TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to the field of helmets with cellular energy-absorbing structures. In particular, the present invention relates to the helmets using layered structures with relative movement between layers for reducing translational acceleration and angular acceleration of the brain.
Background Art In the state of the art several types of helmets are known: motorcycle helmets, automotive race helmets, industrial safety helmets, bike helmets, ski helmets, water-sports helmets, equestrian helmets, American football helmets, etc.
Traditional sport, car and motorcycle helmets comprise:
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- an outer shell, preferably a hard shell;
- a protective liner matching with the shell and arranged into the shell;
- a comfort liner for making the helmet much more comfortable when it's worn by the user;
- a retention system, generally comprising a strap and a quick-release locking system.
Industrial safety helmets normally comprise:
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- a outer hard shell;
- a harness connected to the hard shell.
The outer shell gives to the helmet a specific appearance and provides a first protection against impacts. In the helmets having a protecting liner, the shell also contains the protective liner. The material of the shell can be a polymer such as PC (polycarbonate), PE (polyethylene), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) or a composite material such as glassfibre or carbon fibre. Depending on the material, the shell is generally thermomoulded or thermo-formed, for example in bike helmets, or injection-moulded, for example in ski helmets.
Generally, the protective liner is made of a polymeric foam, like EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) or EPP (Expanded Polypropylene), and is used for absorbing the energy generated during a collision. The EPS liner or layer absorbs the energy of an impact through compression. Currently EPS is the most used material for absorbing the energy of an impact and employed in most of helmets. Alternatively, high-performance energy-absorbing material are known, such as the energy-absorbing material distributed with brand Koroyd®. This kind of cellular energy-absorbing material absorbs much more energy than traditional EPS/EPP liners when an impact load substantially orthogonal to the shell occurs. This kind of cellular material absorbs energy through a progressive buckling of its cells.
The comfort liner can comprise pillows made of synthetic or natural material, which adheres or is connected to the internal side of the protective liner. In this way, the head of the user is not in direct contact with the protective liner but with the comfort liner that is much more comfortable. Alternatively to the comfort liner, industrial helmets have a harness, consisting of a system of straps made of woven bands or polyethylene. A harness is a cheap solution for combining a system for maintaining the helmet over the head of the wearer and a system for absorbing part of the energy of an impact. The harness absorbs less impact energy than polymeric foam liners.
The retention system is used for maintaining the helmet in position on the head of the user and can comprise a regulation device for regulating the tightening of the helmet on the head.
During an impact, for example due to a fall of a biker, the outer shell can impact against an object, like the ground, in any direction and the impact load has a normal component and/or a tangential component. The tangential component can create a rotation of the skull with respect to the brain, while the normal component can cause the skull fracture leading to death. Both kind of injuries are important and needs to be reduced as much as possible by the helmet.
In order to absorb both normal and tangential components of an impact load, the solutions available in the state of the art employ a device for absorbing the tangential component and a device for absorbing the normal component. In particular, all known solutions do not connect them together.
For example, certain helmets manufactured by the company Smith™ comprise a cellular energy-absorbing pad of the company Koroyd® and a brain protection system developed by the company MIPS®. The cellular energy-absorbing pad efficiently absorbs the normal component of impact load, while the brain protection system efficiently absorbs the tangential component. The cellular energy-absorbing pad fits in an EPS liner and the brain protection system is connected to the same EPS liner, as described by the document EP2440082B1. Said cellular energy-absorbing pad is not connected to said brain protection system and consequently they work like independent devices and not synergically.
Other solutions that solve only one of the problems of absorbing the normal component or absorbing the tangential component of an impact load are available. For example, the helmet described in the document WO2016209740A1 comprises a protective liner split in two parts, an outer liner and an inner liner. The outer liner is connected to the inner liner through an elastic band, which allows relative movements between the inner and outer liners. This feature allows to reduce rotational or translational brain injuries. This document provides a solution for dividing a protective liner in two parts for efficiently absorbing rotational acceleration due to the tangential component of an impact load, but neglects how to efficiently mitigate linear acceleration imparted by the normal impact component.
Another similar solution is provided in the document U.S. Ser. No. 10/398,187B1 which discloses two liners interconnected from outside through adjustable retainers. Even the document WO2020245609 discloses a helmet wherein the inner energy-absorbing liner is anchored to the outer shell via a connector.
Since the device for absorbing normal impact component does not cooperate with the device for absorbing the tangential impact component, the impact loads are not efficiently absorbed. Moreover, the deformation of the device for absorbing normal impact components can compromise the functionality of the other one, or vice versa. In this way, the devices theoretically work efficiently, but in practice each one affects the functioning of the other.
Furthermore, all the available solutions for sport, motorcycle and car helmets use polymeric foam liners, e.g. EPS or EPP liners, when the international rules are evolving in favour of more environment-friendly solutions, which avoid or reduce these kinds of materials.
None of the available solutions provides helmets able to efficiently absorb all kind of impacts through an integrated solution that results in a cheaper, simpler and more environmentally friendly product.
SUMMARY Said and other inconvenients of the state of the art are now solved by a helmet comprising: a shell, at least one cellular energy-absorbing structure, at least one clamping device and a head receiving system. Said at least one cellular energy-absorbing structure comprises a plurality of interconnected open-cells configured to absorb energy by deforming during an impact on the shell; at least one clamping device comprising a base and a head connected to each other via an elongated collapsible body. The collapsible body is sized so as to enter one or more open-cells of the cellular energy-absorbing structure. The head is configured to lock the at least one clamping device to the cellular energy-absorbing structure. The base, or the head, is attached to an inner surface of the shell, preferably through connecting means. This firm connection of the clamping device to the shell allows to efficiently retain the cellular energy-absorbing structure to the shell without preventing compressions and lateral deformations of the cellular structure. In particular, this kind of connection with the shell allows to avoid to introduce additional perforations to the shell, which could weaken the helmet. Moreover, the fact of attaching the clamping device to the inner surface of the shell, combined with a cellular energy-absorbing structure, allows a free positioning of the clamping devices in any point of the inner surface of the shell, without being obligated to specific positions. This makes possible to use the same shell with different kind of cellular energy-absorbing structures. This arrangement also allows to directly connect the cellular energy-absorbing structure to the clamping device/s and in turn to connect the clamping device to the shell. This chain of connections allows to coordinate the relative movements of the cellular energy-absorbing structure/s, the clamping device/s and the shell. Optionally, the clamping device also connects the head receiving system to the shell while the cellular energy-absorbing structure lies in the middle. In particular, being the body of the clamping device collapsible, the clamping device follows the movements of the cellular energy-absorbing structure when it crumples, compensating lateral movements due to the tangential component of the impact load.
Preferably, the connecting means can comprise a Velcro layer, an adhesive layer or snap-fit connector/s for simplifying and stabilizing the interconnection between the clamping device and the shell or the head receiving system.
Preferably, the cellular energy-absorbing structure can be an array of energy-absorbing open-cells interconnected via their sidewalls. This architecture of the cellular energy-absorbing structure is particularly efficient in absorbing axial loads, thus loads substantially parallel to the open-cells longitudinal axis. In particular, each open-cell can have an open base facing the shell and an opposite open base facing the head receiving system. This arrangement of the open-cells allows to absorb more efficiently the axial impact load through the progressive crumpling of the cells.
Alternatively, the cellular energy-absorbing structure can be a lattice structure comprising solid portions and open portions configured to form a network of interconnected open-cells. This architecture of the cellular energy-absorbing structure is particularly efficient in absorbing loads coming from any direction. In particular, the cellular energy-absorbing structure can be arranged so that one side of the structure faces towards the shell and an opposite side faces towards the head receiving system. In this way, the cellular energy-absorbing structure is arranged between the shell and the head receiving system.
Advantageously, the compressive force required to collapse the clamping device along a direction can be lower than or equal to that required to deform the open-cells of the cellular energy-absorbing structure along the same direction. This means that the clamping device does not resist when the cellular energy-absorbing structure is compressed due to an impact load and the cellular energy-absorbing structure can be compressed as if there were no clamping devices.
Preferably, the shell can comprise only a hard shell or, alternatively, a rigid or semi-rigid outer shell and an inner shock absorbing liner connected to each other. In the former case, the shell is constituted by a hard shell, as in the case of industrial helmets. In the latter case, the shell comprises an outer shell and an inner shock absorbing liner, as in the case of sport helmets.
The inner shock absorbing liner can be preferably made of a polymeric foam and can comprise a pocket wherein the cellular energy-absorbing structure is arranged. This pocket is configured to retain the cellular energy-absorbing structure. In this way, the cellular energy-absorbing structure and the shell remain connected despite of the clamping devices/s.
Preferably, the head receiving system can be a harness system or a comfort system. Preferably said harness system or a comfort system can be connected to the head or base of the at least one clamping device. In this way, a correct positioning of the head of the wearer with respect to the helmet is guaranteed.
Advantageously, the collapsible body of the clamping device can comprise a stretchable elongated body configured to appreciably and reversibly elongate with respect to its original length. This kind of clamping device is elastic and can collapse and stretch so as to follow any kind of deformation of the cellular energy-absorbing structure. Preferably, said base can be rigid or semi-rigid so as to not flex when it lies over one side of the cellular energy-absorbing structure. More preferably, said rigid or semi-rigid base is co-molded with the elastic elongated body so to form a single piece despite of the elastic and rigid parts of the clamping device.
Preferably, the stretchable elongated body is configured to elongate under tension, without breaking, between 150% and 500% of its original length.
Moreover, the stretchable elongated body can be at least in part made of a viscoelastic material. In this way, the elongation/shortening of the stretchable elongated body contributes to absorb the impact energy, in particular that of tangential component.
Alternatively, the collapsible body of the clamping device can comprise a flexible elongated body connected to the base and having an outer surface comprising a plurality of spaced teeth and spaced recesses. Said head can comprise at least one flexible pawl shaped so as to fit in one of said recesses. By means of this second kind of clamping device, the cellular energy-absorbing structure can be easily and quickly connected to the shell or head receiving system. The flexible collapsible body of the clamping device allows to follow the deformations of the cellular energy-absorbing structure, in particular when it crumples.
Advantageously, this kind of clamping device can comprise a flexible elongated body that is at least partially pleated or coiled, or comprises geometric perturbations to facilitate the collapse of the collapsible body.
Alternatively, the base can comprise a protuberance having a plurality of teeth configured to cooperate with a mouth of a hollow body connected to the counter-base, said protuberance and said hollow body forming the collapsible body of the clamping device. This third kind of clamping device allows a facilitated axial collapsing of the collapsible body, since the protuberance enters in the hollow body in an easy way. Furthermore, the teeth prevent any rebounding of the cellular energy-absorbing structure and maintain it crumpled.
Preferably, the head can be configured to frictionally engage an inner sidewall of the at least one cell through a plurality of spaced flexible gripper elements protruding from the collapsible elongated body. This particular embodiment of the clamping device allows a fast and simple connection of the cellular energy-absorbing structure to the shell. In this embodiment, the clamping device looks like a plug which penetrates the open cell without coming out the opposite side of the cellular structure. This solution is easier and allows a simpler connection between the clamping device and the shell.
These and other advantages will be better understood thanks to the following description of different embodiments of said invention given as non-limitative examples thereof, making reference to the annexed drawings.
DRAWINGS DESCRIPTION In the drawings:
FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D show schematic views of a cross-sectioned helmets according to various embodiments of the present invention;
FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C show a schematic view of a cellular energy-absorbing structure and a clamping device of a first type respectively before being compressed, after a compression due to a normal load, and after a compression due to an inclined load;
FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D show a schematic view of a cellular energy-absorbing structure and a clamping device of a second type respectively during the assembling phase, before being compressed, after a compression due to a normal load, and after a compression due to an inclined load;
FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D show a schematic view of a cellular energy-absorbing structure and a clamping device of a third type respectively during the assembling phase, before being compressed, after a compression due to a normal load, and after a compression due to an inclined load;
FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D show a schematic view of a cellular energy-absorbing structure and a clamping device of a fourth type respectively during the assembling phase, before being compressed, after a compression due to a normal load, and after a compression due to an inclined load;
FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C and 6D respectively show the helmets of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D when an inclined impact load hits the shell of the helmet;
FIG. 7A shows an axonometric view of said second type of clamping device;
FIG. 7B shows an axonometric view of the clamping device of FIG. 7A connected to an outer shell;
FIG. 7C shows an axonometric view of the clamping device and the outer shell of FIG. 7B wherein the clamping device is inserted in a cell of the cellular energy-absorbing structure;
FIG. 7D shows an axonometric view of the clamping device, the outer shell and the cellular energy-absorbing structure of FIG. 7C wherein the clamping device clamps the cellular energy-absorbing structure to the outer shell;
FIG. 8A shows an axonometric view of said fourth type of clamping device;
FIG. 8B shows an axonometric view of the clamping device of FIG. 8A connected to an outer shell;
FIG. 8C shows an axonometric view of the clamping device and the outer shell of FIG. 8B wherein the clamping device is inserted in a cell of the cellular energy-absorbing structure;
FIG. 8D shows an axonometric view of the clamping device, the outer shell and the cellular energy-absorbing structure of FIG. 8C wherein the clamping device clamps the cellular energy-absorbing structure to the outer shell;
FIG. 9 shows an axonometric view of an alternative connection between the outer shell and the clamping device;
FIGS. 10A, 10B and 10C show respectively a side view, a cross-section and a top view of a clamping device of the second type;
FIGS. 11A, 11B and 11C show respectively a side view, a cross-section and a top view of a clamping device of the fourth type;
FIGS. 12A, 12B and 12C show respectively a side view, a cross-section and a top view of another version of a clamping device of the fourth type;
FIG. 13A shows an axonometric view of another type of clamping device according to the present invention;
FIG. 13B shows a side view of the clamping device of FIG. 13A and a cellular energy-absorbing structure;
FIG. 13C shows an axonometric view of the clamping device of FIG. 13A and of a cellular energy-absorbing structure wherein the clamping device is not yet inserted in the cellular energy-absorbing structure;
FIG. 13D shows an axonometric view of the clamping device of FIG. 13A and of a cellular energy-absorbing structure wherein the clamping device is inserted in the cellular energy-absorbing structure;
FIGS. 14A, 15A, 16A, 17A and 18A show schematic views of a cellular energy-absorbing structure and various types of clamping devices during insertion in the cellular energy-absorbing structure;
FIGS. 14B, 15B, 16B, 17B and 18B show schematic views of various types of clamping device inserted in a cellular energy-absorbing structure before being compressed;
FIGS. 14C, 15C, 16C, 17C and 18C show schematic views of a cellular energy-absorbing structure and various types of clamping device after a compression due to a normal load;
FIGS. 14D, 15D, 16D, 17D and 18D show schematic views of a cellular energy-absorbing structure and various types of clamping device after a compression due to an inclined load;
FIGS. 19A, 19B and 19C show schematic views of a cross-sectioned helmets according to various embodiments of the present invention;
FIGS. 20A, 20B and 20C respectively show the helmet of FIGS. 19A, 19B and 19C when an inclined load hits the outer shell of the helmet.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION The following description of one or more embodiments of the invention is referred to the annexed drawings. The same reference numbers indicate equal or similar parts. The object of the protection is defined by the annexed claims. Technical details, structures or characteristics of the solutions here-below described can be combined with each other in any suitable way.
In the present description, for the sake of conciseness, the term “cellular energy-absorbing structure 4” is sometime abbreviated as “cellular structure 4”, as well as the term “inner shock absorbing liner 2B” is abbreviated as “inner liner 2B”. Other similar abbreviations can be present in the following description.
FIGS. 1 and 19 represent some embodiments of the helmet 1 according to the present invention. This helmet 1 comprises a shell 2, at least one cellular energy-absorbing structure 4, a head receiving system 3 and one or more clamping devices 5.
As described in detail in the following, the clamping devices 5 are employed to allow a relative movement between two parts of the helmet 1 and to absorb the energy related to this movement.
In particular, in the embodiment of FIG. 1A the clamping devices 5 connect the cellular structure 4 to the shell 2. While in the embodiments of FIGS. 1B, 1C and 1D, the clamping devices 5 connect the cellular structure 4 both to the shell 2 and to the head receiving system 3.
The clamping device 5 is configured to pass-through the thickness of the cellular structure 4, from side to side. The clamping device 5 comprises a base 6, a head 7 and a collapsible body 8 connecting them to each other. The base 6 and the head 7 are opposite to each other with respect to the cellular structure 4. The collapsible body 8 is sized so as to enter and pass through one open-cell 9 of the cellular structure 4, as shown in FIGS. 1A,1B,1C, or through a plurality of open-cells 9, as shown in FIG. 1D. The collapsible body 8 cross-section is thus smaller than the open-cell 9 cross-section.
The collapsible body 8 of the clamping device can be made, at least in part, of a polymeric material. When a mechanical interaction with the head 7 is required, the material of the collapsible body 8 is a plastic material, like polyethylene or nylon, as described for clamping devices 5 of FIGS. 2, 4, 5. Vice versa, if a mechanical interaction with the head 7 is not required, as described for clamping device 5 of FIGS. 3, the collapsible body 8 is made of an elastic material, for example rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), silicone or another elastomeric material.
As shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 1A,1B and 1C, the cellular structure 4 comprises an array of energy-absorbing open-cells 9. These open-cells 9 are connected to each other via their sidewalls 10.
The open-cells 9 are open at their ends so that each open-cell 9 realizes a tube through which the air can flow. The open-cell 9 has a circular cross-section as represented in FIG. 7, 8 or 13. Alternatively, the cross-section of the open-cells 9 can be a square, a hexagon, a non-uniform hexagon, a re-entrant hexagon, a chiral truss, a diamond, a triangle or an arrowhead.
The open-cells 9 of said array can be welded to each other via their sidewalls 10. Alternatively, the tubes can be bonded by means of adhesive layers interposed between adjacent sidewalls 10. This kind of adhesive can be a thermo-adhesive material, thus an adhesive that at room temperature is solid and becomes liquid, e.g. above 80-100° C. Otherwise, the adhesive could also be a reactive adhesive or pressure sensitive adhesive.
When the open-cells 9 have a circular cross-section, the outer diameter of the circular cross-section can range between 2,5 and 8 mm, and the wall thickness of said open-cells 9 can range between 0,05 and 0.2 mm.
The array of energy-absorbing open-cells 9 can be configured to absorb the energy through a plastic deformation of the sidewalls 10 of the open-cells 9, wherein “plastic deformation” means that the sidewalls 10 crumple irreversibly, or through an elastic deformation of the sidewalls 10 of the open-cells 9. In the latter case, the deformation is completely reversible and the sidewalls 10 come back to the original shape.
Alternatively, the open-cells 9 can be the cells of a lattice structure, as schematically shown in FIG. 1D. In this case, the open-cells 9 are constituted by hollow portions defined by the solid portions 12 of the lattice structure. Substantially, the three-dimensional grid of solid portions 12 of the lattice structure defines a network of interconnected open-cells 9 (i.e. the hollow portions of the lattice structure), through which air can flow. These open portions 13 of the lattice structure realize said open-cells 9. The lattice structure 4 can be configured to absorb the energy through a plastic or elastic deformation of the solid portions 12.
It's useful to clarify that a cellular structure 4 normally has not too wide cells, otherwise the energy-absorption is compromised and the cellular structure 4 becomes too soft for absorbing compressive loads. Consequently, the clamping devices 5 comprise slender collapsible bodies 8 for allowing the insertion into said openings 11 and the passage through the open-cell/s 9. If the energy-absorbing structure would be made of an expandable foam, like in the prior art solution, the hole for receiving the clamping device could be sized at will. Vice versa, in the present solutions, the cellular structure 4 imposes the dimension of the connecting device 5 and not conversely.
The cellular structure 4, both in the version having an array of energy-absorbing open-cells 9 and in the lattice structure, comprises a surface facing towards the shell 2 and a surface facing towards the head receiving system 3, as shown in FIG. 1 or 19. These surfaces comprise a plurality of openings 11 of said open-cells 9. In any one of these openings 11, the connecting devices 5 can be inserted.
With reference to FIG. 1A, it's represented an industrial safety helmet 1 comprising only an outer shell 2A. This outer shell 2A is a hard shell, thus a shell made of a rigid plastic so as to resist impacts. A plurality of clamping devices 5 are connected to the outer shell 2A through connecting means 15. These connecting means 15 can be an adhesive layer attached to the outer surface of the base 6 of the clamping device 5 and to the inner surface of the outer shell 2A. Each clamping device 5 crosses the cellular structure 4 with its collapsible body 8. The collapsible body 8 passes through one open-cell 9 of the cellular structure 4. The bases 6 of the clamping devices 5 lie on the outer face of the cellular structure 4, while the heads 7 of the clamping devices 5 lie on the inner face of the cellular structure 4. In this way, the cellular structure 4 is connected to the outer shell 2A, but relative lateral movements between them are allowed, as shown in FIG. 6A. The helmet 1 also comprises a head receiving system 3, that in this case is a harness system 3A. This harness system 3A is connected directly to the outer shell 2A, as in the traditional industrial safety helmets, and guarantees a space between the head 25 of the wearer and the cellular structure 4. Despite this embodiment refers to an industrial safety helmet, the same features can be used for realizing a different type of helmet.
With reference to FIG. 1B, it is represented a helmet 1 comprising an outer shell 2A and head receiving system 3 connected to each other through clamping devices 5. The cellular structure 4 is clamped between the outer shell 2A and the head receiving system 3, through clamping devices 5. The clamping devices 5 are configured to pass with their collapsible bodies 8 through open-cells 9 of the cellular structure 4. The clamping devices 5 are also configured to pass through the head receiving system 3 and to mechanically connect to it through the heads 7. The base 6 of the clamping device 5 is attached to the inner surface of the outer shell 2A. The collapsible body 8 comprises teeth 16 configured to enter in the head 7 and expands outwardly once they are on the other side of the head 7. The heads 7 are arranged over the head receiving system 3, so that the head receiving system 3 remains clamped between the heads 7 and the cellular structure 4. In this way, the collapsible body 8 cannot easily pulled out from these slots and the cellular structure 4 remains clamped between the outer shell 2A and the head receiving system 3. In this case, the head receiving system 3 is another type of harness system 3A, which allows a fine positioning of the user's head 25. This kind of helmet 1 allows a relative movement of the head receiving system 3 with respect to the outer shell 2A and with respect to the cellular structure 4.
With reference to FIG. 1C, it's represented a helmet 1 comprising a shell 2 composed by an outer shell 2A and an inner shock absorbing liner 2B. The outer shell 2A of the embodiments of FIGS. 1A and 1B is similar to that of the embodiments of FIGS. 1C-1D. From a structural point of view, since the embodiments of FIGS. 1A and 1B are better for industrial safety helmets, the outer shell 2A is thicker than that of the other embodiments. Vice versa, since the helmets of the embodiments of FIGS. 1C-1D are suitable for sport helmets, the outer shell 2A can be rigid, like in the motorcycle or automotive helmets, or semi-rigid, like in the bike or ski helmets.
The inner shock absorbing liner 2B is preferably made of an expanded foam polymer, like EPS or EPP.
In the embodiment of FIG. 1C, the inner liner 2B comprises a pocket 14 in which the cellular structure 4 is arranged. The pocket 14 is a recess of the inner surface of the inner liner 2B. This pocket 14 is shaped so as to be substantially complementary to the cellular structure 4. In this way, the cellular structure 4 can be retained in the pocket 14 without additional connecting means. Despite this, the head 7 can be connected, or not, to the bottom surface of pocket 14 thanks to connecting means 15 like an adhesive layer. The pocket 14 has inner mouth that is smaller than its bottom surface, consequently once the cellular structure 4 is arranged in this pocket 14, it cannot come out spontaneously. The outer shell 2A and the inner liner 2B comprise a plurality of vents 28. A vent 28 is an opening that allows an air transit from the external environment to the head 25 of the wearer. The vent 28 crosses the outer shell 2A and inner liner 2B up to the bottom of the pocket 14. From here, the air can reach the user head 25 thanks to the open-cells 9 of the cellular structure 4. The helmet 1 is thus permeable. The clamping devices 5 are configured to cross the cellular structure 4 from one side to the other, and their collapsible bodies 8 are configured to penetrate in respective open-cells 9 of the cellular structure 4. The clamping devices 5 are inserted in the cellular structure 4 so that the bases 6 face towards the head receiving system 3 and the heads 7 face towards the bottom of the pocket 14. The heads 7 are attached to the bottom of the pocket 14 through connecting means 15. The collapsible bodies 8 can be connected to the heads 7 once they come over the cellular structure 4. The connection between this kind of head 7 and the collapsible body 8 is described in the following with reference to the clamping devices 5 of FIGS. 4 and 5. Thanks to the heads 7, the cellular structure 4 is spaced with respect to the bottom of the pocket 14 and do not enter in contact with it. The bases 6 are connected to the head receiving system 3 through additional connecting means 23. In this embodiment, the connecting means 15 and the additional connecting means 23 are made with a Velcro connection and the head receiving system 3 is a comfort liner 3B. The Velcro connection comprises a hooking part and a hook part structured in a known manner. The hook part is preferably arranged on the base 6, and the comfort liner 3B comprises an outer woven cover that acts a hooking part. In this type of helmet 1, the head receiving system 3 can move with respect to the cellular structure 4. Moreover, a detachment between the head 7 and the inner liner 2B in case of an oblique impact can dissipate further energy.
With reference to FIG. 1D, it's represented a helmet 1 comprising a shell 2 composed by an outer shell 2A and an inner liner 2B as explained for the helmet 1 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1C. In this case the vents 28 are arranged not in correspondence of the cellular structure 4, but in a further embodiment (not shown) they can be arranged in correspondence of the cellular structure 4 so that an airflow cross all the elements of the helmet 1. In this embodiment, the cellular structure 4 is a lattice structure, as described above. The collapsible bodies 8 of the clamping devices 5 pass-through a plurality of open-cells 9 in order to come over from the opposite side of the cellular structure 4. The bases 6 of these clamping devices 5 stay on the outer side of the cellular structure 4 and lie on it, while the heads 7 are arranged over the head receiving system 3. Substantially, the collapsible bodies 8 cross the open-cells 9 and the head receiving system 3. In this way, the heads 7 lie on the inner surface of the head receiving system 3, as shown in FIG. 1D. In this version of the helmet 1, the clamping devices 5 clamp the head receiving system 3 and the cellular structure 4 together. Furthermore, the clamping devices 5 comprise respective adhesive layers 15 arranged on the outer surfaces of the bases 6. This adhesive layers allow a firm connection of the cellular structure 4 to the inner liner 2B of the shell 2. The head receiving system 3 of this embodiment is a comfort system 3B of a different type with respect to that of FIG. 1C.
In the embodiment of FIGS. 1C and 1D, the helmet can also comprises a spacer (not shown) for each clamping device 5. The spacer is a ring of nylon or PTFE. The collapsible body 8 of the clamping device 5 passes through the central hole of the spacer. The spacers are arranged so as to stay between the inner surface of the base 6 and the outer face of the cellular structure 4. In this way, the spacers act as cushions between the clamping devices 5 and the cellular structure 4, allowing a relative sliding.
In the FIGS. 2-5 are shown some types of clamping devices and how they interact with the cellular structure 4.
The clamping device of FIG. 2 comprises a base 6 having a protuberance 8C and a head 7 comprising a hollow body 8D. The protuberance 8C and the hollow-body 8C constitute the collapsible body 8. The protuberance 8C is shaped so as to enter in the hollow body 8D through the mouth 21. The protuberance 8C comprises a dentition 20 that is configured to cooperate with the mouth 21 of the hollow body 8D, so to make the extraction of the protuberance 8C from the hollow body 8D not possible or difficult. The head 7 is shaped so to lie on one side of the cellular structure 4, while the base 6 is shaped so to lie on the opposite side of the cellular structure 4. The hollow body 8D and the protuberance 8C are dimensioned so as to enter in one single open-cell 9, without the need of creating a wider pass-through hole or enlarging the existing ones. As shown in FIG. 2B, when a normal and out-of-plane force F is applied to the cellular structure 4 and to the clamping device 5, the open-cells 9 progressive buckle and their sidewalls 10 crumple. The clamping device 5 is configured so that the collapsible body 8 of the clamping device 5 follows this collapse without opposing a resistance. When an angled force F is applied to the cellular structure 4, as shown in FIG. 2C, the cellular structure 4 also slightly laterally buckles and the head 7 translates with respect to the base 6. Even in this case, the clamping device 5 follows this movement through a deformation. This deformation of the clamping device 5 allows to absorb the tangential component of the impact force F.
The clamping device 5 of FIG. 3 comprises a stretchable elongated body 8A that is attached to the base 6. Said stretchable elongated body 8A comprise a retaining portion 7A which acts as head 7. The stretchable elongated body 8A is made of an elastic material so that the stretchable elongated body 8A can get significantly longer. The retaining portion 7A is spaced from the base 6. The stretchable elongated body 8A also comprises an exceeding portion 22 which extends beyond the retaining portion 7A. In order to let pass the stretchable elongated body 8A through one open-cell 9, the exceeding portion 22 is inserted in the open base 11 of said one open-cell 9 and once, it comes over the opposite side of the cellular structure 4, the exceeding portion 22 is pulled until the retaining portion 7A, passing through the open-cell 9, comes out from said opposite side. The flexibility of retaining portion 7A allows the passage through one open-cell 9. At this point, the exceeding portion 22 is released and the elasticity of the stretchable elongated body 8A spreads the retaining portion 7A over said opposite side of the cellular structure 4. In this way, the clamping device 5 exerts a force that attracts the retaining portion 7A and the base 6 towards each other. After the positioning phase described above and schematically represented in FIG. 3A, the exceeding portion 22 is cut, e.g. with scissors, and the clamping device 5 looks as in FIG. 3B. This kind of clamping device 5 can change its shape and follow the deformations of the cellular structure 4. For example, in FIG. 3C a force F applies orthogonally to the cellular structure 4 and the open-cells 9 axially crumple. In this case, the stretchable elongated body 8A relaxes, getting shorter. If the impact force F is angled, as shown in FIG. 3D, the cellular structure 4 also translates and slightly bends laterally. In this case, the clamping device 5 deforms, allowing this translation/deformation of the cellular structure 4.
Alternatively, the stretchable elongated body 8A of the clamping device 5 is made at least in part of a viscoelastic polymer. In particular, the stretchable elongated body 8A can be entirely made of a viscoelastic polymer or can comprise an outer elastic portion inside which is arranged a viscoelastic material, for example a viscoelastic foam.
The clamping device 5 of FIGS. 4 and 5 are substantially equal, except for the presence of geometric perturbations 19 on the collapsible body 8 of the embodiments of FIG. 4. For this reason, these embodiments of the clamping device 5 of FIGS. 4 and 5 are described together. The collapsible body 8 of these embodiments comprises a flexible elongated body 8B that is connected to the base 6. This flexible elongated body 8B is made of a plastic material and is configured to be flexible but not stretchable. Only a portion of the elongated body 8B can be configured to elongate in case of a pulling force greater than a certain threshold. This elongation of the flexible body 8B of these clamping devices 5 corresponds to a permanent deformation. The outer surface of the flexible elongated body 8B comprises a plurality of spaced teeth 16 alternated by recesses 17. The flexible elongated body 8B looks similar to a cable-tie. Said teeth 16 are configured to mechanical cooperate with at least one flexible pawl 18 belonging to the head 7. The flexible pawl 18 is shaped so as to fit in one of said recesses 17 making the extraction of the flexible elongated body 8B from the head 7 unfeasible or really difficult. Consequently, the flexible elongated body 8B enters in the head 7 but cannot be extracted. Once one of the teeth 16 has engaged the flexible pawl 18 of the head 7 and reached the right portion, the portion of the flexible elongated body 8B coming out from the head 7 is removed, for example with scissors, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 5A. The clamping devices 5 so look as FIGS. 4B and 5B depict. As shown in FIGS. 4C and 5C, when a normal and out-of-plane force F is applied to the cellular structure 4, the open-cells 9 progressively buckle and their sidewalls 10 crumple. The flexible elongated body 8B of the clamping device 5 is configured to flex, following the collapse of the cellular structure 4 without opposing a resistance. When an angled force F is applied to the cellular structure 4, as shown in FIGS. 4D and 5D, the cellular structure 4 also slightly lateral buckles and the head 7 translates with respect to the base 6. Even in this case, the clamping device 5 follows this movement through a deformation. This deformation of the clamping device 5 allows to absorb the tangential component of the impact force F. In particular, the embodiment of FIG. 4 has a flexible elongated body 8B at least partially pleated. These geometric perturbations 19 facilitate the collapse of the collapsible body 8. Alternatively, in an embodiment not shown, the flexible elongated body 8B can be coiled instead of pleated.
Advantageously, in one or all the embodiments of the above-described clamping device 5, the collapsible body 8 of the clamping device 5 is configured to not impede the collapsing of the cellular structure 4. In particular, the compressive force required to collapse the clamping device 5 along a direction X, as shown in FIGS. 2B, 3C, 4C, 5C, is lower than or equal to the compressive force required to deform the open-cells 9 of the cellular energy-absorbing structure 4 along the same direction X.
In the FIGS. 6, the helmets 1 of the embodiments of FIG. 1 are represented during an impact with an inclined force F hitting the outer shell 2A.
In particular, in FIG. 6A is represented the helmet 1 of the embodiment of FIG. 1A during an impact. The impact is represented through an inclined force F which causes a rotation R of the outer shell 2A with respect to the head 25 of the wearer. A first portion of the impact force F is absorbed by the harness system 3A which deforms prior that the head 25 reaches the cellular structure 4. Once the head 25 enters in contact with the cellular structure 4, the open-cells 9 crumple absorbing the normal component Fn of the force F.
In the FIG. 6 the crumpling of the open cells 9 is represented through a reduction of the thickness of the cellular structure 4. Concurrently, the clamping devices 5 laterally stretch allowing a relative movement of the cellular structure 4 with respect to the outer shell 2A. The deformation of the clamping devices 5 allows to absorb the tangential component Ft of the impact force F.
FIG. 6B shows the helmet 1 of the embodiment of FIG. 1B during an angled impact with a force F which causes a rotation R of the outer shell 2A with respect to the head 25 of the wearer. The deformation of the cellular structure 4 and of the clamping devices 5 is similar to that described for FIG. 6A. The open-cells 9 of the cellular structure 4 axially progressive buckle absorbing the normal component Fn of the force F and, in the same time, the clamping devices 5 bend and stretch absorbing the tangential component Ft of the force F.
FIG. 6C shows the helmet 1 of the embodiment of FIG. 1C during an angled impact with a force F which causes a rotation R of the shell 2 with respect to the head 25 of the wearer. In this case, the cellular structure 4 remains attached to bottom of the pocket 14 by means of the heads 7. The cellular structure 4 deforms along both in-plane and out-of-plane directions. The cellular structure 4 hits against the sidewall of the pocket 14 and it compresses. The in-plane deformation of the cellular structure 4, occurring parallel to the bottom of the pocket 14, absorbs a part of the tangential component Ft of the force F. While the axial crumpling of the open-cells 9 absorbs the normal component Fn of the force F. Moreover, the clamping devices 5 bend contributing to absorb the tangential component Ft of the force F during the cellular structure 4 deformation.
FIG. 6D shows the helmet 1 of the embodiment of FIG. 1D during an angled impact with a force F, which causes a rotation R of the shell 2 with respect to the head 25 of the wearer. In this case, the lattice structure 4 slightly slides over the bases 6. Therefore, the cellular structure 4 deforms along both in-plane and out-of-plane directions. The cellular structure 4 hits against the sidewall of the pocket 14 and it compresses. The lattice structure slides in the pocket 14 deforming the solid portions 12 and absorbing a part of the tangential component Ft of the force F. Concurrently, the top-down crumpling of the open-cells 9 absorbs the normal component Fn of the force F. Moreover, the clamping devices 5 bend contributing to absorb the tangential component Ft of the force F during the lattice structure deformation.
In particular, in FIG. 7 is represented an exemplary embodiment of the clamping device 5 of FIG. 3. The clamping device 5 comprises a base 6 monolithically connected to the stretchable elongated body 8A, constituting the collapsible body 8, which in turn is a single piece with the retaining portion 7A, constituting the head 7. This version of the clamping device 5 is represented in detail in the FIG. 10. In particular, from FIG. 10C appears immediately clear that the base 6 is wider than the retaining portion 7A (the head 7). Indeed, the base 6 is used for attaching the clamping device 5 to the shell 2, as shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1D. In FIG. 10A, it's perceivable that the base 6 is slightly curved both on the inner and outer faces. This shape allows a better fitting with the cellular structure 4 and with the shell 2. Moreover, the base 6 can be made of a different material with respect to the elastic material of the stretchable elongated body 8A, as shown in FIG. 10B. In particular, the base 6 can be made of a rigid plastic, like nylon, polycarbonate or ABS that is co-molded with the elastic material of the stretchable elongated body 8A.
The clamping device 5 of FIG. 7A is firstly attached to the shell 2, for example with an adhesive layer that acts as connecting means 15, as shown in FIG. 7B. Secondly, the cellular structure 4 is arranged over the outer shell 2A so that the stretchable elongated body 8A passes-through an open-cell 9 and the exceeding portion 22 comes over the cellular structure 4, as shown in FIG. 7C. Thirdly, the exceeding portion 22 is pulled so that the retaining portion 7A comes out the cellular structure 4 and pushes the cellular structure 4 towards the outer shell 2A, as shown in FIG. 7D. Finally, the exceeding portion 2 is cut and the connection between the outer shell 2A and the cellular structure 4 is realized in a quick and cheap manner. The arrangement of FIG. 7 corresponds to that of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A and 6A.
The clamping device 5 of FIG. 8 comprises a base 6 monolithically connected to the flexible elongated body 8B, constituting the collapsible body 8. A separated head 7, comprising a plurality of pawls 18, can be inserted over the flexible elongated body 8B, as shown in FIG. 8A. The shape of the clamping device 5 of FIG. 8 is shown in detail in FIG. 11. The head 7 comprises three flexible pawls 18 and a central hole dimensioned for receiving the flexible elongated body 8B with its teeth 16. The teeth 16 are interspersed with recesses 17. The teeth 16 interact with the flexible pawls 18 so that the latter can fit in one of said recesses 17. Once that the flexible pawls 18 enter in one recess 17, the head 7 keeps its position along the flexible elongated body 8B, as shown in the zoomed portion of FIG. 11B. The base 6 is wider than the head 7 and it's slightly curved for the reasons explained for the embodiment of FIG. 10. The base 6 and the flexible elongated body 8B are a single piece made of the same material, while the head 7 is independent from them and can be made, or not, of the same material.
As shown in FIG. 8B, the clamping device 5 of FIG. 8A is firstly attached to the outer shell 2A, for example with glue or an adhesive layer. Once the clamping device 5 is connected to the shell 2, the cellular structure 4 is arranged over the shell 2, so that the flexible elongated body 8B passes-through and comes over one of the open-cells 9 of the cellular structure 4, as shown in FIG. 8C. Thirdly, the cellular structure 4 is secured to the shell 2 through the head 7. The flexible elongated body 8B is inserted in the head 7 to lock the cellular structure 4 to the shell 2. Finally, the exceeding part of the flexible elongated body 8B is cut. This kind of clamping device 5 substantially corresponds to that used in the embodiment of FIGS. 1B and 1s similar to those of FIG. 1E.
In FIG. 9 is also represented an alternative way to permanently connect the clamping device 5 to the outer shell 2A. In this embodiment, the base 6 comprises two holes and the outer shell 2A comprises two anchoring portions 24 shaped to pass through said two holes. Once the base 6 is in contact with the inner surface of the outer shell 2A, the anchoring portions 24, that in FIG. 9 are shown still intact, are fused and the connection between the base 6 and the outer shell 2A becomes permanent.
In the embodiments of FIGS. 7 and 8, the cellular structure 4 is an array of energy-absorbing open-cells 9, but the same considerations apply in case of a lattice structure.
All the features described for the embodiments of FIGS. 1, can be mixed to obtain further embodiments not represented but included in the present invention.
Furthermore, even if the embodiments of FIGS. 1A, 1D employ the clamping devices 5 of the FIG. 3 and the embodiments of FIGS. 1B, 1C employ clamping devices of the types represented in FIG. 4 or 5, other clamping device 5 according to the present invention can be used instead of those.
With reference to FIG. 13 is shown a further embodiment of the clamping device 5 according to the present invention. This clamping device 5 comprises a base 6 and an elongated collapsible body 8 protruding from said base 6. The end portion of the elongated collapsible body 8 comprises a head 7 which is configured to adhere and grip the inner surface of an open cell 9.
The head 7 can comprises a plurality of gripper elements 29 that extend radially outward from the cylindrical body of the elongated collapsible body 8. The gripper elements 29 can be annular fins having various forms. Alternatively, each fin can be composed by several petals (not shown) instead of being annular.
The clamping device 5 so conformed is shaped like a plug, which is capable of entering into one cell of the cellular energy-absorbing structure 4, as shown in FIGS. 13B, 13C and 13D. Substantially, the elongated body 8 and the head 7 are dimensioned so to enter in one single open-cell 9 of the cellular structure 4, without needing to enlarge the hole or performing other holes in the cellular structure 4. In this way, the integrity of the cellular structure 4 is guaranteed and its energy-absorbing performances assured at every point.
As shown in FIGS. 13C and 13D, the elongated body 8 penetrates the open-cell 9 entering via the opening 11. The clamping device 5 is shaped so that the entire elongated body 8 enters in the cellular structure 4, as shown in FIG. 13D.
Once that the clamping device 5 is inserted in the open-cell 9 of the cellular structure 4, only the base 6 emerges from the cellular structure 4.
The base 6 is preferably a flat and wide portion of the clamping device 5. The base 6 is wider more than three times the elongated body 8 width. The base 6 comprises a flat or slightly curved surface. Once the clamping device 5 is inserted in the cellular structure 4, the base 6 abuts against the cellular structure 4.
The head 7 of the clamping device 5 comprises gripper elements 29 that are configured to frictionally engage the inner side of the open-cell 9 in which the elongated body 8 penetrates. The gripper elements 29 anchor the elongated body 8 to the open-cell 9 and consequently the clamping device 5 can be pulled out of the open-cell 9 only applying to the base 6 a pulling force.
The clamping device 5 is preferably made, at least in part, of a flexible and elastic material, like silicone, rubber, TPE, TPU or another elastomeric material. The clamping device 5 does not require to be entirely made of said material. For example, the base 6 can be made of plastic and more rigid material, that is co-molded with the more flexible and elastic material of the elongated body 8. Alternatively, even the elongated body can be made of a plastic material and only the gripper elements are flexible. In the latter case, the elongated body 8 can bend due to its slender ratio, thus the ratio between the height and width of the elongated body.
In this kind of clamping device 5 the base 6 is attached to the shell 2 by means of connecting means 15.
In a further alternative, the base 6 can comprise a viscoelastic part that allows a relative sliding of the opposite faces of the base. For example, the base 6 can comprise a viscoelastic foam sandwiched between the upper and lower surfaces of the base 6.
The clamping device 5 according to this embodiment, wherein the clamping device 5 acts like a plug, can be shaped and structured in different ways, as FIGS. 14-18 depict. In particular, the clamping device 5 can have gripper elements 29 having an arrow-shaped cross-section, as shown in FIG. 14. The arrow-shaped gripper element 29 is oriented so to facilitate the entrance in the open-cell 9 and to grab on to the inner surface of the open-cell 9 when pulled out. The cellular structure 4 can deform, as shown in FIGS. 14C,14D, and nevertheless the clamping device 5 follows its deformation.
In FIGS. 15, it's shown a further embodiment of the clamping device 5. In this case, the clamping device 5 is composed by two elements, an insert element 31 and a holed body 35. The holed body 35 acts as the head 7 of the clamping device 5 and it comprises an axial bore 30 into which the insert element 31 can be inserted. The distal end of the insert element 31 is sharped so to facilitate the entry in said axial bore 30. This end is also wider than the trunk of the insert element 31, so to push radially outside the sidewall of the holed body 35. The axial bore 30 is stricter than the sharped end of the insert element 31. The insert element 31 is inserted in the holed body 35 only once the holed body has been inserted in the open-cell 9 of the cellular body 4. In this way, the holed body expands outwardly, squashing it against the inner surface of the open-cell 9. In this embodiment, the insert element 31 is preferably made of a flexible material like an elastomer. The base 6 of this kind of clamping device 5 is constituted by the base portion of the insert element 31. In particular, the face of the base 6 facing outwardly with respect to the cellular structure 4 is that of the insert element 31. The insert element 31 acts as the elongated collapsible body 8 of the clamping device 5. Even this type of clamping device 5 is configured to follow the deformation of the cellular structure 4 without interfering, as shown in FIGS. 15C,15D.
The clamping device 5 type of FIG. 16 is similar to that of the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 14, but the head 7 comprises several layers of gripper elements 29. These gripper elements 29 are thinner than those of FIG. 14, and consequently more flexible. Vice versa, they are more and consequently, they exert more grip on the inner surface of the open-cell 9.
The additional type of the clamping device 5, shown in FIGS. 17, comprises an axial bore 30 and gripper elements 29 larger than the open-cell 9 width. The gripper elements 29 represent the head 7 of the clamping device 5. In this way, the axial bore 30 allows an inward deformation of the elongated body 8 in correspondence of said gripper elements 29. Vice versa, the elasticity of the elongated body 8 material, exerts a radial outwardly push on the inner surface of the open-cell 9. The clamping device 5 of FIG. 17 also comprises positioners 33 configured to be inserted in respective open-cells 9 of the cellular structure 4. These positioners 33 are pins protruding from the base 6 and shaped so to enter in respective open-cells 9. These positioners 33 allow to avoid rotations of the clamping device 5 about its axis of symmetry. The clamping device 5 can comprise only one positioner 33. Even all the other types of clamping devices 5 can comprise one or more positioners 33.
The clamping device 5 of FIG. 18 is similar to that of FIG. 15. In this embodiment, the insert element 31 has a tapered portion 32. In this way, when the insert element 31 penetrates the axial bore 30 of the holed body 35, the holed body 16 expands outwardly, compressing the inner surface of the open-cell 9. Alternatively, the tapered portion 32 can be arranged in the holed body 35. In this case, the axial bore 30 is tapered and the trunk of the insert element 31 is cylindrical. In this embodiment of the clamping device 5, the base 6 is constituted by the base portion of the holed body 35. The elongated body 8 of the clamping device 5 of this embodiment is composed by the trunk of the holed body 35 and by the insert element 31. The head 7 is composed by some small gripper elements outwardly protruding from the holed body 35. In this version of the clamping device 5, at least the holed body 35 is made of an elastic material. As for the other types of clamping devices 5, the deformation of the cellular structure 4 is followed by the clamping device 5, which deforms accordingly.
As shown in all FIGS. 14-18 having suffix “C” or “D”, the clamping device 5 always follow the axial crumpling of the cellular body 4, see FIGS. 14C,15C,16C,17C,18C, and the lateral bending of the cellular structure 4, see FIGS. 14D,15D,16D,17D,18D.
As shown in FIGS. 14-18, these clamping devices 5 are shorter than the cellular structure 4. That means that the height of the elongated body 8 is smaller than the cellular structure 4 thickness. In this way, even if the energy-absorbing structure 4 is axially compressed, the distal end of the clamping device 5 does not come out from the cellular structure 4. Consequently, any interference of the clamping device 5 with the wearer's head is avoided. Alternatively, the elongated body 8 of the clamping device 5 can be made of a flexible material, so that, even if its end comes into contact with the wearer's head, it does not become risky.
Even if it's not represented, the same architectures of the clamping device 5 can be used with a lattice structure. In this case, the cellular structure 4 has more open portions and the clamping device 5 can be inserted in one or more of these open-cells and can expand, as described above, for frictionally engaging the lattice structure.
As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the helmet 1 comprises a cellular energy-absorbing structure 4 and a plurality of clamping device 5 as previously described in FIGS. 14-18. The helmet 1 also comprises a shell 2. The cellular structures 4 in the helmet 1 can be one, like in FIGS. 19A, 20A, 19B and 20B or more, like in FIGS. 19C, 20C. Even if they're not represented, the arrangements of FIGS. 19A and 19B can comprise more cellular structures 4, and the arrangement of FIG. 19C can comprise only one cellular structure 4.
FIGS. 19A, 20A show a helmet 1 having a shell 2 constituted only by an outer hard shell 2A. Vice versa, FIGS. 19B, 20B, 19C and 20C show a helmet 1 having a shell 2 comprising an outer shell 2A and an inner shock absorbing liner 2B.
As already said for the other embodiments, the inner shock absorbing liner 2B, is preferably made of an expanded foam polymer, like EPS or EPP. The combination of the inner liner 2B and the outer shell 2B constitutes the shell 2.
The inner liner 2B can be connected to the outer shell 2A through an adhesive layer (not shown) or through other types of connections.
The clamping devices 5 are provided for connecting the cellular structure 4 to the shell 2. Specifically, to connect the cellular structure 4 to the outer shell 2A or to the inner liner 2B. The clamping devices 5 can also connect the head receiving system 3 to the shell 2. For example, the head receiving system 3A of FIG. 19A is a harness system, traditionally used in the safety industrial helmets.
With reference to FIG. 19A, the helmet 1 comprises an outer shell 2,2A that is connected through the clamping devices 5 to the cellular energy-absorbing structure 4. The base 6 of the clamping devices 5 is attached to the outer shell 2,2A through connecting means 15 and the cellular structure 4 is fixed to the elongated bodies 8 of the clamping devices 5 by the heads 7. The gripper elements 29 of the head 7 are anchored to the cellular structure 4 and consequently it remains in place. In particular, the cellular structure 4 of this embodiment is a lattice structure, consequently the elongated bodies 8 of the clamping devices 5 penetrate more open-cells 9 of the lattice structure 4. The head 25 of the wearer does not directly touch the cellular structure 4, because the harness 3A suspends the cellular structure 4 above the head 25. The connecting means 15 of this embodiment can be an adhesive layer. In this way, as described in detail in the following, the cellular structure 4 can translate with respect to the outer shell 2,2A. Even if this embodiment employs a lattice structure, the same type of helmet 1 can be realized with an array of interconnected open-cells 9 as previously described.
With reference to FIG. 19B, the helmet 1 comprises a shell 2 having an outer shell 2A and inner shock absorbing liner 2B. In particular, the outer shell 2A is connected to the inner liner 2B through an adhesive (not shown) or another type of connection mean. The inner liner 2B is thus firmly connected to the outer shell 2A. The inner liner 2B comprises a pocket 14 in which the cellular structure 4 is arranged. The pocket 14 is a recess of the inner surface of the inner liner 2B. This pocket 14 is shaped so as to be substantially complementary to the cellular structure 4. The pocket 14 has an inner mouth that is smaller than its bottom surface, consequently once the cellular structure 4 is arranged in this pocket 14, it difficulty can come out. The outer shell 2A and the inner liner 2B comprise a plurality of vents 28. A vent 28 is an opening that allows the air to flow from the external environment to the head 22 of the wearer. The vent 28 crosses the outer shell 2A and inner liner 2B up to the bottom of the pocket 14. From here, the air reaches the head 22 thanks to the open-cells 9 of the cellular structure 4. The helmet 1 is thus permeable. A plurality of clamping devices 5 are coupled to the cellular structure 4 so that their bases 6 face towards the inner liner 2B. Over the outer surface of the bases 6 is arranged an adhesive layer 15 which allows to firmly connect the cellular structure 4 to the inner liner 2B. Even if it's not represented in FIG. 19B, this helmet 1 comprise a head receiving system 3 arranged between the wearer head 25 and the cellular structure 4, for making the helmet 1 more comfortable.
With reference to FIG. 19C, the helmet 1 comprises an outer shell 2A and inner liner 2B connected to the outer shell 2A. The outer shell 2A and the inner liner 2B comprises more vents 28 for allowing an air circulation from outside to inside, as described for the helmet of FIG. 19B. The cellular structure 4 is connected to the inner liner 2B through a particular version of clamping devices 5. These clamping devices 5 comprise respective clamping device support 34 that are permanently connected to the inner liner 2B. The clamping device support 34 is a base co-moulded with the inner liner 2B so that a part of this support 34 cantilevers with respect to the inner liner 2B. This portion of the support 34 coming out from the inner liner 2B is configured to be connectable to the clamping device 5, for example through a snap-fit connection. In turn, the clamping device 5 is insertable in an open-cell 9 of the cellular structure 4 for connecting the latter to the inner liner 2B. In the helmet of FIG. 19C, the cellular structures 4 are more than one. In particular, a front cellular structure 4 is arranged in the front of the helmet 1, while a rear cellular structure 4 is arranged in the rear of the helmet 1. More cellular structures 4 allow to protect, in a different manner, different portions of the head 22. Moreover, more cellular structures 4 facilitate the arrangement of them in the helmet 1. This arrangement is applicable to all types of helmets of the present invention. In this kind of helmet 1, the cellular structures 4 can move with respect to the inner liner 2B, while the latter remains firmly connected to the outer shell 2A. Even if it's not represented in FIG. 19C, this helmet 1 can comprise a head receiving system 3 arranged between the head 22 and the cellular structure 4, for making the helmet 1 more comfortable.
Alternatively, to the clamping device support/s 34, the base 6 of the clamping device 5 can be directly co-moulded in the inner liner 2B, so that the elongated body 8 comes out from the inner liner 2B.
In the FIGS. 20, some types of relative movements of the parts of the helmet 1 according to the present invention are represented. Clamping devices 5 are used to allow and absorb the movement occurring between at least two parts of the helmet 1. Since the clamping device 5 can deform its shape, this deformation contributes to absorb shear forces caused by an impact on the outer shell 2A.
The clamping devices 5 according to the present invention are used to connect two or more elements of the helmet 1.
In FIGS. 20, the crumpling of the open cells 9 is represented through a reduction of the thickness of the cellular structure 4.
FIG. 20A shows the helmet 1 of the embodiment of FIG. 19A during an angled impact. The impact is represented through an inclined force F which causes a rotation R of the outer shell 2A with respect to the head 22 of the wearer. A first portion of the impact force F is absorbed by the harness 3A which deforms prior that the head 22 reaches the cellular structure 4. Once the head 22 enters in contact with the cellular structure 4, the solid portions 12 of the lattice structure deform absorbing the normal component Fn of the force F. Concurrently, the clamping devices 5 laterally stretch allowing a relative movement of the cellular structure 4 with respect to the outer shell 2A. The deformation of the clamping devices 5 allows to absorb the tangential component Ft of the impact force F.
FIG. 20B shows the helmet 1 of the embodiment of FIG. 19B during an angled impact with a force F which causes a rotation R of the shell 2 with respect to the head 22 of the wearer. In this case, the cellular structure 4 slightly slides over the bases 6 and over the bottom of the pocket 14. Consequently, the cellular structure 4 deforms along both in-plane and out-of-plane directions. The cellular structure 4, contrasted by the sidewall of the pocket 14, slightly collapse along a curved direction that is parallel to the bottom of the pocket 14. This deformation absorbs a part of the tangential component Ft of the force F, while the axial crumpling of the open-cells 9 absorbs the normal component Fn of the force F. Moreover, the clamping devices 5 bend contributing to absorb the tangential component Ft of the force F during the cellular structure 4 deformation.
FIG. 20C shows the helmet 1 of the embodiment of FIG. 19C during an angled impact with a force F which causes a rotation R of the shell 2 with respect to the head 22 of the wearer. In this case, the deformation of the clamping devices 5 absorbs the tangential component Ft of the impact force F, while the normal component Fn of the impact force F simultaneously crumples the open-cells 9.
All the features described for the embodiments of FIG. 19 can be mixed to obtain further embodiments not represented but included in the present invention.
Concluding, the invention so conceived is susceptible to many modifications and variations all of which fall within the scope of the inventive concept, furthermore all features can be substituted to technically equivalent alternatives. Practically, the quantities can be varied depending on the specific technical requirements. Finally, all features of previously described embodiments can be combined in any way, so to obtain other embodiments that are not herein described for reasons of practicality and clarity.
LEGEND OF REFERENCE SIGNS
- 1 helmet
- 2 shell
- 2A outer shell
- 2B inner shock absorbing liner
- 3 head receiving system
- 4 cellular energy-absorbing structure
- 5 clamping device
- 6 base
- 7 head
- 7A retaining portion
- 8 elongated collapsible body
- 8A stretchable elongated body
- 8B flexible elongated body
- 8C protuberance
- 8D hollow body
- 9 open-cell
- 10 sidewalls
- 11 open base of the open-cell
- 12 solid portion of the lattice structure
- 13 open portion of the lattice structure
- 14 pocket
- 15 connecting means
- 16 tooth of the collapsible body
- 17 recess of the collapsible body
- 18 flexible pawl
- 19 geometric perturbation
- 20 dentition
- 21 mouth
- 22 exceeding portion
- 23 additional connecting means
- 24 anchoring portion on the shell
- 25 head of the wearer
- 28 vent
- 29 gripper elements
- 30 axial bore
- 31 insert element
- 32 taper portion
- 33 positioner
- 34 connecting clamping device support
- 35 holed body
- F force
- Fn normal component of the force
- Ft tangential component of the force
- R relative rotation
