Helmet and chest strap

Description

1 / 31 “HELMET AND CHIN STRAP” CROSS-REFERENCE FOR RELATED ORDERS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 491666, filed March 22, 2023, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. STATEMENT REGARDING RESEARCH / DEVELOPMENT SPONSORED BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

[0002] Not applicable TECHNICAL BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates generally to an improved retention system for a helmet. More specifically, this disclosure relates to an easily adjustable chin strap device for a helmet. 2. State of the Art

[0004] Safety helmets are well known and can be used in a wide variety of activities, including, but not limited to, various areas of recreation, transportation, military, and construction. For example, helmets are commonly used in cycling, snowboarding and skiing, skateboarding, climbing, American football, baseball, field hockey, ice hockey, horseback riding, scooter and motorcycle riding, on battlefields, and on construction sites, to name a few. One aspect that almost all conventional helmets have in common is one or more flexible fabric straps that connect under the user's chin to help keep the helmet in place on the user's head.

[0005] Conventional safety helmets, typically used by users participating in activities requiring head protection, such as cyclists, may include a dome-shaped body in various sizes and shapes. The attachment of chin straps may be necessary to more securely hold the helmet in place on the user's head. Chin straps may include a flexible interwoven fiber strap and a buckle for Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 7 / 52 2 / 31 form a helmet retention system that can be mounted on the helmet and extend under the user's chin during use. On many helmets, one strap can be attached to the helmet behind each of the user's ears and another strap can be attached to the helmet in front of each of the user's ears. On each side, these straps can be connected to effectively form a single strap. The two individual straps can be adjustable in length to achieve a firm fit under the user's chin.

[0006] The helmet's chin straps help maintain the helmet's secure fit to the user's head. In fact, they not only minimize instances of the helmet being thrown off the user's head from the vertical movement, but also generally help minimize instances where the helmet is rotated outward or out of position at the front or back of the user's head, exposing vulnerable parts of the user's head to impacts.

[0007] These straps are typically difficult to adjust properly, and therefore many users wear poorly fitting helmets, which can reduce the effectiveness of the safety helmet. For example, it can be difficult to adjust the straps so that, on a given side of the helmet, they are symmetrical from the point where they cross under the user's ears. Additional difficulties may be associated with adjusting the straps so that they are all taut when the buckle is fastened.

[0008] Although conventional helmets may meet certain safety standards when the straps are adjusted correctly, very few users actually wear their helmets in a properly adjusted configuration. Furthermore, many users make the necessary adjustments to the straps while the helmet is off their head, which can result in the process being completed by trial and error. Typically, even with several adjustment attempts, when the buckle is fastened, at least one of the straps (e.g., in front of or behind the ears) will be loose, which can cause the helmet to come off in the event of a collision. In addition, the adjustment can be so laborious that few users are willing to adjust the chin strap to be as tight as it should be, because the level of Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 8 / 52 3 / 31 The required tightness may not be comfortable, and most of the time the user may not be engaging in the most dangerous part of their activity, which would require a tight strap. Therefore, most users end up using the helmet with uneven and very loose straps, even knowing that they may be engaging in the most dangerous part of their activity. Undoubtedly, this improper adjustment of conventional straps can cause a significant number of head trauma injuries and, in some cases, deaths.

[0009] When conventional straps are not adjusted correctly, they do not always prevent unwanted rotational movement of the helmet toward the front or back of the user's head. This potential rotational movement can result in exposure of the back or front of the user's head, which can be dangerous, especially during a multi-impact fall.

[0010] For a helmet to adequately protect the user's head, it is usually essential that the chin strap is properly adjusted. However, even when adjusted correctly, the chin strap may not be comfortable, and many users unfasten it during less dangerous situations. For example, when riding a ski lift, a ski or snowboard helmet may not be necessary for safety reasons, and many users unfasten the chin strap during the lift ride and then fasten it before skiing. Understandably, users sometimes forget to fasten the straps, which is dangerous and can cause the helmet to fall off the head.

[0011] Consequently, there is a need in the state of the art for a helmet retention system that is easy to adjust to a proper retention position without creating discomfort for the user. Several aspects of the present disclosure address this specific need, as will be discussed in more detail below. BRIEF SUMMARY

[0012] According to one embodiment, a helmet comprising a shell with a front portion, a rear portion and a pair of side portions extending between the front portion and the rear portion is provided. The shell is sized Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 9 / 52 4 / 31 and configured to be placed on the user's head. The helmet additionally includes a chin strap with a pair of end portions and an intermediate portion located between the pair of end portions. The end portions are fixed to the respective side portions of the shell pair, so as to restrict the movement of the end portions in relation to the shell. The chin strap is flexible to facilitate the placement of the chin strap around the user's chin, in connection with the placement of the shell on the user's head.

[0013] The shell and chin strap can collectively form a continuous loop designed to remain intact while the shell is placed on the user's head and the chin strap is placed around the user's chin.

[0014] The jugular strap can define a length as a distance along the jugular strap between the end portions, with the jugular strap being configured to facilitate selective length adjustment.

[0015] The chin strap and helmet can be configured so that, when the helmet is worn by the user, the pair of end portions extends adjacent only to one side of a respective pair of the user's ears.

[0016] The helmet may include a main body with a lower peripheral edge and a pair of strap supports attached to the main body at spaced intervals and extending from the lower peripheral edge. The pair of strap end portions may be fixedly connected to the respective supports of the pair of strap supports. Each strap support may be detachably connected to the main body. The strap may include a pair of segments, with each segment being connected to a respective support of the pair of strap supports and the segments being configured to be detachably engageable with each other. Each segment may include a portion made of woven material. The helmet may also include a pair of connectors attached to the respective supports of the pair of segments. The pair of connectors may be cooperatively engageable with each other to facilitate the connection of the pair of segments.

[0017] The shell may include a mouth guard portion that extends below the front portion and between the pair of side portions. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 10 / 52 5 / 31

[0018] The jugular strap may have internal resistance to maintain a prescribed shape, unless it is acted upon by an external force that is above a desired magnitude.

[0019] According to another embodiment, a helmet is provided comprising a shell with a front portion, a rear portion, a pair of side portions extending between the front and rear portions, and a pair of strap attachment portions located on each pair of side portions. The shell is sized and configured to be placed on the user's head. The helmet further includes a chin strap with a pair of end portions and an intermediate portion located between the pair of end portions. At least one of the pairs of end portions is fixed to one of the pairs of strap attachment portions so as to restrict the movement of at least one of the pairs of end portions relative to the shell.

[0020] The helmet may include a pair of connectors configured to be engaged with the strap, with the pair of connectors being detachable from each other.

[0021] One pair of connectors can be connected to the handle and the other pair of connectors can be connected to the hull at the handle attachment point.

[0022] The hull may include a main body with a lower peripheral edge and a pair of handle supports attached to the main body at spaced intervals from each other and extending from the lower peripheral edge, with the pair of handle supports defining the pair of handle attachment portions. Each handle support may be detachably attached to the main body.

[0023] According to another embodiment, a helmet is provided comprising a shell sized and configured to be placed on a user's head. The helmet additionally includes a chin strap attached to the shell, the chin strap being formed of a semi-rigid material and having at least two segments that are movable relative to each other. The chin strap includes two fastening portions, the chin strap being connectable to the shell at both fastening portions. A Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 11 / 52 6 / 31 jugular strap defines a length as the distance along the jugular strap between the two fastening portions. The jugular strap is configured to be selectively transitional between an elongated and a tight configuration, with the length decreasing as the jugular strap transitions from the elongated to the tight configuration.

[0024] The helmet may include a spring attached to the segments to tilt the chin strap toward the elongated configuration. The helmet may also include a cable that extends between the segments to facilitate movement of the segments relative to each other. The cable may be configured to facilitate the application of a force to two segments that overcomes the spring to transition the two segments toward the tightened configuration.

[0025] The helmet may also include a dial attached to the cable to facilitate cable movement in relation to at least one of the segments. The dial may be attached to the shell or to the chin strap.

[0026] The jugular strap may include a pair of lateral segments and a central segment that extends between the pair of lateral segments and is mobile relative to the lateral segments.

[0027] The chin strap can be fixed to the shell at one of the two attachment points and movably attached to the shell at the other. The chin strap may include a toothed segment, with the helmet further comprising a dial that engages with the toothed segment to facilitate movement of the chin strap relative to the shell.

[0028] The chin strap can be articulated in relation to the hoof.

[0029] The shell may include a main body with a lower peripheral edge and a pair of handle supports attached to the main body at spaced intervals from each other and extending from the lower peripheral edge. The chin strap may be attached to the shell on the pair of handle supports.

[0030] According to another embodiment, a helmet is provided comprising a shell sized and configured to be placed on a user's head. The helmet additionally includes a chin strap attached to the shell, Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 12 / 52 7 / 31, the chin strap being made of a semi-rigid material. The helmet also includes a head support attached to the shell with at least two support bodies. The head support is transitional, being in an expanded and a retracted configuration, with parts of at least the two support bodies moving towards each other as the head support transitions from the expanded to the retracted configuration.

[0031] The chin strap can be configured to be extendable between an elongated and a tight setting, with the chin strap length decreasing as the chin strap transitions from the elongated to the tight setting. The chin strap and head support can be operationally coupled to each other to facilitate simultaneous adjustment of the chin strap and head support. The helmet may additionally include a dial operationally communicating with the chin strap and head support to facilitate simultaneous adjustment of the chin strap and head support. The helmet may include a cable interconnecting the dial to the head support and the chin strap.

[0032] The head support may include a rear support member and a front support member operatively connected to the rear support member.

[0033] The modalities currently contemplated will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] These and other characteristics and advantages of the various modalities disclosed here will be better understood in relation to the description and drawings that follow, in which:

[0035] Figure 1 is a side view of an early embodiment of a helmet with a non-pivoting chin strap located above the user's head;

[0036] Figures 2 to 4 are side views of the helmet in Figure 1, representing the placement of a helmet structure on the user's head and the bending of the strap. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 13 / 52 8 / 31 jugular to avoid interference with the user's face;

[0037] Figure 5 is a top perspective view of the helmet from Figure 1 on the user's head and of the chin strap in an elongated configuration;

[0038] Figure 6 is a side view of the helmet from Figure 1 on the user's head and of the chin strap in a tight configuration;

[0039] Figures 7 to 12 illustrate the sequential placement of the helmet from Figure 1 on the user's head without flexing the chin strap and instead tilting the helmet backward to tilt the chin strap away from the user's face;

[0040] Figures 13 to 19 illustrate the sequential placement of a full-face helmet with a chin strap on a user's head, where the helmet is rotated backward to provide space between the chin strap and the user's face;

[0041] Figures 20 to 25 illustrate the sequential placement of the full-face helmet from Figures 13 to 19 on the user's head, where the chin strap is flexed to provide space between the chin strap and the user's face;

[0042] Figure 26 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a helmet with a pair of interwoven fiber strap segments extending from respective strap supports located below a lower edge of the helmet shell, the helmet being positioned above the user's head;

[0043] Figure 27 is a perspective view of the helmet in Figure 26, with the helmet shell resting on the user's head and the strap segments disconnected from each other;

[0044] Figure 28 is a side view of the helmet in Figure 27;

[0045] Figure 29 is a perspective view of the helmet in Figure 27, with the strap segments connected to each other;

[0046] Figure 30 is a side view of the helmet in Figure 29;

[0047] Figure 31 is an enlarged view of Figure 29;

[0048] Figure 32 is an enlarged perspective view of the helmet in Figure 31, with the strap support disconnected from the helmet shell;

[0049] Figure 33 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the helmet with a pair of interwoven fiber strap segments with a toothed buckle; Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 14 / 52 9 / 31

[0050] Figure 34 is a perspective view of the helmet in Figure 33, with the helmet structure resting on the user's head and the strap segments disconnected from each other;

[0051] Figure 35 is a side view of the helmet in Figure 34;

[0052] Figure 36 is a side view of the helmet in Figure 35, with the strap segments connected by means of the toothed buckle;

[0053] Figure 37 is a perspective view of the helmet in Figure 36;

[0054] Figure 38 is an enlarged perspective view representing the toothed buckle included in the helmet of Figure 37;

[0055] Figure 39 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a helmet with a strap connected to a strap support and a strap connector connected to another strap support, with the strap disconnected from the strap connector;

[0056] Figure 40 is a perspective view of the helmet in Figure 39;

[0057] Figure 41 is a perspective view of the helmet in Figure 39, with the strap connected to the strap connector;

[0058] Figure 42 is a side view of the helmet in Figure 41;

[0059] Figure 43 is a first side perspective view of a helmet with a cable-type chin strap adjuster;

[0060] Figure 44 is a second side perspective view of the helmet shown in Figure 43 with the chin strap being tightened;

[0061] Figure 45 is a front top perspective view of the cable-type chin strap adjuster included in the helmet of Figure 43;

[0062] Figure 46 is a top rear perspective view of the cable-type chin strap adjuster included in the helmet of Figure 43;

[0063] Figure 47 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of the cable-type chin strap adjuster;

[0064] Figure 48 is a top perspective front view of the cable-type chin strap adjuster;

[0065] Figure 49 is a top perspective front view in section of the cable-type chin strap adjuster of Figure 48; Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 15 / 52 10 / 31

[0066] Figure 50 is an exploded perspective top view of the cable-type chin strap adjuster;

[0067] Figure 51 is a perspective view of a helmet embodiment with a cable-type chin strap adjuster with an adjustment dial located on the chin strap;

[0068] Figure 52 is a bottom perspective view of the helmet shown in Figure 51;

[0069] Figure 53 is a bottom perspective view of the cable-type chin strap adjuster with the adjustment dial located on the chin strap;

[0070] Figure 54 is a bottom perspective view of a helmet on a user, with the helmet having a head adjuster and cable-type chin strap;

[0071] Figure 55 is a bottom perspective view of the helmet in Figure 54;

[0072] Figure 56 is a first bottom perspective view of the cable-type chin strap and head adjuster included in the helmet of Figure 54;

[0073] Figure 57 is a second, lower perspective view of the cable-type chin strap and head adjuster included in the helmet of Figure 54;

[0074] Figure 58 is a bottom perspective view of the helmet in Figure 54 on the user, with the perspective in Figure 58 being different from the perspective shown in Figure 54;

[0075] Figure 59 is a front view of a helmet with a rack-and-pinion type chin strap adjuster;

[0076] Figure 60 is a first side perspective view of the helmet shown in Figure 59;

[0077] Figure 61 is a second side perspective view of the helmet shown in Figure 59;

[0078] Figure 62 is a side view of the helmet shown in Figure 59, with the chin strap in an elongated configuration;

[0079] Figure 63 is a side view of the helmet shown in Figure 59, with the chin strap in a tight configuration;

[0080] Figure 64 is a bottom perspective view of a helmet. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 16 / 52 11 / 31 represented in figure 59, with the jugular strap removed;

[0081] Figure 65 is a first perspective view of a helmet on a user's head, the helmet having a head adjuster and cable-type chin strap with a dial located on a strap support;

[0082] Figure 66 is a second perspective view of the helmet in Figure 65 on the user's head;

[0083] Figure 67 is a perspective view of the cable-type chin strap and head strap adjuster used on the helmet in Figure 65;

[0084] Figure 68 is a top perspective view of a helmet on a user's head, the helmet having a cable-type chin strap and head adjuster with a dial located on a helmet shell;

[0085] Figure 69 is a top perspective view of the chin strap and head strap type adjuster of Figure 68 on the user's head, with the helmet shell removed; and

[0086] Figure 70 is a top perspective view of the chin strap and head strap type adjuster of figure 68.

[0087] Common reference numbers are used in all drawings and in the detailed description to indicate the same elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0088] The detailed description presented below, in connection with the accompanying drawings, is intended to be a description of certain embodiments of a retention mechanism for a helmet and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or used. The description presents the various structures and / or functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments, but it should be understood, however, that the same structure and / or functions, or equivalents, may be realized by different embodiments which are also intended to be covered by the scope of this disclosure. It is further understood that the use of relational terms, such as first and second, and the like, are used solely to distinguish one entity from another, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual relationship or order between such entities. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 17 / 52 12 / 31

[0089] With respect to the drawings, wherein the drawings are for the purpose of illustrating a preferred embodiment of the present invention only, and not for the purpose of limiting it, Figures 1-12 describe a first embodiment of a helmet 10 having a comfortable and easy-to-use chin strap 12. The helmet 10 generally includes a shell 14 coupled to the chin strap 12, with the shell 14 including a main body 16 and a pair of strap supports 18 coupled to the main body 16. The main body 16 includes an inner surface that defines a cavity sized to accommodate at least part of the user's head. An exposed outer surface lies opposite the inner surface, and one or more openings 20 may extend between the inner and outer surfaces to improve ventilation and reduce the overall weight of the helmet 10.The main body 16 may also include a front portion, a crown portion, a rear portion, and a pair of side portions that extend between the front and rear portions and below the crown portion. The main body 16 further includes a lower peripheral edge 22 that extends around the main body 16 through the front portion, the side portions, and the rear portion. The main body 16 may be dimensioned so that the lower peripheral edge 22 extends over the user's forehead, over the temples, over and around the ears, and over the back of the user's head, slightly above where the user's head connects to the neck. In this sense, the lower peripheral edge 22 may be non-linear to match the user's anatomy. The main body 16 may be manufactured from foam, plastic, or other materials known in the art, which may be lightweight but also capable of absorbing impacts to protect the user's head.

[0090] The pair of strap supports 18 can be connected to the main body 16 and can extend from the main body 16 below the lower peripheral edge 22 from the area where the strap supports 18 extend. In this sense, other portions of the lower peripheral edge 22 can extend below the strap supports 18, particularly in the rear portion of the helmet 10. However, the strap supports 18 extend below the lower peripheral edge 22 in the lateral portions of the helmet 10. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 18 / 52 13 / 31

[0091] The strap supports 18 are arranged on opposite sides of the main body 16, in generally opposite relationships to each other. When the helmet 10 is worn, the strap supports 18 may be located in front of the user's ears, generally near where the sideburns may extend over the user. In one embodiment, the strap supports 18 include a conical configuration, with a wider portion adjacent to the main body 16 to provide a more robust interconnection between the strap supports 18 and the main body 16, and a narrower portion extending away from the main body 16. In the example shown in Figures 1-12, the strap supports 18 are of a generally triangular configuration, with the apex of the triangle pointing away from the main body 16.The strap support 18 shown in Figures 1-12 includes a front edge comprising two linear segments angularly offset from each other, with a more distal segment being angled to correspond to the attachment of the jugular strap 12 to it, as will be described in more detail below.

[0092] Helmet 10 may additionally include a visor 24 that defines a pocket recess. For more information on the visor and its potential uses, see U.S. Patent No. 11,089,831, entitled INCREMENTALLY ADJUSTABLE AND PIVOTABLE SEMI-RIGID RETENTION STRAP FOR A HELMET, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0093] The chin strap 12 may include a pair of strap arms 26, each with a respective upper end portion configured to be fixed to the strap supports 18. According to one embodiment, each strap arm 26 may be made of a semi-rigid material, such as injection-molded Nylon, Pebax®, or other equivalent materials known in the art, capable of being flexed. In this sense, at least the strap arms 26 may be disposable in both tension and compression. Thus, the strap arms 26 differ from conventional woven chin straps, which are generally incapable of being disposed in compression. The strap arms 26 may be fixed to the strap supports 18 by means of adhesives, rivets, or other mechanical fasteners in the art. It is also contemplated that the strap arms 26 and the strap supports 18 Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 19 / 52 14 / 31 can be molded together, with each handle arm 26 and handle support 18 forming a single integral structure, although the thickness of handle arm 26 may be less than that of handle support 18 to allow greater flexibility of handle arm 26.

[0094] The lower end portions of the strap arms 26 can be connected by means of a twist adjustment mechanism 28 with a twist adjustment knob 30 and a pad 32. In more detail, the lower end portions of the strap arms 26 can be coupled to the twist adjustment mechanism 28 in a manner that allows movement of the lower end portions of the strap arms 26 relative to each other. Turning the twist adjustment knob 30 in a first direction can move the lower end portions of the strap arms 26 toward each other to facilitate selective tightening of the chin strap 12, while turning the twist adjustment knob 30 in a second opposite direction can move the lower end portions of the strap arms 26 away from each other to facilitate selective stretching of the chin strap 12.

[0095] The upper end portions of the chin strap 12 can be fixedly connected (e.g., non-pivoting) to the strap supports 18, such that at least one point or area on the upper end portions of the chin strap 12 remains fixed relative to the strap supports 18, while the remainder of the strap arms 26 can be flexed relative to the strap support 18. In this sense, a pivoting joint may not be required between the strap support 18 and the chin strap 12, which may allow for reduced manufacturing costs compared to pivoting chin strap embodiments. The upper end portions of the strap arms 26 can be fixed to the strap supports 18 by means of a rivet, adhesive, or other fixed fastening mechanisms known to those skilled in the art. It is also contemplated that the strap arms 26 can be molded as part of the strap support 18 and thus form a single, integrated unit.

[0096] The fixed connection between the chin strap 12 and the shell 14 causes the chin strap 12 and the shell 14 to define a continuous loop that remains intact during the Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 20 / 52 15 / 31 helmet use 10. The shell 14 defines an upper part of the loop, while the chin strap 12 defines a lower part of the loop. The continuous loop configuration is different from conventional helmets, which include a buckle connector in the middle of the strap that is disconnected to break the loop when removing the helmet from the user's head.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the location of the attachment point between the chin strap 12 and the shell 14 is within a retention zone 36, which can be strategically positioned to cause the chin strap 12 to tighten when the shell 14 is rotated forward or backward, so that the helmet 10 remains firmly on the user's head. For more information on the retention zone 36 (also called the location zone), see U.S. Patent No. 11,089,831, entitled INCREMENTALLY ADJUSTABLE AND PIVOTABLE SEMIRIGID RETENTION STRAP FOR A HELMET, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0098] Furthermore, the configuration of the chin strap 12, the strap supports 18, and the main body 16 allows the chin strap 12 to extend adjacent to only one side of the user's ear, i.e., in front of the user's ear, without needing to extend adjacent to both sides of the user's ear. This represents a significant departure from conventional chin straps, which typically include two segments that extend in front of the user's ear as well as behind the user's ear, which creates adjustment complications and can also result in discomfort during use.

[0099] Figures 1 to 6 illustrate the sequential placement of the helmet 10 on the user's head. As shown in Figure 1, the main body 16 of the shell 14 is oriented with the visor 24 pointing forward, and the top of the crown defining a tangential plane that is generally horizontal. The chin strap 12 extends downward from the main body 16 towards the user's head. The user then pushes the chin strap 12 forward and upward in the direction of the arrow 34 shown in Figure 1 to provide sufficient clearance. The chin strap 12 is flexed a certain amount to provide sufficient clearance around the user's face. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 21 / 52 16 / 31 particularly around the nose. Figure 1 shows the chin strap 12 in a neutral state, while Figure 2 shows the chin strap 12 in a flexed state, where the lower end of the chin strap 12 has been flexed upwards and forwards towards the visor 24 or front portion of the helmet 14. When in the flexed state, a front edge of the chin strap 12 may be arranged in compression, while an opposite rear edge of the chin strap 12 may be arranged in tension.

[0100] While the chin strap 12 is flexed, the main body 16 of the shell 14 is lowered onto the user's head, as can be seen in figures 2-4. Once the main body 16 is supported on the user's head, the strap 12 can be carefully released to allow the strap 12 to return to its neutral position, which will cause the strap 12 to extend under the user's chin. The strap 12 may have material features that result in its tilting towards the neutral position due to an internal tilting force. Once the strap 12 is in the neutral position under the user's chin, the chin strap 12 can be tightened using the adjustment knob 30, as described above.

[0101] With regard to figures 7 to 12, another technique is illustrated for placing the helmet 10 on the user's head without flexing the chin strap 12. In this sense, the technique illustrated in figures 7 to 12 may allow the use of a stiffer chin strap 12 than the chin strap 12 used for placing on the user's head, as illustrated in figures 1 to 6. As shown in Figure 7, the main body 16 of the shell 14 is oriented with the visor 24 pointing upwards, and the top of the crown defining a tangential plane inclined upwards, preferably between 5° and 65° in relation to the horizontal. The angle of the main body 16 in this way aligns the opening defined by the chin strap 12 and the main body 16 with the user's head, with the chin strap 12 extending forward, in front of the user's face, so as to avoid contact with the face.The main body 16 of the helmet 14 is then lowered towards the user's head, with the helmet 10 maintaining the angular configuration, as shown in Figures 8-10. Once placed on the user's head, the helmet 10 can be rotated to bring the chin strap 12 down under the user's chin, as can be seen in Figures 10-12. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 22 / 52 17 / 31

[0102] With regard to figures 13-25, another embodiment of a helmet 110 is shown, including a full face shell 114. The helmet 110 includes a chin strap 112 attached to the full face shell 114 by means of rivets 115 or other mechanical fastening mechanisms known in the state of the art. The chin strap 112 is similar to the chin strap 12 described above. In this respect, the main distinction between the embodiment represented in figures 13-25 and the embodiment represented in figure 1-12 is the configuration of the shell 114. The full face shell 114 includes a front portion, a crown portion, a rear portion, and a pair of side portions that extend between the front and rear portions and below the crown portion. The 114 full-face helmet also includes a lower face shield 116 (e.g., the mouth guard part) that extends from one side of the helmet 114 to the opposite side at the rear.When the helmet 110 is worn by the user, the lower face shield 116 extends over the user's mouth.

[0103] The helmet 110 shown in figures 13-25 can be placed on the user in the same way as the helmet 10 shown in figures 1-12. In other words, the helmet 110 can be placed on the user's head by tilting the helmet 110, as shown in figures 13-19, or by flexing the chin strap 112, as shown in figures 20-25.

[0104] With regard to figures 26 to 30, another embodiment of helmet 210 is shown, with a shell 214 and a chin strap 212 formed from a woven or interwoven fiber material, such as braided nylon or other woven / interwoven fiber materials known in the state of the art. The shell 214 is similar to the shell 14 discussed above and, therefore, the following discussion will focus on the unique attributes of the chin strap 212.

[0105] The chin strap 212 includes a first segment 216 having a fixed end portion 218 fixedly attached to a first of the strap supports 220 and a second segment 222 having a fixed end portion 224 fixedly attached to a second strap support 220. The strap segments 216, 222 may be attached to their respective strap supports 220, such as by sewing, Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 23 / 52 18 / 31 welding, adhesives, Velcro fasteners (e.g., VELCRO™) or similar.

[0106] Each of the first and second segments 216, 222 may additionally include a free-end portion 226, 228 opposite the fixed-end portion 218, 224. Each free-end portion 226, 228 may be coupled to a handle connector 230, 232, such that the handle connector 230 in the first segment 216 is cooperatively engageable with the handle connector 232 in the second segment 222. In one embodiment, the first and second handle connectors 230, 232 may be cooperatively engageable male and female buckles.

[0107] The length of the chin strap 212 can be defined as the distance along the strap 212 between the attachment points of the strap supports 220 when the first and second segments 216, 222 are coupled to each other by means of the strap connectors 230, 232. The strap connectors 230, 232 can be slidably connected to their respective strap segments 216, 222 to selectively increase or decrease the strap length.

[0108] The location where the strap segments 216, 222 attach to their respective strap supports 220 may be within a respective attachment zone 234, which is similar to the attachment zone 36 discussed above. In this sense, the attachment zone 234 is located so that the chin strap 212 is pulled more forcefully, or is placed under tension, or with increased tension, as the helmet 210 slides forward or backward on the user's head, to prevent the helmet 210 from being displaced from the user's head, or moved to a position that is no longer suitable for effectively protecting the user's head. The position of the attachment zone 234 allows each of the strap segments 216, 222 to extend only in front of the user's ear, without any portion extending behind the user's ear. Thus, strap adjustment does not require adjustment of the strap portions on both sides of the user's ears.Furthermore, the location of the fastening zone 234 allows the strap 212 to secure the helmet 214 to the user's head, also preventing significant rotation of the helmet 214 during use. Thus, when the strap 212 is properly tightened to the user, the helmet... Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 24 / 52 19 / 31 214 can provide protection to the front, back, and sides of the user's head.

[0109] With regard to figures 31 and 32, it is contemplated that one or both handle supports 220 may be detachable and connectable to the main body 236 of the hull 214. In this sense, the main body 236 may include a groove 238 that receives a corresponding fin 240 located on the detachable handle support 220. Of course, the structure may be reversed, with the fin 240 extending from the main body 236 and the groove 238 being formed on the handle support 220. In both cases, the handle support 220 and the main body 236 may include detachable engagement features that allow selective attachment and detachment of the handle support 220 in relation to the main body 236 of the hull 214.The detachable engagement features (e.g., fin 240 and corresponding groove 238) can be configured to facilitate sufficient engagement force between them when the features are coupled together to prevent inadvertent detachment of the strap support 220 from the main body 236 of the helmet 214. For example, the axis along which the fin 240 is received in the corresponding groove 238 can be offset from the angle at which the chin strap 212 is tensioned during normal helmet use 210 to prevent tension from inadvertently pulling the strap support 220 out of engagement with the main body 236 of the helmet 214.

[0110] Figures 33 to 38 show another implementation of chin strap connectors 250, 252 that can be used to fasten the first and second segments 216, 222 together. The chin strap connectors 250, 252 include a ratchet-type buckle, with an elongated strap 254 having a plurality of teeth or serrations 256 that can be engaged in the fastening element 258, similar to the buckles used in conventional ski boots. In this sense, the length of the chin strap 212 can be adjusted by selectively adjusting the amount of the toothed strap 254 that is received within the fastening element 258. The elongated nature of the strap 254 allows for length adjustment. In this respect, the length of the chin strap becomes shorter as more of the toothed strap 254 advances through the catching element 258 and, conversely, the length of the Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 25 / 52 20 / 31 jugular strap is longer when more of the toothed strip 254 does not extend through the catching element 258.

[0111] Figures 39-42 illustrate another embodiment of the strap 270 and buckle 272, wherein the strap 270 includes a single strip of interwoven fiber material having one end portion attached to a strap support 220 and another end portion attached to a strap connector 274. The other strap support 220 is connected to the corresponding strap connector 276. In this respect, a key aspect of the embodiment represented in Figures 39-42 is that the chin strap may include a single segment (as shown in Figures 39-42) or multiple segments (as shown in Figures 26-33) and that one of the strap connectors may be attached directly to the strap support 220.

[0112] With regard to figures 43-50, another embodiment of a helmet 300 is depicted having a chin strap 302 which uses a filament or cable 304 to facilitate selective adjustment of the length of the chin strap 302. In more detail, the helmet 300 includes a shell 306 having a main body 308 and a pair of strap supports 310, as described in more detail above. The chin strap 302 includes a pair of lateral segments 312 and an intermediate segment 314 that extends between the pair of lateral segments 312. Each lateral segment 312 includes a fastening portion 316 that is connected to a respective strap support 310. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 43 to 50, each fastening portion 316 may include an opening 318 formed in an end portion of the lateral segment 312. The protrusion 320 may extend around the opening 318 to facilitate engagement between the lateral segments 312 and the strap support 310.The strap supports 310 may include corresponding openings, which may be aligned with the openings 318 in the side segments 312 to facilitate engagement between the side segments 312 and the strap supports 310. It is contemplated that the chin strap 302 may be configured to rotate relative to the strap supports 310 between a lowered position under the user's chin and a raised position above the user's eyes, and fitted under the visor. However, it is understood that the scope of this disclosure also includes a chin strap 302 that does not rotate. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 26 / 52 21 / 31 in relation to the 310 strap supports. Furthermore, it is anticipated that some helmet models may include a visor, while other models may not.

[0113] At least one, and preferably both, of the lateral segments 312 may also be configured to move relative to the intermediate segment 314 to facilitate overall adjustment of the chin strap length 302. Each lateral segment 312 may include a guide to direct the movement of the intermediate segment 314 relative to the lateral segment 312. In the embodiment shown in Figures 43-50, the guide includes a channel 322 formed in the lateral segment 312. In more detail, each lateral segment 312 may include an inner surface 324, an outer surface 326, an end face 328, with the guide channel 322 extending from the end face 328 into the lateral segment 312 between the inner and outer surfaces 324, 326. The guide channel 322 may be shaped to include a portion that is complementary to the configuration of the intermediate segment 314.The guide channel 322 can also be configured to accommodate a spring 330, which can be received within the guide channel 322 and can act on the side segment 312 and the intermediate segment 314 to tilt the intermediate segment 314 towards an elongated configuration, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0114] The intermediate segment 314 includes a pair of end portions 332 and an intermediate portion 334 that extends between the end portions 332. The intermediate segment 314 may also include an inner surface and an outer surface. Each end portion 332 is configured to be received translationally within a respective guide channel 322 and may include a pair of opposing edges and a cable guide 336 that extends longitudinally along the end portion 332 between the pair of edges. In one embodiment, the cable guide 336 is a cylindrical structure that extends outward from the outer surface. The intermediate portion 334 may include a curvature to accommodate the natural contours of the user's chin.

[0115] Although the exemplary embodiment shows a channel 322 formed in the lateral segment 312, within which the intermediate segment 314 can move, Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 27 / 52 22 / 31 it is considered that the opposite configuration can also be used. In particular, the intermediate segment 314 may include one or more channels, within which the lateral segments 312 may move.

[0116] The side segments 312 and the intermediate segment 314 may be formed from a semi-rigid material, such as molded plastic, other polymers, rubber, or other materials known in the state of the art. The semi-rigid nature of the material refers to the ability of the material to maintain its shape independently, while at the same time possessing the ability to be slightly flexed in response to a given amount of force applied to it.

[0117] Cable 304 can operationally interconnect side segments 312 and intermediate segment 314 to facilitate selective positioning of the intermediate segment 314 relative to the side segments 312. Cable 304 may include one end 338 connected to a side segment 312 and another end connected to a dial 340, as will be explained in more detail below. In the cross-sectional views shown in Figures 46 and 49, the end 338 of cable 304 is retained within a hole formed in the side segment 312 adjacent to the opening 318. Cable 304 can be coupled to the side segment 312 by means of an adhesive, a rivet, molding, or other mechanical fastening techniques known in the prior art.Cable 304 may also be routed to guide channel 322 in a side segment, through a first cable guide 336 in the intermediate segment 314, along an outer surface of the intermediate segment 314, through a second cable guide 336 in the intermediate segment 314 and through another guide channel 322 in another side segment 312 and then to the dial 340. The intermediate segment 314 may include a groove or other structure configured to hold the cable in place, adjacent to the outer surface of the intermediate portion 334 of the intermediate segment 314. Cable 304 may be of rope, nylon filament, braided cable or other suitable material that bends easily and exhibits sufficient tensile strength. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 28 / 52 23 / 31

[0118] The chin strap 302 may define a length as the distance along the chin strap 302 between the two fastening portions 316. In one embodiment, this measurement may be taken as the distance along the chin strap 302 between the axes around which the openings 318 are arranged. The chin strap 302 may be configured to be selectively transitional between an elongated configuration and a tight configuration, with the length decreasing as the chin strap 302 transitions from the elongated configuration to the tight configuration, and the length increasing as the chin strap 302 transitions from the tight configuration to the elongated configuration.In the embodiment shown in Figures 43-50, when the chin strap 302 transitions from the elongated to the tightened configuration, the degree of exposure of the intermediate segment 314 decreases, and when the chin strap 302 transitions from the tightened to the elongated configuration, the degree of exposure of the intermediate segment 314 increases. In a specific embodiment, the chin strap 302 can be tilted toward the elongated configuration by the spring(s) 330, which can act on the lateral segments 312 and the intermediate segment 314 to push the lateral segments 312 away from the intermediate segment 314. Each spring 330 can extend between a spring retaining post 335 extending a respective end of the intermediate segment 314 and a support wall on a given lateral segment 312.The springs 330 can be configured to push the retaining post 335 away from the supporting wall in the side segment 312, which tilts the chin strap 302 towards the elongated configuration.

[0119] The user may be able to selectively transition the chin strap 302 between the extended and tightened configuration by means of the cable 304. In this sense, the cable 304 may be configured to facilitate the application of a force to segments 312, 314 that overcomes the spring polarization force 330 to transition segments 312, 314 towards the tightened configuration. The dial 340 may be coupled to the cable 304 to facilitate the movement of the cable 304 relative to at least one of the segments 312, 314. An effective length Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 29 / 52 24 / 31 of cable 304 can be defined as the distance along cable 304 between dial 340 and the hole within which cable 304 is mounted; or the distance between dial 340 and end 338 of cable 304.

[0120] The dial 340 can be mounted on the strap support 310 by means of a dial connector 342 and can be operatively coupled to a reel around which the cable 304 can be wound during the tightening of the chin strap 302, and from which the cable 304 can be released during the extension of the chin strap 302. In one embodiment, the dial 340 is axially movable relative to the strap support 310 between a locked and an unlocked position. In other words, the dial 340 can be pushed towards the hull 306 or pulled away from the hull 306 as it transitions between the locked and unlocked positions. When the dial 340 is in the unlocked position, the dial 340 may not restrict the movement of the cable 340, which allows the springs 330 to transition the chin strap 302 to its extended configuration. When dial 340 is in the locked position, it can restrict the elongation of cable 302, allowing it to be shortened.In this sense, dial 340 can rotate in a prescribed direction to allow shortening of cable 302 and selectively adjust the size of the chin strap 302, provided dial 340 remains in the locked position. The chin strap 302 can remain in the tightened setting until the user wishes to lengthen it, which can be done by moving the dial from the locked to the unlocked position. Once dial 340 has been moved to the unlocked position, springs 330 can force segments 312 and 314 apart to automatically transition the chin strap 302 to the lengthened setting. In this sense, the chin strap 302 may not require rotation of knob 340 to transition from the tightened to the lengthened setting. Instead, all that may be required is to move button 340 from the locked position to the unlocked position (for example, by pulling button 340 outward or pushing it inward).

[0121] In another embodiment, dial 340 can be configured to be rotated in opposite directions to facilitate lengthening or shortening of the cable. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 30 / 52 25 / 31 304.

[0122] The dial 340 is considered to be located in various places on the helmet 300, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. As shown in Figures 43-44, the dial 340 may be located on the shell 306 and, in particular, on a strap support 310. The shell 306 may have a curved edge 344 extending around the dial 340 to accommodate the placement and use of the dial 340.

[0123] Figures 51-53 show an alternative placement of dial 340 on the chin strap 302. In particular, dial 340 is shown as being fixed to the intermediate segment 314, although it is contemplated that dial 340 may also be connected to the side segments 312 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. In the exemplary embodiment represented in figures 51 to 53, the dial 340 interfaces with two separate cables 303 and 305 that can be extended or retracted simultaneously to selectively adjust the length of the chin strap 302. Each cable 303 and 305 may have one end portion 331 and 332 fixed to a respective lateral segment 312, while the other end portion interfaces with the dial 340. Thus, each cable 303 and 305 may be able to move a respective lateral segment 312 relative to the intermediate segment 314.Each cable 303 and 305 can be configured to overcome the polarization force applied by the respective spring located within the corresponding side segment 312. The use of two cables 303 and 305, each connecting the dial 340 to the side segments 312, can result in simultaneous and equal incremental adjustment of each side segment 312 relative to the intermediate segment 314. Thus, the length of the chin strap 302 can be balanced, without one side being longer than the other.

[0124] Although the exemplary embodiment includes a chin strap 302 comprising a pair of lateral segments 312 and an intermediate segment 314 (e.g., 3 segments in total), it is anticipated that in other embodiments, the chin strap 302 may include only two segments that are movable relative to each other to achieve the desired length adjustment. In this sense, a cable may be attached to a segment. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 31 / 52 26 / 31 to facilitate the movement of this segment relative to the other. A spring can act on the segments to allow the chin strap 302 to lengthen when the tension in the cable is relaxed.

[0125] With regard to figures 54 to 58, another embodiment of the helmet 400 is shown, which includes an adjustable head support 402 for adjusting the helmet 400 to the user's head. As will be described in more detail below, the head support 402 can be operationally coupled to the chin strap 404, so that the user can simultaneously adjust the head support 402 when the chin strap 404 is adjusted.

[0126] The head support 402 may include a rear support body 406 and a front support body 408 operatively coupled to each other by means of cables 410, 412. The rear support body 406 may include a rear circumferential segment 414 and a pair of vertical segments 416 extending from opposite ends of the rear circumferential segment 414. The rear circumferential segment 414 may include a channel formed through it to accommodate the passage of cables 410, 412 through the rear circumferential segment 414 between two ends 418, 420 of the rear circumferential segment 414. The vertical segments 416 may be curved or arched and may be connected at their upper ends by an upper segment 422.

[0127] The front support body 408 can be lengthened and configured to extend around the front portion of the user's head, from one side of the user's head to the other side. A central region 424 may be located between the opposite end portions 426, 428 of the front support body 408, with the central region 424 being configured to extend over the user's forehead during use. Each end portion 426, 428 may have an opening formed in it to facilitate connection with a respective cable 410, 412, as will be described in more detail below.

[0128] The front support body 408 can be connected to the hull 430 by means of buttons 432 configured to be fitted by snapping into corresponding receptacles formed in the hull 430. The rear support body 406 can be Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 32 / 52 27 / 31 coupled to the shell 430 by means of the operational connection between the front and rear support bodies 408, 406. In this sense, the connection between the front support body 408 facilitates the operational engagement between the user's head and the shell 430 and, by adjusting the size of the head support 402, the user can adjust the helmet 400 to the size of the user's head.

[0129] As noted above, a pair of cables 410, 412 can be used to facilitate selective adjustment of the head support 402 and the chin strap 404. A first cable 410 can extend from the dial 434 along a first side of the intermediate segment 436, through a channel in a first side segment 438, through a channel in the rear circumferential segment 414, and then connect to the opening formed in the end portion 428 of the front support body 408. In this sense, the side segment 438 through which the first cable 410 passes and the end portion 428 of the front support body 408 are on opposite sides of the helmet 400.A second cable 412 may extend from the dial 434 along a second side of the intermediate segment 436, through a channel in a second side segment 438, through the channel in the rear circumferential segment 414, and then connect to the opening formed in the end portion 426 of the front support body 408. In this sense, the side segment 438 through which the second cable 412 passes and the end portion 426 of the front support body 408 are on opposite sides of the helmet 400. Cables 410, 412 may be extended or retracted to selectively adjust the size / circumference / peripheral dimension of the head support 402.In particular, the head support 402 is configured to be transitional, being an expanded configuration and a retracted configuration, with portions of the front and rear support bodies 408, 406 moving toward each other as the head support 402 transitions from the expanded configuration to the retracted configuration, and portions of the front and rear support bodies 408, 406 moving away from each other as the head support 402 transitions from the retracted configuration to the expanded configuration. In other words, an operating circumference collectively defined by the front and rear support bodies 408, 406. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 33 / 52 28 / 31 406 may increase as the head support 402 transitions from the retracted to the expanded configuration. Conversely, the operating circumference may decrease as the head support 402 transitions from the expanded to the retracted configuration.

[0130] Due to the use of two cables 410, 412, as cables 410, 412 are tightened, both cables 410, 412 pull the front support body 408 from opposite ends towards the rear support body 406, until the head support 402 is tightened around the user's head, causing compression of the springs 330. As the springs 330 are compressed, the chin strap 404 begins to tighten. Loosening cables 410, 412 causes the chin strap 404 to lengthen, which allows the springs to move the chin strap 404 to the expanded position, and then the head support 402 will begin to loosen. In this way, the head support 402 remains firmly on the user's head until the chin strap 404 is fully extended due to the pressure of the springs 330. Effectively, the helmet 400 includes a two-stage adjustment, with one adjustment stage associated with the head support 402 and a second adjustment stage associated with the chin strap 404.In one embodiment, the head support 402 tightens first, with the chin strap 404 tightening second, and with respect to loosening, the chin strap 404 loosens first, with the head support 402 loosening second. In this sense, by allowing the chin strap 404 to loosen first, the user can loosen the chin strap 404 while maintaining the head support 402 in a snug setting, which may be desirable while the user makes a temporary stop and wishes to remove the tightness of the chin strap 404 while continuing to wear the helmet.

[0131] Although two cables 410 and 412 are shown in Figures 54 to 58, it is foreseen that, in alternative embodiments, a single cable may be used. Figures 65 to 67 show an example of a single cable system. From dial 434 shown in Figure 67, cable 411 extends upwards and is routed through a cable guide in the main body of the hull 430, through the rear support 406, through the front support 408, through the rear support. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, pp. 34 / 52 29 / 31 406, through another cable guide in the main body of the hull 430 and then through / around the chin strap 404.

[0132] The chin strap 404 and the head support 402 can be operationally coupled to each other to facilitate the adjustment of both the chin strap 404 and the head support 402 by means of the rotation of the dial 434. In this sense, a single embodiment, for example, the dial 434, can facilitate the adjustment of both the chin strap 404 and the head support 402. When the user tightens the chin strap 404 and the head support 402, the head support 402 can be tightened first due to the springs 440 in the chin strap 404, and only after the head support 402 is somewhat tight on the user's head does the chin strap 404 begin to tighten. Consequently, the user can tighten and loosen the chin strap 404 without loosening the head support 402, unless the chin strap 404 is at its full length.

[0133] It is understood that other embodiments of the chin strap 404 may not have springs 440. However, the springs 440 facilitate two-stage tightening, wherein a first stage involves tightening the head support 402 and then a subsequent second stage involves tightening the chin strap 404.

[0134] Figures 68-70 show another embodiment of the helmet 400 with the dial 434 located on the main body 442 of the shell 430. The cable 411 can be routed through a guide 444 on the shell of the helmet 430, as well as through the rear support 406, the front support 408, through the chin strap 404 and back to the dial 434.

[0135] The various embodiments represented here demonstrate that the dial can be integrated into any part of the helmet, such as the main body of the shell structure, the strap support, or the chin strap. Furthermore, the helmet may include a single cable or multiple cables, as desired. In addition, while the exemplary embodiments show a single dial for adjusting the head support and chin strap, primarily to simplify helmet use, it is anticipated that other embodiments may include separate dials or adjustment mechanisms for the head support and chin strap. In other words, the Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 35 / 52 30 / 31 helmets may include two dials: one for adjusting the chin strap and another for adjusting the head support.

[0136] It is also contemplated that one embodiment of the head support and chin strap may allow for automatic adjustment of tightness to the user's head. For example, the user may press a button (e.g., the dial), which may cause the device to automatically tighten the cables until the head support and chin strap are firmly in place on the user. A coil operatively connected to the cables may be tilted in the direction that pulls the cables inward, so that when the button is pressed, the tilt of the coil pulls the cables inward, which in turn tightens the head support and chin strap. To loosen the chin strap and head support, the user may press and hold the button while pulling the chin strap to lengthen it. When the button is released, the coil may lock into place to maintain the extended position of the chin strap.The user can also manually extend the head support by moving the helmet over the user's head or by pulling one of the head supports while pressing the button. Automatic tightening can also be facilitated by one or more small electronic motors that can automatically adjust the head support and chin strap as desired, for example, by lengthening or tightening them. For example, the motors may be in operational communication with a controller that can be programmed to recognize a preferred slack setting as well as a preferred tightening setting. Thus, the user can simply touch a button, which can cause the controller to easily adjust to the preferred tightening position. Subsequent actuation of the button can cause the controller to easily adjust to the preferred loosening position.

[0137] With regard to figures 59-64, another embodiment of the helmet 500 is represented having a rack and pinion type adjustment mechanism for adjusting the length of the chin strap 502. In more detail, the chin strap 502 can be coupled to a helmet 504 on the strap supports 506 and can be formed of a single integral body having a fixed end portion 508 and a portion of Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 36 / 52 31 / 31 adjustable end 510. The fixed end portion 508 can be fixed to the handle support 506 and therefore cannot move relative to the handle support 508 during use of the chin strap 502. The adjustable end portion 510 may include an elongated groove 512 formed therein. Teeth 515 are formed on the inner surface of the elongated groove 512, which are configured to operatively engage with corresponding teeth on an adjustment knob / dial 514. The chin strap 502 can set a length as the distance along the chin strap 502 between the dial 514 and the portion of the chin strap 502 fixedly connected to the strap support 506. The length can be adjusted by rotating the dial 514, wherein rotation of the dial 514 in a first direction results in elongation of the chin strap 502, while rotation of the dial 514 in a second, opposite direction results in tightening of the chin strap 502.When the chin strap 502 is tightened, the portion of the chin strap 502 that extends upwards beyond the dial 514 increases. Thus, the strap support 506 and the main body of the housing may include channels 516 formed therein, which may receive a portion of the chin strap 502 extending upwards beyond the dial 514. In this sense, this portion of the chin strap 502 may be protected from the user's head for greater comfort.

[0138] When the chin strap 502 is sufficiently loose, the helmet 500 can be placed on or removed from the user's head. Alternatively, the chin strap 502 can be designed to be disengaged from the shell to allow for the installation or removal of the helmet.

[0139] A chin pad 518 can be attached to the chin strap 502 and can be slid along the chin strap 502 to facilitate centering the chin pad 518 under the user's chin.

[0140] This disclosure provides illustrative embodiments of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is not limited by these illustrative embodiments. Numerous variations, whether explicitly provided for in the specification or implied in the descriptive report, such as variations in structure, dimension, material type and manufacturing process, can be implemented by one skilled in the art, with a view to this disclosure. Petition 870250106244, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 37 / 52

Claims

1 / 7 CLAIMS 1. Helmet, characterized in that it comprises: a shell including: a main body having a front portion, a rear portion, a pair of side portions extending between the front portion and the rear portion, and a lower peripheral edge extending along the front portion, the rear portion and the pair of side portions, the shell being sized and configured to be placed on the head of a user; and a pair of strap supports attached to the main body and extending from the main body beyond the lower peripheral edge;and a chin strap having a pair of end portions and an intermediate portion located between the pair of end portions, the end portions being fixedly connected to the respective portions of the pair of strap supports so as to restrict the movement of the end portions relative to the strap supports, the chin strap being flexible to facilitate the placement of the chin strap around a user's chin in connection with the placement of the helmet on the user's head.

2. Helmet, according to claim 1, characterized in that the shell and the chin strap together define a continuous loop configured to remain intact while the shell is placed on the user's head and the chin strap is placed around the user's chin.

3. Helmet, according to claim 1, characterized in that the chin strap defines a length as a distance along the chin strap between the end portions, the chin strap being configured to facilitate selective length adjustment.

4. Helmet according to claim 1, characterized in that the chin strap and the helmet are configured in such a way that, when the helmet is worn by the user, the pair of end portions extends adjacent only to one side of a respective pair of the user's ears.

5. Helmet, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that each handle support has a conical configuration such that the handle support becomes narrower as it extends away from the main body when the handle support is connected to the main body.

6. Helmet according to claim 1, characterized in that each strap support is more rigid than the chin strap.

7. Helmet, according to claim 1, characterized in that each handle support is detachably connected to the main body.

8. Helmet, according to claim 1, characterized in that the strap includes a pair of segments, each segment being connected to a respective pair of strap supports, the segments being configured to be detachable from each other.

9. Helmet according to claim 8, characterized in that each segment includes a portion made from woven material.

10. Helmet, according to claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises a pair of connectors coupled to the respective segments of the pair, the pair of connectors being cooperatively engageable with each other to facilitate the connection of the pair of segments to each other.

11. Helmet, according to claim 1, characterized in that the chin strap has internal resistance to maintain a prescribed shape, unless acted upon by an external force that is above a desired magnitude.

12. Helmet, characterized in that it comprises: a shell having: a front portion; a rear portion; a pair of side portions extending between the front portion and the rear portion; and a pair of strap attachment portions located on each of the side portions of the pair; the shell being dimensioned and configured to be placed on the head of a user; and a chin strap having a pair of end portions and an intermediate portion located between the pair of end portions, at least one of the end portions of the pair being fixedly connected to a respective portion of the pair of strap attachment portions so as to restrict the movement of at least one portion of the pair of end portions relative to the shell.

13. Helmet according to claim 12, characterized in that at least a portion of the chin strap is made of braided nylon.

14. Helmet, according to claim 12, characterized in that it further comprises a pair of connectors configured to be engaged with the strap, the pair of connectors being detachable from each other.

15. Helmet, according to claim 12, characterized in that the chin strap includes a pair of segments, and the pair of connectors is connected to the respective segments of the pair.

16. Helmet, according to claim 12, characterized in that it further comprises a pair of connectors, one pair of connectors being connected to the strap and the other pair of connectors being connectable to the shell at the strap attachment point.

17. Helmet according to claim 12, characterized in that the chin strap and the helmet are configured in such a way that, when the helmet is worn by the user, the pair of end portions extends adjacent only to one side of a respective pair of the user's ears.

18. Helmet, according to claim 12, characterized in that the shell includes a main body having a lower peripheral rim and a pair of strap supports coupled to the main body in a spaced relationship to each other and extending from the lower peripheral rim, the pair of strap supports defining the pair of strap attachment portions.

19. Helmet, according to claim 18, characterized in that each strap support is detachably connected to the main body. Petition 870250085544, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 25 / 30 4 / 7 20. Helmet, according to claim 12, characterized in that the shell includes a mouth protection portion that extends below the front portion and between the pair of side portions.

21. Helmet, characterized in that it comprises: a shell sized and configured to be placed on a user's head; a chin strap attached to the shell, the chin strap being formed of a semi-rigid material and having at least two segments that are movable relative to each other, the chin strap having two fastening portions, the chin strap being connectable to the shell at both fastening portions, the chin strap defining a length as the distance along the chin strap between the two fastening portions, the chin strap being configured to be selectively transitional between an elongated configuration and a tightened configuration, the length decreasing as the chin strap transitions from the elongated configuration to the tightened configuration;and a spring attached to the adjacent segments of at least two segments and configured to apply a polarizing force to the adjacent segments of at least two segments that propels the adjacent segments of at least two segments in opposite directions.

22. Helmet, according to claim 21, characterized in that it further comprises a cable extending between adjacent segments of at least two segments to facilitate the movement of adjacent segments of at least two segments relative to each other.

23. Helmet, according to claim 22, characterized in that the cable is configured to facilitate the application of a force to the adjacent segments of at least two segments that overcomes the spring to make the transition of the adjacent segments of at least two segments towards the tightened configuration.

24. Helmet, according to claim 22, characterized in that it further comprises a dial attached to the handle to facilitate the movement of the handle in relation to at least one of the at least two segments.

25. Helmet according to claim 24, characterized in that the dial is attached to the shell.

26. Helmet according to claim 24, characterized in that the dial is attached to the chin strap.

27. Helmet, according to claim 21, characterized in that at least two segments of the chin strap include a pair of lateral segments and a central segment that extends between the pair of lateral segments and is movable relative to the lateral segments.

28. Helmet according to claim 21, characterized in that the chin strap is pivotable relative to the shell.

29. Helmet according to claim 21, characterized in that the shell includes a main body having a lower peripheral rim and a pair of strap supports attached to the main body in a spaced relationship to each other and extending from the lower peripheral rim, the chin strap being attached to the shell on the pair of strap supports.

30. Helmet according to claim 21, characterized in that it further comprises: a head support coupled to the shell and having at least two support bodies, the transitional head support being an expanded configuration and a retracted configuration, portions of the at least two support bodies moving towards each other as the head support transitions from the expanded configuration to the retracted configuration.

31. Helmet, according to claim 30, characterized in that the chin strap and the head support are operatively coupled to each other to facilitate simultaneous adjustment of the chin strap and the head support.

32. Helmet, according to claim 31, characterized in that it further comprises a dial in operational communication with the chin strap and the head support to facilitate simultaneous adjustment of the chin strap and the head support. Petition 870250085544, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 27 / 30 6 / 7 33. Helmet, according to claim 32, characterized in that it further comprises a cable connecting the dial to the head support and the chin strap.

34. Helmet, according to claim 30, characterized in that the head support includes a rear support member and a front support member operatively connected to the rear support member.

35. Helmet according to claim 30, characterized in that the chin strap is articulatedly connected to the shell.

36. Helmet, according to claim 30, characterized in that the shell includes a main body having a lower peripheral rim and a pair of strap supports attached to the main body spaced apart and extending from the lower peripheral rim, the chin strap being attached to the shell on the pair of strap supports.

37. Helmet, according to claim 21, characterized in that the spring is a helical spring.

38. Helmet, according to claim 21, characterized in that at least one of the at least two segments includes a channel within which the spring is received.

39. Helmet, characterized in that it comprises: a shell sized and configured to be placed on the head of a user, the shell including a main body having a lower peripheral edge and a pair of strap supports attached to the main body in a spaced relationship to each other and extending beyond the lower peripheral edge; a chin strap attached to the shell on the pair of strap supports, the chin strap being formed of a semi-rigid material, the chin strap defining a length as the distance along the chin strap between the pair of strap supports, the chin strap being configured to be selectively transitional between an elongated configuration and a tight configuration, the length decreasing as the chin strap transitions from the elongated configuration to the tight configuration; and Petition 870250085544, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, p.28 / 30 7 / 7 a spring coupled to the adjacent segments of at least two segments and configured to apply a polarizing force to the adjacent segments of at least two segments that propels the adjacent segments of at least two segments in opposite directions.

40. Helmet, according to claim 39, characterized in that the chin strap is fixedly attached to the shell at one pair of strap supports and movably attached to the shell at the other pair of strap supports. Petition 870250085544, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 29 / 30

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