Abstract: A multi-sectional helmet for reducing the impact of force sustained in sporting, construction, military, motorized vehicle, and other activities where the impact of force applied to the head must be mitigated. Planar compression springs between helmet sections generate gaps between sections for distribution of force from external impact as springs compress and bend radially, permitting movement of sectional parts toward and away from one another. The number of springs and spring parameters as well as the number and arrangement of helmet sections may be modulated to optimize the distribution of force. The ends of compression springs are anchored to adjacent helmet sections, and material extending from one helmet section and overlapping the adjacent helmet section prevents exposure of the interior of the helmet to the elements.

Abstract: A protective helmet using sectional parts connected by series of planar springs to disperse applied force and reduce localized impact from contact events. The planar compression springs contract and release when the helmet is struck by an external object. The helmet may improve safety and reduce injury for sporting, industrial, or military wearers.

Abstract: A valve (1, 2) of the kind that is caused to open and close in consequence of the opening and closing of a bleed orifice (15) by a movable pilot valve element (3, 4, 5), characterised in that said element (3, 4, 5) is displaced from sealing relationship with the orifice (15) by a torque resulting from a force applied (7, 9) to the element (3, 4, 5) along a line of action which does not extend through the orifice (15). Another embodiment of the pilot valve element consists of a cylindrical magnet housed in an elastometric tire actuated by a permanent magnet of electromagnet (FIGS. 5-8). Actuators of the torque causing force include a solenoid (FIGS. 1-2), float (FIG. 3), and fluid pressure (FIG. 4).