Protective helmet

Abstract

The present invention relates to a protective helmet (1) comprising spacing elements (11) between an inner shell (102) and an outer shell (101), wherein a first spacing portion (111) is shaped in such a way as to at least partly accommodated a second spacing portion (211) in such a way that, in the event of an impact, said first spacing portion (111) and said second spacing portion (211) are able to be moved in a defined absorption stroke between a mating position and a maximum absorption position, wherein said second spacing portion (211) is housed within said first spacing portion (111) for a maximum height, wherein the first (111) and second (211) spacing portions are able to be solidly coupled at the mating portion (311) having a breaking load lower than the breaking loads of the outer shell (101) and inner shell (102), and wherein at the mating position the second spacing portion (211) is arranged outside the first spacing portion (111) and at the maximum absorption position the first spacing portion (111) is shaped in such a way as to at least partly accommodate the second spacing portion (211) following the breakage of the mating portion (311).

Description

[0001] “PROTECTIVE HELMET”

[0002] Description

[0003] Field of the invention

[0004] The present invention relates to a helmet, or hard hat, able to protect the head of a user against impacts. Particularly, the present invention relates to a protective helmet or hard hat made in such a way as to absorb, at least partially, the impacts suffered by the head of a user.

[0005] In the following description reference will be made, for the sake of brevity, to a motorcycle helmet, but what described can be applied to any type of helmet, or hard hat, used to protect the head of a user, for example helmets for motorbike sports competitions (cars , motorbikes, etc.), bike helmets, ski helmets or work hard hats (hard hats for excavator operators, hard hats for construction sites, etc.).

[0006] Prior art

[0007] In the state of the art there are different types of helmets typically for sports use or for working use. Such helmets, or hard hats, are the most widely used and suitable instrument for protecting the user's head against impact injuries, therefore they are also referred to as protective helmets or hard hats. Particularly, the main purpose is to carry out a protective action against the possibility of possible skull fractures.

[0008] In this regard, the essential elements of any type of protective helmet consist of an outer shell, i.e. the portion of the protective helmet in contact with the external environment, and an inner lining, i.e. the portion of the protective helmet in contact with the user's head. The aforementioned essential elements cooperate to absorb the energy caused by a shock following an impact on the user's head.

[0009] The outer shell is typically made of a shock -resistant material and allows the distribution of impact force in an area wider than the shock one, reducing the concentration of tensions in a small area. The materials commonly used for making the outer shell are thermoplastic materials such as polycarbonate (PC) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or composite materials (FRP) with epoxy resin glass or carbon fiber or exclusively carbon or Kevlar fibers.

[0010] The inner lining is typically made of a material able to absorb energy caused by a shock, e.g. expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP) or materials with similar mechanical behaviors. The inner lining is able to progressively collapse following the impact thus reducing the accelerations transmitted to the head.

[0011] The conformation of the outer shell and the inner lining is designed in such a way as to obtain a functional coupling of the two elements that allows mutual cooperation in order to contain or avoid impact trauma.

[0012] It is also possible to provide helmets in which the outer shell is defined directly by the inner lining, the latter possibly provided with one or more layers of lining also used for stiffening the outer surface, for example by means of a thermoplastic film.

[0013] It is evident that the design parameters of both the outer shell and the inner lining are fundamental to obtain a protective helmet able to obtain a gradual and controlled deceleration of the head in the event of impact, while defining a functional structure for daily use. Particularly, the main elements of the design are the thickness and the impact resistance of the outer shell, as well as the thickness and density of the inner lining.

[0014] At present, numbers of certifications for protective helmets intended for head protection are envisaged in the motorcycle sector. In particular, in Europe, protective helmets must be equipped with the CE certificate, which ensures the correct functioning of the protective helmet in terms of safety in accordance with the identified approval standard.

[0015] Taking into consideration the aforementioned European approvals, the most current legislation in force is defined by ECE 22-06 for helmets, which provides for five different points of impact inside a helmet which are the front, the back, the top, the lateral part and the chin rest. These five parts can be defined as real critical points because when they are involved, dramatic episodes usually occur. The helmets must not only be optimized to absorb and resist certain and imposed energy peaks due to strong impacts but they must also absorb lower intensity blows, in which the approval provides for impacts against a flat anvil from 5,5 and 8,5 meters. Furthermore, the legislation provides for the rotational acceleration test, an index that measures the damage suffered by the pilot if the helmet were to impact on a lateral protrusion.

[0016] Although the design of protective helmets has evolved very quickly over time, to date one of the main problems concerns the absorption of the initial impact force as well as that of rotational impacts. During an impact when the inner lining collapses completely, the unabsorbed part of the energy is transferred to the head often causing even serious injuries, in particular injuries that do not manifest themselves with a skull fracture or, at least upon initial investigation, a visible lesion of the soft tissue. Only a residual amount of non-absorbed energy is reduced by the outer shell in an estimated amount not exceeding 30%.

[0017] To improve the ability of absorbing impact forces, helmets have been developed with an inner lining made up of deformable ABS cones, as well as helmets made using two layers with different densities, i.e. an outermost layer, at the outer shell, having higher density and an inner layer, at the user’s head, having lower density.

[0018] A problem relating to the above solutions consists in the fact that the attenuation of the impact energy and, consequently, the protection of the user’s head is entrusted to the inner lining, since the outermost lining only allows mechanical protection from the impact and not its absorption.

[0019] Furthermore, the impact energy is redistributed rather than dissipated, thereby maintaining a high risk of causing soft tissue damage even in the absence of obvious fractures of the skull, particularly during side-sliding impacts. In order to improve the absorption capacity of the impact forces in impacts, increasingly thicker protective helmets have been developed which are, consequently, heavy and cumbersome such as to discourage their use by less circumspect users.

[0020] A further problem of the aforesaid protective helmets results in the difficulty of using them at high temperatures and for a significant period of time, since the aforesaid thickness, as well as the components used, do not allow for adequate breathability to be guaranteed in all conditions of use, thus discouraging even more the use to less circumspect users.

[0021] The International Patent Application n. W02020 / 035807A1 discloses a protective helmet comprising an outer shell and one or more impact shock energy absorbing elements operatively coupled to the outer shell, wherein the absorbing elements comprise a working portion interposed between the end portions, in which the section of the working portion along a surface transverse to an axis of development has a smaller area than the areas of the corresponding sections of the end portions, and in which the absorbing elements have a breaking load lower than the breaking load of the outer shell, such that in the event of an impact, the working portion is liable to break before the outer shell and before the end portions to allow for the absorption of impact shock energy.

[0022] Such a protective helmet therefore makes it possible to manage any rotational movements but, at the same time, the production cost of the protective helmet itself or the size and weight involved are in any case high to guarantee optimal protection for the user.

[0023] It would therefore be desirable to have a protective helmet capable of minimizing the drawbacks described above. In this regard, it would be desirable to have a protective helmet capable of guaranteeing better dissipation of impact energy, preserving the user's head in any type of impact. In particular, it would be desirable to have a protective helmet capable of guaranteeing the aforesaid characteristics while having a reduced weight and size and ease of use.

[0024] Summary of the invention

[0025] Object of the present invention is to provide a protective helmet able to reduce the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0026] In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a protective helmet, effective but economical, able to provide a greater safety to users who need an appropriate protection.

[0027] The protective helmet comprises an outer shell and an inner shell and absorption means of the energy from impact shocks able to define an absorption area of the energy greater than the impact area which receives the shock, wherein the absorption means are interposed between the outer shell and the inner shell and are able to define a gap between them, wherein the absorption means comprises a plurality of spacing elements between the inner shell and the outer shell, wherein the spacing elements comprise a first spacing portion and a second spacing portion defined respectively by elongated elements having different geometry and / or size, wherein the first and second spacing portions are able to be coupled in a mating portion defined at one of the respective ends, wherein the first spacing portion is shaped in such a way as to at least partly accommodated the second spacing portion in such a way that, in the event of an impact, the first spacing portion and the second spacing portion are able to be moved in a defined absorption stroke between the mating position, wherein the gap has the maximum height and wherein the second spacing portion is arranged outside the first spacing portion or is housed within the first spacing portion for a minimum height, and a maximum absorption position, wherein the gap has a minimum height and wherein the second spacing portion is housed within the first spacing portion for a maximum height, the protective helmet is characterized in that the first and second spacing portions are able to be solidly coupled at the mating portion, wherein the mating portion has a breaking load lower than the breaking loads of the outer shell and inner shell so that, in the event of an impact, the mating portion is subject to breakage before the inner shell and outer shell, and wherein at the mating position the second spacing portion is arranged outside the first spacing portion and at the maximum absorption position the first spacing portion is shaped in such a way as to at least partly accommodate the second spacing portion following the breakage of the mating portion.

[0028] The protective helmet according to the present invention thus allows both to ensure protection against rotational impacts and to manage the dissipation of the energy from impact forces by minimizing the energy transmitted to the user’s head to be protected. In particular, the relative movement between the outer shell and the inner shell provides protection against rotational impacts, while the rigidity of said shells protects against potential impacts with blunt objects, with their fracture at least partially dissipating the energy from the impact force. Furthermore, the movement of the spacing portions allows additional dissipation of at least part of the energy from the impact force, while also maintaining the separation between the outer shell and the inner shell, thereby improving the impact energy absorption capacity of the protective helmet according to the present invention. The coupling and movement of the spacing portions make it possible to define a very wide gap and, therefore, more suitable for allowing relative movement between the outer shell and the inner shell. The construction of the spacing portions with a solid coupling at the mating portion allows for a simplified and lower-cost implementation.

[0029] According to an embodiment, wherein the first and second spacing portions are defined by two separate elements capable of being coupled by interference at the mating portion, and wherein at the mating portion the second spacing portion is housed within the first spacing portion for a minimum height, and at the maximum absorption portion the second spacing portion is housed within the first spacing portion for a maximum height.

[0030] The coupling and movement of the spacing portions make it possible to define a very wide gap, which is therefore more suitable for allowing relative movement between the outer shell and the inner shell. The implementation of the spacing portions by means of separate elements allows for improved movement in the event of an impact.

[0031] According to an embodiment, the first spacing portion comprises a mating location able to at least partly accommodate the second spacing portion in the event of an impact, during the movement of the first spacing portion and of the second spacing portion along the absorption stroke.

[0032] The mating portion is configured to guide the movement in the desired direction

[0033] According to an embodiment, the mating location is defined by a hole sized in such a way as to allow a coupling by interference between the first spacing portion and the second spacing portion along the absorption stroke.

[0034] The interference coupling during the absorption stroke allows for increased resistance to be provided in response to an impact during the movement of the second spacing portion.

[0035] According to an embodiment, the first spacing portion and / or the second spacing portion have a symmetrical shape with respect to the main extension of the respective elongated elements.

[0036] According to an embodiment, the mating location has a symmetrical shape with respect to the main extension of the first spacing portion.

[0037] The implementation of symmetrical elements enables improved distribution of forces.

[0038] According to an embodiment, the first spacing portion and the second spacing portion are coupled along a same axis of symmetry. This solution allows for a reduction in production and assembly costs, and simplifies the coupling and interaction between the spacing portions.

[0039] According to an embodiment, the end of the second spacing portion comprises a width lower than the one of the first spacing portion.

[0040] The different dimensions allow for a differentiated absorption capacity and a more effective containment of the energy.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the first spacing portion and / or the second spacing portion have a cylindrical or frusto-conical shape.

[0042] This solution enables a reduction in production and assembly costs and simplifies the coupling and interaction between the spacing portions.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the first spacing portion and / or the second spacing portion have one or more stopping elements of the absorption stroke in one or more predefined position.

[0044] The stopping elements of the absorption stroke allow for differentiation of the absorption capacity and more effective containment of the energy.

[0045] According to an embodiment, the first spacing portion comprises one or more stopping elements of the absorption stroke arranged inside the mating portion.

[0046] This arrangement allows direct control over the absorption stroke of the second spacing portion, limiting it according to the impact received and the energy to be dissipated.

[0047] According to an embodiment, the absorption means comprises one or more energy absorption elements arranges inside the gap and able to absorb the energy through a plastic deformation, wherein the energy absorption elements are able to be compressed along the absorption stroke.

[0048] The presence of additional absorption elements thus allows for a more gradual redistribution of the impact force, reducing the weight and size of the protective helmet while increasing its absorption capacity. Description of the Figures

[0049] These and further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the disclosure of the preferred embodiments, illustrated by way of a non-limiting example in the accompanying Figures, wherein:

[0050] - Figure 1 is a schematic sectional view of the protective helmet in accordance with the present invention, according to a first preferred embodiment;

[0051] - Figure 2 is a top perspective view of a portion of the protective helmet of Figure 1, provided with the impact energy absorption means;

[0052] - Figure 3 is a top perspective view of the first spacing portion of the spacing elements of the impact energy absorption means of Figure 2;

[0053] - Figure 4 is a top perspective view of the second spacing portion of the spacing elements of the impact energy absorption means of Figure 2;

[0054] - Figure 5 is a lateral section view of the impact energy absorption means of Figure 2;

[0055] - Figure 6 is a lateral section view of the impact energy absorption means of Figure 2, with particular reference to the spacing elements;

[0056] - Figure 7 is an enlarged lateral section view of the spacing elements of Figure 6;

[0057] - Figure 8 is a schematic section view of the protective helmet according to the present invention, according to a second embodiment;

[0058] Detailed description of the invention

[0059] Figures 1-8 illustrate a plurality of preferred embodiments of the protective helmet according to the present invention, wherein, where possible, identical elements across different embodiments are assigned the same reference numerals or the numeration is omitted.

[0060] In the following description, for brevity, reference will be made to a motorcycle helmet; however, the description applies to any type of helmet intended to protect a user’s head, such as helmets for motorsport competitions (cars, motorcycles, etc.), bicycle helmets, ski helmets, or work helmets (e.g., for excavator operators, construction sites, etc.). In particular, reference can be made to full-face helmets, modular helmets, or helmets without chin guards. Protective helmets of any type may include a plurality of components such as a fastening strap, visor, and ventilation system, which will not be described in detail here as they are not essential to the purpose of the invention.

[0061] A first embodiment is illustrated in Figure 1, where, in a more detailed description, the protective helmet 1 comprises, from the outside (i.e., the surface in contact with the external environment during use) to the inside (i.e., the surface in contact with the user’s head during use), an outer shell 101 and an inner shell 102. A comfort padding layer (not shown) may also be present.

[0062] The outer shell 101 has an external surface, which during use is positioned facing the environment, and an internal surface, which during use faces the inner shell 102 but is not necessarily in direct contact with it. Preferably, the outer shell 101 is made of impact-resistant material and allows the distribution of energy generated by an impact force over a wider area than the impact point, thereby reducing stress concentration in a small area. Common materials for the outer shell 101 include thermoplastics such as polycarbonate (PC) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or composite materials (FRP) with glass or carbon fibers in epoxy resin, or exclusively carbon fiber or Kevlar. The thickness of the outer shell 101 can be dimensioned according to technical and strength requirements without affecting the technical features of the invention. The outer shell may be perforated or micro-perforated, or provided with appropriate openings, according to other embodiments not shown.

[0063] The inner shell 102 has an internal surface, which during use faces the outer shell 101 but is not necessarily in direct contact with it, and an external surface, which during use faces the user’s head, either directly or indirectly, for example through comfort padding. Preferably, the inner shell 102 is made of impactresistant material capable of absorbing energy from an impact and distributing the energy over a wider area than the impact site, thus reducing stress concentration. Common materials for the inner shell 102 include thermoplastics such as polycarbonate (PC) or ABS, composite materials (FRP) with glass or carbon fibers in epoxy resin, exclusively carbon fiber or Kevlar, expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP), or materials with similar mechanical behaviors. Likewise, the thickness of the inner shell 102 can be dimensioned as needed without affecting the invention’s technical features. The inner shell may also be perforated or micro-perforated, according to other embodiments not illustrated.

[0064] The optional comfort padding, which represents the interface between the entire helmet structure and the user’s head, is preferably made of a combination of sponges covered by fabric or other suitable materials to increase comfort during use but does not affect the helmet’s energy absorption capability.

[0065] The outer shell 101 and the inner shell 102 are arranged facing each other so as to be substantially overlapped and spaced by a predefined distance via the interspace 105, as further detailed below. These shells 101, 102 may have the same curvature but different curvatures are also possible.

[0066] In other embodiments not shown, the shells may form a discontinuous surface or have openings to ensure breathability when the helmet 1 is worn.

[0067] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the protective helmet 1 according to the present invention comprises an interspace 105 that defines the separation between the outer shell 101 and the inner shell 102. This interspace 105 is defined by appropriate absorption means interposed between the said shells 101, 102. Therefore, the opposing internal surfaces of the outer shell 101 and the inner shell 102 define two surfaces of the interspace 105, which has a predetermined volume, at least with reference to a minimum and / or maximum volume, to house suitable absorption means as detailed below.

[0068] The spacing elements 11 comprise a first spacing portion 111 and a second spacing portion 211, defined respectively by elongated elements having different geometries. The first spacing portion 111 is shaped to at least partially receive the second spacing portion 211 in a coupling position. In this coupling position, the interspace 105 has the maximum height and the second spacing portion 211 is received within the first spacing portion 111 by a minimum height.

[0069] Figure 2 illustrates a top perspective view of a portion of the protective helmet

[0070] I of Figure 1, equipped with energy absorption means for impact shocks. As more specifically shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first spacing portion 111 and the second spacing portion 211 of the spacing elements 11 are integral parts respectively of the inner shell 102 and the outer shell 101. In particular, these first and second spacing portions 111, 211 are protrusions from the respective internal surfaces, arranged within the interspace 105 when coupled.

[0071] Figure 6 shows a lateral sectional view of the energy absorption means for impact shocks of Figure 2, focusing on the spacing elements 11. The respective spacing portions 111, 211 are illustrated with reference to a sole spacing element

[0072] I I in Figure 7. These first and second spacing portions 111, 211 are defined by two separate elements intended to be interference-coupled at a coupling portion 311, described in further detail below.

[0073] The first and / or second spacing portions may have a symmetric shape with respect to the main extension of the respective elongated elements, as illustrated for both spacing portions 111, 211 in the present embodiment. The use of symmetric elements allows for better force distribution during the relative movement of the spacing portions 111, 211.

[0074] The first spacing portion 111 has a truncated cone shape, with the larger base positioned on the inner surface of the inner shell 102 from which it protrudes. The second spacing portion 211 has a substantially cylindrical shape, with one end positioned on the inner surface of the outer shell 101 from which it protrudes. Additionally, the second spacing portion 211 has an end with a width smaller than that of the first spacing portion 111. This difference in width allows differentiation in absorption capacity and more effective energy containment. In particular, this end is a tapered free end 211’, having a smaller dimension than the diameter of the rest of the cylindrical portion (in the present embodiment, this free end also has a different geometric shape).

[0075] In other embodiments not shown, the spacing portions may have the same shape, e.g., both cylindrical or truncated cone, or have an inverted configuration compared to that shown in the first embodiment.

[0076] The cylindrical or truncated cone shapes simplify production and assembly costs by easing coupling and interaction between the spacing portions.

[0077] In other embodiments, the spacing portions may have shapes different from cylindrical or truncated cone.

[0078] As described, the spacing portions 111, 211 are also intended to be coupled at the coupling portion 311 defined at one end of each. In particular, in the first embodiment, in the coupling position, the second spacing portion 211 is received within the first spacing portion 111 by a minimum height, this coupling preferably facilitated by the tapered free end 211’ of the second spacing portion 211. In the maximum absorption position (shown in detail in Figures 5-7), the second spacing portion 211 is received within the first spacing portion 111 by a maximum height.

[0079] To this end, the first spacing portion 111 comprises a coupling seat 112 intended to at least partially receive the second spacing portion 211. In the embodiment described, the coupling seat 112 is a hole having symmetry with respect to the main extension of the first spacing portion 111, though other coupling seat shapes may be used. The hole is dimensioned to allow an interference fit between the first spacing portion 111 and the second spacing portion 211 during the absorption stroke. Specifically, the coupling seat 112 is sized to define the coupling position starting from the tapered free end 211’ if present. In case of impact, the coupling seat 112 accommodates an additional portion of the second spacing portion 211 during the relative movement of the first and second spacing portions 111, 211 throughout the absorption stroke and up to the maximum absorption position.

[0080] The coupling seat 112 guides movement in the desired direction, thereby maintaining the intended absorption capacity and effect. Additionally, the interference fit during the absorption stroke increases resistance during the relative movement of the second spacing portion 211 after impact.

[0081] In other embodiments not shown, the coupling seat could allow coupling during some or all of the absorption stroke, for example allowing part of the second spacing portion to exit the coupling seat at maximum absorption.

[0082] The coupling and movement of the spacing portions 111, 211 define a large interspace 105, thus facilitating relative movement between the outer shell 101 and the inner shell 102. Having the spacing portions as separate elements improves movement upon impact.

[0083] Furthermore, the interference fit between the distancing portions 111, 211 allows maximizing the energy absorption during movement in the absorption stroke. To maximize the interference while still enabling optimal execution of the absorption stroke, the first distancing portion 111 is equipped with appropriate stop means 113, which may alternatively be absent according to other embodiments. These stop means 113 are implemented through a plurality of elastically deformable fins located within the coupling seat 112 so as to reduce the available width for the second distancing portion 211 during movement in the absorption stroke.

[0084] In the same Figure 7, a stroke stopping element is also illustrated, provided on the second distancing portion 211 at a predefined position, indicated by reference number 215. This stroke stopping element 215 is formed by a portion of the elongated element having a width greater than the coupling seat 112, thus preventing further movement of the second distancing portion 211. In particular, this stroke stopping element 215 extends along the entire circumference but could also be realized only on a portion thereof. Moreover, according to alternative embodiments not shown, one or more stopping elements can be provided at predefined positions both on the second distancing portion and on the first distancing portion; in the latter case, for example, arranged within the coupling seat. This latter solution allows acting directly on the absorption stroke of the second distancing portion, limiting it based on the impact received and the energy to be dissipated.

[0085] Furthermore, a plurality of stopping elements can be arranged in sequence so as to prevent the stroke according to predefined load levels of the force to which the distancing portions are subjected. In this case, the stroke stopping elements allow differentiating the absorption capacity and more effectively containing the energy.

[0086] The first distancing portion 111 is shaped so as to at least partially accommodate the second distancing portion 211 such that, in the event of an impact, the first distancing portion 111 and the second distancing portion 211 are capable of moving in an absorption stroke defined between the coupling position, where the gap 105 has the maximum height and in which the second distancing portion 211 is received within the first distancing portion 111 by a minimum height, and a maximum absorption position, where the gap 105 has a minimum height and the second distancing portion 211 is received within the first distancing portion 111 by a maximum height. The relative movement of the aforementioned distancing portions 111, 211 thus allows dissipating at least partially the energy resulting from the impact shock. Furthermore, at the end of the absorption stroke, the two shells may be decoupled by breaking one or more of the first absorption portions or second absorption portions (or both), allowing further energy absorption in case of rotational impact. Such breaking may also occur before the relative movement of the distancing portions or during the movement at an intermediate position of the absorption stroke.

[0087] The protective helmet 1 according to the present invention thus allows both to ensure protection from rotational impacts and to manage the dissipation of impact force energy, minimizing the energy subjected to the user’s head to be protected. In particular, the relative movement between the outer shell 101 and the inner shell 102 protects against rotational impacts, while their rigidity protects against potential impacts with blunt objects, breaking to dissipate at least part of the impact force energy. The movement of the distancing portions 111, 211 further allows dissipating at least part of the impact force energy, while supporting the separation between the outer shell 101 and the inner shell 102, improving the impact force energy absorption capacity of the protective helmet 1 according to the present invention.

[0088] According to a further embodiment, not illustrated, in the coupling position the second distancing portion is outside the first distancing portion, or the aforementioned coupling portions are coupled at the edges of their respective ends. In this case, it is preferable that the first distancing portion and the second distancing portion are coupled along the same axis of symmetry. This solution allows reducing manufacturing and assembly costs by simplifying the coupling and interaction between the distancing portions. In particular, this simplification and cost reduction can be achieved especially when the first and second coupling portions are part of a single element, for example, the aforementioned coupling portions may be molded with a reduced thickness at the coupling portion or employing coextrusion techniques where a weaker material is used at the coupling portion, allowing subsequent relative movement in case of impact.

[0089] Preferably, the first and second distancing portions are designed to be solidly coupled at the coupling portion, where the coupling portion has a breaking load lower than the breaking loads of the outer and inner shells so that, in case of impact, the coupling portion breaks before the inner and outer shells. In the coupling position, the second distancing portion is outside the first distancing portion, and in the maximum absorption position, the first distancing portion is shaped so as to at least partially accommodate the second distancing portion following the breakage of the coupling portion.

[0090] The coupling and movement of the distancing portions allow defining a very wide gap and, therefore, more useful for the relative movement between the outer shell and the inner shell. The realization of the distancing portions with a solid coupling at the coupling portion enables simplified and lower-cost manufacturing. Therefore, referring to this last embodiment, the first distancing portion is shaped so as to at least partially accommodate the second distancing portion such that, in case of impact, the first and second distancing portions are capable of moving in an absorption stroke defined between the coupling position, where the gap presents the maximum height and the second distancing portion is outside the first distancing portion, and a maximum absorption position, where the gap has a minimum height and the second distancing portion is accommodated within the first distancing portion by a maximum height.

[0091] Figure 8 illustrates a schematic sectional view of the protective helmet 2 according to the present invention, according to a second embodiment. This protective helmet 2 corresponds, mutatis mutandis, to the protective helmet 1 illustrated in the first embodiment, to which reference is made, and further comprises energy absorption means provided with one or more energy absorption elements 205 arranged within the gap 105 and designed to absorb energy through plastic deformation. In particular, the energy absorption elements 205 are intended to be compressed during the absorption stroke. These absorption means include, in particular, a plurality of spheres 205 arranged within the separation chamber 105, interposed between the outer shell 101 and the inner shell 102, and designed to allow or improve the relative movement between the outer shell 101 and the inner shell 102.

[0092] The presence of additional absorption elements 205 thus allows redistributing the impact force more gradually, reducing the weight and size of the protective helmet 2 while increasing its absorption capacity. In particular, the spheres 205 are designed to plastically deform so as to reduce the impact energy transmitted to the head compared to the energy generated by the impact force.

[0093] These spheres 205 preferably have a diameter between 0.5 mm and 6 mm, more preferably between 1.5 mm and 3 mm. These dimensions represent a good compromise between occupied volume and absorption capacity. Different dimensions than those described above may still be employed.

[0094] The spheres 205 are made of polyethylene, polystyrene, or celluloid. Polyethylene or polystyrene allow defining a first elastic deformation phase followed by plastic deformation or breaking. Celluloid can be used to define even rather complex structures by selecting at will the load that defines the plastic deformation or breakage, and generally exhibits a much larger plastic deformation phase than the previously described materials, breaking earlier. Both, however, ensure excellent energy absorption capacity. It is possible to produce the spheres with different materials capable of plastically deforming so as to reduce the impact energy transmitted to the head relative to the energy generated by the impact force when subjected to an impact force, as described in more detail below.

[0095] As illustrated in Figure 8, the spheres 205 partially have different diameters from one another, although no differences in numbering exist. The different sizes allow differentiating the absorption capacity and containing the energy more effectively.

[0096] According to further embodiments not illustrated, the spheres may all have different sizes from one another or all be the same size. Similarly, the number of spheres of a particular size group may be equal or different from the number of spheres of a different size group.

[0097] Therefore, in case of impact, the protective helmet 2 according to the present invention allows reducing or eliminating energy arising both from direct impacts and rotational impacts.

[0098] In case of direct impact, the coupling of the outer shell 101 and the inner shell 102 by means of the absorption means, in particular through the distancing elements 11, allows the gap 105 to first compress its volume, such compression being at least partially transferred to the spheres 205, which undergo first elastic deformation, then plastic deformation or breakage, possibly changing their shape or even breaking.

[0099] Similarly, in the case of rotational impact, the coupling of the outer shell 101 and the inner shell 102 by the absorption means, particularly through the distancing elements 11, allows the gap 105 to enable relative movement between the outer shell 101 and the inner shell 102 by modifying its shape while maintaining the relative volume constant. The contact between the spheres 205 and the outer 101 and inner shells 102 also enables better relative movement of said shells 101, 102 through the rolling of the spheres within the gap 105 or along the internal surfaces of the shells 101, 102 defining the gap 105 itself. Even in the case of a rotational impact capable of generating high impact energy, the outer shell 101 and inner shell 102 are designed to break to dissipate at least part of this energy. Preferably, the inner shell 102 has a higher compressive breaking load than the outer shell 101, thus providing greater protection to the user’s head in the event of an impact.

[0100] The embodiments described therein can, moreover, be combined to determine further more complex embodiments although not described in greater detail, considering the easy combinations for a person skilled in the sector in the light of the description provided therein.

[0101] The protective helmet according to the present invention is, therefore, capable of maximizing the user’s protection in the event of impact shocks.

[0102] In particular, the protective helmet according to the present invention is functionally effective but economical, capable of providing greater safety to users who need appropriate protection.

[0103] In fact, the protective helmet according to the present invention allows both to guarantee protection from rotational impacts and to manage the dissipation of energy from impact forces, minimizing the energy to which the head of the user to be protected is subjected. In particular, the relative movement between the first shell and the second shell protects against rotational impacts while the breakage of the same shells or the deformation of the spheres or of the dividing baffles allows the energy from the impact to be dissipated at least in part.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Protective helmet (1; 2) comprising an outer shell (101) and an inner shell(102) and absorption means of the energy from impact shocks able to define an absorption area of said energy greater than the impact area which receives said shock, wherein said absorption means are interposed between said outer shell (101) and said inner shell (102) and are able to define a gap (105) between them, wherein said absorption means comprises a plurality of spacing elements (11) between said inner shell (102) and said outer shell (101), wherein said spacing elements (11) comprise a first spacing portion (111) and a second spacing portion (211) defined respectively by elongated elements having different geometry and / or size, wherein said first (111) and second (211) spacing portions are able to be coupled in a mating portion (311) defined at one of the respective ends, wherein said first spacing portion (111) is shaped in such a way as to at least partly accommodated said second spacing portion (211) in such a way that, in the event of an impact, said first spacing portion (111) and said second spacing portion (211) are able to be moved in a defined absorption stroke between the mating position, wherein said gap (105) has the maximum height and wherein said second spacing portion (211) is arranged outside said first spacing portion (111) or is housed within said first spacing portion (111) for a minimum height, and a maximum absorption position, wherein said gap (105) has a minimum height and wherein said second spacing portion (211) is housed within said first spacing portion (111) for a maximum height, said protective helmet (1; 2) is characterized in that said first (111) and second (211) spacing portions are able to be solidly coupled at said mating portion (311), wherein said mating portion (311) has a breaking load lower than the breakingloads of said outer shell (101) and inner shell (102) so that, in the event of an impact, said mating portion (311) is subject to breakage before said inner shell (102) and outer shell (101), and wherein at said mating position said second spacing portion (211) is arranged outside said first spacing portion (111) and at said maximum absorption position said first spacing portion (111) is shaped in such a way as to at least partly accommodate said second spacing portion (211) following the breakage of said mating portion (311).

2. Protective helmet (1; 2) according to claim 1, wherein said first (111) and second (211) spacing portions are defined by two separate elements capable of being coupled by interference at said mating portion (311), and wherein at said mating portion said second spacing portion (211) is housed within said first spacing portion (111) for a minimum height, and at said maximum absorption portion said second spacing portion (211) is housed within said first spacing portion (111) for a maximum height.

3. Protective helmet (1; 2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said first spacing portion (111) comprises a mating location (112) able to at least partly accommodate said second spacing portion (211) in the event of an impact, during the movement of said first spacing portion (111) and of said second spacing portion (211) along said absorption stroke.

4. Protective helmet (1; 2) according to claim 3, wherein said mating location (112) is defined by a hole sized in such a way as to allow a coupling by interference between said first spacing portion (111) and said second spacing portion (211) along said absorption stroke.

5. Protective helmet (1; 2) according to one of claims 1-4, wherein said first spacing portion (111) and / or said second spacing portion (211) have a symmetrical shape with respect to the main extension of the respective elongated elements.

6. Protective helmet (1; 2) according to one of claims 3-5, wherein said mating location has a symmetrical shape with respect to the main extension of said first spacing portion (111).

7. Protective helmet (1; 2) according to one of claims 1-6, wherein said first spacing portion (111) and said second spacing portion (211) are coupled along a same axis of symmetry.

8. Protective helmet (1; 2) according to one of claims 1-7, wherein the end of said second spacing portion (211) comprises a width lower than the one of said first spacing portion (111).

9. Protective helmet (1; 2) according to one of claims 1-8, wherein said first spacing portion (111) and / or said second spacing portion (211) have a cylindrical or frusto-conical shape.

10. Protective helmet (1; 2) according to one of claims 1-9, wherein said first spacing portion (111) and / or said second spacing portion (211) have one or more stopping elements (215) of said absorption stroke in one or more predefined position.

11. Protective helmet according to claim 3 and 10, wherein said first spacing portion comprises one or more stopping elements of said absorption stroke arranged inside said mating portion.

12. Protective helmet (2) according to one of claims 1-11, wherein said absorption means comprises one or more energy absorption elements (205) arranges inside said gap (105) and able to absorb said energy through a plastic deformation, wherein said energy absorption elements (205) are able to be compressed along said absorption stroke.

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