POD ATTACHMENT SYSTEM FOR HEADGEAR

A pod attachment system for headgear is disclosed. The pod attachment system includes a pod mount that can be coupled to a helmet shell and a pod, for example an electronics pod such as a sensor pod, that can be removably attached to the pod mount. A user can attach a pod to the pod mount and can remove the pod from the sensor pod mount. The pod mount includes a mechanical interface for attaching the pod to the pod mount. The mechanical interface includes one or more guiding features that cooperate with one or more locating features of the sensor pod to aid the user in attaching the pod to the sensor mount. The pod includes a locking component for securing the sensor pod on the pod mount. The pod attachment system may include an electrical interface for electrically coupling the pod to the pod mount for exchange of communication and power signals therebetween.

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Description
1 CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/734,628 filed on Dec. 16, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

2 COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document may contain material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. The following notice shall apply to this document: Copyright ©2024-2025, GALVION, Ltd.

3 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 3.1 Field of the Invention

The exemplary, illustrative, technology herein relates to systems, software, and methods for removably attaching pods or other units, for example units that include electronic components, for example sensor pods, to helmet systems and other headgear.

4 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The technology described herein provides a system for attaching and removing devices that include one or more sensors, beacons, and other electronic equipment to and from headgear, including to and from a helmet system configured to be worn by a warfighter. The technology may be used to add and remove electronics pods, for example pods containing one or more of beacons, sensors, and antennas, to and from the helmet system.

The technology provides a pod mount that can be removably attached to a helmet. The pod mount is environmentally sealed to prevent ingress of water and other environmental contaminants. The pod mount may be removably attachable to a helmet shell and formed to conform to a shape of the helmet shell. An optional strap system may be provided to enable secure attachment of the pod mount to the helmet shell.

The pod mount includes an electromechanical interface for attaching a pod, for example an electronics pod that includes one or more sensors, beacons, or antennas, for example a sensor pod or the like to the pod mount and for providing a connection interface for exchanging power and communication signals with the pod. It is noted that the terms “pod”, “electronics pod”, and “sensor pod” may be used herein interchangeably.

The pod mount includes a connector for electrically connecting the pod mount with a computing device, e.g. with a rear compute module (RCM) or other compute module, mounted on the helmet and with one or more power sources included with or removably attached to the computing device. In some embodiments, the pod mount includes one or more active electronic components, for example one or more sensors or antennas for wireless communication networks.

The pod electromechanical interface includes a plurality of guiding features to aid a user in attaching a pod to the pod mount. The guiding features include locating surfaces and a locating ramp to help direct the pod to an attached position on the pod mount. The guiding features are advantageous in that they enable a user to add and remove a sensor pod, or other type of electronics pod, to or from a helmet system by feel, for example when the user is wearing the helmet system.

The pod includes a pod attachment assembly for attaching the pod to the pod mount. The pod attachment assembly includes locating hooks and a lock hook for attaching the pod to the pod mount. The locating hooks are configured to interact with the guiding features of the pod mount to aid a user in attaching the pod to the pod mount. The lock hook is configured to securely, and removably, lock the pod onto the pod mount.

The pod includes an electrical interface for connecting with the pod mount electromechanical interface. The pod electrical interface enables exchange of power and electrical signals with the pod mount and with the RCM or other computing device and/or power source to which the pod mount is electrically coupled. The pod includes a sealing member for protecting the electrical interface from environmental hazards such as water when the pod is attached to the pod mount.

The pod mount is configured to attach pods with differing configurations of sensors and other components to the helmet system. A pod with any suitable configuration of electronic components can be assembled onto the pod mount if it includes the inventive pod attachment assembly of the technology disclosed herein. In this manner, a user may attach a first pod having a first configuration of electronic components to the pod mount and subsequently remove the first pod and replace it with a second pod having a second configuration of electronic components. Example pod electronic components include event detectors, for example laser event detectors, sound sensors, other types of sensors, and beacons, for example visible and infrared light beacons.

The electrical connections provided by the technology described herein enable the RCM or other compute device to receive, from an attached pod, communication signals, for example communication signals that include detection of events or sound. The electrical connections provided by the technology described herein enable the RCM or other compute device to communicate, to the pod, command communication signals, for example command signals to control a sensor or strobe. The electrical connections enable provision of power to the pod mount and to the pod from one of more power sources.

The pod mount and pod each include features for attaching securing members, for example straps, to secure the pod and/or pod mount to the helmet system.

In some aspects, a helmet system can include a helmet shell, a pod mount configured to be coupled to the helmet shell, and a pod configured to be removably attached to the pod mount. The pod mount can include an electromechanical interface having one or more tapered guiding features for aiding in attaching the pod to the pod mount. The pod can include an attachment system comprising one or more locating features for interfacing with the tapered guiding features of the pod mount and a locking component for securing the pod to the pod mount.

In some aspects, the interface of the pod mount includes a locating receptacle for receiving a locating hook of the pod, the one or more tapered guiding features includes a ramp that tapers outwardly from a first width to a second width along a length of the pod mount, the second width is larger than the first width, and the portion of the ramp that includes the second width is disposed proximate to the locating receptacle.

In some aspects, the interface of the pod mount includes a first locating receptacle and a second locating receptacle, each locating receptacle for receiving a separate locating hook of the pod, and the ramp is disposed between the first and second locating receptacles. The second width may correspond to a distance between the two locating hooks.

In some aspects, the locking component of the pod includes a lock hook for securing the pod on the pod mount and the pod mount includes a lock hook receptacle for receiving the lock hook wherein the lock hook is urged into a locked configuration to secure the pod on the pod mount.

In some aspects, the pod includes one or more compliant members for urging the lock hook into the locked configuration wherein the lock hook is engaged with the lock hook receptacle.

In some aspects, the pod includes one or more lock actuators for moving the lock hook from the locked configuration and into an unlocked for configuration for removing the pod from the pod mount.

In some aspects, the helmet system includes a compute module having at least one processor and at least one power source, the compute module electrically connected to the pod mount for one or more of providing power to the pod and sending or receiving data communications to or from the pod.

In some aspects, the helmet system includes a first rail and a second rail mounted on an outer surface of the helmet shell, wherein the pod mount includes a first strap interface and a second strap interface for receiving a flexible elongate member attached to the first rail and to the second rail for securing the pod mount on the helmet.

In some aspects, the helmet system includes a first rail and a second rail mounted on an outer surface of the helmet shell, wherein the pod includes a first strap interface and a second strap interface for receiving a flexible elongate member attached to the first rail and to the second rail for securing the pod on the helmet.

In some aspects, the pod includes one or more or a sensor, an antenna, and a beacon. The one or more sensors can include one or more of a laser event detection sensor, an inertial measurement unit, and a sound sensor.

In some aspects, the helmet system includes a second pod wherein the second pod includes the attachment system, and the pod and the second pod are each separately removably attachable to the pod mount.

In some aspects, a pod mount includes an electrical interface for providing an electrical connection with an electrical interface of a pod and a mechanical interface for attaching a pod to the pod mount. In embodiments, the mechanical interface includes a locating receptacle for receiving a locating hook of the pod, a lock hook receptacle for receiving a lock hook to secure the pod to the pod mount, and a tapered guide feature for guiding the locating hook to the locating receptacle.

In some aspects, the guide feature includes a ramp that tapers outwardly from a first width to a second width, wherein the second width is larger than the first width and wherein the portion of the ramp comprising the second width is disposed proximate to the locating receptacle.

In some aspects, the pod mount includes a first locating receptacle and a second locating receptacle, each locating receptacle for receiving a separate locating hook of the pod. The ramp may be disponed between the first and second locating receptacles, and the second width may correspond to a distance between the two locating hooks.

In some aspects, the pod mount includes at least one interface for attaching a flexible elongate member between the interface and a helmet rail.

In some aspects, a pod system includes a pod mount adapted to be coupled to an outer surface of a helmet, the pod comprising an attachment system; and a pod removably attachable to the pod mount, the pod mount comprising a mechanical interface for receiving the attachment system. In embodiments, the attachment system includes a locating hook for interfacing with a locating receptacle of the mechanical interface, a tapered guiding feature for guiding the locating hook to the locating receptacle, and a lock hook having a locked configuration for securing the pod on the pod mount and an unlocked for configuration for removing the pod from the pod mount. The pod mount may include a first electrical interface. The pod may include a second electrical interface for electrically connecting with the first electrical interface for exchanging one or more of power and communication signals therebetween.

In some aspects, the pod system includes a compliant seal surrounding one or both to the first and second electrical interfaces for providing an environmental seal when the pod is attached to the pod mount.

In some aspects, the attachment system includes a compliant member for urging the lock hook into the locked configuration.

The above and other features of the invention including various novel details of construction and combinations of parts, and other advantages, will now be more particularly described with reference to the accompanying drawings and pointed out in the claims. It will be understood that the particular method and device embodying the invention are shown by way of illustration and not as a limitation of the invention. The principles and features of this invention may be employed in various and numerous embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings, reference characters refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale; emphasis has instead been placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. The features of the present invention will best be understood from a detailed description of the invention and example embodiments thereof selected for the purposes of illustration and shown in the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary side schematic diagram of a helmet system according to the technology described herein;

FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary side schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a sensor pod attachment system of the technology described herein including a sensor pod mount and a sensor pod;

FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary side schematic diagram of the first embodiment of the sensor pod attachment system depicted in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary side schematic diagram of the first embodiment of the sensor pod attachment system depicted in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5A depicts an exemplary side schematic diagram of the first embodiment of the sensor pod attachment system depicted in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5B depicts an exemplary rear schematic diagram of the first embodiment of the sensor pod attachment system depicted in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the sensor pod mount depicted in FIG. 2;

FIG. 7A depicts an exemplary side schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a sensor pod mount;

FIG. 7B depicts an exemplary rear schematic diagram of the second embodiment of the sensor pod mount depicted in FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A depicts an exemplary side schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a sensor pod;

FIG. 8B depicts an exemplary top schematic diagram of the second embodiment of the sensor pod depicted in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9 depicts an example perspective view of a second helmet system including a third embodiment of a sensor pod mount and a third embodiment of a sensor pod according the technology described herein;

FIG. 10 depicts a bottom perspective view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount and the third embodiment of the second pod depicted in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 depicts a top perspective view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount and the third embodiment of the second pod depicted in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 depicts a side perspective view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount and the third embodiment of the second pod depicted in FIG. 10;

FIG. 13A depicts a bottom view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod assembled onto the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount depicted in FIG. 10, in a locked configuration;

FIG. 13B depicts a bottom view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod assembled onto the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount depicted in FIG. 13A, in an unlocked configuration;

FIG. 14A depicts a side view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount depicted in FIG. 10;

FIG. 14B depicts a top view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount depicted in FIG. 14A;

FIG. 15 depicts a rear view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount and the third embodiment of the sensor pod depicted in FIG. 10;

FIG. 16A depicts an exploded top perspective view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount depicted in FIG. 10;

FIG. 16B depicts an exploded bottom perspective view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount depicted in FIG. 10;

FIG. 17A depicts an exploded top perspective view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod depicted in FIG. 10;

FIG. 17B depicts an exploded bottom perspective view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod depicted in FIG. 10;

FIG. 18 depicts a section view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount and sensor pod depicted in FIG. 13A, taken through section line 18-8 of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 19 depicts a section view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount and sensor pod depicted in FIG. 13A, taken through section line 19-19 of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 20 depicts a partial section view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount and sensor pod depicted in FIG. 13A;

FIG. 21A depicts a rear perspective view of a third embodiment of a helmet system according to the technology described herein;

FIG. 21B depicts a side view of the third embodiment of the helmet system depicted in FIG. 21A;

FIG. 21C depicts a bottom perspective view of the third embodiment of the sensor pod mount depicted in FIGS. 21A and 21B;

FIG. 22A depicts a rear perspective view of a third embodiment of a helmet system according to the technology described herein;

FIG. 22B depicts a side view of the third embodiment of the helmet system depicted in FIG. 22A; and

FIG. 22C depicts a bottom perspective view of the third embodiment of sensor pod mount depicted in FIGS. 22A and 22B.

 DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION 5.1 Detailed Description of the Invention

As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Further, the singular forms of the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms: “includes,” “comprises,” “including,” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence of or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. Further, it will be understood that when an element, including component or subsystem, is referred to and/or shown as being connected or coupled to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present. Further, terms such as “first,” “second,” etc. are included to differentiate between elements of a claim and do not add limitations to the claim.

The invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which illustrative embodiments of the invention are shown.

This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a helmet system 1000 is shown in side schematic view. The helmet system 1000 includes a helmet shell 1001 having an outer surface 1003 upon which a rear compute module (RCM) 1700 and a sensor pod mount 1200 are attached. A sensor pod 1400 can be removably attached to the sensor pod mount 1200. The sensor pod mount 1200 can be removably attached to the helmet surface 1003 using a fastening system 1220, for example a hook and loop fastening system, e.g. Velcro. In embodiments, the sensor pod mount 1200 may be attached to the helmet surface 1003 using a fastening systems 1220 that includes one or more mechanical fasteners, for example a threaded fastener or rivet, or an adhesive. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the sensor pod mount 1200 may be formed as a portion of the helmet shell, 1001, for example as a molded boss or the like.

A power module 1800 includes a removable power source 1804. The power module is configured to be removably attached to the RCM 1700. A connector 1900 is disposed between the RCM 1700 and the sensor pod mount 1200. The connector 1900 may include a water tight sleeve formed from a flexible material, for example from a rubber or other flexible polymer. The connector 1900 houses one or more electrical conductors 1901 for communicating power and data signals between the RCM 1700 and the sensor pod mount 1200. The electrical conductors 1901 may include wires, cables, flexible circuit boards, or other electrically conductive members for power and/or communication signals.

The RCM 1700 includes a processor 1702 and associated memory 1703, one or more internal power sources 1704, and a power and data hub 1706 electrically connected together with a RCM network 1708. In some embodiments, the RCM network 1708 includes one or more electrical conductors, for example one or more wires, cables, or circuits, for communicating one or more of power and data signals. The RCM 1700 includes an interface 1701 for removably attaching the power module 1800 to the RCM. The power module 1800 includes an interface 1801. The RCM interface 1701 and power module interface 1801 form an electromechanical connection between the power module 1800 and the RCM 1700 to removably mount the power module on the RCM 1700 and to enable exchange of power and/or data signals between the power module 1800 and the RCM 1700. In some embodiments, the hub 1706 includes a power and data hub for exchange of communication signals between the processor 1702 and the sensor pod mount 1200 and for exchange of power signals between the sensor pod mount 1200 and one or more of the internal power sources 1704 and the removable power source 1804.

In some embodiments, the hub 1706 includes separate power and data communication hubs. In some embodiments, the hub 1706 includes one or more power control devices 1707, for example a power bus, a power converter, one or more controllable switches or other switching elements, which in embodiments are controllable by the processor. In a particular embodiment, the hub 1706 includes a USB power and data hub, as is known in the art, for example a USB hub configured for USB-C power delivery.

The sensor pod mount 1200 includes a network 1208 for electrically connecting the RCM electrical connector 1900, and therethrough the RCM 1700, to the electrical interface 1201 of the sensor pod mount 1200 to enable communication of data and power signals between the RCM 1700 and a sensor pod 1400 attached to the sensor pod mount 1200. In some embodiments, the senor pod mount network 1208 includes one or more electrical conductors, for example wires, cables, or circuits, for communicating one or more of power and data signals.

In some embodiments, the sensor pod mount 1200 includes one or more active components. In embodiments the active components include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) 122 and an antenna 124 for a personal area network (PAN), for example a wireless soldier network. In particular embodiments, the antenna 124 includes an Alereon wireless network antenna. In other embodiments, the sensor pod mount 1200 includes different or additional active components or no active components.

The sensor pod 1400 includes a network 1408 for electrically connecting the sensor pod electrical interface 1401 with one or more active components of the sensor pod 1400. In some embodiments, the sensor pod network 1408 includes one or more electrical conductors, for example one or more wires, cables, or circuits, for communicating one or more of power and data signals.

The sensor pod 1400 includes a pod attachment assembly 1403 for attaching the sensor pod to the sensor pod mount 1200 and a pod cover 1402 that forms a sensor enclosure 1407 for housing one or more active components 142, 144, 146. In embodiments, active components of the sensor pod 1400 include one or more laser event detectors (LEDs) 142, for example four LEDs, one or more sound sensors 144, and one or more strobes 146, for example one or more visible or infrared (IR) light beacon strobes. In a particular embodiment, a sensor pod 1400 includes four LEDs 142 and three sound sensors 144.

The sensor pod mount 1200 can be used to attach, to the helmet system 1000, multiple different sensor pods 1400, each including a pod attachment assembly 1403 for interfacing with the sensor pod mount 1200. Each sensor pod may have a different configuration of sensors, beacons, and other active components. The sensor pod mounting system described herein, including the sensor pod mount 1200 and sensor pod attachment assembly 1403 advantageously provide a platform system for attaching, removing, and replacing multiple sensor pods each of which may include a different sensor pod active systems configuration, to or on a helmet. A user can remove a first sensor pod 1400 from the sensor pod mount 1200 and attach a second sensor pod to the sensor pod mount, thereby providing the helmet system 1000 with an interchangeable sensor and/or beacon system.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 through 6, the sensor pod mount 1200 includes an electromechanical interface 1203 for removably attaching the sensor pod 1400 to the sensor pod mount. The electromechanical interface 1203 includes one or more locating hook receptacles, e.g. 1212 or 1213, each for receiving a locating hook, e.g. 1412 or 1413, respectively, of the sensor pod 1400. The electromechanical interface 1403 includes a locating ramp 1230 for guiding the locating hooks 1412 and 1413 to the locating hook receptacles 1212 and 1213. The electromechanical interface 1403 includes a lock hook receptacle 1222 for receiving a lock hook 1422 of the sensor pod 1400 and an electrical interface 1201, disposed on an electrical interface surface 1205, for electrically connecting to an electrical interface 1401 of the sensor pod.

The sensor pod 1400 includes the pod attachment assembly 1403 for mechanically and electrically interfacing with the sensor pod mount 1200. The pod attachment assembly 1403 includes a pod base 1410 and a locking assembly housed by the pod base as well as the electrical interface 1401. The pod base 1410 includes a helmet facing surface 1416 that is formed to conform with surface 1003 of the helmet.

The locking assembly portion of sensor pod attachment assembly 1403 includes a lock plate 1420, the lock hook 1422 attached to the lock plate 1420, and lock hook actuators 1424, 1425 attached to the lock plate. One or more compliant members 1430 push against one or more compliant member interfaces 1426 of the lock plate 1420 to urge the lock hook 1422 towards a locked position, wherein the lock hook 1422 is engaged with the lock hook receptacle 1222 of the sensor pod mount 1220 as shown, for example, in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the one or more compliant members 1430 include compression springs. In some embodiments, the one or more compliant members 1430 includes any suitable structure for exerting an urging force on the lock plate, for example one or more of an elastically compliant elastomer, a leaf spring, disc spring, or conical spring.

Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2 and 4A-6, a user can attach the sensor pod 1400 to the sensor pod mount 1200 by assembling locating hooks 1412, 1413 of the sensor pod 1400 into corresponding locating hook receptacles 1212, 1213 of the sensor pod mount 1200, as indicated by arrow 12 of FIG. 2, and then rotating the sensor pod down and towards the front of the helmet 1001, as indicated by arrow 10 in FIG. 2, until the sensor pod electrical interface 1401 comes into contact with the sensor pod mount electrical interface 1201 and the lock hook 1422 engages the lock hook receptacle 1222, as can be seen, for example, in FIG. 1. When the sensor pod 1400 is assembled onto the sensor pod base 1200, an electrical interface surface 1405 of the sensor pod comes into contact, or near contact, with an opposing electrical interface surface 1205 of the sensor pod mount and the sensor pod electrical interface 1401 is electrically connected with the sensor pod mount electrical interface 1201.

A sealing member 1440 is disposed between the electrical interface surfaces 1405 and 1205 to provide an environmental seal to protect the interconnected electrical interfaces 1401 and 1201 when the pod 1400 is attached to the sensor pod mount 1200. The sealing member 1440 may be formed from a compliant material, for example from rubber or another elastomeric material. In some embodiments, the sealing member 1440 is attached to the sensor pod 1400, as shown for example in FIGS. 2, 4, and 5A. In other embodiments, the sealing member 1440 may be attached to the sensor pod mount 1200, while in still further embodiments, the sensor pod mount 1200 and sensor pod 1400 each include a sealing member (not shown).

Referring now to FIGS. 1, 3, 4, and 5A-5B, a user can remove the sensor pod 1400 from the sensor pod mount 1200 by first disengaging the lock hook 1422 from the lock hook receptacle 1222. The user may pull the lock hook actuators 1424 and 1425 towards the front of the helmet, i.e. away from the RCM 1700, as indicated by arrow 14 of FIG. 3 to overcome the urging force provided by the compliant member(s) 1430, thereby enabling the lock hook 1422 to disengage from the lock hook receptacle 1222, as indicated by arrow 16 of FIG. 3. The user can then rotate the sensor pod 1400 toward the back of the helmet, i.e. toward the RCM 1700, as indicated by arrow 18 of FIG. 4 and slide the locating hooks 1412 and 1413 out of the locating hook receptacles 1212 and 1213, as indicated by arrow 20 in FIG. 4, to remove the sensor pod 1400 from the sensor pod mount 1200.

Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2, 5A, 5B, and 3, the sensor pod mount 1200 includes a locating ramp 1230 which is configured and disposed to aid a user in assembling the sensor pod 1400 onto the sensor pod mount 1200 without needing to look at either the senor pod or the sensor pod mount, e.g. while the user is wearing the helmet system 1000.

As best seen in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6, the sensor pod mount 1200 includes a longitudinal axis (X) that extends along a length of the sensor pod mount 1200 from the distal end 1233 of the locating ramp 1230 that is furthest away from the locating hook receptacles 1212 and 1213 towards a proximal end 1231 of the locating ramp 1230 that is disposed at or near the locating hook receptacles 1212 and 1213. A lateral axis (Y) extends in a normal direction to the longitudinal axis (X). A normal axis (Z) is disposed normal to the locating surface 1214 and 1215.

The locating ramp 1230 extends upwards from the distal end 1233 toward the proximal end 1231 along the normal axis (Z), e.g. away from the helmet surface 1003 and the locating surfaces 1214 and 1215. The locating ramp 1230 is tapered laterally outward along longitudinal axis (X), i.e. a distance between the first side surface 1234 and the second side surface 1235 increases from the distal end 1233 of the locating ramp 1230 towards the proximal end 1231 of the locating ramp.

The locating ramp 1230 has a first lateral width (A) that corresponds to the distal portion 1233 of the locating ramp. The locating ramp 1230 has a second lateral width (B) that corresponds to the proximal portion 1231 of the locating ramp. The second lateral width (B) corresponds to a distance (C) between locating hooks 1412 and 1413 of the sensor pod 1400. In some embodiments, the second lateral width (B) of the locating ramp 1230 corresponds with or is similar to the distance (C) between the locating hooks 1412 and 1413, for example approximately 95 to 99 percent of the distance (C). In other embodiments, the second lateral width (B) is less than the distance (C) between the locating hooks, for example 75 to 95 percent of the distance (C), although the difference between (B) and (C) is not so limited.

In embodiments, the smaller lateral with (A) at the distal portion 1233 of the locating ramp 1230 and the lateral outward taper of the locating ramp as it extends toward the locating hook receptacles 1212 and 1213 provides a looser fit of the locating hooks 1412 and 1413 on the sensor pod mount at the distal end 1233 of the locating ramp corresponding to the first width (A) and a tighter fit at the proximal end 1231 of the locating ramp 1320 corresponding to the second width (B). This change in fit, or reduction of looseness or slop along the length of the locating ramp 1230, enables a user to guide the locating hooks 1412 and 1413 into the locating hook receptacles 1212 and 1213.

In at least one example of assembling a sensor pod 1400 on the sensor pod mount 1200, a user engages the locating hooks 1412 and 1413 with the locating surfaces 1214 and 1215 and then slides them towards the locating hook receptacles 1212 and 1213. The tapered walls 1234 and 1235 of the locating ramp 1230 push the locating hooks 1412 and 1413 into alignment with the locating hook receptacles 1212 and 1213 as the user slides them along the locating surfaces 1214 and 1215.

In some embodiments, a top surface 1232 of the locating ramp 1230 is tapered in a normal direction, i.e. relative to axis (Z), along the longitudinal length of the locating ramp, i.e. along the longitudinal axis (X), as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. This provides guidance to help a user align the sensor pod electrical interface surface 1405 with the sensor pod mount electrical interface surface 1205 for assembling the sensor pod 1400 onto the sensor pod mount 1200.

In other embodiments, a sensor pod mount may include a locating ramp that does not taper in the normal direction (Z). For example, and referring now to FIGS. 7A and 7B, a second embodiment of a pod sensor interface 1300 includes a locating ramp 1330 with side surfaces 1334 and 1335 that taper outward laterally from a first lateral dimension (D) to a second lateral dimension (E) along a longitudinal length of the locating ramp 1330, similar in configuration to locating ramp 1230 discussed previously. However, a top surface 1332 of the locating ramp 1330 does not taper relative to a normal direction (Z) and instead starts and ends substantially level with a sensor pod electrical interface surface 1305 of the second sensor pod 1300.

Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, a second embodiment of a sensor pod 1500 is shown. Some aspects of the second pod 1500 are similar in construction and function to those of sensor pod 1400, and are labeled with like reference numbers, including locating hooks 1412 and 1413, pod electrical interface 1401, and sealing member 1440. The sensor pod 1500 includes a sensor pod cover 1502 that that forms a sensor enclosure 1507 for housing one or more active components, e.g. one or more LEDs 142, sound sensors144, and/or strobes 146.

The sensor pod 1500 includes a sensor pod attachment assembly 1503 that differs from the sensor pod attachment assembly 1403, previously discussed, in a number of particulars.

The sensor pod attachment assembly 1503 includes sensor pod base 1510 that supports a lock assembly including a lock plate 1520 to which a lock hook 1522 and lock plate actuators 1524 and 1525 are attached. The lock hook 1522 is urged towards a locked configuration by a compressible member 1530 that is disposed between the lock plate and a front surface 1516 of the sensor pod base 1510. A user can operate the lock plate actuators 1524 and 1525 to pull the lock plate 1520 and lock plate hook 1522 toward the front surface against the urging force supplied by the compressible member 1530 to disengage the lock hook 1522 from its locked position.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a second embodiment of a helmet system 4000 is shown in perspective view. The second helmet system 4000 includes a helmet shell 4001 having an outer surface 4003 upon which a second example of a compote module, for example a rear compute module (RCM) 4700 and a third example embodiment of a sensor pod mount 4200 are attached. The sensor pod mount 4200 can be removably attached to the helmet surface 4003 using a fastening system 4220, for example a hook and loop fastening system, e.g.

Velcro. In embodiments, the sensor pod mount 4200 may be attached to the helmet surface 4003 using a fastening systems 4220 that includes one or more mechanical fasteners, for example a threaded fastener or rivet, or an adhesive. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the sensor pod mount 4200 may be formed as a portion of the helmet shell, 4001, for example as a molded boss or the like.

A third example embodiment of a sensor pod 4400 can be removably attached to the third embodiment of a sensor pod mount 4200.

The RCM 4700 is similar to RCM 1700, described in relation to FIG. 1, and, in some embodiments, includes similar components. For example, embodiments of RCM 4700 include a processor, memory, a power source, and a power and/or data hub (not shown) as described in relation to FIG. 1. A removable power module 4800 is configured to be removably attached to the RCM 4700. The removable power module 4800 is similar to removable power module 1800, described in relation to FIG. 1, and includes one or more removable power sources. A connector 4900 is disposed between the RCM 4700 and the sensor pod mount 4200. The connector 4900 may include a water tight sleeve formed from a flexible material, for example from a rubber or other flexible polymer. The connector 4900 includes one or more electrical conductors for communicating power and data signals between the RCM 4700 and the sensor pod mount 4200.

Referring to FIGS. 9 through 20, the sensor pod 4400 includes a pod cover 4402 that forms a sensor enclosure 4407 (see FIGS. 17A-20) for housing one or more active components, for example, referring now to FIGS. 1 and 9, one or more laser event detectors (LEDs) 442, one or more sound sensors 444, and/or one or more strobes 446, for example one or more visible or infrared (IR) light beacon strobes, as described previously herein in relation to, for example, FIG. 1. In a particular embodiment, a sensor pod 4400 includes four LEDs 442 and three sound sensors 444.

Returning once again to FIGS. 9 through 20, the sensor pod 4400 includes electrical conductors (not shown) for electrically connecting the sensor pod electrical interface 4401 with one or more active components of the sensor pod 4400.

The sensor pod 4400 includes a pod attachment assembly 4403 that is configured to enable the sensor pod 1400 to be removably attached to the sensor pod mount 4200. Referring, for example, to FIGS. 17A and 17B, the pod attachment assembly 4403 includes a lock plate assembly 4405 that includes a lock plate 4420, a lock hook 4422 attached to the lock plate 4420, and two opposing lock plate actuators 4224 and 4225 for moving, by a user, the lock hook 4422 from a locked position to an unlocked position. The pod attachment assembly 4403 also includes a first locating hook 4412 and a second locating hook 4413 for engaging with corresponding locating hook receptacles 4212 and 4213 of the sensor pod mount 4200.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 through 20, the sensor pod mount 4200 includes an electromechanical interface 4203 for removably attaching the sensor pod 4400 to the sensor pod mount. The electromechanical interface 4203 includes one or more locating hook receptacles 4212, e.g. two locating hook receptacles 4212 and 4213, each for receiving a locating hook, e.g. 4412 or 4413, of the sensor pod 4400. The electromechanical interface 4203 of the sensor pod mount 4200 also includes a locating ramp 4230 for guiding the locating hooks 4412 and 4413 to the locating hook receptacles 4212 and 4213.

The electromechanical interface 4403 includes a lock hook receptacle 4222 for receiving a lock hook 4422 of the sensor pod 4400 and an electrical interface 4201, disposed on an electrical interface surface 4205, for electrically connecting to an electrical interface 4401 of the sensor pod. The electrical interface surface 4205 includes a sealing member receptacle 4240 for receiving and interfacing with a sealing member 4440 of the sensor pod 4400 (see, for example, FIGS. 12 and 19).

The sensor pod mount 4200 includes electrical conductors and active components 4242 (see FIGS. 16A and 16B) for electrically connecting the RCM connector 4900, and therethrough the RCM 4700, to the electrical interface 4201 of the sensor pod mount 4200 to enable communication of data and power signals between the RCM 4700 and a sensor pod 4400 attached to the sensor pod mount 4200.

In some embodiments, the sensor pod mount 4200 includes one or more active components 4242 which may be housed, for example, in a pod mount active component enclosure 4207 (see FIG. 19). In embodiments, and referring now to FIG. 1, in some embodiments the active components include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) 422 and an antenna 424 for a personal area network (PAN), for example a wireless soldier network. In particular embodiments, the antenna 424 includes an Alereon wireless network antenna. Returning now to FIGS. 10-20, in other embodiments, the sensor pod mount 4200 includes different or additional active components 4242 or no active components.

The sensor pod mount 4200 includes a first locating hook receptacle 4212 disposed on a first side of a locating ramp 4230, i.e. adjacent to a first side 4234 of the locating ramp 4230 and adjacent to a first locating surface 4214 of the sensor pod mount 4200. The sensor pod mount 4200 includes a second locating hook receptacle 4213 disposed adjacent to a second side surface 4235 of the locating ramp 4230 and adjacent to a second locating surface 4215 of the sensor pod mount. The sensor pod mount 4200 includes a lock hook receptacle 4222 that is configured to receive a lock hook 4422 of the sensor pod. The sensor pod mount 4200 includes a helmet facing surface 4216 that is formed to conform to a shape of the helmet surface 4003. A top portion of the sensor pod mount includes locating surfaces 4214 and 4215, electrical interface surface 4205, and locating ramp top surface 4232, each of which oppose the helmet facing surface 4216. The sensor pod mount 4200 includes a pod mount electrical interface 4201 which is surrounded by a sealing member interface 4240. The sealing member interface 4240 is configured to receive a sealing member 4440 of the sensor pod 4400 when the sensor pod is assembled onto the sensor pod mount 4200.

As best seen in FIGS. 14B and 15, the first and second side surfaces 4234 and 4235 taper laterally outward from a distal end 4291 of the sensor pod mount along a longitudinal length (F) of the locating ramp 4230 toward a proximal end 4293 of the locating ramp, which is disposed at or near the locating hook receptacles 4212 and 4213, in a similar manner as described in relation to first and second side surface 1234 and 1235 if the first embodiment of a sensor pod mount 1200 described previously in relation to, for example, FIGS. 5B and 6.

The locating ramp 4230 is configured and disposed to aid a user in assembling the sensor pod 4400 onto the sensor pod mount 4200 without looking at either the sensor pod or the sensor pod mount, e.g. while the user is wearing the helmet system 4000. As may best be seen in FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 15, the locating ramp 4230 tapers upwards from the distal end 4291 toward the proximal end 4293 along a normal axis (Z), e.g. away from the helmet surface 4003, helmet interface surface 4216, and the locating surfaces 4214 and 4215. The locating ramp 4230 is tapered laterally outward along a longitudinal axis (X) that extends along a length of the sensor pod mount 4200 from the distal end 4291 of the locating ramp 4230 that is furthest away from the locating hook receptacles 4212 and 4213 towards a proximal portion 4293 of the locating ramp that is closest to the locating hook receptacles 4212 and 4213. The locating ramp 4230 has a first lateral width (D) that corresponds to the distal end 4291 of the locating ramp. The locating ramp 4230 has a second lateral width (E) that corresponds to the proximal end 4293 of the locating ramp. The second lateral width (E) corresponds to a distance (F) between locating hooks 4412 and 4413 of the sensor pod 4400. In some embodiments, the second lateral width (E) of the locating ramp 4230 is similar to the distance (F) between the locating hooks 4412 and 4413, for example approximately 95 to 99 percent of the distance (F). In other embodiments, the second lateral width (E) is less than the distance (F), for example 75 to 95 percent of the distance (F), although the difference between (F) and (E) is not so limited.

In embodiments, the smaller lateral with (D) at the distal portion of the locating ramp 4230 and the lateral outward taper of the locating ramp as it extends toward the locating hook receptacles 4212 and 4213 along a length (LL) of the locating ramp provides a looser fit of the locating hooks 4412 and 4413 on the sensor pod mount at the distal end of the locating ramp corresponding to the first width (D) and a tighter fit at the proximal end 4293 of the locating ramp 4230 corresponding to the second width (E). This change in fit, or reduction of looseness along the length (LL) of the locating ramp 4230, enables a user to guide the locating hooks 4412 and 4413 into the locating hook receptacles by feel. A user engages the locating hooks 4412 and 4413 with the locating surfaces 4214 and 4215 and then slides the locating hooks 4412 and 4413 towards the locating hook receptacles 4212 and 4213.

The tapered walls 4234 and 4235 of the locating ramp 4230 push the locating hooks 4412 and 4413 into alignment with the locating hook receptacles 4212 and 4213 as the user slides them along the locating surfaces 4214 and 4215.

In at least one embodiment, the locating ramp 4030 tapers laterally outward from a width D of approximately 0.5 inches to a width E of approximately 0.75 inches over a ramp longitudinal length F of approximately 1 inch. However, the specific dimensions associated with the locating ramp 4030 are not so limited. Referring to FIG. 15, a distance G between locating hooks 4412 and 4413 of the sensor pod 4400 is 0.76 inches or greater in one or more embodiments.

In some embodiments, a top surface 4232 of the locating ramp 4230 is tapered in a normal direction, i.e. relative to axis (Z), along the longitudinal length of the locating ramp, as shown in FIGS. 14A and 15. In these embodiments, the top surface 4232 tapers away from the helmet facing surface 4216 in a normal direction, indicated by axis (Z), along the length (LL) of the locating ramp 4030. The top surface 4232 of the locating ramp 4230 meets the electrical interface surface 4205 of the sensor pod mount 4200 at approximately the locating hook receptacles 4212 and 4213. This provides guidance to help a user align the sensor pod electrical interface surface 4405 with the sensor pod mount electrical interface surface 4205 for assembling the sensor pod 4400 onto the sensor pod mount 4200. In other embodiments, a sensor pod mount may include a locating ramp that does not taper in the normal direction.

The sensor pod mount 4200 can be used to attach multiple different sensor pods 4400, each including a pod attachment assembly 4403 for interfacing with the sensor pod mount 4200. Each sensor pod may have a different configuration of sensors, beacons, and other active components. The sensor pod mounting system described herein, including the sensor pod mount 4200 and sensor pod attachment assembly 4403 advantageously provide a platform system for attaching, removing, and replacing multiple sensor pods having multiple sensor pod active systems configurations, to a helmet. A user can remove a first sensor pod 4400 from the sensor pod mount 4200 and attach a second sensor pod to the sensor pod mount, thereby providing the helmet system 4000 with an interchangeable sensor system.

The sensor pod 4400 includes the pod attachment assembly 4403 for mechanically and electrically interfacing with the sensor pod mount 4200. The pod attachment assembly 4403 includes a pod base 4410 and a locking assembly housed by the pod base as well as the electrical interface 4401. The pod base 4410 includes a helmet facing surface 4416 that is formed to conform with surface 4003 of the helmet.

The locking assembly include a lock plate 4420, the lock hook 4422 attached to the lock plate 4420, and lock actuators 4424, 4425 attached to the lock plate. One or more compliant members 4430 push against one or more compliant member interfaces 4426 of the lock plate 4420 to urge the lock hook 4422 towards a locked position, wherein the lock hook 4422 is engaged with the lock hook receptacle 4222 of the sensor pod mount 4220 as shown, for example, in FIGS. 18-20 .

Referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B, the pod attachment assembly 4403 includes a pod cover 4402, a pod base 4404, the lock plate assembly 4405, and a helmet interface 4406. The lock plate assembly 4405 is disposed between the pod base 4404 and the helmet interface 4406. The lock plate 4420 is assembled into a lock plate cavity 4419 of the pod base 4404. The lock plate 4420 can translate within the lock plate cavity 4419 and relative to a lock plate articulating surface 4421 of the helmet interface 4406 (see, for example, FIGS. 18 and 19).

Compliant members 4432 and 4433 are assembled into corresponding compliant member cavities 4448 and 4449 of the helmet interface 4406. The compliant members 4432 and 4433 include compressible members that provide a resisting force when compressed. In at least one embodiment, the compliant members 4432 and 4433 include compression springs. In other embodiments, the compliant members 4432 and 4433 include compressible polymer material, leaf springs, or any other suitable spring or structure that provides a resisting force when compressed. When the lock plate assembly is disposed between the pod base 4404 and the helmet base 4406, compliant member interfaces 4426 and 4427 of the lock plate 4420 are disposed, at least partially, within the compliant member cavities 4448 and 4449 such that the compliant members 4432 and 4433 then to urge the lock plate 4420 towards the locked position of the locking hook 4422, as shown in FIGS. 18-20 .

A user can attach the sensor pod 4400 to the sensor pod mount 4200 by assembling locating hooks 4412, 4413 of the sensor pod 4400 into corresponding locating hook receptacles 4212, 4213 of the sensor pod mount 4200 and then rotating the sensor pod down and towards the front of the helmet 4001 until the sensor pod electrical interface 4401 comes into contact with the sensor pod mount electrical interface 4201 and the lock hook 4422 engages the lock hook receptacle 4222, as can be seen in FIGS. 18-20. In at least some embodiments, a user may pull the lock plate actuators 4424 and 4425 towards the front of the helmet, i.e. away from the locating hooks 4412 and 4413, while assembling the sensor pod 4400 onto the sensor pod mount 4200 to overcome the resisting force supplied by the compliant members 4432 and 4433 to move the lock hook 4422 into its unlocked position, as shown in FIG. 13B, to aid in assembling the sensor pod onto the sensor pod mount.

When the sensor pod 4400 is assembled onto the sensor pod mount 4200, an electrical interface surface 4406 of the sensor pod comes into contact, or near contact, with an opposing electrical interface surface 4205 of the sensor pod mount and the sensor pod electrical interface 4401 comes into electrical contact with the electrical interface 4201 of the sensor pod mount. The sealing member 4440 is disposed between the electrical interface surfaces 4406 and 4205 to provide an environmental seal to protect the electrically connected electrical interfaces 4401 and 4201 when the pod 4400 is coupled to the sensor pod mount 4200, as may best be seen in FIGS. 12 and 19. The sealing member 4440 interfaces with the sealing member receptacle 4240 of the sensor pod mount 4200 when the sensor pod 4400 is assembled onto the sensor pod mount. The sealing member 4440 may be formed from a compliant material, for example from rubber or another elastomeric material. In some embodiments, the sealing member 4440 is attached to the sensor pod 4400, as shown for example in FIGS. 12, 17B, and 19. In other embodiments, the sealing member 4440 may be attached to the sensor pod mount while in still further embodiments, the sensor pod mount 4200 and sensor pod 4400 each include a sealing member which interact to form an environmental seal (not shown).

A user can remove the sensor pod 4400 from the sensor pod mount 4200 by first disengaging the lock hook 4422 from the lock hook receptacle 4222. The user pulls the lock hook interfaces 4424 and 4425 towards the front of the helmet, i.e. away from the RCM 4700, as indicated by arrows 42 of FIG. 13A to overcome the urging force provided by the compliant member(s) 4430, thereby enabling the lock hook 4422 to disengage from the lock hook receptacle 4222, as indicated by arrow 44 of FIG. 13A. When the lock hook 4422 is disengaged from lock hook receptacle 4222, as shown in FIG. 13B, the user can then rotate the sensor pod 4400 toward the back of the helmet, i.e. toward the RCM 4700, and slide the locating hooks 4412 and 4413 out of the locating hook receptacles 4212 and 4213 to remove the sensor pod 4400 from the sensor pod mount 4200.

The sensor pod mount 4200 includes a number of features for providing environmental seals, for example to prevent ingress of fluids including water into the sensor pod mount.

Referring, for example, to FIGS. 16A and 16B, the sensor pod mount 4200 includes a sensor pod base 4246 and a sensor pod cover 4244. A sensor pod sealing element 4245 is disposed between the sensor pod base 4246 and the sensor pod cover 4244 to provide an environmental seal. The sensor pod sealing element 4245 may be formed from a compressible material, for example a rubber or other compressible polymer material. The sensor pod base 4246 includes a seal cavity 4237 for receiving the sensor pod sealing element 4245. The sensor pod mount 4200 includes a potting well 4233, best seen for example in FIG. 16B, and 19. The potting well 4233 is formed as a cavity in which the sensor pod electrical interface 4201 is disposed. Components of the sensor pod electrical interface 4201 are assembled into the potting well 4233 following which the potting well is partially or wholly filled with a potting material to form an environmental seal. In some embodiments, the potting material includes a thermoplastic or thermoset polymer, for example a two-part resin that hardens when the two components of the resin are combined.

The sensor pod 4400 includes a number of features for providing environmental seals. For example, and referring to FIG. 17A, sealing elements 4471, 4473, and 4475 provide environmental seals between the sensor pod base 4404 and the sensor pod cover 4402. In some embodiments, the sealing elements 4471, 4473, and 4475 include o-rings of compressible material, as is known in the art. The sensor pod base 4404 includes sealing element receptacles 4472, 4474, and 4476 for receiving sealing elements 4471, 4473, and 4475, respectively.

The sensor pod mount 4200 and sensor pod 4400 are advantageously formed with helmet facing surfaces 4216 and 4416, respectively, that are configured to conform to a shape of the helmet surface 4003, to aid in securely seating the sensor pod mount 4200 and sensor pod 4400 on a helmet, e.g. on helmet 4001. In some embodiments, the sensor pod 4400 includes a helmet interface portion 4406 that includes the pod helmet interface surface 4416. Different embodiments of the sensor pod 4400 can be assembled with different helmet interfaces 4406, each including a different helmet interface surface 4416 configured to conform to a helmet surface 4403 of a particular helmet or size of helmet. This enables a manufacturer to create sensor pods 4400 that are specific to particular helmet shapes and helmet sizes.

Referring to FIGS. 10 through 20, the sensor pod 4400 and sensor pod mount 4200 each include interfaces for attaching straps or other anchoring devices for providing anchoring support. The sensor pod mount 4200 includes a first mount strap interface 4250 disposed on a first side 4251 of the sensor pod mount 4200 and a second mount strap interface 4252 disposed on a second side 4253 of the sensor pod mount 4200, wherein the second side 4253 of the sensor pod mount opposes the first side 4251 of the sensor pod mount across a width of the sensor pod mount 4200 defined in the lateral direction (Y) (see FIG. 14B, for example). The sensor pod 4400 includes a first pod strap interface 4450 disposed on a first side 4451 of the sensor pod and second pod strap interface 4452 disposed on a second side 4453 of the sensor pod wherein the first side 4451 of the sensor pod corresponds to the first side 4251 of the sensor pod mount 4200 and the second side 4453 of the sensor pod corresponds to the second side 4253 of the sensor pod mount 4200.

Referring now to FIGS. 21A-22C , a helmet system 5000 includes a helmet 5001 having an outer surface 5003. A first, right, helmet rail 5520 and a second, left, helmet rail 5530 are mounted on left and right sides of the helmet 5001, respectively. The first helmet rail 5520 includes a first strap interface 5522 for receiving a first end 5514 of a first strap 5512. The second helmet rail 5530 includes a second strap interface 5532 for receiving a second end 5515 of the first strap 5512, or, in some embodiments, for receiving a second strap (not shown). The first and second strap interfaces 5522 and 5532 include elongated through holes that pass from a helmet facing surface of the corresponding rail to an outer surface of the rail to form a passage through the rail through which a strap, e.g. strap 5512, may be passed.

A third example embodiment of a RCM 5700 is mounted on a rear portion of the outer surface 5003 of the helmet 5001 and is attached to the first rail 5520 by a first extension arm 5508 and to the second rail 5530 by a second extension arm 5509. A third example embodiment of a removable power module 5800 is mounted on the RCM 5700. The removable power module 5800 includes a removable power source and may be removed from the helmet system 5000 by a user. A sensor pod mount 4200, as previously described, is mounted on the helmet surface 5003. The sensor pod mount 4200 can be removably attached to the helmet surface 5003 using a sensor pod fastening system 4220, for example a hook and loop fastening system, e.g. Velcro. In embodiments, the sensor pod mount 4200 may be attached to the helmet surface 5003 using a fastening systems 4220 that includes one or more mechanical fasteners, for example a threaded fastener or rivet, or with an adhesive. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the sensor pod mount 4200 may be formed as a portion of the helmet, 4001, for example as a molded boss or the like. A connector 4900 is disposed between the RCM 5700 and the sensor pod mount 4200 for electrically connecting the RCM 5700 and the sensor pod mount 4200.

Referring to FIGS. 10-22 , the sensor pod mount 4200 includes a first, right, strap interface 4250 and second, right, strap interface 4252. The first and second strap interfaces 4250 and 4250 include through-holes passing from the helmet facing surface 4216 to an outer surface of the sensor pod mount for receiving a strap or other attachment member for holding the sensor pod mount 4200 on the helmet 5001. As shown in FIGS. 21A through 21C, a user can pass a strap 5512 through the first and second sensor pod mount strap interfaces 4250 and 4252 and under the helmet facing surface 4216 of the sensor pod mount 4200 such that a portion of the strap 5512 is disposed between the sensor pod mount 4200 and the outer surface 5003 of the helmet 5001. The user can pass a first end 5514 of the strap 5512 through the strap interface 5522 of the first rail 5520 to fasten the strap 5512 to the first rail and a second end 5515 of the strap 5512 through the strap interface 5532 of the second rail 5530 to fasten the strap 5512 to the second rail 5530. The first end 5514 and second end 5515 of the strap 5512 may be secured to the strap 5512 by an attachment system (not shown), for example by a hook and loop, e.g. Velcro, attachment system. The strap 5412 provides additional support, i.e. in addition to the sensor pod fastening system 4220, for attaching and maintaining the sensor pod mount 4200 on the helmet surface 5003.

The sensor pod 4400 includes a first, right, strap interface 4450 and second, right, strap interface 4452. The first and second strap interfaces 4450 and 4450 include through-holes passing from the helmet facing surface 4416 to an outer surface of the sensor pod for receiving a strap or other attachment member for holding the sensor pod 4400 on the helmet 5001. As shown in FIGS. 22A through 22C, a user can remove the strap 5512 from the sensor pod mount 4200 and pass the strap 5512 through the first and second sensor pod strap interfaces 4450 and 4452 of the sensor pod 4400 and under the helmet facing surface 4416 of the sensor pod 4400 such that a portion of the strap 5512 is disposed between the sensor pod 4400 and the outer surface 5003 of the helmet 5001. The user can pass a first end 5514 of the strap 5512 through the strap interface 5522 of the first rail 5520 to fasten the strap 5512 to the first rail and a second endo 5515 of the strap 5512 through the strap interface 5532 of the second rail to fasten the strap to the second rail 5530. The first and second ends 5514 and 5515 of the strap may be secured to the strap 5512 by an attachment system (not shown), for example by a hook and loop, e.g. Velcro, attachment system. The strap 5412 provides additional support, i.e. in addition to the mechanical interface between the electromechanical interface 4203 of the sensor pod mount 4200 and the attachment assembly 4403 of the sensor pod 4400 (see FIGS. 10-20), for attaching and maintaining the sensor pod 4400 on the sensor pod mount 4200 and the helmet surface 5003.

The additional support of the strap 5512 provides a number of advantages. The strap 5512 can be used to secure the sensor pod mount 4200 and sensor pod 4400 during operations such as parachuting, free-fall, diving, swimming, or shore landing operations. In some alternative embodiments, a separate, second, strap (not shown) can be used to secure the sensor pod 4400 while the first strap 5512 is used to secure the sensor pod mount. In some embodiments, the first strap 5512 can be replaced by two separate straps, a first strap connecting the first rail strap interface 5522 to one of the first sensor pod mount strap interface 4250 and the first sensor pod strap interface 4450, and a second strap connecting the second rail strap interface 5532 to one of the second sensor pod mount strap interface 4252 and the second sensor pod strap interface 4452. The strap 5512 or first and second straps can be replaced by any suitable connecting member, for example by a belt, cord, bungee, or the like.

The techniques described in this disclosure may be implemented, at least in part, in hardware, software, firmware or any combination thereof. For example, various aspects of the described techniques may be implemented within one or more processors, including one or more microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or any other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuitry, as well as any combinations of such components. The term “processor” or “processing circuitry” may generally refer to any of the foregoing logic circuitry, alone or in combination with other logic circuitry, or any other equivalent circuitry. A control unit comprising hardware may also perform one or more of the techniques of this disclosure.

Such hardware, software, and firmware may be implemented within the same device or within separate devices to support the various operations and functions described in this disclosure. In addition, any of the described units, modules or components may be implemented together or separately as discrete but interoperable logic devices. Depiction of different features as modules or units is intended to highlight different functional aspects and does not necessarily imply that such modules or units must be realized by separate hardware or software components. Rather, functionality associated with one or more modules or units may be performed by separate hardware or software components or integrated within common or separate hardware or software components.

The techniques described in this disclosure may also be embodied or encoded in a computer-readable medium, such as a computer-readable storage medium, containing instructions. Instructions embedded or encoded in a computer-readable medium may cause a programmable processor, or other processor, to perform the method, e.g., when the instructions are executed. Computer-readable media may include non-transitory computer-readable storage media and transient communication media. Computer readable storage media, which is tangible and non-transitory, may include random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), programmable read only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, a floppy disk, a cassette, magnetic media, optical media, or other computer-readable storage media. It should be understood that the term “computer-readable storage media” refers to physical storage media, and not signals, carrier waves, or other transient media.

It will also be recognized by those skilled in the art that, while the invention has been described above in terms of preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Various features and aspects of the above-described invention may be used individually or jointly. Further, although the invention has been described in the context of its implementation in a particular environment, and for particular applications (e.g. helmet systems designed to be worn by warfighters), those skilled in the art will recognize that its usefulness is not limited thereto and that the present invention can be beneficially utilized in any number of environments and implementations where it is desirable to securely attach one or more sensor pods or other electronic equipment to headgear, for example to a bicycle helmet, a helmet configured to be worn by a firefighter or other emergency responder, or a bump helmet configured to be worn, for example, by a sky diver or rock climber. Accordingly, the claims set forth below should be construed in view of the full breadth and spirit of the invention as disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A helmet system comprising:

a helmet shell;
a pod mount configured to be coupled to the helmet shell; and
a pod configured to be removably attached to the pod mount, wherein the pod mount includes an interface for removably attaching the pod to the pod mount, the interface comprising one or more tapered guiding features for aiding in attaching the pod to the pod mount, and
the pod includes an attachment system comprising one or more locating features for interfacing with the tapered guiding features of the pod mount and a locking component for securing the pod to the pod mount.

2. The pod mount of claim 1, wherein

the interface comprises a locating receptacle for receiving a locating hook of the pod, the one or more tapered guiding features comprises a ramp that tapers outwardly from a first width to a second width along a length of the pod mount,
the second width is larger than the first width, and
the portion of the ramp comprising the second width is disposed proximate to the locating receptacle.

3. The pod mount of claim 2, wherein the interface includes first locating receptacle and a second locating receptacle, each locating receptacle for receiving a separate locating hook of the pod, and the ramp is disposed between the first and second locating receptacles.

4. The pod mount of claim 3, wherein the second width corresponds to a distance between the two locating hooks.

5. The helmet system of claim 1, wherein the locking component of the pod comprises a lock hook for securing the pod on the pod mount and the interface of the pod mount comprises a lock hook receptacle for receiving the lock hook wherein the lock hook is urged into a locked configuration to secure the pod on the pod mount.

6. The helmet system of claim 5, wherein the pod comprises one or more compliant members for urging the lock hook into the locked configuration wherein the lock hook is engaged with the lock hook receptacle.

7. The helmet system of claim 6, wherein the pod comprises one or more lock actuators for moving the lock hook from the locked configuration and into an unlocked for configuration for removing the pod from the pod mount.

8. The helmet system of claim 1, further comprising a compute module having at least one processor and at least one power source, the compute module electrically connected to the pod mount for one or more of providing power to the pod and sending or receiving data communications to or from the pod.

9. The helmet system of claim 1, further comprising a first rail and a second rail mounted on an outer surface of the helmet shell, wherein the pod mount comprises a first strap interface and a second strap interface for receiving a flexible elongate member attached to the first rail and to the second rail for securing the pod mount on the helmet.

10. The helmet system of claim 1, further comprising a first rail and a second rail mounted on an outer surface of the helmet shell, wherein the pod comprises a first strap interface and a second strap interface for receiving a flexible elongate member attached to the first rail and to the second rail for securing the pod on the helmet.

11. The helmet system of claim 1, wherein the pod comprises one or more or a sensor, an antenna, and a beacon.

12. The helmet system of claim 11, wherein the one or more sensors comprise one or more of a laser event detection sensor, an inertial measurement unit, and a sound sensor.

13. The helmet system of claim 1, further comprising a second pod wherein the second pod includes the attachment system, and the pod and the second pod are each separately removably attachable to the pod mount.

14. A pod mount comprising:

an electrical interface for providing an electrical connection with an electrical interface of a pod; and
a mechanical interface for attaching a pod to the pod mount, wherein the mechanical interface includes a locating receptacle for receiving a locating hook of the pod, a lock hook receptacle for receiving a lock hook to secure the pod to the pod mount, and a tapered guide feature for guiding the locating hook to the locating receptacle.

15. The pod mount of claim 14, wherein the guide feature comprises a ramp that tapers outwardly from a first width to a second width, wherein the second width is larger than the first width and wherein the portion of the ramp comprising the second width is disposed proximate to the locating receptacle.

16. The pod mount of claim 14, wherein the pod mount includes first locating receptacle and a second locating receptacle, each locating receptacle for receiving a separate locating hook of the pod, the ramp is disponed between the first and second locating receptacles, and the second width corresponds to a distance between the two locating hooks.

17. The pod mount of claim 14, further comprising at least one interface for attaching a flexible elongate member between the interface and a helmet rail.

18. A pod system comprising:

a pod mount adapted to be coupled to an outer surface of a helmet, the pod comprising an attachment system; and
a pod removably attachable to the pod mount, the pod mount comprising a mechanical interface for receiving the attachment system, the attachment system comprising a locating hook for interfacing with a locating receptacle of the mechanical interface, a tapered guiding feature for guiding the locating hook to the locating receptacle, and a lock hook having a locked configuration for securing the pod on the pod mount and an unlocked for configuration for removing the pod from the pod mount, and the pod mount comprising a first electrical interface and the pod comprises a second electrical interface for electrically connecting with the first electrical interface for exchanging one or more of power and communication signals therebetween.

19. The pod system of claim 18, further comprising compliant seal surrounding one or both to the first and second electrical interfaces for providing an environmental seal when the pod is attached to the pod mount.

20. The pod system of claim 19, wherein the attachment system comprises a compliant member for urging the lock hook into the locked configuration.

Patent History
Publication number: 20260165407
Type: Application
Filed: Dec 15, 2025
Publication Date: Jun 18, 2026
Applicant: GALVION LTD. (Portsmouth, NH)
Inventors: Jonathan ANDREE (Bedford, NH), Stéphane LEBEL (Saint-Tite-des-Caps), James BAKER, JR. (Seabrook, NH), John MUNROE (Milford, NH), Gregory Scott HOWE (Andover, MA)
Application Number: 19/419,523
Classifications
International Classification: A42B 3/04 (20060101);