HELMET PADDING SYSTEM

Abstract

Helmet padding systems and apparatuses are disclosed. A helmet padding system includes a helmet shell, a spacing pad, and a plurality of absorption pads. The helmet shell is configured to be positioned on a user's head. The spacing pad is coupled to an interior of the helmet shell. The spacing pad includes a layer of elastomeric material. The spacing pad comprises a central portion coupled to a central region of the helmet shell and a plurality of extending portions projecting outward from the central portion. The absorption pads are coupled to the spacing pad. The absorption pads comprise a first absorption pad coupled to the central portion of the spacing pad and remaining absorption pads coupled to ends of the extending portions of the spacing pad. The padding apparatus includes a spacing pad and a plurality of absorption pads configured to be coupled to an interior of a helmet.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 61/699,944, filed Sep. 12, 2012, entitled “HELMET PADDING SYSTEM”, and U.S. Patent Application No. 61/706,922, filed Sep. 28, 2012, entitled “PROTECTIVE HEADGEAR SYSTEMS,” the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to the field of protective headgear, and more particularly, to impact-resistant padding for protective headgear.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventionally, participants in “contact” sports (e.g., wrestling, football, rugby) wear protective headgear to cushion the force of impacts that are regularly received during those events. In recent years, the negative health effects of the impacts to the head experienced during such contact sports have been a matter of focus. These negative health effects can be diminished or minimized by effectively cushioning participants from the forces of impacts. Accordingly, improved structures, such as impact-resistant headgear, are desired to lessen the impact forces experienced by those participants.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the present invention are directed to helmet padding systems, protective headgear systems, and related apparatuses.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a helmet padding system is disclosed. The system includes a helmet shell, a spacing pad, and a plurality of absorption pads. The helmet shell is configured to be positioned on the head of a user. The spacing pad is coupled to an interior of the helmet shell. The spacing pad includes a layer of elastomeric material. The spacing pad comprises a central portion coupled to a central region of the interior of the helmet shell and a plurality of extending portions projecting outward from the central portion. The plurality of absorption pads are coupled to the spacing pad. The plurality of absorption pads comprise a first absorption pad coupled to the central portion of the spacing pad and remaining absorption pads coupled to ends of the extending portions of the spacing pad.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a padding apparatus for use with a helmet is disclosed. The apparatus includes a spacing pad and a plurality of absorption pads. The spacing pad is configured to be coupled to an interior of the helmet. The spacing pad includes a layer of elastomeric material. The spacing pad comprises a central portion and a plurality of extending portions projecting outward from the central portion. The plurality of absorption pads are coupled to the spacing pad. The plurality of absorption pads comprise a first absorption pad coupled to the central portion of the spacing pad and remaining absorption pads coupled to ends of the extending portions of the spacing pad.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a protective headgear system is disclosed. The protective headgear system includes an impact-resistant pad and a helmet. The impact-resistant pad comprises a top portion configured to be positioned covering a top of a user's head, and first and second side portions extending downward from the top portion. The helmet is unconnected to the impact-resistant pad. The helmet is configured to be positioned overtop of the impact-resistant pad when the impact-resistant pad is positioned on the user's head.

In accordance with still another aspect of the present invention, an impact-resistant pad for a protective headgear system is disclosed. The impact-resistant pad includes a top portion configured to be positioned covering a top of a user's head, and first and second side portions extending downward from the top portion. The impact-resistant pad is unconnected to any supporting structure, and is configured to be worn under a helmet.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a helmet padding system is disclosed. The system includes a helmet shell, a spacing pad, and a deflection layer. The helmet shell is configured to be positioned on the head of a user. The spacing pad includes a layer of elastomeric material. The spacing pad comprises a central portion and a plurality of extending portions projecting outward from the central portion.

The deflection layer is positioned between the helmet shell and the spacing pad. The deflection layer is less flexible than the spacing pad. The system may also include a plurality of absorption pads and/or a deformation layer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is best understood from the following detailed description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings, with like elements having the same reference numerals. When a plurality of similar elements are present, a single reference numeral may be assigned to the plurality of similar elements with a small letter designation referring to specific elements. When referring to the elements collectively or to a non-specific one or more of the elements, the small letter designation may be dropped. According to common practice, the various features of the drawings are not drawn to scale unless otherwise indicated. To the contrary, the dimensions of the various features may be expanded or reduced for clarity. Included in the drawings are the following figures:

FIG. 1 is an image illustrating an exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an image illustrating an exemplary helmet shell of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an image illustrating exemplary absorption pads of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an image illustrating an exemplary spacing pad of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is an image of the exemplary spacing pad of FIG. 4 in a helmet shell;

FIG. 6 is an image illustrating another exemplary spacing pad of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is an image of the exemplary spacing pad of FIG. 6 in a helmet shell;

FIG. 8 is an image illustrating yet another exemplary spacing pad of the helmet padding system of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 9A-9D are images illustrating an exemplary impact-resistant pad in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 10A-10C are images illustrating an exemplary protective headgear system in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is an image illustrating another exemplary protective headgear system in accordance with aspects of the present invention; and

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating another exemplary helmet padding system in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments of the invention described herein relate to helmet padding and protective headgear systems that incorporate impact-resistant pads beneath a user's helmet to cushion impacts on the helmet from the user's head. As used herein, the term “helmet” is not intended to be limited, but is meant to encompass any headgear worn for protection during an activity in which an impact to the head may occur. Additionally, as used herein, the term “impact-resistant” is intended to encompass any object that partially or fully lessens, diminishes, dissipates, deflects, or absorbs the mechanical force of an impact.

The exemplary systems and apparatus disclosed herein are configured to lessen the force of an impact on the user's head. This makes them particularly suitable for use by participants in athletic activities, and particularly suitable for participants in traditional “contact” sports, such as wrestling, American football, or rugby, where high-force impacts may be commonly experienced. While the exemplary embodiments of the invention are described herein with respect to athletic activities, it will be understood that the invention is not so limited. Suitable applications for the systems and apparatus of the present invention include, for example, military helmets or construction helmets. Other suitable applications will be readily understood by one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary helmet padding system 100 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Helmet padding system 100 may be worn by a user during an athletic activity. As a general overview, system 100 includes a helmet shell 110, a spacing pad 130, and a plurality of absorption pads 150. Additional details of system 100 are described herein.

Helmet shell 110 is configured to be positioned on a user's head. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, helmet shell 110 completely encloses the upper portion of the user's head. This may be desirable in order to ensure any impacts to the user's head are absorbed by helmet padding system 100. Helmet shell 110 may include one or more straps 112 for securing helmet shell 110 to the user's head. The size of helmet shell 110 is selected such that helmet shell 110 can accommodate the remaining components of system 100 while still being securely positioned on the user's head. Where helmet shell 110 is a conventional helmet shell, it will be understood that helmet shell 110 may include its own integral, connected foam pads in addition to the pads described with respect to system 100. It will be understood that the pads described with respect to system 100 may be pads provided in addition to the pads provided in conventional helmet shells 110. Suitable helmet shells 110 for use with the present invention will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.

Spacing pad 130 is positioned within the interior of helmet shell 110. As shown in FIGS. 4-8, spacing pad 130 comprises a central portion 132 and a plurality of extending portions 134 projecting outward from the central portion. Spacing pad 130 may or may not be coupled to the interior of helmet shell 110. When spacing pad 130 is coupled to helmet shell 110, central portion 132 is coupled to a central region of the interior of helmet shell 110, such that extending portions 134 project toward the peripheral edges of helmet shell 110.

Spacing pad 130 is formed from impact-resistant materials. For example, spacing pad 130 may include a layer of elastomeric material. The elastomeric material may provide impact-resistance by absorbing and dissipating the force of impacts laterally along the surface of the elastomeric material. In one exemplary embodiment, spacing pad 130 consists of only a single layer of elastomeric material. In another exemplary embodiment, spacing pad 130 comprises two or more layers of elastomeric material. Spacing pad 130 may include the layers of elastomeric material directly adjacent each other, or in a more preferred embodiment, may include a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material between the layers of elastomeric material.

Suitable materials for forming the elastomeric layer(s) include, but are not limited to, urethane rubbers, silicone rubbers, nitrile rubbers, butyl rubbers, acrylic rubbers, natural rubbers, styrene-butadiene rubbers, and the like. In general, any suitable elastomer material can be used to form the above-described elastomeric layers without departing from the scope of the present invention. Suitable materials for forming the layer of high tensile strength fibrous material include, but are not limited to, aramid fibers, fiberglass, or other high tensile strength fibers. The fibers may be woven to form a cloth layer that is disposed between and generally separates the opposing elastomeric layers. The high tensile strength fibrous material layer may desirably block and redirect impact energy that passes through one of the elastomeric layers. Additional description of materials for forming spacing pad 130 may be found in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/331,004, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

As shown in FIG. 4, spacing pad 130 may comprise an array of raised portions 131 formed on a surface thereof. Raised portions 131 may have a rectangular shape, as shown in FIG. 4. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that other shapes may be chosen. For example, raised portions 131 may have a square shape or a diamond shape. Raised portions 130 desirably enable air circulation across spacing pad 130 and concentrate the load from an impact on spacing pad 130. An array of raised portions 131 having a diamond shape may be particular desirable, as these raised portions 131 may enable greater flexibility of spacing pad 130.

As set forth above, spacing pad 130 may or may not be coupled to the interior helmet shell 110. When spacing pad 130 is coupled to the interior of helmet shell 110, such coupling may be effected, for example, using adhesive. It may be desirable that the surface of spacing pad 130, including the entire lengths of extending portions 134, be adhered to the interior of helmet shell 110. The lengths of extending portions 134 may be limited, to prevent separation of extending portions 134 from helmet shell 110 during an impact that deforms helmet shell 110.

Absorption pads 150 may be coupled to spacing pad 130. As shown in FIG. 3, the plurality of absorption pads 150 includes a first large absorption pad 152 and a number of remaining absorption pads 154. As shown in FIG. 1, absorption pad 152 is configured to be coupled to the central portion of spacing pad 130, and absorption pads 154 are configured to be coupled to the ends of the extending portions of spacing pad 130.

Absorption pads 150 are desirably shaped such that they do not directly contact helmet shell 110 when spacing pad 130 is coupled to helmet shell 110. Absorption pads 150 may be insulated from helmet shell 110 by the ends of spacing pad 130, and/or may be formed with a preferential curve, in order to create a gap between the outer surfaces of pads 150 and the interior of helmet shell 110. Suitable materials for use in forming absorption pads 150 include, for example, conventional closed or open-cell foams, elastomeric and/or polymer materials. Other materials will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.

FIGS. 4-8 show different embodiments of spacing pads 130a, 130b, 130c for use with the present invention. Each spacing pad 130a, 130b, 130c includes a respective central portion 132a, 132b, 132c, and a respective plurality of extending portions 134a, 134b, 134c. Features of these extending portions 134 will be described herein. It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that any of the features described herein with respect to one embodiment of spacing pad 130 may be provided in any of the other embodiments.

As shown in FIGS. 4-8, extending portions 134 project outward at regular intervals from their respective central portions 132. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the regular intervals may be approximately every 45°. As shown in FIG. 8, the regular intervals may be approximately every 90°.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, extending portions 134b of spacing pad 130b have end portions 136b. End portions 136b have a width greater than the width of the remainder of the respective extending portion 134b. The wider end portions 136b of spacing pad 130b may be desirable in order to provide a large base for absorption pads 150. The wide end portions 136b may be made sufficiently wide that the end portions 136b of adjacent extending portions 134b overlap with each other when spacing pad 130b is positioned within the helmet shell.

Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, spacing pad 130b may be contained in a liner 137. Liner 137 may be configured to surround spacing pad 130b in order to provide a comfortable contact between the user and spacing pad 130b.

As shown in FIG. 8, extending portions 134c may be arranged axially symmetrically relative to central portion 132c. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 4, extending portions 134a may be arranged axially asymmetrically. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 4, extending portions 134a may have varying lengths projecting from central portion 132a.

The shapes and sizes of extending portions 134a, 134b, 134c may also be dependent on the configuration of helmet shell 110, as set forth below.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the varying lengths of extending portions 134 may be selected to correspond to a peripheral contour of helmet shell 110. In other words, if the periphery of the helmet shell 110 has a varying contour, the lengths of extending portions 134 may be selected such that, when spacing pad 130 is coupled to helmet shell 110, the end of each extending portion 134 projects to within a specified distance of the periphery of helmet shell 110. In an exemplary embodiment, extending portions 134 project to within 0.125-2.0 inches of the periphery of helmet shell 110.

Helmet shell 110 may include features that would interfere with the path of extending portions 134. Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, extending portions 134b may be shaped to avoid interfering features in helmet shell 110, i.e., by changing direction. As shown in FIG. 6, at least one of the extending portions 134b may have a first portion 138 extending in a first direction and a second portion 139 extending from the first portion 138 in a second direction different from the first direction. This may desirably ensure that the entire length of extending portion 134b is adhered to the interior of helmet shell 110.

The width and number of extending portions 134 may be selected based on the circumference and size of helmet shell 110. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, spacing pad 130 may include a relatively large number of thin extending portions 134. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 8, spacing pad 130 may include a relatively small number of thick extending portions 134. In an exemplary embodiment, extending portions 134 have a width of approximately 1″ to approximately 4″.

It will be understood that the number, shape, and size of extending portions 134 in FIGS. 4-8 is shown merely for the purposes of illustration, and is not intended to be limiting. Spacing pads 130 having different numbers of extending portions 134 or differently shaped and sized extending portions 134 may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.

FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate an exemplary impact-resistant pad 200 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Impact-resistant pad 200 may be worn by a user as part of a protective headgear system during an athletic activity, such as a wrestling match. As a general overview, impact-resistant pad 200 includes a top portion 220 and side portions 240 and 250. Additional details of impact-resistant pad 200 are described herein.

Top portion 220 is configured to be positioned covering a top of the user's head. As shown in FIGS. 9A-9D top portion 220 may be approximately circular, and is sized to cover substantially the entire top of the user's head. In an exemplary embodiment, top portion 220 includes a plurality of openings 222. Openings 222 desirably provide ventilation to the user's head during use of impact-resistant pad 200. As shown in FIG. 9D, openings 222 are formed around the periphery of top portion 220.

Side portions 240 and 250 extend downward from top portion 220. As used herein, the term “side portion” is not intended to mean that portions 240 and 250 are on the “side” of the user's head (as opposed to the front or back). To the contrary, portions 240 and 250 may be located on any side of the user's head. As shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C side portions 240 and 250 cover a front portion and a back portion of the user's head, respectively. As further illustrated in FIG. 9A, back portion 250 extends a greater distance from top portion 220 than front portion 240. This may be desirable in order to provide greater protection to the back of the user's head, and to prevent obstructing the user's view.

Side portions 240 and 250 are not directly connected to each other, as shown in FIG. 9A. In particular, a circumferential gap 260 is formed between side portions 240 and 250. This may be particularly desirable so that impact-resistant pad 200 may be worn by users of different head sizes. For example, when a user has a relatively small head, the gap 260 will be relatively narrow, and side portions 240 and 250 will sit close to each other (or possibly in contact with each other) when placed on the user's head. However, when a user has a relatively large head, the gap 260 will be relatively large, and side portions 240 and 250 will sit far from each other when placed on the user's head.

It will be understood that the number, shape, and size of side portions 240 and 250 in FIGS. 9A-9D is shown merely for the purposes of illustration, and is not intended to be limiting. Side portions 240 and 250 in different numbers or having different shapes or sizes may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein. Impact-resistant pad 200 is formed from substantially the same materials described above with respect to spacing pad 130.

Impact-resistant pad 200 is unconnected to any supporting structure. As will be discussed in further detail herein, impact-resistant pad 200 is configured to be worn under a helmet. To this end, impact-resistant pad 200 is desirably thin. In an exemplary embodiment, impact-resistant pad 200 has a thickness of no greater than approximately 23 mm, and even more preferably, a thickness of no greater than approximately 3 mm. The thickness of impact-resistant pad 200 may be selected based on a number of factors, including for example the type of helmet, the desired level of impact protection, and the type of material encasing the pad (such as moisture-wicking, moisture-absorbent, cloth, or neoprene).

FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate an exemplary protective headgear system 300 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Protective headgear system 300 may be worn by a user during an athletic activity, such as a wrestling match. As a general overview, protective headgear system 300 includes an impact-resistant pad 320 and a helmet 340. Additional details of protective headgear system 300 are described herein.

Impact-resistant pad 320 is formed from materials designed to dissipate the force of impacts on the user's head. In an exemplary embodiment, impact-resistant pad 320 is an impact-resistant pad substantially as described above with respect to impact-resistant pad 200. In particular, impact-resistant pad 320 includes a top portion 322 configured to be positioned covering a top of the user's head, and side portions 324 and 325 extending downward from top portion 322. Side portions 324 and 325 are not directly connected to each other, and define a circumferential gap (not shown) therebetween.

Helmet 340 is configured to be positioned on a user's head overtop of impact-resistant pad 320. Helmet 340 is unconnected to impact-resistant pad 320. When helmet 340 is positioned overtop of impact-resistant pad 320, helmet 340 covers the circumferential portions of impact-resistant pad 320. In an exemplary embodiment, helmet 340 comprises conventional wrestling headgear, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10C. Helmet 340 includes a plurality of straps 342 for securing helmet 340 to the user's head. Straps 342 extend over top portion 322 of impact-resistant pad 320. Impact-resistant pad 320 may include guide portions (not shown) for receiving and properly positioning straps 342 of helmet 340.

It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that helmet 340 is not limited to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A-10C FIG. 11 illustrates another exemplary protective headgear system 400 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. As a general overview, protective headgear system 400 includes an impact-resistant pad 420 and a helmet shell 440, as shown in FIG. 11. Helmet shell 440 is configured to completely cover the user's head. This may be desirable in order to provide an additional layer of impact-resistance on top of impact-resistant pad 420. The size of helmet shell 440 is selected such that helmet 440 can accommodate impact-resistant pad 420 therein while still being securely positioned on the user's head. In an exemplary embodiment, helmet shell 440 is a helmet shell substantially as described with respect to helmet shell 110. Suitable helmet shells 440 for use with the present invention will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary helmet padding system 500 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. FIG. 12 shows an exploded cross-sectional diagram of helmet padding system 500 through a central portion thereof. Helmet padding system 500 may also be worn by a user during an athletic activity. As a general overview, system 500 includes a helmet shell 510, a spacing pad 530, and a deflection layer 570. Additional details of system 500 are described herein.

Helmet shell 510 is configured to be positioned on a user's head. Helmet shell 510 may be a helmet shell substantially as described with respect to helmet shell 110, or may be a helmet substantially as described above with respect to helmet 340. The size of helmet shell 510 is selected such that helmet shell 510 can accommodate the remaining components of system 500 while still be securely positioned on the user's head.

Spacing pad 530 is positioned within the interior of helmet shell 510. Spacing pad 530 may be a spacing pad substantially as described with respect to spacing pad 130. Alternatively, spacing pad 530 may be an impact-resistant pad substantially as described above with respect to impact-resistant pad 200. Likewise, spacing pad 530 may be formed from any of the materials set forth above with respect to spacing pad 130 or impact-resistant pad 200, and may take any of the shapes described above with respect to spacing pad 130 and/or impact-resistant pad 200. Alternatively, spacing pad 530 may have any other shape suitable for covering a space between the user's head and the helmet shell 510. Spacing pad 530 may also comprise an array of raised portions 531 formed on a surface thereof, as described above with respect to raised portions 131.

Spacing pad 530 is not adapted to be coupled to the interior of helmet shell 510. In other words, spacing pad 530 remains unconnected to helmet shell 510 (or from any other component that is connected to helmet shell 510, e.g., conventional helmet padding provided with helmet shell 510). This enables relative movement between spacing pad 530 and helmet shell 510, which may be important to assist in dissipation of the force from impacts, as explained in further detail below with respect to deflection layer 570.

Helmet padding system 500 may include a plurality of absorption pads 550 coupled to spacing pad 530. Absorption pads 550 may be substantially the same as those described above with respect to absorption pads 150.

Deflection layer 570 is positioned between helmet shell 510 and spacing pad 530. Deflection layer 570 is formed from a material that is less flexible (i.e. stiffer) than spacing pad 530. This enables the hard surface of deflection layer 570 to deflect a portion of the force from impacts along a surface thereof, rather than transmitting that force through deflection layer 570 to spacing pad 530. In other words, it assists in converting forces from impacts into tangential forces (which propagate along the surface) as opposed to normal forces (which propagate through the surface to the user's head). In an exemplary embodiment, deflection layer 570 comprises a sheet of polycarbonate material. Deflection layer 570 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of spacing pad 530, such that the deflection layer 570 completely covers the space between spacing pad 530 and helmet shell 510.

Deflection layer 570 is also not coupled to the interior of helmet shell 510. This creates a “slip plane” between deflection layer 570 and helmet shell 510, and enables relative movement between the two components. Put another way, this allows independent movement of the user's head (with which spacing pad 530 and deflection layer 570 are in contact) and helmet shell 510.

Helmet padding system 500 may also include a plurality of deflection plates 580. Deflection plates 580 may be coupled to the interior of helmet shell 510 in positions such that they slidably abut deflection layer 570. Deflection plates 580 may be coupled to helmet shell 510, e.g., with an adhesive. Deflection plates 580 are formed from the same materials as deflection layer 570. The use of deflection plates 580 coupled to helmet shell 510 may further promote a sliding interface between deflection layer 570 and helmet shell 510, and thereby promote deflecting the force of impacts in a tangential direction along deflection layer 570, rather than through deflection layer 570 to spacing pad 530.

Helmet padding system 500 may also include a deformation layer 590. Deformation layer 590 may be positioned between deflection layer 570 and spacing pad 530. Deformation layer 590 is configured to deform upon experiencing the force from an impact. Deformation layer 590 may undergo elastic (i.e. reversible) or plastic (i.e. irreversible) deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, deformation layer 590 comprises a sheet of corrugated plastic material configured to undergo plastic deformation. As shown in FIG. 12, the sheet of corrugated plastic material may comprise a pair of plastic surface layers separated by a plurality of plastic ridges defining air gaps therebetween. Like deflection layer 570, deformation layer 590 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of spacing pad 530, such that the deformation layer 590 completely covers the space between spacing pad 530 and deflection layer 570.

Deformation layer 590 may undergo plastic deformation, for example, by crumpling, bending, fracturing, or other irreversible changes. Accordingly, deformation layer 590 may need to be periodically replaced following impacts to helmet padding system 500, where such impacts are sufficient to cause significant plastic deformation of deformation layer 590.

The above components of helmet padding system 500 may be contained in a liner (not shown). In particular, a liner may be configured to surround and contain spacing pad 530, deflection layer 570, and deformation layer 590, to maintain their relative positioning and arrangement. The liner may be formed, for example, from a cloth or nylon material to provide a comfortable contact between the user and the components of helmet padding system 500.

Although the invention is illustrated and described herein with reference to specific embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details shown. Rather, various modifications may be made in the details within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims and without departing from the invention.

Claims

1. A helmet padding system comprising:

a helmet shell configured to be positioned on the head of a user;

a spacing pad coupled to an interior of the helmet shell, the spacing pad including a layer of elastomeric material, the spacing pad comprising a central portion coupled to a central region of the interior of the helmet shell and a plurality of extending portions projecting outward from the central portion; and

a plurality of absorption pads coupled to the spacing pad, the plurality of absorption pads comprising a first absorption pad coupled to the central portion of the spacing pad and remaining absorption pads coupled to ends of the extending portions of the spacing pad.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the absorption pads are shaped such that they do not directly contact the helmet shell.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of extending portions project outward at regular intervals from the central portion.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the regular intervals are approximately every 45°.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein each extending portion has an end portion with a greater width than a remainder of the extending portion.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of extending portions are arranged axially asymmetrically relative to the central portion.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of extending portions having varying lengths.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the plurality of extending portions have lengths corresponding to a peripheral contour of the helmet shell.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the extending portions has a first portion extending in a first direction and a second portion extending from the first portion in a second direction different from the first direction.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the spacing pad consists of a single layer of the elastomeric material.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the spacing pad comprises a plurality of layers of elastomeric material.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the spacing pad further comprises a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material between two layers of elastomeric material.

13. A padding apparatus for use with a helmet comprising:

a spacing pad configured to be coupled to an interior of the helmet, the spacing pad including a layer of elastomeric material, the spacing pad comprising a central portion and a plurality of extending portions projecting outward from the central portion; and

a plurality of absorption pads coupled to the spacing pad, the plurality of absorption pads comprising a first absorption pad coupled to the central portion of the spacing pad and remaining absorption pads coupled to ends of the extending portions of the spacing pad.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the absorption pads are shaped such that they do not directly contact the helmet when the spacing pad is coupled to the interior of the helmet.

15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the plurality of extending portions extend outward at regular intervals from the central portion.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the regular intervals are approximately every 45°.

17. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein each extending portion has an end portion with a greater width than a remainder of the extending portion.

18. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the plurality of extending portions are arranged axially asymmetrically relative to the central portion.

19. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the plurality of extending portions having varying lengths.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the plurality of extending portions have lengths corresponding to a peripheral contour of the helmet.

21. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein at least one of the extending portions has a first portion extending in a first direction and a second portion extending from the first portion in a second direction different from the first direction.

22. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the spacing pad consists of a single layer of the elastomeric material.

23. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the spacing pad comprises a plurality of layers of elastomeric material.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the spacing pad further comprises a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material between two layers of elastomeric material.

25. A protective headgear system comprising:

an impact-resistant pad comprising:

a top portion configured to be positioned covering a top of a user's head; and

first and second side portions extending downward from the top portion; and

a helmet unconnected to the impact-resistant pad, the helmet configured to be positioned overtop of the impact-resistant pad when the impact-resistant pad is positioned on the user's head.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein the first and second side portions comprise a front portion and a rear portion.

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the back portion extends a greater distance from the top portion than the front portion.

28. The system of claim 25, wherein the first and second side portions are not directly connected to each other.

29. The system of claim 28, wherein a circumferential gap is formed between the first side portion and the second side portion.

30. The system of claim 29, wherein the helmet covers the circumferential gap when it is positioned overtop of the impact-resistant pad.

31. The system of claim 25, wherein the top portion includes a plurality of openings for providing ventilation to the user's head.

32. The system of claim 31, wherein the plurality of openings are formed around the periphery of the top portion.

33. The system of claim 25, wherein the impact-resistant pad includes a layer of elastomeric material.

34. The system of claim 33, wherein the impact-resistant pad consists of a single layer of the elastomeric material.

35. The system of claim 33, wherein the impact-resistant pad comprises a plurality of layers of elastomeric material.

36. The system of claim 35, wherein the impact-resistant pad further comprises a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material between two layers of elastomeric material.

37. The system of claim 25, wherein the impact-resistant pad has a thickness of no greater than approximately 13 mm.

38. An impact-resistant pad for a protective headgear system comprising:

a top portion configured to be positioned covering a top of a user's head; and

first and second side portions extending downward from the top portion,

wherein the impact-resistant pad is unconnected to any supporting structure, and is configured to be worn under a helmet.

39. The impact-resistant pad of claim 38, wherein the first and second side portions comprise a front portion and a rear portion.

40. The impact-resistant pad of claim 39, wherein the back portion extends a greater distance from the top portion than the front portion.

41. The impact-resistant pad of claim 38, wherein the first and second side portions are not directly connected to each other.

42. The impact-resistant pad of claim 41, wherein a circumferential gap is formed between the first side portion and the second side portion.

43. The impact-resistant pad of claim 38, wherein the top portion includes a plurality of openings for providing ventilation to the user's head.

44. The impact-resistant pad of claim 43, wherein the plurality of openings are formed around the periphery of the top portion.

45. The impact-resistant pad of claim 38, wherein the impact-resistant pad includes a layer of elastomeric material.

46. The impact-resistant pad of claim 45, wherein the impact-resistant pad consists of a single layer of the elastomeric material.

47. The impact-resistant pad of claim 45, wherein the impact-resistant pad comprises a plurality of layers of elastomeric material.

48. The impact-resistant pad of claim 47, wherein the impact-resistant pad further comprises a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material between two layers of elastomeric material.

49. The impact-resistant pad of claim 38, wherein the impact-resistant pad has a thickness of no greater than approximately 13 mm.

50. A helmet padding system comprising:

a helmet shell configured to be positioned on the head of a user;

a spacing pad positioned within an interior of the helmet shell and unconnected to the helmet shell, the spacing pad including a layer of elastomeric material, the spacing pad comprising a central portion and a plurality of extending portions projecting outward from the central portion; and

a deflection layer positioned between the helmet shell and the spacing pad, the deflection layer less flexible than the spacing pad.

51. The system of claim 50, further comprising a plurality of absorption pads coupled to the spacing pad opposite the deflection layer, the plurality of absorption pads comprising a first absorption pad coupled to the central portion of the spacing pad and remaining absorption pads coupled to ends of the extending portions of the spacing pad.

52. The system of claim 50, wherein the plurality of extending portions project outward at regular intervals from the central portion.

53. The system of claim 52, wherein the regular intervals are approximately every 90°.

54. The system of claim 53, wherein each extending portion has an end portion with a greater width than a remainder of the extending portion.

55. The system of claim 54, wherein the end portions of adjacent extending portions overlap with each other when the spacing pad is positioned within the helmet shell.

56. The system of claim 50, wherein the spacing pad consists of a single layer of the elastomeric material.

57. The system of claim 50, wherein the spacing pad comprises a plurality of layers of elastomeric material.

58. The system of claim 57, wherein the spacing pad further comprises a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material between two layers of elastomeric material.

59. The system of claim 50, wherein the spacing pad comprises an array of raised portions formed on a surface thereof.

60. The system of claim 59, wherein the raised portions have a rectangular shape.

61. The system of claim 60, wherein the raised portions have a square shape.

62. The system of claim 59, wherein the raised portions have a diamond shape.

63. The system of claim 50, wherein the spacing pad comprises a top portion configured to be positioned covering a top of a user's head, and first and second side portions extending downward from the top portion.

64. The impact-resistant pad of claim 63, wherein the first and second side portions comprise a front portion and a rear portion.

65. The impact-resistant pad of claim 63, wherein the first and second side portions are not directly connected to each other.

66. The impact-resistant pad of claim 65, wherein a circumferential gap is formed between the first side portion and the second side portion.

67. The impact-resistant pad of claim 63, wherein the top portion includes a plurality of openings for providing ventilation to the user's head.

68. The system of claim 50, wherein the deflection layer has a shape corresponding to the shape of the spacing pad.

69. The system of claim 50, wherein the deflection layer comprises a polycarbonate material.

70. The system of claim 50, further comprising a deformation layer positioned between the deflection layer and the spacing pad, the deformation layer configured to deform upon experiencing a force from an impact.

71. The system of claim 70, wherein the deformation layer has a shape corresponding to the shape of the spacing pad.

72. The system of claim 70, wherein the deformation layer comprises corrugated plastic material.

73. The system of claim 70, wherein the deformation layer is configured to plastically deform upon experiencing the force from the impact.

74. The system of claim 50, further comprising a plurality of deflection plates coupled to the helmet, the deflection plates positioned to slidably abut the deflection layer, the deflection plates being formed from the same material as the deflection layer.