Helmet padding systems

Abstract

Padding systems for use with helmets are described. An example padding system includes a pad body having a substantially unitary base portion. The base portion has a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the first side to face an inner surface of a helmet and the second side to face the head of a person when the helmet is worn by the person. The padding system also includes a first plurality of raised portions distributed on the first side of the base portion, at least some of the first raised portions extending beyond a first surface of the first side to fill first spaces between the inner surface of the helmet and the pad body when the padding system is installed in the helmet and the helmet is worn by the person. Additionally, the padding system includes a second plurality of raised portions distributed on the second side of the base portion, at least some of the second raised portions extending beyond a second surface of the second side to engage the head of the person when the helmet is worn by the person.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This patent claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 401,510 filed on Aug. 16, 2010, and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 462,375, filed on Feb. 2, 2011, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE[0002]The present disclose relates generally to helmets and, more particularly, to padding systems for use with helmets.BACKGROUND[0003]Helmets are generally composed of a relatively thin, hard shell and an impact absorbing liner or suspension system. In some known helmets, the impact absorbing liner is a foam body having a relatively uniform thickness and a shape that conforms to the inner surface of the helmet. Such helmets and liners may fit loosely on a person's head. A loose fit can reduce the level of protection provided by the helmet and can also compromise the stability of the helmet during head and / or body moveme...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

A loose fit can reduce the level of protection provided by the helmet and can also compromise the stability of the helmet during head and / or body movements.

An uncomfortable helmet poses further danger because a person wearing the helmet is more likely to remove the helmet, thereby leaving their head completely unprotected.

However, in practice, because the pads are separate, they may be easily removed and may not be properly repositioned or may not be returned to the helmet and, thus, enable safety of the helmet to be easily compromised.

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