External system for a protective helmet

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an external system 11 for a protective helmet 1. The external system comprises a first lateral rail 21 and a second lateral rail 22, which is arranged opposite the first lateral rail 21 when the external system 11 is mounted on the protective helmet 1. The first lateral rail 21 and the second lateral rail 22 each have at least one hook 38, 39. Furthermore, the external system 11 comprises at least one cross-connecting element 31, 32, 33, wherein the at least one cross-connecting element 31, 32, 33 detachably connects the first lateral rail 21 to the second lateral rail 22 when the external system 11 is mounted on the protective helmet 1.

Description

1. Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to an external system for a protective helmet, in particular a ballistic protective helmet or an impact protective helmet, and a corresponding protective helmet. 2. State of the art

[0002] Protective helmets, especially ballistic helmets and impact helmets, are widely used by police and the military. They protect the wearer from head injuries caused by indirect or direct fire and fragmentation, as well as from blunt head injuries caused by impact.

[0003] Depending on the application, it is often necessary to attach accessories to the outside of a protective helmet. Such accessories include, for example, a visor, a light, a night vision device, a camera, or additional protective shields against direct fire from the front.

[0004] In the state of the art, such accessories are attached to the protective helmet via rails or a so-called shroud, which is a front holder in the forehead area.

[0005] For example, WO 2019 / 195760 A1 discloses a helmet accessory attachment system comprising a shroud configured to be connected to a helmet and an arm assembly having a first arm configured to be rotatably connected to the shroud. The system includes an accessory interface configured to be coupled to an accessory and engageable with the arm assembly.

[0006] US 2006 / 282939 A1 further discloses a platform which is described here as "Mounting rail"and accommodates one or more optional accessories for a protective helmet at the desired locations and with secure positioning. The mounting rail is secured by means of five fasteners, two on each side and one at the front, which preferably penetrate the shell via through holes used in conjunction with corresponding retaining elements (not shown).

[0007] However, it is disadvantageous if fastening elements such as rails are attached to the helmet shell by means of screws, bolts or similar means and penetrate it completely or partially. One of the findings underlying the present invention is that such bolts or screws penetrating the helmet shell reduce the protective effect of the helmet. For example, a bolt or screw can develop into a secondary projectile when fired upon, which can seriously injure the head. Furthermore, the material of a bullet, although solid, behaves like a liquid at high speeds and under the high pressures occurring upon impact. The bullet can therefore penetrate even small gaps between the bolt / screw and the bore or thread in the shell upon impact. "flow through"and thus directly injure the wearer's head. Even a blow from a heavy object can cause bolts or screws to penetrate the cap and seriously injure the head.

[0008] Furthermore, as already mentioned, it is regularly necessary to attach certain accessories such as lighting, night vision goggles, and / or a camera to the outside of a protective helmet. Such accessories require the most rigid connection possible to the protective helmet. Otherwise, various disadvantages, some of which are safety-related, can result for the wearer of the protective helmet. For example, a night vision goggles that do not have a rigid connection to the protective helmet often only allow limited night vision. Furthermore, it is generally known that a camera that is not guided stably does not enable accurate image capture. State-of-the-art systems often do not allow for such a stable or rigid connection to accessories that would enable them to be used optimally.

[0009] In summary, the object of the present invention is therefore to improve the protective effect of a protective helmet, to enable the interchangeability of accessories and also to enable a stable fixation of accessories. 3. Summary of the invention

[0010] This problem is at least partially solved by the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0011] One aspect of the invention relates to an external system for a protective helmet. The protective helmet can be, for example, a ballistic protective helmet or an impact-resistant helmet.

[0012] The external system comprises a first lateral rail and a second lateral rail, which is arranged opposite the first lateral rail when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet. The first and second lateral rails each have at least one hook. These hooks can each be configured to engage around an edge of a helmet shell of the protective helmet. In this way, the external system can be easily attached to the helmet shell without any element penetrating or penetrating the helmet shell.

[0013] The external system further comprises at least one cross-connecting element, wherein the at least one cross-connecting element detachably connects the first lateral rail to the second lateral rail when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet. This feature, according to which the at least one cross-connecting element detachably connects the first lateral rail to the second lateral rail in the mounted state, can mean, for example, that a positive and / or non-positive connection exists between the at least one cross-connecting element and the first lateral rail and between the at least one cross-connecting element and the second lateral rail. It has been shown that an external system, wherein at least one cross-connecting element connects the first lateral rail to the second lateral rail, enables a particularly stable or rigid attachment of the rails to a protective helmet.This is particularly due to the direct force transmission between the two side rails. This enables a stable and rigid fixation of accessories. Furthermore, the use of at least one cross-connecting element, which connects the first side rail to the second side rail, minimizes the number of required individual parts, thus reducing assembly effort, for example.

[0014] The external system also has the advantage of allowing accessories to be attached to the helmet shell without the need for elements such as screws or bolts that penetrate or penetrate the shell, while still ensuring secure attachment. The external system therefore improves the protective effect of a protective helmet compared to the state of the art.

[0015] The at least one cross-connecting element can be designed such that, when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet, it clamps the first and second side rails to a helmet shell. This has the advantage that the rails do not move undesirably. For example, when the external system is mounted, the hooks of the first and second side rails can each be pulled or clamped to the edge of the helmet shell using the at least one cross-connecting element. It is understood that the at least one cross-connecting element must have a tensile strength for this purpose. For example, the at least one cross-connecting element can have a tensile strength of at least 1000 MPa, preferably at least 2000 MPa, most preferably at least 2500 MPa (measured using a standard method).

[0016] Furthermore, the at least one cross-connecting element can be designed to at least partially conform to the outer contour of a protective helmet. This allows for uncomplicated assembly and easy fitting of the external system. Preferably, the at least one cross-connecting element is U-shaped. For example, the at least one cross-connecting element can comprise a stamped sheet metal that has subsequently been bent to fit the outer shape of the protective helmet.

[0017] Furthermore, the at least one cross-connecting element can, for example, have an elongation at break of at least 30%, preferably at least 50%. The elongation at break is the elongation value of the at least one cross-connecting element before a stress drop to less than or equal to 10% of the strength value occurs. This elongation at break ensures a good longevity of the at least one cross-connecting element, even with regular replacement of the first or second lateral rail or regular reassembly, e.g., for maintenance and cleaning purposes.

[0018] In the context of the present disclosure, the feature of a "cross-connection" as contained in the mentioned cross-connection element may refer to the cross-connection element substantially perpendicularly intersecting a crown line of a protective helmet when the external system is mounted to the protective helmet.

[0019] "Substantially" in the context of this disclosure means that the exact geometric shape and / or description is not required, but rather deviations within the scope of general tolerances also fall under the corresponding wording.

[0020] Furthermore, the phrases "when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet" and "in the mounted state of the external system" are to be considered equivalent within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0021] The described advantages of the invention have a particularly significant impact on ballistic and impact helmets. In particular, ballistic and impact helmets present entirely different problems than those associated with lighter helmets, such as bicycle helmets or helmets commonly worn on construction sites. These helmets do not pose the problem of secondary projectiles. Concepts that are not applicable to bicycle helmets or "Construction site helmets" are known, cannot therefore be easily transferred to ballistic protective helmets and impact helmets.

[0022] The at least one cross-connecting element can be a strip. A strip in the sense of the present disclosure can be an elongate element, wherein the elongate element has a cross-section whose dimensions are small relative to the length of the element. Preferably, the length of the elongate element is greater by a factor of 20 and furthermore preferably by a factor of 80 relative to the dimensions of the cross-section. Optionally, the strip has a substantially rectangular cross-section, wherein the cross-section furthermore optionally has a width to height ratio which is in the range from 2 to 15. More preferably, the width to height ratio is in the range from 3 to 10. Rectangular cross-sections and in particular the aforementioned ratios have proven to be advantageous since they allow a flat support on a helmet shell and are therefore particularly positionally stable. This ensures a stable orThis allows for rigid attachment of the external system to a protective helmet. Accordingly, a stable and rigid fixation of accessories can be achieved.

[0023] However, the at least one cross-connecting element can also comprise a tensioning cable. A tensioning cable can have a substantially elliptical cross-section. In particular, the tensioning cable can have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0024] Preferably, the at least one cross-connecting element is screwed to the first and / or second lateral rail when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet. A screw connection has proven advantageous, as it allows for easy adjustment of the external system to the protective helmet.

[0025] Preferably, when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet, the at least one cross-connecting element is screwed to the first and / or the second lateral rail using at least one screw, and the at least one screw is arranged such that it can regulate a tensile force acting on the at least one cross-connecting element. This allows precise adjustment of how firmly or stably the external system is mounted on the protective helmet. Furthermore, loosening of the external system can be easily and quickly compensated for. For example, in one embodiment, when the external system is mounted, the hooks of the first and second lateral rails can be pulled or tensioned against the edge of the helmet shell with an adjustable force using the at least one cross-connecting element.

[0026] Preferably, when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet, the at least one cross-connecting element is screwed to the first lateral rail, and the at least one cross-connecting element has at least one projection that engages positively with the second lateral rail. For example, the at least one cross-connecting element can have two lateral projections at one end, thereby forming a T-shaped end piece. Accordingly, the second lateral rail can have an opening that allows insertion of the at least one cross-connecting element but retains the lateral projections or the T-shaped end piece. By positively connecting the at least one cross-connecting element to the second lateral rail, the safety of the external system can be increased because this reduces the number of elements that can develop into a secondary projectile when fired upon.

[0027] It is further preferred if the external system is mounted on the protective helmet, the at least one cross-connecting element is screwed to the first lateral rail and the at least one cross-connecting element is connected to the second lateral rail by means of at least one rivet.

[0028] The two above options for connecting the at least one cross-connecting element to the first lateral rail and the second lateral rail have the advantage that no adjustment, for example by means of a screw, has to be made between the at least one cross-connecting element and the second lateral rail and therefore the adaptation and / or assembly of the external system is facilitated.

[0029] The external system may further comprise a longitudinal element. The longitudinal element may be adapted to be arranged between the first and the second rail when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet. Furthermore, the longitudinal element may have at least one fastening element adapted to engage with the at least one transverse connecting element or an edge of a helmet shell. The fastening element may, for example, be a hook at one end of the longitudinal element adapted to at least partially encompass the at least one transverse connecting element or an edge of a helmet shell. Preferably, the at least one longitudinal element extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the at least one transverse connecting element.In the context of the present disclosure, the feature "longitudinal," as contained in the aforementioned longitudinal element, may refer to the longitudinal element extending substantially parallel to a crown line of a protective helmet when the external system is mounted to the protective helmet. The longitudinal element may enable the attachment of an appliqué along a crown line of a protective helmet without requiring fasteners that penetrate the helmet shell and represent potential secondary projectiles. It should be noted that the longitudinal element may include the above-described features of the at least one transverse connecting element. For example, the longitudinal element may also be a strip.

[0030] Furthermore, the external system can comprise a front mount. The front mount can be a shroud. The front mount can be detachably attached to the longitudinal element and have at least one fastening means configured to positively engage with a helmet shell of the protective helmet. Accordingly, in the assembled state, the front mount can be fastened to the protective helmet by means of its fastening means and the fastening element of the longitudinal element. This allows the front mount to be attached without the need for fastening elements that penetrate into or pass through the helmet shell and represent potential secondary projectiles. Preferably, the front mount is attached to the longitudinal element by at least one screw connection.Thus, when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet, the screw connection can be used to adjust the force with which the front bracket is clamped between the helmet shell and the at least one cross-connecting element. This can improve the stability of the front bracket. This is particularly advantageous because the position of the front is particularly important for particularly demanding applications. For example, in combat situations, most fire comes from the front. The shroud can be used to attach an additional protective shield to significantly increase the bullet resistance of a protective helmet. For example, a night vision device, a lamp and / or a camera can also advantageously be attached to the front of the external system.

[0031] The front bracket or shroud can, for example, comprise an element as a fastening means that is designed such that it engages around the edge of a helmet shell of a protective helmet. Furthermore, the front bracket or shroud can, for example, have two hooks as a fastening means. This has the advantage of improving tipping stability and resistance to lateral twisting. The at least two hooks can be spaced apart from one another by a relatively large distance compared to the shroud width or the width of the front bracket. For example, the at least two hooks can be spaced apart by at least 20%, preferably at least 50%, and most preferably at least 75% of the width of the shroud or front bracket. Furthermore, it is also possible to use just one hook. This one hook preferably has a width of at least 20%, preferably at least 50%, and most preferably at least 75% of the width of the shroud or front bracket.This is advantageous because it prevents the shroud or front bracket from tipping sideways.

[0032] The at least one transverse connecting element can form an overlap point with the longitudinal element. The external system can further comprise at least one position-securing element that is adapted to be arranged between the helmet shell and the overlap point and to fix the position of the overlap point relative to the helmet shell when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet. This can further improve the stability of the external system in the mounted state. For example, the at least one position-securing element can comprise a recess into which the at least one transverse connecting element and the longitudinal element can be inserted, wherein the recess is preferably configured such that the at least one transverse connecting element and the longitudinal element can be inserted substantially perpendicular to one another. Furthermore, the position-securing element can comprise a plastic, rubber, knobs, and / or spikes.It has been found that such position securing elements are less prone to slipping on the surfaces of protective helmets.

[0033] The first lateral rail, the second lateral rail, the at least one transverse connecting element, and / or the longitudinal element may comprise a metal, wherein the metal is preferably titanium. The use of metal improves the stability and, in particular, the multi-hit capability of the external system. It has been shown that even if the external system is hit by one or more projectiles, it can continue to reliably lock accessories. Furthermore, titanium has the advantage of being particularly lightweight and durable.

[0034] However, it is also possible for the first lateral rail, the second lateral rail, the at least one transverse connecting element, and / or the longitudinal element to comprise a polymer. This has the advantage that the individual components can be manufactured cost-effectively using an injection molding process. The polymer is advantageously non-flammable.

[0035] Furthermore, it is possible for the first lateral rail, the second lateral rail, the at least one transverse connecting element, and / or the longitudinal element to comprise an organo-sheet. An organo-sheet can comprise carbon fibers embedded in a polymer matrix. The polymer matrix can comprise a thermoplastic polymer. The polymer matrix can comprise a polyamide or polyetheretherketone. Organo-sheets have the advantage, particularly due to the carbon fibers, of also being multi-hit capable. Furthermore, it is possible to mold all of the mounting receptacles onto them. The carbon fibers can be woven. This has the advantage of further improving durability.

[0036] The external system can comprise a first cross-connecting element, a second cross-connecting element, and a third cross-connecting element, wherein the first, second, and third cross-connecting elements each releasably connect the first lateral rail and the second lateral rail when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet. Three cross-connecting elements have proven advantageous in that they enable a particularly stable hold of the external system on a protective helmet without increasing the weight and / or complexity of the external system, for example, through additional cross-connecting elements. However, it is understood that protective helmets used under particular loads may also require more than three cross-connecting elements. Furthermore, the use of three cross-connecting elements allows for pronounced multi-hit protection, i.e.Even if a protective helmet is hit by multiple projectiles and two of the three cross-connecting elements are destroyed, the external system generally remains attached to the helmet shell due to the attachment's redundancy. The external system therefore improves the protective effect of a protective helmet compared to the state of the art.

[0037] Preferably, when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet, the first cross-connecting element is attached to a rear end of the first lateral rail and to a rear end of the second lateral rail, the third cross-connecting element is attached to a front end of the first lateral rail and to a front end of the second lateral rail, and the second cross-connecting element is arranged between the first cross-connecting element and the third cross-connecting element. This arrangement ensures a particularly secure hold of the external system in a helmet shell.

[0038] The first side rail, the second side rail, and / or the front mount may include a mount for an appliqué. The mount allows for the attachment of accessories (appliqués) such as (but not limited to) a lamp, a camera, a visor, an additional protective shield, or a night vision device.

[0039] The first and second side rails can each have at least two hooks, with at least one of the hooks preferably having a U-shaped profile. Two hooks per side rail have proven advantageous in that the external system can be attached particularly securely to a helmet shell. A U-shaped profile, in particular, enables a firm hold on a helmet shell, even during rapid movements. Furthermore, two hooks allow a helmet shell to be gripped in front of and behind ear protection. This is advantageous since the ear protection of helmets can vary depending on the application and the external system is therefore independent of the design of the ear protection.

[0040] Furthermore, a first of the at least two hooks of the first lateral rail can protrude from the front end of the first lateral rail and a second of the at least two hooks of the first rail can protrude from the rear end of the first lateral rail. Furthermore, a first of the at least two hooks of the second lateral rail can protrude from the front end of the second lateral rail and a second of the at least two hooks of the second lateral rail can protrude from the rear end of the second lateral rail. This arrangement ensures that as much installation space as possible is available for attaching accessories to the rail without compromising their hold on a cap. In particular, accessories with a relatively high weight can be mounted in any position.

[0041] The first and second lateral rails can each have at least one embossing, wherein the embossing protrudes outwards when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet, wherein the embossing has a substantially flat surface, and wherein the embossing stands out in a wedge shape compared to the adjacent and non-embossed region of the respective rail. The substantially flat surface of the at least one embossing can be used to mount a visor adapter to which a visor can be detachably attached. The wedge shape allows an inclination of the first lateral rail relative to the second lateral rail to be at least partially compensated, thus enabling a simpler (geometrically less complex) design of the visor adapter.

[0042] A further aspect of the invention relates to a protective helmet comprising a helmet shell and an outer system as described above, wherein the at least one hook of the first lateral rail and the at least one hook of the second lateral rail of the outer system each engage around an edge of the helmet shell.

[0043] The protective helmet according to the invention combines all the above-described advantages of the external system with a helmet shell, so that the above-described advantages also apply to the protective helmet.

[0044] The helmet shell can be made of titanium, titanium-PE, titanium-aramid, PE-aramid, PE, and / or a PE-carbon-aramid material. PE stands for polyethylene. These materials are lightweight and durable. The external system can be attached to the shell without any penetrating or injuring elements. A penetrating or injuring element can be, for example, a screw or bolt. This can develop into a secondary projectile under fire and cause serious head injury. A penetrating or injuring element can also injure the head under impact. Furthermore, the material of a bullet, although solid, behaves like a liquid at high speeds and under the high pressures encountered upon impact. The bullet can therefore penetrate even small gaps between the bolt / screw and the hole or thread in the shell upon impact. "flow through"and thus directly and seriously injure the wearer's head. The invention therefore significantly improves the protective effect of the helmet.

[0045] It should be understood that the outer system of the present invention is fundamentally interchangeable. In particular, the outer system can be used on various helmet shells. This makes it possible to combine the advantages of the outer system with the advantages of specific helmet shells. For example, in low-risk situations, the outer system according to the invention could be used with a lighter helmet shell, while in situations with a particularly high risk, the outer system according to the invention could be used with a heavy helmet shell. Existing helmets can also be easily retrofitted with the outer system according to the invention. 4. Short description of the characters

[0046] Fig. 1shows a top view of a protective helmet according to the invention, Fig. 2 shows a side view of the protective helmet according to the invention, Fig. 3 shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention, Fig. 4 shows a rear view of the protective helmet according to the invention, Fig. 5 shows side views of protective helmets according to the invention, Fig. 6 shows a top view of an exemplary cross-connection element, Fig. 7 shows an example right side rail, Fig. 8 shows an example left side rail, Fig. 9A shows an exemplary connection of the right side rail with an exemplary cross-connection element in a side sectional view, Fig. 9B shows the exemplary connection of the right side rail with an exemplary cross-connection element in plan view, Fig. 10Ashows an exemplary connection of the left side rail with an exemplary cross-connection element in a side sectional view, Fig. 10B shows the exemplary connection of the left side rail with an exemplary cross-connection element in a sectional top view, Fig. 10C shows an exemplary connection of the left side rail with an exemplary cross-connection element in different views, Fig. 11 shows a top view of an exemplary longitudinal element, Fig. 12 shows an example of screwing the front bracket to the longitudinal element in a side sectional view, Fig. 13 shows a top view of an exemplary position securing element, Fig. 14 shows exemplary rail segments according to a first variant and a second variant, and Fig. 15 shows a rear view of a protective helmet according to the invention according to a further embodiment. 5. Detailed description of the characters

[0047] The figures show exemplary protective helmets, external systems, and their components. Some figures show only certain parts of the external system or the protective helmet.

[0048] Fig. 1 shows a protective helmet 1 according to the invention with an external system 11. The external system 11 comprises a first lateral rail 21, which is arranged on the left side of the protective helmet 1. Furthermore, the external system 11 comprises a second lateral rail 22, which is arranged on the right side of the protective helmet 1. The second lateral rail 22 is arranged opposite the first lateral rail 21. In addition, the first 21 and the second 22 lateral rails each have two hooks 38, 39, as Fig. 2, 3 and 4can be seen. In addition, the external system comprises three cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33, wherein the three cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 each releasably connect the first lateral rail 21 to the second lateral rail 22. Where necessary for the description of the figures, the cross-connecting element 31 is referred to as the first cross-connecting element 31, the cross-connecting element 32 as the second cross-connecting element 32, and the cross-connecting element 33 as the third cross-connecting element 33.

[0049] The Fig. 1 to 5 The protective helmets 1 shown all comprise a helmet shell 16 and an outer system 11, wherein the two hooks 38, 39 of the first lateral rail 21 and the two hooks 38, 39 of the second lateral rail 22 of the outer system 11 each engage around an edge of the helmet shell 16.

[0050] In the Fig. 1 to 4 and 6It is shown that the three cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 are strips, which have a rectangular cross-section. It is understood that the Fig. 6 The illustrated cross-connecting element 31, 32, 33 is not shown bent for the sake of clarity.

[0051] Furthermore, the Fig. 1 It can be seen that the three cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 are each screwed to the first lateral rail 21. To connect the three cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 to the first lateral rail 21, one screw 35a, 35b, 35c is used for each cross-connecting element 31, 32, 33. The corresponding screw connections are described in detail in the Fig. 10A, 10B and 10CIn particular, it can be seen from these illustrations that the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 are screwed to the first lateral rail 21 using a screw 35a, 35b, 35c, each arranged to regulate a tensile force acting on the corresponding cross-connecting element 31, 32, 33. In detail, the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 and the first lateral rail 21 each have sections bent outwards (i.e., away from the protective helmet 1). These sections are substantially parallel, so that the screws 35a, 35b, 35c can be passed vertically through corresponding holes in the sections. Thus, the screws 35a, 35b, 35c run essentially parallel to the areas of the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 and the first lateral rail 21, which border on the outwardly bent sections.This allows the screws 35a, 35b, 35c to regulate the tensile force acting on the corresponding cross-connecting element 31, 32, 33.

[0052] A cover 80 is arranged over each of the screws 35a, 35b, 35c, which ensures adjustability of the screw connection.

[0053] As already mentioned and in Fig. 1 As shown, the three cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 are each screwed to the first lateral rail 21. In addition, as shown in the Figs. 6 and 7As shown, the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 each have two projections 34a, 34b, which positively engage with openings or slots 28a, 28b, 28c of the second lateral rail 22 when the outdoor system is assembled. In detail, the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 have two lateral projections 34a, 34b at one end, so that a T-shaped end piece is formed. The second lateral rail 22 has corresponding openings or slots 28a, 28b, 28c, which allow insertion of the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33, but retain the lateral projections 34a, 34b or the T-shaped end piece. This positive engagement is shown in the Fig. 9A and 9B shown.

[0054] As particularly in the Fig. 1 , 3 and 4 As can be seen, the external system 11 mounted on the protective helmet 1 further comprises a longitudinal element 37 which, for the sake of clarity, is shown in the non-bent state in Fig. 11 The longitudinal element 37 is in the assembled state (cf. Fig. 1 to 4 ) arranged between the first 21 and the second 22 rail and extends substantially parallel to a vertex line of the protective helmet 1 .

[0055] In the Fig. 4 and 11 It is further shown that the longitudinal element 37 has a fastening element 70 which, in the assembled state (cf. Fig. 4 ) engages with a transverse connecting element 31. In detail, the fastening element 70 engages around the transverse connecting element 31, which is closest to a back of the head region 3 of the protective helmet 1, such that a displacement of the longitudinal element 37 in the direction of a forehead region 2 of the protective helmet 1 is prevented.

[0056] In addition, in the Fig. 1 , 3 , 4 and 11It is shown that the longitudinal element is a strip, wherein the strip has a rectangular cross-section. Furthermore, the longitudinal element 37 extends in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the three transverse connecting elements 31, 32, 33.

[0057] As in the Fig. 1 , 2 and 3 As shown, the external system 11 also comprises a front bracket 40. This front bracket 40 is detachably attached to the longitudinal element 37 and has a fastening means 41 which positively engages the helmet shell 16 of the protective helmet 1. In Fig. 2 the area in which the fastening means is located is designated, although it is not shown how the fastening means 41 engages positively with the helmet shell 16 of the protective helmet 1.

[0058] In the Fig. 1 , 11 and 12It is also shown that the front bracket 40 is attached to the longitudinal element 37 by two screws 60a, 60b. The use of two screws increases the stability of the front bracket 40. In particular, in Fig. 12 It is shown that the longitudinal element 37 is screwed to the front bracket 40 using the two screws 60a, 60b, which are arranged such that they can regulate a tensile force acting on the longitudinal element 37 when the external system 11 is mounted on the protective helmet 1, as shown. This allows for precise adjustment of how firmly or stably the external system, and in particular the front bracket, is mounted on the protective helmet.

[0059] As in the Fig. 1 and 3As shown, both the transverse connecting element 32 and the transverse connecting element 33 form an overlap point with the longitudinal element 37. The external system 11 further comprises two position securing elements 50a, 50b, each arranged between the helmet shell 16 and the overlap point and fixing the position of the overlap point relative to the helmet shell 16. A detailed view of a corresponding position securing element 50a, 50b is shown in Fig. 13 The illustrated position securing element 50a, 50b comprises a recess into which the transverse connecting element 32, 33 and the longitudinal element 37 can be inserted, wherein the recess is configured such that the transverse connecting element 32, 33 and the longitudinal element 37 can be inserted perpendicular to one another.

[0060] In Fig. 1 and Fig. 2it is shown that the first cross-connecting element 31 is fastened to a rear end of the first lateral rail 21 and to a rear end of the second lateral rail 22, wherein the third cross-connecting element 33 is fastened to a front end of the first lateral rail 21 and to a front end of the second lateral rail 22, and wherein the second cross-connecting element 32 is arranged between the first cross-connecting element 31 and the third cross-connecting element 33.

[0061] Furthermore, as in Fig. 1 and 2 As shown, the first lateral rail 21 and the second lateral rail 22 each comprise two brackets 25a, 25b for an application. Corresponding brackets or rail segments 25a, 25b are shown in detail in Fig. 14shown. These rail segments 25a, 25b enable various accessories to be modularly attached to the first lateral rail 21 and the second lateral rail 22. The rail segments 25a, 25b each have a locking portion 26a, 26b for the corresponding lateral rail 21, 22, as well as a locking portion 27a, 27b for accessories on an opposite side of the rail segment. According to the first variant 25a, the locking portion 27a for accessories has a plurality of notches. According to the second variant 25b, the locking portion 27 for accessories has a plurality of projections. In an alternative embodiment, the rail segments 25a, 25b are integrally formed. This allows the number of individual parts to be reduced.

[0062] As in the Figs. 7 and 8As can be seen, the first lateral rail 21 and the second lateral rail 22 each comprise a rail mount 24a, 24b, which serves to secure the rail segments 25a, 25b. The rail mounts 24a, 24b are adapted to engage the locking portions 26a, 26b.

[0063] Especially in the Fig. 3 , 4 , 7 and 8 It is shown that the first 21 and the second 22 side rails each have two hooks 38, 39. As in the front view of the protective helmet 1 in Fig. 3 As shown, the helmet shell 16 has an L-shaped outer shape 18 in the area of ​​the first hook 38, wherein the first hook 38 is seated in the L-shaped outer shape 18, so that it holds particularly securely to the shell 16. As shown in the rear view of the protective helmet 1 in Fig. 4As shown, the helmet shell 16 has an edge 19 in the area of ​​the second hook 39, behind which the second hook 39 engages, ensuring that it too sits securely. In principle, however, no special design of the shell is required. Numerous possible structures are conceivable. Only the first 38 and second 39 hooks must be designed such that they can grip an edge of the shell. This already ensures a secure hold. It is possible for the first 38 and second 39 hooks to be bendable and thus able to be adapted even better to the shell, for example using pliers.

[0064] Further on in the Fig. 2 , 7 and 8It can be seen that a first 38 of the two hooks 38, 39 of the first lateral rail 21 protrudes from the front end of the first lateral rail 21 and a second 39 of the at least two hooks 38, 39 of the first rail protrudes from the rear end of the first lateral rail 21. Correspondingly, it is shown that a first 38 of the at least two hooks 38, 39 of the second lateral rail 22 protrudes from the front end of the second lateral rail 22 and a second 39 of the at least two hooks 38, 39 of the second lateral rail 22 protrudes from the rear end of the second lateral rail 22.

[0065] The design of the hooks 38, 39 described above allows the helmet shell 16 to be grasped in front of and behind the ear protector 4, as for example in Fig. 2 This is advantageous because the external system 11 can be mounted independently of the design of the ear protector 4, as the Fig. 5can be seen.

[0066] Further in the Fig. 3 It can be seen that the first 21 and the second 22 lateral rails each have an embossing 23 which projects outwards, the embossing 23 having a substantially flat surface (see Figs. 7 and 8 ) and stands out in a wedge shape compared to the adjacent and non-embossed area of ​​the respective rail 21, 22.

[0067] On the embossings 23 in Fig. 3 A blind module 29 is arranged in each case, which is used to prevent the rails 21, 22 from snagging during use, for example, on a bush, undergrowth, or the like, or on clothing, when a visor is not needed and therefore a portion of the rails 21, 22 is exposed. In addition, the blind module 29 also serves to protect a visor adapter from damage upon impact with or against a hard object such as a rock, stone, metal object, or the like.

[0068] Accordingly Fig. 3The external system 11 further comprises a first securing element 42a, which connects the front mount 40 to the first side rail 21, and a second securing element 42b, which connects the front mount 40 to the second side rail 22. These securing elements 42a, 42b serve to provide additional security, for example, for a night vision device mounted on the front mount or shroud 40. Should the night vision device accidentally detach from the shroud 40, it would fall to the ground and possibly be damaged without the securing elements 42a, 42b, which may include a band, a strap, or an expander rope. The securing elements 42a, 42b prevent the night vision device from being damaged. It is possible for the securing elements 42a, 42b to each comprise an injection-moulded element which is provided with a recess in the first lateral rail 21 or 22.the second lateral rail 22. Alternatively, the securing elements 42a, 42b can each comprise a fastening element with which a band, a strap, or an expander cable engages in a form-fitting manner and which engages with a recess in the first lateral rail 21 or the second lateral rail 22.

[0069] Fig. 15 shows a rear view of a protective helmet 1 according to the invention according to a further embodiment. As can be seen, the outer system 11 comprises a longitudinal element 37, wherein the longitudinal element 37 is arranged between the first and the second rail. The longitudinal element 37 has a fastening element 70 that engages with an edge of the helmet shell 16. In the Fig. 15It is further shown that the longitudinal element 37 is wider in the area of ​​the fastening element 70. In detail, the longitudinal element 37 is at least approximately twice as wide in the area of ​​the fastening element 70. This enables a more stable attachment of the longitudinal element 37 to the protective helmet 1 or the helmet shell 16. Furthermore, Fig. 15 It can be seen that the first transverse connecting element 31 forms an overlap point with the longitudinal element 37. The external system 11 comprises a position-securing element 50c, which is arranged between the helmet shell 16 and the overlap point and fixes or at least stabilizes the position of the overlap point relative to the helmet shell. Reference symbol:

[0070] 1 Protective helmet 2 Forehead area 3 Back of the head area 4 Ear protection 11 Outer system 16 Helmet shell 18 L-shaped outer shape 19 Edge 21 First lateral rail 22 Second lateral rail 23 Embossing 24a, 24b Rail mount 25a, 25b Rail segment 26a, 26b Snap-in section for the rail 27a, 27b Snap-in section for accessories 28a, 28b, 28c Openings / slots 29 Blank module 31 First cross-connecting element 32 Second cross-connecting element 33 Third cross-connecting element 34a, 34b Lateral projections 35a, 35b, 35e Screws 37 Longitudinal element 38 First hook 39 Second hook 40 Front mount / shroud 41Fasteners 42a, 42bSecuring elements 50a, 50b, 50cPosition securing elements 60a, 60bScrews 70Fastener 80Housing

Claims

1. An external system (11) for a protective helmet (1), comprising: a first lateral rail (21), a second lateral rail (22) arranged opposite the first lateral rail (21) when the external system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), wherein the first (21) and the second (22) lateral rails each have at least one hook (38, 39), and at least one transverse connecting element (31, 32, 33), wherein the at least one transverse connecting element (31, 32, 33) detachably connects the first lateral rail (21) to the second lateral rail (22) when the external system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1).

2. External system (11) according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least one transverse connecting element (31, 32, 33) is a bar, wherein the bar preferably has a substantially rectangular cross-section, wherein the cross-section further preferably has a width to height ratio which is in the range of 2 to 15.

3. External system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one cross-connecting element (31, 32, 33) is screwed to the first (21) and / or the second (22) lateral rail when the external system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1).

4. External system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the external system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), the at least one cross-connecting element (31, 32, 33) is screwed to the first (21) and / or the second (22) lateral rail using at least one screw (35a, 35b, 35c), and the at least one screw (35a, 35b, 35c) is arranged so that it can regulate a tensile force acting on the at least one cross-connecting element (31, 32, 33).

5. External system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the external system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), the at least one transverse connecting element (31, 32, 33) is screwed to the first lateral rail (21) and the at least one transverse connecting element (31, 32, 33) has at least one projection (34a, 34b) which engages positively with the second lateral rail (22), or wherein, when the external system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), the at least one transverse connecting element (31, 32, 33) is screwed to the first lateral rail (21) and the at least one transverse connecting element (31, 32, 33) is connected to the second lateral rail (22) by means of at least one rivet.

6. External system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a longitudinal element (37), wherein the longitudinal element (37) is adapted to be arranged between the first (21) and the second (22) rail when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet (1), and wherein the longitudinal element (37) has at least one fastening element (70) which is adapted to engage with the at least one transverse connecting element (31) or an edge of a helmet shell (16), wherein the at least one longitudinal element (37) preferably extends in a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the at least one transverse connecting element (31).

7. External system (11) according to the preceding claim, comprising a front bracket (40), wherein the front bracket (40) is detachably attached to the longitudinal element (37) and has at least one fastening means (41) which is designed to engage positively with the helmet shell (16) of the protective helmet (1), wherein the front bracket (40) is preferably attached to the longitudinal element (37) by at least one screw connection (60a, 60b).

8. External system (11) according to one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the at least one transverse connecting element (31, 32, 33) forms an overlap point with the longitudinal element (37), and the external system (11) further comprises at least one position securing element (50a, 50b) which is adapted to be arranged between the helmet shell (16) and the overlap point and to fix the position of the overlap point relative to the helmet shell (16) when the external system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1).

9. External system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first lateral rail (21), the second lateral rail (22), the at least one transverse connecting element (31) and / or the longitudinal element (37) comprise a metal, wherein the metal is preferably titanium.

10. External system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a first cross-connecting element (31), a second cross-connecting element (32) and a third cross-connecting element (33), wherein the first (31), the second (32) and the third (33) cross-connecting element each releasably connect the first lateral rail (21) and the second lateral rail (22) when the external system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1).

11. External system (11) according to the preceding claim, wherein, when the external system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), the first cross-connecting element (31) is fastened to a rear end of the first lateral rail (21) and to a rear end of the second lateral rail (22), the third cross-connecting element (33) is fastened to a front end of the first lateral rail (21) and to a front end of the second lateral rail (22), and the second cross-connecting element (32) is arranged between the first cross-connecting element (31) and the third cross-connecting element (33).

12. External system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first (21) and the second (22) lateral rail each have at least two hooks (38, 39), wherein preferably at least one of the hooks (38, 39) has a U-shaped profile.

13. The outdoor system (11) according to the preceding claim, wherein a first (38) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the first lateral rail (21) protrudes from the front end of the first lateral rail (21) and a second (39) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the first rail protrudes from the rear end of the first lateral rail (21); wherein a first (38) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the second lateral rail (22) protrudes from the front end of the second lateral rail (22) and a second (39) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the second lateral rail (22) protrudes from the rear end of the second lateral rail (22).

14. External system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first (21) and the second (22) lateral rails each have at least one embossing (23), wherein the embossing (23) projects outwards when the external system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), wherein the embossing (23) has a substantially planar surface, and wherein the embossing (23) stands out in a wedge shape compared to the adjacent and non-embossed region of the respective rail (21, 22).

15. A protective helmet (1) comprising: a helmet shell (16), and an external system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one hook (38, 39) of the first lateral rail (21) and the at least one hook (38, 39) of the second lateral rail (22) of the external system (11) each engage around an edge of the helmet shell (16).