to substitute the air vent and valve structure
with any other fluid medium. This can further include utilizing a
liquid coolant as a force attenuating medium for any or all of the
inner helmet cushioning portions and which can provide the dual
function of assisting in cooling the head of the wearer.
Alternately, and in very cold weather (environment) sport or
non-sport applications, the liquid held within the bladder or other
cushioning member can provide for warming/heating of the wearer's
head.
[0045] The inner and intermediate extending cushioning ring 42 is
best shown in FIG. 7 and which likewise illustrates control
collapse baffling structure for responding to compressive forces
associated with an impact event. A plurality of individual
collapsible portions, at 54, 56, 58 et seq., are provided in a
circular ring array. Each of the collapsible portions exhibits a
soft plastic or like material and which includes a baffled or
controlled collapsing structure as depicted by valves or vents 60,
62 and 64, respectively, these further being shown in alternating
top and bottom depiction associated with selected individual
portions 54, 56, 58, et seq.
[0046] The cross sectional profile of the intermediate cushioning
ring array is best depicted in FIG. 7 in line art depiction, with
the understanding that this can also depict an inner circular
support structure provided by spaced apart and circular extending
wires or tensioning cables 64 and 66, between which are configured
crosswise extending and spaced apart (interconnecting) wires or
cables 68, 70, 72 et seq. As shown, the configuration of a suitable
support structure is such that it provides additional connecting
and reinforcing support to the skull encircling cushion ring 42,
the perimeter surrounding cable configuration corresponding to the
profile of the individual collapsible portions 54, 56, 58 et seq.,
such that the structure can provide an additional degree of
structural support to the assembly. Without limitation, the cable
extending support structure shown can alternately include the use
of plastic tensioning elements which can be in-molded with the
intermediate cushioning ring array 42 in order to provide
structural integrity to the array.
[0047] As with the top pseudo pancake style bladder 40, the
intermediate cushioning ring can incorporate controlled collapse
and refill/reform properties utilizing any type of fluid medium
(air, liquid etc.) and which establishes a desired degree of force
attenuation/counter force generating functionality. The
intermediate/cushioning ring array 42 can also be constructed of
any type of compressible gel or foam. The cushioning ring 42 (also
termed an impact pad) can also be produced individually or in
combination with either or both of the face pads 44 or the lower
inner rim extending cushioning ring 46.
[0048] As best shown in FIG. 6, a phantom perspective of an
innermost portion associated with the lower spring biased
cushioning member 46 is shown and includes an outer foam or like
body 74 which encapsulates a plurality of interconnected interior
baffles, these illustrated in phantom and being formed in a
generally arcuate extending array 76. As with the intermediate
band, control collapse of the baffle structural array 76 is
provided by a series of vents or valve locations 78, 80, 82 et,
seq. formed in the manner shown and which respond to compression
resulting from the impact event by discharging air or like fluid in
a controlled collapsible and force attenuating fashion (following
which the baffle or bladder structure 76 can refill/reform to its
original configuration in a manner consistent with the valving
structure depicted in combination with the other cushioning/force
absorbing components).
[0049] Similar to the intermediate circular cushioning ring 42, the
cross sectional profile of the lower and inner rim extending
cushioning member 46 is depicted in line art in FIG. 6 (see
irregular lines 84 and 86 depicting the inner and outer undulating
walls of the baffle construction with additional outer 88 and inner
lines 90 representing the foam edges). The lower extending
cushioning member 46 can also include, without limitation, any type
of structural support (such as including an inner wire, tensioning
element or spine) to assist in providing structural integrity and
so that, in combination, the lower rear head supporting member 46
cushions the back of the head and the upper end of the spinal
column through the provision of a sandwich construction of elements
which can include a mixture of air and foam or other soft
material.
[0050] As further best shown in FIG. 5, an enlarged view is
depicted of a selected one of the pair of cheek (zygomotic) bone
located cushioning support members, again shown at 44 and which
better exhibits an inner surface projecting array of stem supported
compressible portions, see stems 92, 94, 96, et seq., and upon
which are mounted upper extending end and increased diameter
annular portions 98, 100, 102, et seq. (in informal terms these
each illustrating an overall configuration not dissimilar to a
bishop associated with a chess set). The construction of the stem
supported and compressible portions is such that, in response to
compressive forces exerted by the wearers cheek bones to the pad
shaped cushioning members 44, the end-mounted annular portions 98,
100, 102, et seq. (these including semi-spherical shaped ends 104,
106, 108, et seq.) deform in a collective combined bending and
compressing/widening fashion such that the force of the
check/zygomatic bone causes the stem supported portions to increase
(widen) their collective diameter dimensions in a counter force
attenuating fashion.
[0051] As a result, the compressed and flattened portions (see
again stems 92, 94, 96, et seq.) progressively exert counter
actuating forces against the wearer's face during their collapse
with the additional feature being the flattening of the enlarged
ends 104, 106, 108, et seq. in a manner which creates a maximum
collapse/compression distance which is a dimension above the inner
support surface of the member 44. Without limitation, the cheek
located support members 44 can be substituted or augmented by
additional members located at any other interior supported location
of the rigid shell of the helmet.
[0052] As previously described, FIG. 3 is an underside rotated view
of the helmet in FIG. 1 and illustrates the combination of inner
cushioning components of FIG. 2 in combination with the outer lower
rim cushioning member, with FIG. 4 further providing a spatially
perspective arrayed illustration similar to FIG. 2 with the
wearer's head, neck and upper extremities removed and better
illustrating the support configuration collectively provided by the
collection of inner and outer supporting portions in combination
with the hard shell.
[0053] Proceeding to the environmental view of FIG. 9, an
environmental illustration is shown of the helmet of FIG. 1
responding to a side impact event (see directional arrow 110) and
in which a selected one of the lower rim extending spring biasing
cushions (shown at 20) is exerted in a counterforce generating
fashion against a shoulder 4 of the wearer, again by virtue of the
absorbing and reasserting forces exerted by springs 26 and 28. FIG.
10 is an environmental illustration of a front impact event, see
directional arrow 112, and in which a rearmost selected 22 of the
rim extending spring biased member cushions with associated springs
30 and 32 contact the wearers back 6 in proximity to the cervical
portion of the spinal column. Finally, FIG. 11 is a an illustration
of a rear located impact (see arrow 114) in which forward ends 116
and 118 outer rim located cushioning members 20 and 24 contact
collarbone locations 8 and 9 of the wearer in a flexible and force
attenuating fashion.
[0054] Referring now to FIG. 12, an environmental front view is
generally shown at 120 of a dual layer helmet construction
according to a second embodiment of the present inventions. The
helmet includes an inner rigid layer or shell 122 configured to
closely conform to the user's skull, with an outer spaced rigid
layer or shell 124 which is resiliently secured to the inner rigid
layer 122 via a plurality of flexible and elastic support tendons
or spatially defining columns (see pair at 126 and 128) extending
between the spaced apart inner 122 and outer 124 rigid helmet
layers.
[0055] Either or both the rigid inner and outer layers can be
constructed of any type of plastic, carbon fiber or other composite
material. The layers can further include any complementing forward
viewing contours, see at 130 for outer layer 124 and at 132 for
inner layer 122 so as to provide an adequate field of vision for
the wearer. A faceguard of non-limiting design is depicted by width
extending portions 134 and 136 and crosswise extending reinforcing
portions 138 and 140. Support pads 140 and 142 are also shown
located between the wearer's head and inner mounting surfaces of
the inner rigid helmet layer 122 (these being representative of any
arrangement of interior supporting pads or cushions for supporting
the inner helmet or shell upon the wearer's head).
[0056] The construction of the dual layer helmet is further such
that headset components including a receiver and/or microphone can
be mounted within the space between the inner and outer rigid
layers, this being a desirous feature in sporting events such as
football or auto racing. The support tendons 126 and 128 (also
again termed as support columns as also depicted in related FIGS.
21 and 23) are constructed of any resilient and deformable
material, typically a plastic composite, exhibiting the necessary
properties of stretch-ability and which enable the outer rigid
layer or shell 124 to stretch in energy absorptive fashion relative
to the inner layer by virtue of the plurality of perimeter located
tendons.
[0057] As further shown, the tendons 126 and 128 are each
constructed of a semi-rigid deformable and resilient material, such
as including but not limited to any type of plastic selected from a
polypropylene material with fiber or other reinforcement, as well
as potentially including any of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE),
thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) or other construction which
provides a desirable degree of flex and/or bend in response to
impact events to the outer helmet 124 and to minimize transference
to the inner helmet 122 and the wearer's skull and spine. Each of
the tendons/columns 126 and 128 further includes a generally
polygonal cross sectional, shown as a modified tubular or
cylindrical shaped intermediate stem, and which terminates in
flattened engaging portions which can be mechanically or chemically
secured to opposing surface locations of the outer and inner rigid
layers (see inner surface locations of outer rigid layer 124 with
inner spaced and outer facing locations of inner layer 122).
Without limitation, the elastic tendons can exhibit any other shape
or profile which facilitates the resilient and spatially arrayed
mounting structure between the inner and outer helmet layers.
[0058] FIG. 13 is a side line art view of the dual layer helmet of
FIG. 12 and illustrating an arrangement of the inner bridging
support tendons, see at 144, 146, 148 and 150, arranged between the
inner 122 and outer 124 rigid layers. An additional side located
support tendon 152 is shown, with an opposite side located tendon
being hidden from view, with the understanding that any number of
tendons can be arranged in three dimensional spaced fashion across
the separation zone between the inner and outer rigid helmets
according to the dynamic environment in which the helmet is
utilized. As further defined herein, the term "column" or "support
tendon" is intended to include (but not be limited to) any linking
component or structure which serves to spatially support the outer
helmet or shell 124 around the inner helmet or shell 122, but to do
so in such a manner that the tends/columns provide
multi-dimensional flex, bend or deformation in response to
externally applied impact forces, preventing these impact forces
from being directly transferred to the inner helmet 122 and, by
extension, the wearers skull, neck and cervical spinal connections,
and further doing so in a fashion which provides snap-back or
return to the original configuration (i.e. resiliency) upon the
force being dissipated or absorbed by the tendon structure.
[0059] Also depicted are impact support portions, at 154, 156, 158
and 160, incorporated into the inner rigid layer 122 (i.e.
supporting the exterior locations of the wearers head and skull),
these being located proximate the mounting locations of the
indicated flexible tendons 144, 146, 148 and 150 upon the exterior
locations of the inner helmet or shell 122. The impact support
portions 154-160 can be constructed of any composite or other force
absorbing material, such also potentially including a control
collapsible structural foam.
[0060] FIG. 14 is a side cutaway of the helmet of FIG. 12 in a
pre-impact condition and which again illustrates the engagement
structure of the elastic tendons (see in particular the flattened
mounting profiles 162 and 164 of selected tendon 144. Also depicted
at 166 is a minimal separation distance established between the
lower rear edge of the outer shell 124 and the back 6 (see also
FIG. 10) of the wearer, for which the helmet construction provides
support in response to a rear rotating of the helmet towards an
impact condition with the back).
[0061] FIG. 15 is a succeeding view to FIG. 14 and illustrating the
dynamic deflecting characteristics of the elastic tendon supported
outer helmet in response to a forward impact event, see arrow 168.
In this depiction, the forward most located support tendon 150
compresses in a fashion which permits the outer rigid helmet layer
124 to collapse in a force absorptive and attenuating fashion in a
direction towards the inner helmet layer 122. The rearward spaced
tendons 148, 146 and 144 are further shown stretching to varying
degrees with the lower/rearward most tendon 144 stretching a
maximum distance in which the cross sectional dimensions of the
tendon are reduced. The elastic nature of the tendons is further
such that the deflection forces exerted upon the outer shell 124
are countered by opposite and attenuating tension forces exerted by
the tendons.
[0062] FIG. 16 is an alternate view to FIG. 15 illustrating the
dynamic deflecting characteristics of the elastic tendon supported
outer helmet in response to a rear impact event, see arrow 170. In
this illustration, the elastic tendons/columns 144, 146, 148 and
150 displace in an opposite (forward) direction, with the forward
most tendon 150 stretching forwardly and downwardly in the manner
shown. As with the forward impact event of FIG. 15, the rear impact
generated event of FIG. 16 is countered by reverse forces exerted
by the elastic tendons (e.g. the resilient properties of the
tendons absorbing and countering the initial force in a dampening
fashion to protect the wearer).
[0063] FIG. 17 is an alternate view to FIGS. 15 and 16 and
illustrating a side impact event (see arrow 172) in which the outer
shell 124 is depicted in a (side) lateral displacing and force
attenuating condition. The ability to absorb a lateral directed
force in the manner shown in FIG. 17 (see compressed side tendon
126 and elongated opposite side tendon 128) enables the wearer's
head to avoid absorbing a significant degree of the forces
associated with the impact, and such as which can otherwise be
transferred to the wearer's neck and spinal column.
[0064] Proceeding to FIG. 18, an illustration is shown at of a dual
layer helmet construction according to a third embodiment and
illustrating a foam insert 176 positioned between the inner 122 and
outer 124 rigid layers, similar to as previously described however
alternative to the support tendons shown in FIG. 12. The foam
insert 176 provides impact protection between the inner and outer
rigid helmet layers and, without limitation, can include any type
of soft, rigid or structural/collapsible composition. The
construction of the inner 122 and outer 124 helmet layers can also
include any of those previously described (e.g. including an impact
resistant plastic such as a heavy duty polypropylene or like
material which can include a talc or fiber combination to enhance
strength) and can further include any other shape or size.
[0065] FIG. 19 is a cutaway view of the helmet shown in FIG. 18 and
better illustrating the inner 122 and outer 124 rigid helmet layers
and intermediate foam support with interior air circulation and
venting characteristics, and the inner cushioning pad support 176,
this further being configured between the inner rigid helmet layer
and the surface of the wearers head so as to include an air
circulation network (see selected perimeter extending main channel
178 in two dimensional cutaway with outer 180 and inner 182 spaced
cross channels for providing ventilation to the user's head). Also
again shown are inner structural pads associated with the inner
helmet layer 122 and such as shown at 158 which are arranged in
such a way that they do not impede the ventilation aspects of the
helmet assembly. Also depicted at 177 and 179 are earholes defined
by inner perimeter surfaces configured within the foam insert or
pad support 176, and which communicate with one or more of the main
ventilation channels 178 as well as aligning side holes 181 and 183
in the outer helmet which communicate through additional aligning
holes (see inner perimeter walls 181' and 183') in the inner
helmet.
[0066] FIG. 20 is a succeeding illustration to FIG. 19 and
illustrating the dynamic characteristics of the helmet in response
to a side-impact event (see directional arrow 184), in which the
outer rigid layer 124 is shifted laterally in the direction shown
and so that the foam construction 176 absorbs the impact forces in
an attenuating and counter exerting fashion (see compression of
foam on left side of helmet) to prevent unnecessary forces being
exerted against the user's head and neck (see contact location 185
between the helmet side edge and shoulder which minimizes the
degree of bending motion absorbed by the user's head). Also again
depicted are ear hole locations again established by inner
perimeter walls in the foam 186 and 188.
[0067] Proceeding now to FIG. 21, an illustration 190 is generally
referenced of a partial illustration of a dual layer helmet
(including outer helmet 192 and inner helmet 194) according to a
yet further variant and further showing an energy absorbing column
support (tendon) 196 of similar construction to that previously
described and extending between the layers or shells 192/194 such
that, and upon the outer helmet experiencing an impact event, the
assembly provides for multi-directional energy absorbing
properties. As previously described, the tendons or supports can
exhibit any desired force dampening or attenuation structure which
facilitates multi-dimensional displacement of the outer helmet 192,
in response to an impact event, while minimizing the force
transferred to the inner helmet (layer or shell) 194 and the
wearer's head via the inner supporting cushioning locations, see
further at 195.
[0068] FIG. 22 is a further rotated partial perspective in cutaway
of the helmet of FIG. 21 and illustrating a dual compression (coil)
spring arrangement, see springs 198 and 200 associated with a given
face mask mounting location with the outer helmet, such providing
for bi-directional force absorbing displacement. A selected face
mask portion, depicted by extending curved member 202 includes, at
selected cutaway end mounting location, an annular protuberance 204
which separates the springs 198 and 200.
[0069] As further shown, a seating profile is defined in the outer
shell 192 within which the end portion of the mask member 202 is
displaceably supported. The three dimensional profile exhibits
annular ends or abutment ledges, at 202 and 204, which (upon
seating the end mounting portion of the mask member 202) compress
opposite ends of the springs 198 and 200, depending upon the
direction of displacement of the mask (see bidirectional arrow 206
representing either of a pushing or pulling force exerted upon the
mask member 202). Without limitation, a similar arrangement is
configured at the opposite mounting end of mask member 202, as well
as first and second corresponding mounting ends of a lower
extending mask member 208.
[0070] Proceeding to FIG. 23, a front view is shown of a related
helmet construction, generally at 210, which is similar to that
depicted in FIG. 21 (as well as the related variant of FIGS.
12-20). FIG. 23 illustrates a modified construction of a force
absorbing component arranged in combination with the energy
absorbing column support or tendon previously identified at 196 for
supporting inner 214 and outer 212 helmet layers in spatial
fashion. An additional component 216 is illustrated on an opposite
side of the helmet construction and exhibits an outer or circular
shaped disk with first/outer 218 and second/inner 220 flattened
mounting locations securing to the opposing locations of the
helmets/shells 212 and 214, again for providing optimal force
deflection/absorption of impact forces exerted against the outer
helmet 212.
[0071] FIG. 24 is partial frontal side illustration of a
modification of the force absorbing component in the form of an
outer or circular disk portion 222 in combination with an inner
integrally configured cross configuration 224 for providing optimal
force deflection/absorption of impact forces exerted against the
outer helmet, again at 212, relative to the spatially and inner
supported helmet 214. FIG. 25 is a similar view to FIG. 24 and
depicting a selected force absorbing component in the configuration
of an internally hollow sphere 226. FIG. 26 presents a yet further
variant of force absorbing component in the form of first 228 and
second 230 disks arranged in rotatably offset and
overlapping/intersecting fashion.
[0072] The examples of FIGS. 24-26 are intended to be
representative of alternative constructions to that depicted in
FIG. 23, with particular reference to the ring or disk shaped
deflecting or force absorbing elements. As with the tendon/column
196, the other shapes also include a resilient plasticized
construction and can be configured to provide any desired force
absorbing properties consistent with that described above.
[0073] Having described my invention, other and additional
preferred embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the
art to which it pertains, and without deviating from the scope of
the appended claims:
* * * * *