Protective sports helmet with energy-absorbing padding and a facemask with force-distributing shock absorbers

Abstract

A protective helmet having a layer of foam covering the hard shell of the helmet configured such that the foam absorbs shock from an impact thereby decreasing the amount of force translated to the head, neck, or spine of the wearer. A force-distributing shock absorber coupled to a helmet and facemask to protect the jaw from shock impacts.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Technical Field[0002]The invention relates generally to protective headgear. More specifically, the invention relates to a protective sports helmet with energy-absorbing padding and a facemask with force-distributing shock absorbers.[0003]2. Description of the Related Art[0004]The potential for an individual suffering a head injury while participating in a sporting activity depends upon the type of sport as well as the skill of its participants. High impact sports necessitate the use of the headwear; however, head injuries still occur despite participant skill. Headwear protection must also be capable of withstanding repeated impacts without imparting injury to the individual.[0005]Headwear designed to protect an individual's head from injury is commonly referred to as a helmet. Proper helmet construction cannot be emphasized enough when used in such sports as football. In fact, it is a requirement that high school, college, and professional footb...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013]The invention relates to a helmet having a layer of foam covering the hard shell of the helmet and a shock absorbent facemask. According to some embodiments, a helmet is configured such that the foam absorbs shock from an impact thereby decreasing the amount of force translated to the head, neck, or spine of the wearer.

[0014]In some embodiments of the invention, more foam is placed in areas that protect against the most common impacts. In some embodiments of the invention, a flexible, durable plastic covering covers the foam. The plastic covering is preferably paintable and does not freeze during common sports conditions. In some embodiments the shell and the foam covering include ventilation holes to allow for breathability.

Problems solved by technology

High impact sports necessitate the use of the headwear; however, head injuries still occur despite participant skill.

Proper helmet construction cannot be emphasized enough when used in such sports as football.

However, despite the mandated requirement for helmet use and construction, head injuries still occur in notable numbers.

However, a rule in itself cannot prevent injury and / or maiming of a player.

Such a rule can only invoke a yardage penalty, a fine, or at worst a suspension of a player.

The injury and associated damage, however, will have still occurred to the victim player.

However, known solutions do not adequately address the risk of head injury as evidenced by the staggering amount of head injuries that still occur.

In short, this force can leave the athlete with a concussion.

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