WO2004014168A2 - Casque de sport a absorption d'energie - Google Patents

Casque de sport a absorption d'energie Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2004014168A2
WO2004014168A2 PCT/US2003/022501 US0322501W WO2004014168A2 WO 2004014168 A2 WO2004014168 A2 WO 2004014168A2 US 0322501 W US0322501 W US 0322501W WO 2004014168 A2 WO2004014168 A2 WO 2004014168A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
helmet
shell
energy absorbing
helmet shell
slow recovery
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/US2003/022501
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2004014168A3 (fr
Inventor
Marc S. Schneider
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to CA002495016A priority Critical patent/CA2495016A1/fr
Priority to AU2003254000A priority patent/AU2003254000A1/en
Priority to US10/523,819 priority patent/US20060112477A1/en
Publication of WO2004014168A2 publication Critical patent/WO2004014168A2/fr
Publication of WO2004014168A3 publication Critical patent/WO2004014168A3/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A42—HEADWEAR
    • A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
    • A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
    • A42B3/04—Parts, details or accessories of helmets
    • A42B3/06—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets
    • A42B3/062—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets with reinforcing means
    • A42B3/063—Impact-absorbing shells, e.g. of crash helmets with reinforcing means using layered structures
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A42—HEADWEAR
    • A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
    • A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
    • A42B3/04—Parts, details or accessories of helmets
    • A42B3/10—Linings
    • A42B3/12—Cushioning devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A42—HEADWEAR
    • A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
    • A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
    • A42B3/04—Parts, details or accessories of helmets
    • A42B3/10—Linings
    • A42B3/12—Cushioning devices
    • A42B3/125—Cushioning devices with a padded structure, e.g. foam

Definitions

  • the present invention is directed to headgear comprising slow recovery viscoelastic polyurethane foam with a surface impregnation of silicone, and more specifically, to headgear comprising a shell to dissipate a portion of a force impacting on the headgear and a slow recovery viscoelastic polyurethane foam that absorbs the remainder of the impact force.
  • a concussion is an injury to the brain cells resulting from trauma to the head. Loss of consciousness is not necessary for a head injury to be considered a concussion. Concussions are graded in severity on a scale of Grade One (mild) to Grade Three (severe). Concussions are considered to be Grade One when there is no loss of consciousness and symptoms last less than fifteen minutes. A Grade Two concussion is when there is no loss of consciousness, with symptoms lasting longer than fifteen minutes. A Grade Three concussion is when there is any loss of consciousness.
  • helmets comprise a rigid outer shell and an energy absorbing liner.
  • the helmet shell functions to: (i) maintain the energy absorbing liner in position upon impact, (ii) prevent penetration of sharp objects, and (iii) dissipate the impact's energy prior to it reaching the energy absorbing liner.
  • the helmet shell prevents injury to the head by decreasing the impact force to the brain.
  • Helmet shells are typically made from a composite material or a thermoplastic material. Thermoplastic helmet shells bend to absorb impact energy.
  • Thermoplastic helmet shells are easy to mold and color, and are inexpensive to manufacture. Thermoplastic helmet shells deform more and are less rugged than composite helmet shells. Most reinforced thermoset resin shells are considered stronger than typical injection molded plastic shells. Thermoset resin shells are not considered viscoelastic. This means that the thermoset resin shell does not indent with the application of a force. In general, if the thermoset resin shell indents, the impact force is more concentrated in the zone of indentation and less dissipated throughout the surface of the thermoset resin shell. [0008] A composite helmet shell is more rugged and deforms less than the thermoplastic helmet shell. A composite helmet shell delaminates to absorb impact energy. Delamination is microscopic separation of the fiber layers.
  • a composite is a mixture of components whose combined physical strength is greater than their individual strength.
  • Composite helmet shells are usually made out of epoxy resin and reinforced with fiberglass, carbon or Kevlar. Reinforcing resin with fibers increases the tensile strength by severalfold. The different fibers used within the composite produce different characteristics (tensile strength, compressive strength, flexural strength and abrasion resistance).
  • motorcycle crash helmets demonstrate the state-of-the-art.
  • motorcycle helmet shells are made of reinforced epoxy resins and are designed to withstand high-speed impact.
  • Injection molded plastic helmet shells vary significantly in strength, weight and are viscoelastic. ABS is the standard type of plastic used for injection molded helmet shells. In some types of helmet shells, injection molded plastic can be very strong, e.g., football helmets or lacrosse helmets.
  • Energy absorbing liners are made from either open-cell foam or closed- cell foam. Energy absorbing liners compress as they absorb energy. The purpose of the energy absorbing liner is to decrease the energy of the impact force. This is called impact attenuation. If an egg were dropped onto an energy absorbing liner, it would either crack or stay whole, based on the amount of energy absorbed by the energy absorbing liner. Open-celled foam will rebound after it is compressed from an impact. Polyvinyl padding is a type of celled foam commonly used in hockey helmets as an energy absorbing liner. Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a type of closed-cell foam that is the most commonly energy absorbing liner used today in hockey helmets.
  • EPS Expanded polystyrene
  • EPS is a type of STYROFOAM used for packaging protection. EPS is compressed and crushed as it absorbs energy. While EPS attenuates impact force well and is considered the "gold standard" in the helmet market, impacts produce permanent damage to the EPS material. Minor impacts to the helmet shell cause microscopic cracks in the EPS, which can seriously destroy its impact attenuation performance.
  • urethane foams are elastic in that the foam deflects under a load, and return a force to the load that is equal to the deflection of the elastic material multiplied by its stiffness.
  • pressure is applied to common urethane foam, like a spring, the foam deflects and returns a force that is proportional to the amount of deflection. Areas of greatest deflection (i.e., greatest pressure) receive the greatest return force. These pressure hot spots can restrict blood circulation to portions of the body.
  • Viscoelastic foams have both viscous and elastic response properties.
  • the viscous response property evenly distributes a load, and the elastic response property allows the foam to support a static load.
  • "Viscous” refers to a fluid response that flows away from the applied load or applied force, in that the fluid redistributes the applied load or applied force. Viscoelastic materials redistribute the applied load or applied force away from the point of contact.
  • Slow recovery viscoelastic polyurethane foam molds, shapes, and adjusts to the surface it is in contact with the application of heat. In athletic headgear, for example, the athlete's head causes the application of heat to the slow recovery viscoelastic polyurethane foam. CONFOR foam displays this characteristic greater than other viscoelastic polyurethane foams.
  • athletic headgear comprises an outer shell and an inner energy absorbing liner for absorbing impacts suffered during the course of an athletic contest.
  • An energy absorbing liner comprising viscoelastic polyurethane foam absorbs energy transferred from the outer shell, if the head represents the final transfer point of the impact energy.
  • the viscoelastic polyurethane foam should absorb as much impact energy as possible prior to being completely compressed.
  • the greater the surface area of the viscoelastic polyurethane foam contacting the skull the greater the energy dissipation and absorption there will be prior to the viscoelastic polyurethane foam reaching maximum compression (bottoming out).
  • the viscoelastic polyurethane foam should return to its pre-impact shape after the impact.
  • Ice hockey involves players reaching impact speeds greater than any other contact sport.
  • the helmet shell used in ice hockey is different than the helmet shell in any other sport.
  • the helmet shell must have a certain cosmetic appearance.
  • the helmet shell must cover the forehead, temples, crown, and back of the head.
  • Hockey players will not wear helmets that are overly large, or have the shape or appearance of a motorcycle crash helmet or football helmet.
  • the plastic used in hockey helmet shells has obviously less impact resistance. In fact, the plastic used in some hockey helmet shells might even be considered an adornment (the clear fragile plastic now used in CCM x-ray helmets).
  • hockey helmet shells have their least strength on the sides (temples) where the helmet shell loses its curvature, the openings are located for the ears and the energy absorbing liner is at its thinnest. Ice hockey helmet shells made of plastic are most vulnerable in this region.
  • Typical hockey helmets do not meet the same standard of protection that football or lacrosse helmets meet.
  • the customary construction of ice hockey helmets uses helmet shell halves that slide together front to back. This interaction of the helmet shell halves is the primary adjustment in most helmets.
  • the padding components are typically arranged to complement this action or at least not interfere with the adjustment.
  • the current construction fails to keep the helmet secured on the head.
  • hockey helmets typically do not fit humanoid head forms very well, and poor fit can dangerously compromise the function of the helmet.
  • the invention has been made in view of the above circumstances and to overcome the above problems and limitations of the prior art, and provides a helmet comprising a slow recovery viscoelastic foam with a surface impregnation of silicone to retard moisture absorption.
  • the invention further provides a helmet comprising a shell that dissipates a portion of an impact force dehvered to the helmet and a slow recovery viscoelastic foam that absorbs the remainder of the impact force.
  • a first aspect of the present invention provides a helmet for cushioning a head during a sudden impact, and the helmet comprises a helmet shell, and an energy absorbing protective liner fitted to an interior surface of the helmet shell.
  • the energy absorbing protective liner includes a slow recovery viscoelastic material with surface impregnation of a wate roofing material.
  • the energy absorbing protective liner can be formed from slow recovery viscoelastic polyurethane foam with silicone as the waterproofing material.
  • a second aspect of the present invention provides a helmet for cushioning a head during a sudden impact, and the helmet comprises a helmet shell and a plurality of energy absorbing protective pads arranged on an interior surface of the helmet shell.
  • Each of the energy absorbing protective pads comprises a slow recovery viscoelastic material with surface impregnation of a wate ⁇ roofing material.
  • Each energy absorbing protective pad can be formed from slow recovery viscoelastic polyurethane foam with silicone as the wate ⁇ roofing material.
  • each of the energy absorbing protective pads can be shaped into pads of variable thickness and size.
  • a third aspect of the present invention provides a helmet for cushioning a head during a sudden impact
  • the helmet comprises a helmet shell having a humanoid head shape, with lateral members at least partially disposed around a circumference of the helmet shell.
  • the helmet further includes an energy absorbing protective liner fitted to an interior surface of the helmet shell, comprising a slow recovery viscoelastic material with surface impregnation of a wate ⁇ roofing material.
  • the energy absorbing protective liner can be formed from slow recovery viscoelastic polyurethane foam with silicone as the wate ⁇ roofing material.
  • the helmet shell has a thickness of at least 2 millimeters, and the lateral members are thicker than other portions of the helmet shell.
  • the lateral members disperse an impact force from a point of contact to other portions of the helmet shell.
  • Each of the lateral members is comprised of an upper lateral member and a lower lateral member, and the upper lateral member and the lower lateral member are separated by a lateral channel.
  • the helmet shell also includes a strap attachment member, and the lower lateral member is angled towards the location where the strap attachment member is disposed on the helmet shell.
  • the helmet shell can be manufactured from injection molded plastic, or from pressure molded thermoset resin reinforced with glass fiber, KEVLAR fiber or carbon fiber. The helmet shell disperses at least thirty percent of an impact force applied to the helmet shell.
  • a fourth aspect of the present invention provides a helmet for cushioning a head during a sudden impact
  • the helmet comprises a helmet shell having a humanoid head shape, and lateral members disposed around a circumference of the helmet shell.
  • the helmet further includes a plurality of energy absorbing protective pads arranged on an interior surface of the helmet shell.
  • Each of the energy absorbing protective pads comprises a slow recovery viscoelastic material with surface impregnation of a wate ⁇ roofing material.
  • the energy absorbing protective liner can be formed from slow recovery viscoelastic polyurethane foam with silicone as the wate ⁇ roofing material.
  • each of the energy absorbing protective pads can be shaped into pads of variable thickness and size.
  • FIG. 1 depicts a side view of a helmet according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 depicts a side view of a helmet according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 3 depicts a rear cross sectional view of an energy absorbing protective liner along line HI-III shown in FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 4 depicts a rear view of a helmet according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 depicts a rear view of a helmet according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 depicts a side cross sectional view of an energy absorbing protective liner along fine VI- VI shown in FIG. 4;
  • FIG. 7 depicts a rear cross sectional view of individual energy absorbing protective liner pads along line III-HI shown in FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 8 depicts a rear view of a helmet according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 a side view of a preferred embodiment of the energy-absorbing helmet is illustrated.
  • the helmet 1 comprises a helmet shell 2 and an energy absorbing liner insert 4 having an exterior surface 5 that conforms to the interior surface 3 of the helmet shell 2.
  • the helmet shell 2 itself is comprised of thermoset plastic with reinforcing structures disposed thereon. The reinforcing structures will be described in more detail below.
  • FIG. 3 a sectional view of the energy absorbing liner insert
  • the energy absorbing liner insert 4 is comprised of a foam layer 6 and a silicone layer 7.
  • the silicone layer 7 is bonded to the foam layer 6, and the interior surface 8 formed by the silicone layer 7 is in contact with the athlete's head.
  • FIGS. 4 and 5 a rear view of a preferred embodiment of the energy-absorbing helmet is illustrated. Again, the energy absorbing liner insert 4 is in direct contact with the interior surface 3 of the helmet shell 2.
  • FIG. 6 a side sectional view of the energy absorbing liner is illustrated, and the layering of the silicone layer 7 on the interior of the energy absorbing liner is shown.
  • the silicone layer 7 is bonded to the interior surface of the foam layer 6.
  • the foam layer 6 is viscoelastic polyurethane foam, and more preferably, the viscoelastic polyurethane foam is CONFOR foam.
  • the silicone layer 7 penetrates into the open cell lattice network of the viscoelastic polyurethane foam layer 6.
  • the silicone layer 7 is cured at room temperature, since heating the viscoelastic polyurethane foam layer 6 will degenerate the structure of the viscoelastic polyurethane foam layer 6.
  • a primer coat (not shown) can be applied to the interior surface of the foam layer 6 to enhance the adherence of the silicone layer 7.
  • the silicone layer 7 can be applied as a 1-part compound or as a 2-part compound (or more than 2 parts if that becomes available). Pigment can be added to the silicone layer 7 for cosmetic reasons.
  • the silicone layer 7 can be applied to only one surface or more than one surface of the foam layer 6.
  • silicone layer 7 to a surface of the foam layer 6 prevents airflow through that surface.
  • Application of silicone layer 7 to more than one surface will affect airflow through the foam layer 6 and its compression characteristics.
  • open cell polyurethane foams have a Young's modulus in the order of 20 kilopascals due to the flow of air. Closed cell foam traps air and has a Young's modulus of approximately 100 kilopascals. This is discussed further in N.J. Mills, Micromechanics of Polymeric Foams, which is herein inco ⁇ orated by reference.
  • the application of the silicone layer 7 over parts of the foam layer 6 can be tailored to specifically modify the stress/strain characteristics of the foam layer 6 and enhance its energy abso ⁇ tion characteristics.
  • a full sihcone layer 7 is applied over the surface of the foam layer 6 that will be in contact with the athlete's head.
  • the sihcone layer 7 has multiple functions: (i) it can be tailored to affect airflow through the foam layer 6 and hence affect the energy absorbing characteristics of the foam layer 6, and (ii) it prevents water abso ⁇ tion by the foam layer 6.
  • the foam layer 6 has a microscopic structure similar to that of the sponge and easily absorbs water. Uncoated open cell polyurethane foam can absorbed many times their weight in water.
  • Water absorbed by open cell polyurethane foam adds to the weight of the open cell polyurethane foam.
  • the water typically absorbed by the open cell polyurethane foam is that produced by the athlete during sweating. Any added weight in open cell polyurethane foam padding increases in the inertia of the head during athletic activities and decrease the effectiveness of the head protection. Therefore, to maximize the protectiveness of the energy absorbing liner insert 4, it is important to eliminate the abso ⁇ tion of water.
  • the silicone layer 7 maintains the sanitation of the energy absorbing liner insert 4. Sweating produces water, which is absorbed by uncoated open cell polyurethane foam.
  • Viscoelastic open cell polyurethane foam has a tendency to degenerate with friction. This is commonly seen when using this type of foam for padding in a sports helmet. The friction causes a fine granular layer of foam to wear off from the foam padding, usually ending up in the athlete's hair or on the athlete's skin. Bonding the silicone layer 7 to the surface of the foam layer 6 that will be in contact with the athlete's skin prevents this degeneration.
  • the foam layer 6 is viscoelastic polyurethane foam of variable thickness and size for a helmet to be custom fit by a retailer.
  • the viscoelastic polyurethane foam layer 6 has a unique characteristic in that warming easily deforms it, and thus it conforms to shape of the athlete's head when applied. The application of the silicone layer 7 does not interfere with this characteristic.
  • the thickness and size of the viscoelastic polyurethane foam layer 6 will vary in order to custom size a helmet 1 to each athlete. Within the helmet shell 2, as much viscoelastic polyurethane foam layer 6 as possible be present within the helmet shell 2 in order to maximize the energy abso ⁇ tion in an impact.
  • an athlete could use the same helmet shell 2 with several differently sized energy absorbing liner inserts 4. The size and thickness of each energy absorbing liner inserts 4 would be based on the interior size of the helmet shell 2 and the size of the athlete's head. In the case of a growing young athlete, as the size and shape of the athlete's head changed, a new energy absorbing liner insert 4 could be fitted to the athlete's head, thereby insuring a snug fit for maximum protection.
  • individual pads spaced within the helmet shell 2 can comprise the energy absorbing liner insert 4.
  • the individual pads would be viscoelastic polyurethane foam.
  • the individual pads are arrayed within the helmet shell 2 with minimal distance between them in order to maximize energy abso ⁇ tion.
  • FIG. 7 an embodiment of a helmet shell 2 with multiple helmet pads 4a-4g is illustrated. For the sake of clarity, each of the pads is shown without the silicone layer 7.
  • Each of the helmet pads 4a-4g has a different thickness in order to illustrate how helmet pads of different thickness can be used to achieve a snug fit. For example, the helmet pad 4a is not as thick as the helmet pad 4g.
  • each of these helmet pads would be the same thickness. However, if the helmet shell 2 is loose in that particular region, the thickness of one or more of the hehnet pads can be increased to tighten the fit of the helmet shell 2. Similarly, hehnet pads 4c-4e (in various thicknesses) can be used to adjust the height of the helmet shell 2 with respect to the athlete's head.
  • Thermoset resin is the "glue” that is needed to hold glass fibers together in a composite helmet shell.
  • Thermoset resins are a family of plastics that do not melt, but chemically degrade at high temperatures.
  • Thermoset resins are created by mixing two base materials just like epoxy glues (epoxy glues are thermoset resins).
  • One of the ingredients is a catalyst that, when combined with the other agents and heat during molding, will solidify the mixture locking itself and the glass fibers into a rigid state. In compression molding applications, very little catalyst is used so that the liquid resin remains stable at room temperature; the heat and pressure of the molding operation initiates the chemical reaction to solidify the resin.
  • Thermoset resins by themselves have relatively little strength.
  • thermoset composite material comes primarily from the fibers of glass or other materials that are bonded together by the resin.
  • Plastic materials Kelvlar, PBI
  • PBI Plastic materials
  • Carbon fibers provide both strength and very high rigidity but are electrically conductive and therefore unsuitable for applications requiring high levels of electrical insulation.
  • the third material family, glass fiber provides the best combination of high strength, high stiffness, electrical insulation and cost of any reinforcing material in common use.
  • the challenge in designing an effective composite material is getting the right mix of a good thermoset resin and high content of glass.
  • the performance of the composite is a function of the structural strength and adhesive properties of the resin, the length of the glass fibers and the amount of glass reinforcement in the composite.
  • By increasing the strength of the resin and or the length of the glass fibers it can be possible to reduce the content of glass without sacrificing performance. This may result in a product that is easier to mold and has a better surface appearance.
  • the glass fiber is heavier than the resin so getting the right mix also creates the best potential for a lighter helmet shell.
  • thermoplastic materials become softer and tougher as they get warmer, and harder and more brittle as the temperature goes down. Until relatively recently, it was possible to obtain either great heat resistance or great impact resistance, but not both in the same material.
  • the helmet shell 2 play several vital roles.
  • the helmet shell 2 is typically two to six millimeters thick and is either injection-molded thermoplastic or a pressure molded thermoset resin reinforced with glass fiber, KEVLAR fiber or carbon fiber.
  • the helmet shell 2 is responsible for thirty to forty percent of the impact energy attenuation. The impact energy absorbed by the helmet shell 2 depends upon:
  • the thickness and material used for the helmet shell 2.
  • Thermoplastic shells absorb energy by viscoelastic deformation.
  • Thermoset resin reinforced shells have lower elastic limits and undergo fiber fracture or delamination with impact energy.
  • the helmet shell 2 distributes a localized impact force throughout the surface of the helmet shell 2. This distributed impact force is greatest at the point of impact and the distributed impact force will lessen as the radius from the distributed impact force increases.
  • the energy absorbing liner insert 4 would have to be significantly thicker to provide the same type of protection.
  • the helmet shell 2 protects the upper face, temples and ears from impact, and the helmet shell 2 slides easily on impact surfaces. The sliding of the helmet shell 2 on the impact surfaces decreases the rotational forces of the impact.
  • the helmet shell 2 also supports other safety components, e.g., straps, face masks, etc.
  • the helmet shell 2 is responsible for a significant proportion of the impact energy dissipated by impact on to rigid objects.
  • the stiffness of the helmet shell 2 plays a role in the dissipation of energy from an impact. The greater the stiffness of the helmet shell 2, the greater the dissipation of energy.
  • Thermoplastic helmet shells are less stiff than thermoset resin impregnated fiber helmet shells, and thus, thermoplastic helmet shells also rebound more. Certain types of thin walled helmet shells serve only to prevent the energy absorbing liner from breaking apart during impact (e.g., bicycle helmets).
  • the helmet shell 2 of the present invention has the following design criteria to protect the athlete's head:
  • the helmet shell 2 has sufficient thickness to provide rigidity.
  • the helmet shell 2 is comprised of a material that provides rigidity.
  • the helmet shell 2 absorbs thirty to forty percent of the impact energy.
  • the helmet shell 2 is a unitary structure. Because of the helmet shell's rigidity and strength, the energy from an impact on the helmet shell should be dissipated over the surface of the helmet shell 2 to minimize focused energy being transferred to a focused point on the energy absorbing liner insert 4. The energy not dissipated by the helmet shell's rigid surface is then transferred to the energy absorbing liner insert 4.
  • the side surfaces protecting the areas in front of, behind and slightly above the ear are less round than the top, front, and back surfaces of a sports helmet. These side surfaces are usually less rigid and deform greater with impact.
  • the side surfaces of the helmet shell are manufactured with more rigidity to provide greater impact attenuation. This increase in rigidity is accomplished in several different ways. For hehnet shell 2 constracted of injected thermoplastic, increasing the thickness of the side surfaces thicker provides reinforcement to the side surfaces. For a hehnet shell 2 constructed of reinforced thermoset resin, the side surfaces comprise additional layers of the fiber reinforcement mixed with the thermoset resin. As discussed above, the fiber reinforcement might comprise cloth fiber, glass fiber, KEVLAR fiber, carbon fiber or an equivalent thereof.
  • the completed helmet shell 2 will include at least three layers of fiber reinforcement to maximize impact dissipation.
  • the hehnet shell 2 of the present invention utilizes structures inco ⁇ orated into the helmet shell 2 itself to increase the rigidity and the impact attenuation.
  • a strut 10 is disposed between the strap attachment member 11 and a rear portion of the ear cutout
  • the strut 10 traverses the ear cutout 13 at an angle, and reinforces the strap attachment member 11 for attenuating frontal impacts.
  • the helmet shell Preferably, the helmet shell
  • the 2 further comprises a lateral member 13 that acts as a belt wrapped around a circumference of the helmet shell 2.
  • the lateral member 13 is integral to the helmet shell 2, provides additional structural rigidity,and assists in impact dispersion. In a prefe ⁇ ed embodiment, the lateral member 13 would be included in a unitary helmet shell 2.
  • the lateral member 13 is comprised of at least an upper lateral member 14 and a lower lateral member 15, and a lateral channel 16 separates the upper lateral member 13 from the lower lateral member 14. Together, the upper and lower lateral members 14, 15 serve to absorb a portion of an impact force from the point of contact on the helmet shell 2, and to dissipate the remainder of the impact force to other areas of the helmet shell 2.
  • the energy absorbing liner insert 4 attenuates the remainder of the impact force.
  • the upper and lower lateral members 14, 15 also increase the surface area of the helmet shell 2, which further serves to attenuate the force of an impact.
  • the lateral member 13, the upper later member 14 and the lower lateral member 15 are two to six millimeters thick, although they can be made thicker if desired.
  • the upper and lower lateral members 14, 15 and the lateral channel 16 have angled portions 22, 23, 24 as shown in FIG. 1.
  • the angled portions 22, 24 of upper and lower lateral members 14, 15 and the angled portion 23 of lateral channel 16 are disposed above the strap attachment member 11.
  • the downward angle of the angled portion 24 of the lower lateral member 15 and the angled portion 23 of lateral channel 16 is between thirty and sixty degrees, although the angled portion 24 of the lower lateral member 15 and the angled portion 23 of lateral channel 16 can be disposed at other angles as well.
  • the upper lateral member 14 and the lower lateral member 15 are thicker than other portions of the helmet shell 2. As a non-limiting example, if the upper portion of the helmet shell 2 was 2 millimeters thick, the upper lateral member 14 and the lower lateral member 15 might be five to six millimeters thick. [0059] Referring to FIG.
  • the disposition of the upper and lower lateral members on the rear of the helmet shell 2 is illustrated. Both the upper members 14, 14' and the lower members 15, 15' continue to wrap around the chcumference of the helmet shell 2 to a point at the back of the helmet shell 2.
  • the lateral member 13, 13' from each side of the helmet shell 2 is smoothly contoured into the helmet shell 2 so there are no projections that could possibly injure the helmet wearer or another player.
  • FIG. 8 the disposition of the upper and lower lateral members 14, 14', 15, 15' on the front of the helmet shell 2 is illustrated.
  • the lateral members 13, 13' from each side of the helmet shell 2 continue to wrap around the circumference of the helmet shell 2 and merge together in the front of the helmet shell 2.
  • the lateral member 13, 13' from each side of the helmet shell 2 is smoothly merge together so there are no projections that could possibly injure the helmet wearer or another player.
  • the angled portions 24, 24' of the lower lateral members 15, 15' can be seen in FIG. 8 as well. Vent holes 21 are provided through the lateral member 13, 13' for cooling pu ⁇ oses.

Landscapes

  • Helmets And Other Head Coverings (AREA)

Abstract

On utilise pour un équipement de protection de tête pour sportifs une mousse en polyuréthanne viscoélastique à récupération lente, avec une imprégnation de surface en silicone, couplés à une coque de casque rigide. La coque de casque doit avoir une structure rigide pour pouvoir assurer la dispersion de l'énergie de choc absorbée par la coque du casque. La mousse en polyuréthanne viscoélastique à récupération lente présente des caractéristiques uniques qui permettent de l'utiliser en tant que doublure d'absorption d'énergie pour équipement de protection de tête pour sportifs. La doublure d'absorption d'énergie peut avoir une épaisseur et des tailles différentes, ce qui permet aux revendeurs d'adapter le casque à chaque utilisateur.
PCT/US2003/022501 2002-08-08 2003-08-08 Casque de sport a absorption d'energie Ceased WO2004014168A2 (fr)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA002495016A CA2495016A1 (fr) 2002-08-08 2003-08-08 Casque de sport a absorption d'energie
AU2003254000A AU2003254000A1 (en) 2002-08-08 2003-08-08 Energy absorbing sports helmet
US10/523,819 US20060112477A1 (en) 2002-08-08 2003-08-08 Energy absorbing sports helmet

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US40175802P 2002-08-08 2002-08-08
US60/401,758 2002-08-08
US42906402P 2002-11-26 2002-11-26
US60/429,064 2002-11-26
US47492403P 2003-06-03 2003-06-03
US60/474,924 2003-06-03

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2004014168A2 true WO2004014168A2 (fr) 2004-02-19
WO2004014168A3 WO2004014168A3 (fr) 2004-05-21

Family

ID=31721495

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2003/022501 Ceased WO2004014168A2 (fr) 2002-08-08 2003-08-08 Casque de sport a absorption d'energie

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (1) US20060112477A1 (fr)
AU (1) AU2003254000A1 (fr)
CA (1) CA2495016A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2004014168A2 (fr)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2492574A (en) * 2011-07-06 2013-01-09 Neills Irish Internat Sports Company Ltd O Energy dispersing liner for a helmet
GB2513598B (en) * 2013-04-30 2018-06-06 Albertelli Aldino Protective headwear
US11311060B2 (en) 2014-01-06 2022-04-26 Lisa Ferrara Composite devices and methods for providing protection against traumatic tissue injury

Families Citing this family (48)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2006057858A1 (fr) * 2004-11-22 2006-06-01 Schneider Marc S Bourrage absorbeur d'energie pour applications sportives
US9289024B2 (en) 2007-04-16 2016-03-22 Riddell, Inc. Protective sports helmet
US8529444B2 (en) * 2008-01-25 2013-09-10 Theodore Hale Flexible surgical retractor
KR100897434B1 (ko) * 2008-10-15 2009-05-25 주식회사 나노텍세라믹스 경량 헬멧쉘
JP5572884B2 (ja) * 2009-02-20 2014-08-20 ゼット株式会社 身体防護具
DE202009014052U1 (de) * 2009-10-09 2009-12-24 Salzenbrodt Gmbh & Co. Kg Einlegesohle
US9226539B2 (en) 2010-07-13 2016-01-05 Sport Maska Inc. Helmet with rigid shell and adjustable liner
USD838922S1 (en) 2011-05-02 2019-01-22 Riddell, Inc. Football helmet
USD681281S1 (en) 2011-05-02 2013-04-30 Riddell, Inc. Protective sports helmet
US20140090155A1 (en) * 2011-05-05 2014-04-03 James Michael Johnston Systems and methods for attenuating rotational acceleration of the head
USD670868S1 (en) 2011-05-09 2012-11-13 A7 Helmet Systems, Llc Helmet padding
USD670869S1 (en) 2011-05-09 2012-11-13 A7 Helmet Systems, Llc Helmet padding
USD670870S1 (en) 2011-05-09 2012-11-13 A7 Helmet Systems, Llc Helmet padding
US9032558B2 (en) 2011-05-23 2015-05-19 Lionhead Helmet Intellectual Properties, Lp Helmet system
USD666779S1 (en) 2011-06-15 2012-09-04 A7 Helmet Systems, Llc Helmet padding
CA2761122C (fr) * 2011-07-27 2021-08-03 Bauer Hockey Corp. Casque de sport
US20130237890A1 (en) * 2011-09-03 2013-09-12 Casey A. Dennis Migraine headache mitigation
US9763488B2 (en) 2011-09-09 2017-09-19 Riddell, Inc. Protective sports helmet
US9585433B1 (en) * 2012-05-02 2017-03-07 Rawlings Sporting Goods Company, Inc. Fiber reinforced helmet
US11464271B2 (en) * 2012-05-14 2022-10-11 William A. Jacob Energy dissipating helmet
WO2014081363A1 (fr) * 2012-11-23 2014-05-30 Poc Sweden Ab Dispositif de protection pour casque
US10159296B2 (en) 2013-01-18 2018-12-25 Riddell, Inc. System and method for custom forming a protective helmet for a customer's head
US9656148B2 (en) 2013-02-12 2017-05-23 Riddell, Inc. Football helmet with recessed face guard mounting areas
ES1079209Y (es) * 2013-02-27 2013-08-09 Moya Jose Antonio Rodriguez Casco protector de interior visible
JP2016539253A (ja) 2013-12-06 2016-12-15 ベル スポーツ， インコーポレイテッド 可撓性多層ヘルメット及びその作製方法
USD752822S1 (en) 2014-02-12 2016-03-29 Riddell, Inc. Football helmet
CN107635425B (zh) * 2015-05-19 2021-01-22 毛里西奥·帕兰赫斯·托雷斯 头颅保护单元中引入的改进
US12250980B2 (en) 2015-12-18 2025-03-18 Matscitechno Licensing Company Apparatuses, systems and methods for equipment for protecting the human body by absorbing and dissipating forces imparted to the body
US11864599B2 (en) 2015-12-18 2024-01-09 Matscitechno Licensing Company Apparatuses, systems and methods for equipment for protecting the human body by absorbing and dissipating forces imparted to the body
US10973272B2 (en) * 2016-01-08 2021-04-13 Vpg Acquisitionco, Llc Laterally supported filaments
EP3435801A4 (fr) * 2016-03-30 2019-11-13 Unequal Technologies Company Matériau amortissant les vibrations
US11033796B2 (en) 2016-07-20 2021-06-15 Riddell, Inc. System and methods for designing and manufacturing a bespoke protective sports helmet
US10499700B2 (en) 2016-12-30 2019-12-10 Zam Helmets Inc. Helmet with flexible structure for improved force attenuation
JP2019157311A (ja) * 2018-03-15 2019-09-19 株式会社オージーケーカブト ヘルメット
WO2020037279A1 (fr) 2018-08-16 2020-02-20 Riddell, Inc. Système et procédé de conception et de fabrication d'un casque de protection
CA3169309A1 (fr) 2018-11-21 2020-05-28 Riddell, Inc. Casque de sport recreatif de protection avec des composants fabriques de facon additive pour gerer des forces d'impact
USD927084S1 (en) 2018-11-22 2021-08-03 Riddell, Inc. Pad member of an internal padding assembly of a protective sports helmet
US20200305537A1 (en) * 2019-03-29 2020-10-01 100% Speedlab, Llc Helmet assembly with eyewear and air deflector systems and methods
US10869520B1 (en) 2019-11-07 2020-12-22 Lionhead Helmet Intellectual Properties, Lp Helmet
WO2021127445A1 (fr) * 2019-12-18 2021-06-24 Gentex Corporation Conversion auxétique de mousse pour une atténuation d'impact
US11259587B2 (en) 2020-03-27 2022-03-01 William Baker Force distribution helmet
CN115835794A (zh) * 2020-05-04 2023-03-21 阿努帕马·塞西 双重头盔
US12414597B2 (en) 2021-05-28 2025-09-16 Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. Bicycle helmet with modular impact absorbing structures
US11547166B1 (en) 2022-02-11 2023-01-10 Lionhead Helmet Intellectual Properties, Lp Helmet
US20240114987A1 (en) * 2022-10-11 2024-04-11 Dacy Pro Limited Energy absorbing materials, head protective gear comprising the same and method for fabricating thereof
US11641904B1 (en) 2022-11-09 2023-05-09 Lionhead Helmet Intellectual Properties, Lp Helmet
US20250212984A1 (en) * 2023-12-28 2025-07-03 Force3 Pro Gear Protective Sports And Safety Equipment And Foam Used With The Protective Equipment
US12121095B1 (en) 2024-04-24 2024-10-22 Lionhead Helmet Intellectual Properties, Lp Helmet

Family Cites Families (22)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2785404A (en) * 1954-03-05 1957-03-19 Macgregor Sport Products Inc Protective helmet
US3366971A (en) * 1965-10-24 1968-02-06 Louis Scherz Liner laminate and helmet liner formed therefrom
US3462763A (en) * 1967-10-03 1969-08-26 Richard C Schneider Impact absorbing protective headgear
US3783450A (en) * 1973-02-05 1974-01-08 Connor W O Hockey helmet
US3946441A (en) * 1973-03-19 1976-03-30 Johnson John R Safety helmet
GB1553936A (en) * 1976-06-04 1979-10-17 Renault Protective helmet
US4027339A (en) * 1976-06-17 1977-06-07 Brucker Ben B Hockey glove with improved palm construction
SE450620B (sv) * 1982-11-01 1987-07-13 Frosta Fritid Ab Skyddshjelm med storleksjustering, spec for ishockey- och bandyspelare
US4808469A (en) * 1985-05-09 1989-02-28 Maurice Hiles Energy absorbing polyurethane composite article
US4766610A (en) * 1987-01-22 1988-08-30 Varo, Inc. Replaceable cushion liner for military headgear
US5088130A (en) * 1990-02-06 1992-02-18 Chiarella Michele A Protective helmet having internal reinforcing infrastructure
US5544367A (en) * 1994-09-01 1996-08-13 March, Ii; Richard W. Flexible helmet
US6025067A (en) * 1995-03-08 2000-02-15 Fay; John Nicholas Soft elastomeric composite composition
US5713082A (en) * 1996-03-13 1998-02-03 A.V.E. Sports helmet
US6298497B1 (en) * 1996-11-29 2001-10-09 Bauer Nike Hockey, Inc. Hockey helmet with self-adjusting padding
US5946734A (en) * 1997-04-15 1999-09-07 Vogan; Richard B. Head protector apparatus
US5950244A (en) * 1998-01-23 1999-09-14 Sport Maska Inc. Protective device for impact management
AU5909299A (en) * 1998-09-03 2000-03-27 Mike Dennis Body-contact cushioning interface structure
WO2000033689A1 (fr) * 1998-12-07 2000-06-15 Catalin Obreja Casque de protection
CA2290324C (fr) * 1999-11-24 2005-05-24 Bauer Nike Hockey Inc. Casque protecteur ajustable
CA2321399C (fr) * 2000-09-28 2005-07-26 Bauer Nike Hockey Inc. Casque protecteur avec rembourrage reglable
US6536052B2 (en) * 2000-12-04 2003-03-25 Lucky Bell Plastic Factory Ltd. Safety helmets with cellular textile composite structure as energy absorber

Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2492574A (en) * 2011-07-06 2013-01-09 Neills Irish Internat Sports Company Ltd O Energy dispersing liner for a helmet
GB2492574B (en) * 2011-07-06 2013-05-22 Neills Irish Internat Sports Company Ltd O Improvements in and relating to an energy dispersing liner for a helmet
GB2513598B (en) * 2013-04-30 2018-06-06 Albertelli Aldino Protective headwear
US11122848B2 (en) 2013-04-30 2021-09-21 Aldino Albertelli Protective headwear
US11311060B2 (en) 2014-01-06 2022-04-26 Lisa Ferrara Composite devices and methods for providing protection against traumatic tissue injury

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2495016A1 (fr) 2004-02-19
AU2003254000A8 (en) 2004-02-25
WO2004014168A3 (fr) 2004-05-21
US20060112477A1 (en) 2006-06-01
AU2003254000A1 (en) 2004-02-25

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20060112477A1 (en) Energy absorbing sports helmet
US11033797B2 (en) Football helmet having improved impact absorption
US7341776B1 (en) Protective foam with skin
US11324273B2 (en) Omnidirectional energy management systems and methods
US10736372B2 (en) Impact attenuation system for a protective helmet
US9603408B2 (en) Football helmet having improved impact absorption
US10542788B2 (en) Football helmet having three energy absorbing layers
US10980306B2 (en) Helmet omnidirectional energy management systems
US7832023B2 (en) Protective headgear with improved shell construction
US5713082A (en) Sports helmet
US20200253314A1 (en) Omnidirectional energy management systems and methods
US8069498B2 (en) Protective arrangement
US6453476B1 (en) Protective helmet
US8524338B2 (en) Impact energy attenuation system
US11766085B2 (en) Omnidirectional energy management systems and methods
JP6180511B2 (ja) 雪及びスキー用保護ヘルメット
US20250280914A1 (en) Omnidirectional energy management systems and methods
US20160278467A1 (en) Safety Helmet
US12329230B2 (en) Sport helmet
US20190166947A1 (en) Athletic gear or other devices comprising pads or other cushioning components
EP3787431B1 (fr) Systèmes et procédés de gestion d'énergie omnidirectionnelle
CA2260549A1 (fr) Casque protecteur
CN121218900A (zh) 头盔

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): AE AG AL AM AT AU AZ BA BB BG BR BY BZ CA CH CN CO CR CU CZ DE DK DM DZ EC EE ES FI GB GD GE GH GM HR HU ID IL IN IS JP KE KG KP KR KZ LC LK LR LS LT LU LV MA MD MG MK MN MW MX MZ NI NO NZ OM PG PH PL PT RO RU SC SD SE SG SK SL SY TJ TM TN TR TT TZ UA UG US UZ VC VN YU ZA ZM ZW

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): GH GM KE LS MW MZ SD SL SZ TZ UG ZM ZW AM AZ BY KG KZ MD RU TJ TM AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT LU MC NL PT RO SE SI SK TR BF BJ CF CG CI CM GA GN GQ GW ML MR NE SN TD TG

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2495016

Country of ref document: CA

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2006112477

Country of ref document: US

Kind code of ref document: A1

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 10523819

Country of ref document: US

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase
WWP Wipo information: published in national office

Ref document number: 10523819

Country of ref document: US

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: JP

WWW Wipo information: withdrawn in national office

Country of ref document: JP