HELMET WITH FAN

Abstract

The Present invention relates to ventilated protective headwear. In particular, the invention relates to a helmet with forced air from one or more fans built into the body of the helmet. The helmet is most specifically for use with snowmobiling, motorcycling, ATVs, and the like.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to, and incorporates by reference thereto, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/205,249 filed on Mar. 8, 2016.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field

The present invention relates to ventilated protective headwear. In particular, the invention relates to a helmet with forced air, most specifically for use with snowmobiling;

however, the invention is not so limited.

Background

A number of activities are associated with protective headwear such as helmets. These include various sports and recreational activities, such as, skiing, snowmobiling, motorcycling, football, and the like.

In some cases, the flow of air in and out of the headwear can be restricted and create difficulties. For example, snowmobiling can have so little air flow that it can become hard to breathe, and/or hard to ventilate heat from the helmet leading to excessive sweating or even worse conditions relating to overheating.

Various prior art solutions to this problem have been tried but all suffer from a number of drawbacks. These include U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,813,696, 4,150,443, 4,498,202, 5,085,231, 5,921,467, 6,257,235, and 7,694,353.

Thus a need exists for an improved type of ventilated protective headwear that substantially eliminates the drawbacks of the prior art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 depicts a user wearing a ventilation system connected to a power supply according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 depicts the backside of cover with fan removed;

FIG. 3 depicts a front perspective view of a ventilation system;

FIG. 4 depicts a helmet's chin guard with imbedded fan embodiment;

FIG. 5 depicts a diverter in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 6 depicts a helmet's impact absorbent liner with apertures;

FIG. 7 depicts the rear side of a ventilation system having a second fan;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram schematic for an embodiment with a single fan; and

FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematic for an embodiment having dual fans.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following numbers shall refer to structures in the figures as indicated:

• 10—Ventilation system;
• 12—User;
• 13—Vehicle;
• 20—Helmet;
• 21—Rear side;
• 22—Shell;
• 23—Padding;
  • 23a—Padding hole;
• 24—Impact absorbent liner;
• 25—Chin guard;
• 26—Front ventilation mesh;
  • 26a—External surface of front ventilation mesh;
  • 26b—Internal surface of front ventilation mesh;
• 27—Power supply connector;
• 28—Hooks;
• 29—Apertures;
• 30—Fan;
• 31—Second fan;
• 32—Cover;
• 33—Strap;
• 35—Diverter;
• 36—Air intake;
• 37—Air output;
• 40—Controls;
• 41—Grooves;
• 42—Wiring;
• 43—Connector;
• 44—Splice;
• 45—Buttons;
• 50—Power supply;
• 52—Power cord; and
• 55—Power supply housing.

Referring to FIG. 1, helmet with a fan, hereinafter “ventilation system” 10 is shown. In particular, the invention comprises a helmet 20 with outer hard protective shell 22, which covers the head and chin area of user 12, with an opening over the face. Protective goggles, eyewear, or face shield can be attached to the helmet as well. The helmet also includes interior padding 23, shown in FIG. 4, and impact absorbent liner 24, shown in FIG. 6.

The chin guard 25 includes a reversible electric fan 30 that can move air into or out of the interior of the helmet for ventilation and cooling purposes, shown generally in FIG. 4. Air intake 36, and air output 37 are shown best in FIG. 3. The end of the chin guard 25 of the helmet has a fan 30 mounted on the inside of a hole in the chin guard, and a detachable protective cover 32 (see FIG. 2) fits over the outside of the fan. FIGS. 1 and 2 depict cover 32, which is attached with a bungee cord like strap 33 to hooks 28 mounted on the sides of the helmet chin guard, as shown in FIG. 3. The cover protects the fan, which is located behind the cover inside an opening in the end of the chin guard, from debris that might impact the area. As shown best in FIG. 2, cover 32 includes open side 38 into which fan 30 is inserted, and semi-open side 39 which optionally defines grating 34.

The fan is powered electrically. As shown in FIG. 1, power cord 52 from the fan extends downward from power supply connector 27 (FIG. 3) of the helmet and can be plugged into power supply 50 worn on a vest or other article of clothing, or the fan can be connected to battery of a device operated by the user such as a snowmobile.

The fan 30 is a variable voltage device, preferably operating in the range of 5-12 volts, which allows it to work with different voltage sources, as well as operate at variable speeds. The fan can provide air for ventilation or cooling purposes. For example, when operating a snowmobile especially at high altitude, the flow of air into a prior art helmet is restricted and can be insufficient for cooling or to maintain necessary oxygen levels. Further, if the snowmobile is stuck or in an area where it is moving slowing, and the rider has to exert himself, then he might become overheated or short of air and the fan can be used to resolve the problem. The present invention uses forced air from the fan to provide a sufficient supply of air for breathing and for cooling.

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of the helmet with a built in fan, and with internal wiring including power supply connector 27 for a connection to a power supply 50. In particular, a front fan (not shown) mounts inside/behind the front ventilation mesh 26 in the chin guard 25 of the helmet, adjacent to internal surface of ventilation mesh 26b (not shown), preferably within padding hole 23a. As used herein, “external surface of ventilation mesh 26a” shall refer to outwardly facing surface of ventilation mesh, while “internal surface of ventilation mesh 26b” shall refer to inwardly facing surface of ventilation mesh. Wires run from the fan, internally along the inside of the chin guard to power supply connector 27, which can be connected to a power supply 50. This type of connection allows for easy connection, or disconnection in case of repair, replacement of the power supply 50, or in emergency situations. The power supply 50 is preferably a battery power supply, that can be located on/inside the helmet, can be worn on the rider's clothing or the power can be furnished from the power supply of a device operated by the rider such as a snowmobile or motorcycle battery. Generally, it is advantageous if the connector 43 is in a location where the rider can access it without removing the helmet.

FIG. 3 shows operational buttons 45 which are waterproof, suitably adapted to the operating environment of the invention. The buttons turn the power on and off to the fan 30 (or second fan 31 described below). Also, the fans of the invention are reversible such that they can force air in or out of the helmet and the buttons 45 control the direction of the fans. In the event that dual fans 30, 31 are used, the helmet can include 4 buttons to provide control over both fans as described above. Wiring internal to the helmet connects the buttons 45 to the fan(s) 30, 31 and to the connector 43 as well as the power supply 50. The location of one, two, three, or four buttons can be relocated to different areas on the helmet for ease of manufacturing, for ergonomic reasons, or for ease of use by the end user.

FIG. 4 is an internal view of the chin guard 25 of the helmet showing the fan 30 embedded in a gap in the padding 23 located behind/inside the chin guard area of the helmet. The fan can be installed into padding 23 during manufacturing, or added after the fact. The wiring 42 for the fan goes along the foam protection padding either below, beneath, or in a channel or groove created therein. The exact placement of the fan can and will vary depending on the helmet manufactures design.

FIG. 5 shows an air diverter 35 mounted onto the inside of the fan 30. The diverter/deflector is helpful for a number of reasons. First, the air diverter/deflector alleviates any frosting or icing of the fan that can result from the rider breathing moist air onto the fan that then condenses or freezes on the fan when it contacts cold ambient air. Secondly air diverter/deflector helps spread out the air flow from the fan to ventilate a larger surface area of the rider, rather than have all the air directed at the one spot and/or hitting the rider right in the mouth. Furthermore, the air diverter/deflector can also be used to drive air into channels created in the padding, where the air would be dispersed throughout the helmet from holes in the padding. Still further, the channels can be created in other internal padded structures inside the helmet as well, or tubing can be used to direct air to different locations in the helmet as well.

It should be understood that fan 30 is secured within a hole in the chin guard, with the wiring to the buttons 45 extending there from. In the event that the fan includes forward and reverse directional controls, additional wiring would be included, and/or additional buttons would be included. See also FIGS. 8 and 9, which show more detailed views of the wiring.

It should be understood that a run/channel is preferably provided in the padding 23 to embed the wiring. As noted, air vents can be in the padding 23, and channels can be used, with or without tubing, to direct the air flow to various parts of the helmet through similar channels in the impact absorbent liner inside the helmet.

It is desirable to wire fan with a quick disconnect connector to enable the fan to be easily disconnected and removed without removing any of the electrical components.

FIG. 6 shows the inside of a helmet with the inner head cushion removed to show the impact absorbent liner 24. Apertures 29 are defined by impact absorbent liner. The apertures are aligned with grooves or a channel carved into the top side of the impact absorbent liner. The grooves lead from the top of the helmet to the lower back, where a second fan 31 is placed, as shown in FIG. 7. In this manner the two fans 30 and 31 can both push and pull air through the helmet. Both fans are reversible in direction so air can be moved through the helmet in any direction. These features are described in more detail below.

In a preferred embodiment, wires lead from the buttons 45 to the electrical connector 43 which leads to the power supply connector 27. Wires also go from the buttons 45 in the other direction to the fan 30.

In an alternative embodiment, buttons 45 are replaced with technology that allows for remote operational control of the fans such as electronic devices that use Blue Tooth or voice commands to operate the switches.

The location of the fan may vary from helmet to helmet depending on the exact manufacturing specifications of the helmet provider.

The wiring is run through and along impact absorbent liner 24, or through a channel in padding 23.

Second fan 31 is preferably installed in a hole in impact absorbent liner 24, with wiring from fan including a quick fit connector.

A cavity in impact absorbent liner 24 is used to channel air through the helmet, from the fan 31 through apertures 29 in the impact absorbent liner and channel(s) between the holes and the fan.

In a preferred embodiment, a notch in the bottom of impact absorbent liner provides air flow.

In a preferred embodiment, notches/channels created in the top of impact absorbent liner provides air flow.

In a preferred embodiment, a cavity in the impact absorbent liner can be used to house the power supply 50, which comprises a battery pack. Power supply 50 can be built into the helmet; however, as noted above the power supply can be located external to the helmet—for example, on the rider's person/clothing or the power can be provided from the device the rider is riding (i.e. a snowmobile or motorcycle).

FIGS. 8 and 9 are block diagram schematics of the electoral connections of the single and dual fan systems, respectively of the present invention as described herein.

The helmet of the present invention would also be useful in other applications including, racing events (car, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, ATVs), snowmobiles, in sports (football, baseball, hockey), and in workplace activities as well (welding, mining, chain sawing, hard hats with or without safety shields).

The invention assists with providing a high volume of fresh air to the user, as well as removing exhausted air that can be high in carbon dioxide. These and other advantages will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

While the various embodiments of the invention have been described, the invention is not so limited. Also, the method and apparatus of the present invention is not necessarily limited to any particular field, but can be applied to any field where an interface between a user and a computing device is applicable.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods, and materials are described below. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety to the extent allowed by applicable law and regulations. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof, and it is therefore desired that the present embodiment be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, reference being made to the appended claims rather than to the foregoing description to indicate the scope of the invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art that have the disclosure before them will be able to make modifications and variations therein without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, in addition to the uses for the present invention described above, the inventions can be used with any type of ATV, or Utility Task Vehicle (UTV), including those used by off road, or trail enthusiast for such things as trail riding, dunning, mudding, rock crawling, go carts. The present invention is also suitable for use in any hot environments where head gear is or can be worn, such as sporting activities and events, snowboarding, skiing, BMX, skate boarding, desert activities such as sand dune, desert, Baha-, dirt track, stock car, four wheeler, mud runs, rodeos, or swamp boating events. The invention is also applicable to military purposes, or for medical purposes as well. The helmet of the present invention can be of any style, including, (in addition to the style shown in the Figures) full face (street or dirt style), open face or % style, ½ helmet or beanie style.

Claims

1. An article of ventilated protective headwear including:

A. A helmet having a chin guard with mesh having an internal surface and an external surface; and

B. A fan adjacent to said mesh, wherein said fan is configured to push air into helmet or draw air out of helmet.

2. The article of claim 1 wherein said fan is adjacent to said external surface of said mesh.

3. The article of claim 2 further comprising a cover surrounding said fan, said cover having at least one open side.

4. The article of claim 3 wherein said cover has at least one semi-open side.

5. The article of claim 3 further comprising at least one strap connecting said cover to said helmet.

6. The article of claim 5 wherein said helmet further comprises at least one hook, said strap engaged with said hook.

7. The article of claim 1 wherein said fan is adjacent to said internal surface of said mesh.

8. A ventilation system including:

A. A helmet including a chin guard with mesh having an internal surface and an external surface; an external shell; a medial impact absorbent liner; and internal padding;

B. A first fan adjacent to said mesh, said first fan configured to push air into said helmet or draw air out of said helmet;

C. A power supply electrically engaged with said first fan; and

D. A plurality of buttons attached to said helmet, said button electrically engaged with said first fan.

9. The ventilation system of claim 8 further comprising a second fan engaged with said helmet.

10. The ventilation system of claim 9 wherein said second fan is positioned on the rear side of said helmet.

11. The ventilation system of claim 8 wherein said first fan further comprises an air diverter.

12. The ventilation system of claim 8 wherein said padding defines a hole for said first fan.

13. The ventilation system of claim 8 wherein said impact absorbent liner defines a plurality of apertures to improve air flow within helmet.

14. The ventilation system of claim 13 wherein said impact absorbent liner defines a plurality of grooves to improve air flow within helmet.

15. A method of ventilating a helmet including the steps of:

A. Connecting a first fan to the chin guard of a helmet;

B. Engaging said first fan to a power supply;

C. Depressing at least one button to turn on said fan; and

D. Allowing said fan to push air into said helmet or draw air out of said helmet.

16. The method of ventilating a helmet of claim 15 further including the step of engaging said power supply with a power supply housing.

17. The method of ventilating a helmet of claim 16 further including the step of attaching said power supply housing to a user.