Helmet System

Abstract

A helmet system that employs an outer shell and a unitary inner shell formed with compatible grooves and ridges respectively. The outer shell is formed with a switch. The outer shell and inner shell are further secured together via magnetic force or a system of springs and levers in conjunction with the switch that allows for a user of the helmet system to seamlessly remove the outer shell through either a set amount of breakaway force or by using the switch.

Description

CONTINUITY DATA [0001]This is a continuation-in-part of patent application Ser. No. 12 / 432,828 filed on May 22, 2009 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,015,624, granted on Sep. 13, 2011.FIELD OF THE PRESENT INVENTION [0002]The present invention relates to a helmet system that employs an outer shell and an inner shell formed with compatible ridges and grooves. The outer shell and inner shell are further secured together via magnetic force or conventional levers and springs in conjunction with a switch that allows for a user of the helmet system to seamlessly remove the outer shell through either a set amount of breakaway force or by deactivating the switch.BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION [0003]Safety is paramount for many athletes playing in organized and unorganized sports. As such, protecting the head from injury is of prime importance. This is evident by the evolution of protective headgear. For example, the National Hockey League (NHL) did not officially require the use of helmets...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012]The present invention is a helmet system relating to the formation and connection of an outer shell and an inner shell. The function of the present invention is such that users wearing the outer shell and inner shell in a hockey context can quickly and seamlessly remove the outer shell when engaged in a fight. This means that the softer inner shell will remain secured to the user's head for protection of both the user and the hands of a combatant. In addition, the outer shell, based on the connection aspects of the present invention, will remain secured to the inner shell in a manner that will maintain the stability and intended utility of the outer shell until a set or angled force or switch causes the outer shell to be removed.

[0013]The outer shell is formed via conventional means of a hard outer material to protect the user's head. The interior of the outer shell is preferably grooved or otherwise ridged so it can be interlocked with the inner shell. The inner shell is formed with complimentary ridges or grooves so that the inner shell and the outer shell can interlock. The inner shell is formed of conventional soft protective material such as foam. The inner shell directly touches the head of the user. It also should be noted that the system of the present invention places a chinstrap on the inner shell, facilitating secure placement of the present invention on the head of the user.

Problems solved by technology

Then in 1968, Minnesota player Bill Masterson, playing without a helmet, struck his head on the ice during a game against Oakland and ultimately died.

However, a problem has arisen when it comes to the removal of a helmet during the course of a game.

This makes it easier to participate in the fight but also carries significant risks.

The player ended up striking the ice and ultimately died.

These rules have created an outcry and caused significant disdain from fans and players who claim that the spirit and integral portion of the game is being removed.

However, these players now wear extensive head protection.

A problem often arises in these sports when the helmet flies off during a hard hit in the middle of a play.

Once the helmet flies off, the play may still be active which means that the player may intentionally or inadvertently be involved in ongoing game activity without head protection.

This is dangerous as players in such situations have been known to crash into the helmets / pads of other players in addition to the ground and even spikes from cleats as the player continues without the head protection.

While the idea of an internal helmet and external helmet exists, none solve the need for a system that allows a player to seamlessly remove an interlocked outer shell while maintaining the protection of the protective inner shell.

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