Honeycomb energy absorbing structure fastening device

Abstract

A helmet (1) comprising: a shell (2); a head receiving system (3); at least one cellular energy absorbing structure (4) comprising a plurality of open cells (9) interconnected configured to absorb energy during an impact on the shell (2) by deforming; at least one clamping device (5) comprising a base (6) and an opposite base (7) connected to each other by means of an extendable elongated body (8) to form an integral piece sized to pass through at least one open cell (9) of the cellular energy absorbing structure (4), wherein the extendable elongated body (8) is configured to significantly and reversibly elongate with respect to its initial length when subjected to a pulling.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of helmets with honeycomb energy-absorbing structures. In particular, this invention relates to helmets using a layered structure, with relative movement between the layers, to reduce translational and angular accelerations of the brain. Background Technology

[0002] In the existing technology, several types of helmets are known: motorcycle helmets, car racing helmets, industrial safety helmets, bicycle helmets, ski helmets, water sports helmets, equestrian helmets, American football helmets, etc.

[0003] Traditional sports, car, and motorcycle helmets include:

[0004] -Outer shell, preferably a hard shell;

[0005] - A protective gasket that matches the housing and is arranged inside the housing;

[0006] - Comfort padding to make the user more comfortable when wearing a helmet;

[0007] - A retaining system, which typically includes a strip and a quick-release locking system.

[0008] Industrial safety helmets typically include:

[0009] - Hard outer shell;

[0010] - The ties that connect to the hard shell.

[0011] The outer shell gives the helmet its distinctive appearance and provides the first line of protection against impacts. In helmets with protective padding, the outer shell also contains protective padding. The shell material can be a polymer such as PC (polycarbonate), PE (polyethylene), or ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) or a composite material such as glass fiber or carbon fiber. Depending on the material, the shell is typically thermoformed or thermogrown, for example in bicycle helmets, or injection molded, for example in ski helmets.

[0012] Typically, protective padding is made of polymeric foam, such as EPS (expanded polystyrene) or EPP (expanded polypropylene), to absorb energy generated during a collision. EPS padding or layers absorb impact energy through compression. Currently, EPS is the most commonly used material for absorbing impact energy and is used in the vast majority of helmets. Alternatively, some high-performance energy-absorbing materials are known, such as... The brand's energy-absorbing material. Compared to traditional EPS / EPP liners, this honeycomb energy-absorbing material absorbs more energy when impact loads occur that are essentially orthogonal to the shell. This honeycomb material absorbs energy through the gradual buckling of its individual cells.

[0013] Comfort padding can include a pillow made of synthetic or natural materials, which is adhered to or attached to the inside of the protective padding. In this way, the user's head does not directly contact the protective padding but rather the comfort padding, resulting in greater comfort. In addition to comfort padding, industrial helmets also feature straps made of woven straps or strips of polyethylene. Straps are an inexpensive solution for combining a system that holds the helmet above the wearer's head with a system that absorbs some of the impact energy. Compared to polymer foam padding, straps absorb less impact energy.

[0014] The holding system is used to keep the helmet in place on the user's head and may include an adjustment device for adjusting the tightness of the helmet on the head.

[0015] During an impact, such as that caused by a cyclist falling, the helmet shell can strike an object, like the ground, from any direction. The impact load has normal and / or tangential components. The tangential component causes rotation of the skull relative to the brain, while the normal component causes skull fractures, leading to death. Both types of injury are significant, and helmets need to minimize them as much as possible.

[0016] To absorb the normal and tangential components of impact loads, existing solutions employ devices for absorbing the tangential component and devices for absorbing the normal component. In particular, none of the known solutions connect these components together.

[0017] For example, Smith TM Some helmets produced by the company include The company's honeycomb energy-absorbing pads and The company has developed a brain protection system. The honeycomb energy-absorbing pad effectively absorbs the normal component of impact loads, while the brain protection system effectively absorbs the tangential component. As described in document EP2440082B1, the honeycomb energy-absorbing pad is adapted within an EPS (expanded polystyrene) liner, and the brain protection system is connected to this EPS liner. The honeycomb energy-absorbing pad and the brain protection system are not connected; therefore, they function as independent devices, rather than working in tandem.

[0018] Other solutions exist, addressing only one of the problems: absorbing the normal component or the tangential component of the impact load. For example, the helmet described in document WO2016209740A1 includes a protective liner divided into two parts: an outer liner and an inner liner. The outer liner is connected to the inner liner by an elastic band, allowing relative movement between the two. This feature allows for reduced rotational or translational injury to the head. While this document provides a solution by dividing the protective liner into two parts to effectively absorb the rotational acceleration generated by the tangential component of the impact load, it neglects how to effectively mitigate the linear acceleration exerted by the normal impact component.

[0019] Document US10398187B1 provides another similar solution, disclosing two pads externally connected to each other via an adjustable retainer. Document WO2020245609 also discloses a helmet in which an internal energy-absorbing pad is anchored to the outer shell via a connector.

[0020] Because the device for absorbing the normal impact component does not cooperate with the device for absorbing the tangential impact component, it cannot effectively absorb impact loads. However, deformation of the device for absorbing the normal impact component affects the function of the other device, and vice versa. In this way, theoretically all these devices can work effectively, but in practice, each device affects the function of the other.

[0021] Furthermore, all existing sports, motorcycle, and car helmet solutions use polymer foam padding, such as EPS or EPP padding, while international regulations are moving towards more environmentally friendly solutions that avoid or reduce the use of such materials.

[0022] No available solution offers a helmet that can effectively absorb all types of impacts through a comprehensive solution, thus providing a cheaper, simpler, and more environmentally friendly product. Summary of the Invention

[0023] A helmet now addresses the aforementioned and other inconveniences of the prior art, comprising: a shell, at least one honeycomb energy-absorbing structure, at least one clamping device, and a head-receiving system. The at least one honeycomb energy-absorbing structure includes a plurality of interconnected open chambers configured to absorb energy during impacts to the shell through deformation; the at least one clamping device includes a base and a counter base connected to each other via a stretchable elongated body, forming a single unit. The stretchable elongated body is configured to pass through the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure. The stretchable elongated body is sized to pass through one or more open chambers of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure and optionally through apertures in the shell and / or the head-receiving system. The stretchable elongated body is configured to reversibly elongate relative to its initial length when subjected to tension. The one or more clamping devices allow the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure to remain connected to the shell and / or the head-receiving system. Furthermore, the stretchability of the stretchable elongated body allows relative movement of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure relative to the shell and / or the head-receiving system. In particular, the stretchability of the elongated, extendable body allows it to follow the movement of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure as it contracts, compensating for lateral movement caused by the tangential component of the impact load. The clamping device is envisioned to collapse and extend, thus following any kind of deformation of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure. Specifically, its integral design allows for a stable connection between the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure and other helmet components, representing a simple and economical solution to achieve this result.

[0024] Preferably, the stretchable elongated body can be configured to achieve a maximum elongation between 150% and 500% of its initial length without breaking. The elongation of the stretchable elongated body is not the elongation that any material will exhibit upon being stretched, but rather a significant elongation that allows the clamping device to pass through one or more individual chambers of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure and allows relative movement of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure relative to the housing / head receiving system. The term "initial length" refers to the length of the stretchable elongated body before elongation, i.e., without any applied force. The term "maximum elongation" refers to the elongation at which the stretchable elongated body breaks during a tension test.

[0025] Furthermore, the stretchable elongated body can be at least partially made of an elastic or viscoelastic material. In this way, the elongation / shortening of the stretchable elongated body helps absorb impact energy, especially the tangential component of impact energy.

[0026] Alternatively, the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure can be an array of open-cell energy-absorbing structures interconnected via their sidewalls. This architecture of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure is particularly effective in absorbing axial loads, as the load is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the open cell. In particular, each open cell can have an opening base facing the shell and an opposing opening base facing the head receiving system. This arrangement of the open cells allows for more effective absorption of axial impact loads through the gradual contraction of the open cells.

[0027] Alternatively, the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure can be a grid structure comprising solid sections and open sections, configured to form a mesh of interconnected open chambers. This architecture of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure is particularly effective in absorbing loads from any direction. Specifically, the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure can be arranged such that one side of the structure faces the housing and the other side faces the head receiving system. In this way, the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure is arranged between the housing and the head receiving system.

[0028] Advantageously, the compressive force required to cause the clamping device to collapse in one direction can be less than or equal to the force required to deform the open chambers of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure in the same direction. This means that when the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure is compressed due to impact loads, the clamping device will not generate resistance, and the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure can be compressed as if the clamping device were not present.

[0029] Preferably, the housing may consist only of a rigid shell, or alternatively, include a rigid or semi-rigid outer shell and an inner shock-absorbing pad connected to each other. In the former case, the housing is constructed of a rigid shell, as in the case of an industrial helmet. In the latter case, the housing includes an outer shell and an inner shock-absorbing pad, as in the case of a sports helmet. The inner shock-absorbing pad is preferably made of polymeric foam and may include recesses in which a honeycomb energy-absorbing structure is arranged. The recesses are configured to retain the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure without additional holding devices. In this way, the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure and the housing remain connected independently of one or more clamping devices.

[0030] Preferably, the head receiving system can be a strap system or a comfort system. Preferably, the strap system or comfort system can be connected to the opposite base or base of at least one clamping device. In this way, the correct positioning of the wearer's head relative to the helmet is ensured.

[0031] Preferably, the base or opposite base can be connected to the housing or to the head receiving system via a connecting device. In this way, the clamping device is attached to the housing, and the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure is attached to the housing via the clamping device. This arrangement is applicable when the housing consists only of a rigid shell and when the outer shell has an internal shock-absorbing pad.

[0032] Preferably, the connection device may include a Velcro layer, an adhesive layer, or one or more snap-fit ​​connectors to simplify the interconnection between the clamping device and the housing or head receiving system.

[0033] Alternatively, the extendable elongated body of one or more clamping devices can be inserted into a hole in the housing, with the base or opposite base abutting against the outer surface of the housing. In this way, with the base or opposite base resting against the outer surface of the housing, the remainder of the clamping device holds the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure to the housing.

[0034] Advantageously, the base may include a low-friction layer disposed on the outer surface of the base or the opposite base. In this way, when the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure is compressed in the in-plane direction, the clamping device can slide on the outer shell or the inner shock-absorbing pad.

[0035] Preferably, the clamping device may include an extension connected to the opposing base for pulling the stretchable elongated body through at least one opening chamber. This feature allows the clamping device to be pulled and forces the stretchable elongated body and the opposing base through the at least one opening chamber, thereby bringing the opposing base to the opposite side of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure relative to the base.

[0036] Advantageously, the thickness of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure can be greater than the initial length of the extendable elongated body of the clamping device. This means that the clamping device is tensioned when the opposing bases are positioned on either side of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure. This feature allows the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure to be subjected to soft compression, ensuring that the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure is securely connected to the housing and / or the head receiving system.

[0037] Preferably, the base can be rigid or semi-rigid, thereby ensuring strong anchoring to the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure when the relative base is stretched. More preferably, the rigid or semi-rigid base is co-molded with the stretchable elongated body. Despite the different materials of the clamping devices, this interconnection makes them a single piece.

[0038] These and other advantages will be better understood in the following description of different embodiments of the invention given with reference to the accompanying drawings as non-limiting examples.

[0039] Attached Figure Description

[0040] In the attached diagram:

[0041] Figure 1A A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a helmet according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0042] Figure 1B A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a helmet according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0043] Figure 1CA cross-sectional schematic diagram of a helmet according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0044] Figure 1D A cross-sectional view of a helmet according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0045] Figure 2A , 2B 2C and 2D show schematic diagrams of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure and clamping device during the assembly stage, before compression, after compression by normal load, and after compression by tilt load, respectively.

[0046] Figure 3A This illustrates what happens when an inclined impact load strikes the helmet shell. Figure 1A A diagram of a helmet;

[0047] Figure 3B This illustrates what happens when an inclined impact load strikes the helmet shell. Figure 1B A diagram of a helmet;

[0048] Figure 3C This illustrates what happens when an inclined impact load strikes the helmet shell. Figure 1C A diagram of a helmet;

[0049] Figure 3D This illustrates what happens when an inclined impact load strikes the helmet shell. Figure 1D A diagram of a helmet;

[0050] Figure 4A An isometric view of the second type of clamping device is shown;

[0051] Figure 4B It shows the connection to the housing. Figure 4A Axonometric view of the clamping device;

[0052] Figure 4C It shows Figure 4B An isometric view of the clamping device and the housing, wherein the clamping device is inserted into a single chamber of a honeycomb energy-absorbing structure;

[0053] Figure 4D It shows Figure 4C The clamping device, the housing, and the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure, wherein the clamping device clamps the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure to the housing;

[0054] Figure 5A It shows Figure 4A Side view of the clamping device shown;

[0055] Figure 5B It shows Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of the clamping device;

[0056] Figure 5C It shows Figure 5A A top view of the clamping device. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The following description of one or more embodiments of the present invention refers to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals indicate the same or similar parts. The object of protection is defined by the appended claims. The technical details, structures, or features of the solutions described below can be combined with each other in any suitable manner.

[0058] In this description, for the sake of brevity, the term "honeycomb energy-absorbing structure 4" is sometimes simply referred to as "honeycomb structure 4", the term "internal shock-absorbing pad 2B" is simply referred to as "inner pad 2B", and the term "stretchable elongated body 8" is simply referred to as "body 8". Other similar abbreviations may also appear in the following description.

[0059] Figure 1 illustrates some embodiments of a helmet 1 according to the present invention. The helmet 1 includes a shell 2, at least one honeycomb energy-absorbing structure 4, a head receiving system 3, and one or more clamping devices 5.

[0060] As detailed below, the clamping device 5 is used to allow relative movement between the two parts of the helmet 1 and helps to absorb the energy associated with this movement.

[0061] In particular, Figure 1A In one embodiment, the clamping device 5 connects the honeycomb structure 4 to the housing 2. Figure 1B and 1D In one embodiment, the clamping device 5 connects the honeycomb structure 4 to both the housing 2 and the head receiving system 3. Figure 1C In one embodiment, the clamping device 5 connects the honeycomb structure 4 to the head receiving system 3 but not to the housing 2.

[0062] The clamping device 5 is configured to pass through the thickness of the honeycomb structure 4 from one side to the other. The clamping device 5 includes a base 6, opposing bases 7, and a stretchable elongated body 8 connecting them to each other. The base 6 and opposing bases 7 are opposite each other with respect to the honeycomb structure 4. The stretchable elongated body 8 is sized to allow for... Figure 1A , 1B As shown in Figure 1D, it passes through an open-cell 9 in the honeycomb structure 4, or as shown in Figure 1D. Figure 1C As shown, it passes through multiple openings 9 in the honeycomb structure 4. Therefore, the cross-section of the stretchable elongated body 8 is smaller than the cross-section of the openings 9.

[0063] The base 6, the extendable slender body 8, and the opposite base 7 are integrally connected or joined to form a single piece.

[0064] Preferably, the stretchable elongated body 8 is made of an elastic material, such as rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), silicone, or other elastomeric materials. These materials allow the body 8 to stretch.

[0065] like Figure 1A , 1B As shown in the 1D embodiment, the honeycomb structure 4 includes an array of energy-absorbing open chambers 9. These open chambers 9 are connected to each other via their sidewalls 10.

[0066] The two ends of each opening chamber 9 are open, thus forming a duct for airflow in each opening chamber 9. As shown in Figure 4, the opening chamber 9 has a circular cross-section. Alternatively, the cross-section of the opening chamber 9 can be a square, hexagon, non-uniform hexagon, centroidal hexagon, chiral truss, rhombus, triangle, or arrowhead shape.

[0067] The series of openings 9 can be welded together via their sidewalls 10. Alternatively, the tubes can be joined by means of an adhesive layer inserted between adjacent sidewalls 10. This adhesive can be a thermosetting adhesive, i.e., an adhesive that is solid at room temperature but becomes liquid above 80-100°C. In other cases, the adhesive can also be a reactive adhesive or a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0068] When the opening chamber 9 has a circular cross-section, the outer diameter of the circular cross-section can be between 2.5 and 8 mm, and the wall thickness of the opening chamber 9 can be between 0.05 and 0.2 mm.

[0069] The array of energy-absorbing openings 9 can be configured to absorb energy through the plastic deformation of the sidewalls 10 of the openings 9, where "plastic deformation" refers to the irreversible shrinkage of the sidewalls 10, or the absorption of energy through the elastic deformation of the sidewalls 10 of the openings 9. In the latter case, the deformation is almost completely reversible, and the sidewalls 10 will return to a shape equivalent to the initial shape.

[0070] Alternatively, the opening chamber 9 can be a single cell of a grid structure, such as... Figure 1C As shown. In this case, the opening chamber 9 is formed by a hollow portion defined by the solid portion 12 of the grid structure. Essentially, the three-dimensional grid of the solid portion 12 of the grid structure defines a network of interconnected opening chambers 9 (i.e., the hollow portions of the grid structure) through which air can flow. These opening portions 13 of the grid structure realize the opening chamber 9. The grid structure 4 can be configured to absorb energy through plastic or elastic deformation of the solid portion 12.

[0071] It should be noted that the individual chambers of the grid structure 4 are typically not wide, otherwise energy absorption would be affected, and the grid structure 4 would also become too soft to absorb compressive loads. Therefore, the clamping device 5 includes an elongated body 8 for insertion into the opening 11 and through one or more opening chambers 9. If the energy-absorbing structure is made of expandable foam, as in prior art solutions, the size of the holes for receiving the plug can be adjusted arbitrarily. Conversely, in this solution, the honeycomb structure 4 defines the dimensions of the connecting device 5, not the other way around (it is not the connecting device 5 that defines the dimensions of the honeycomb structure 4).

[0072] As shown in Figure 1, the honeycomb structure 4, whether in a variant with arrayed energy-absorbing openings 9 or in a grid structure, includes a surface facing the housing 2 and a surface facing the head receiving system 3. These surfaces include a plurality of openings 11 of the openings 9. A connecting device 5 can be inserted into any of these openings 11.

[0073] Reference Figure 1A This illustrates an industrial safety helmet 1 consisting only of an outer shell 2A. The outer shell 2A is a hard shell, such as one made of hard plastic, to withstand impacts. Multiple clamping devices 5 are connected to the inner surface of the outer shell 2A via connecting devices 15. These connecting devices 15 may be adhesive layers attached to the outer surface of the base 6 of the clamping device 5 and the inner surface of the outer shell 2A. Each clamping device 5 passes through a honeycomb structure 4 with its extendable elongated body 8. The extendable elongated body 8 passes through an opening 9 of the honeycomb structure 4. The bottom 6 of the clamping device 5 is located on the outer surface of the honeycomb structure 4, while the opposing base 7 of the clamping device 5 is located on the inner surface of the honeycomb structure 4. In this way, the honeycomb structure 4 is connected to the outer shell 2A, but relative lateral movement between them is permitted, such as... Figure 3A As shown. Helmet 1 also includes a head receiving system 3, which in this case is a strap system 3A. This strap system 3A, like that of a conventional industrial safety helmet, connects directly to the outer shell 2A and ensures space between the wearer's head 25 and the honeycomb structure 4. Although this embodiment relates to an industrial safety helmet, the same features can be used to implement different types of helmets.

[0074] Reference Figure 1BThe image depicts a helmet 1 comprising a shell 2A and a head receiver system 3 connected to each other via a clamping device 5. A honeycomb structure 4 is clamped between the shell 2A and the head receiver system 3 by means of the clamping device 5. The clamping device 5 is configured to pass through corresponding holes 23 in the shell 2A and through corresponding openings 9 in the honeycomb structure 4 via its extendable elongated body 8. The clamping device 5 is also configured to pass through a channel in the head receiver system 3, such that the opposing base 7 of the clamping device 5 is positioned on the inner side of the head receiver system 3. In this way, the head receiver system 3 remains clamped between the opposing base 7 and the honeycomb structure 4, and the shell 2 remains clamped between the base 6 and the honeycomb structure 4. To pass from the outer side of the helmet 1 (outer surface of the shell 2) to the inner side of the helmet 1 (inner surface of the head receiver system 3), the clamping device 5 extends, and its body 8 elongates. This elongation allows a preload to be generated on the shell 2 and the head receiver system 3, thereby compressing the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure 4 between them. This helmet 1 allows for relative movement of the head receiving system 3 relative to the outer shell 2A and relative to the honeycomb structure 4, such as... Figure 3B As shown.

[0075] Reference Figure 1C and 1D This depicts a helmet 1 including a shell 2, which consists of an outer shell 2A and an inner shock-absorbing pad 2B. Conversely, the same applies to helmets. Figure 1B The embodiments, like Figure 1A In one embodiment, the housing 2 consists only of the outer shell 2A. From a structural perspective, since... Figure 1A , 1B The embodiment is more suitable for use in industrial safety helmets, with the outer shell 2A being thicker than that of other embodiments. Because... Figure 1C and 1D The helmet of the embodiment is suitable for sports helmets, so the shell 2A can be rigid, such as in a motorcycle or car helmet, or semi-rigid, such as in a bicycle or ski helmet.

[0076] The internal shock-absorbing pad 2B is preferably made of a foamed polymer, such as EPS or EPP.

[0077] exist Figure 1CIn one embodiment, the inner liner 2B includes a recess 14 in which a honeycomb structure 4 is disposed. The recess 14 is a depression on the inner surface of the inner liner 2B. The shape of the recess 14 is designed to be substantially complementary to the honeycomb structure 4. In this way, the honeycomb structure 4 is held in the recess 14 without additional connecting means. The recess 14 has an inner opening smaller than its bottom surface, so that once the cell structure 4 is disposed in the recess 14, it will not protrude. The outer shell 2A and the inner liner 2B include a plurality of vents 28. The vents 28 are openings that allow air to be delivered from the external environment to the wearer's head 25. The vents 28 extend through the outer shell 2A and the inner liner 2B to the bottom of the recess 14. Air can reach the head 25 from here. Therefore, the helmet 1 is breathable. The vents 28 are not arranged corresponding to the honeycomb structure 4, but in another embodiment (not shown), the vents 28 may be arranged corresponding to the honeycomb structure 4, such that airflow passes through all elements of the helmet 1. In this embodiment, as described above, the honeycomb structure 4 is a grid structure. The extendable elongated body 8 of the clamping device 5 passes through multiple openings 9 to allow access from opposite sides of the honeycomb structure 4. The bases 6 of these clamping devices 5 are located on the outer side of the porous structure 4, while the opposing bases 7 are arranged on the inner surface of the head receiving system 3. Essentially, the extendable elongated body 8 passes through the openings 9 and the head receiving system 3. In this way, the opposing bases 7 are located on the inner surface of the head receiving system 3, such as... Figure 1C As shown. In this variant of the helmet 1, the clamping device 5 clamps the head receiving system 3 and the honeycomb structure 4 together. Furthermore, the clamping device 5 includes a low-friction layer 26 disposed on the outer surface of the base 6. This low-friction layer 26 can be made of nylon, polycarbonate, or polytetrafluoroethylene to reduce friction between the base 6 and the bottom of the recess 14. In this embodiment, the honeycomb structure 4 can slide on the inner liner 2B. The head receiving system 3 in this embodiment is... Figure 1B Different types of comfort systems 3B.

[0078] Reference Figure 1D The image depicts a helmet 1 comprising a shell 2, which has an outer shell 2A and an inner shock-absorbing pad 2B, as described above. Several vents 28 extend through the outer shell 2A and the inner pad 2B. The base 6 of a clamping device 5 is embedded in the inner pad 2B, while an extendable elongated body 8 protrudes from the outer side of the inner surface of the inner pad 2B into the interior of the helmet 1. The clamping device 5 includes an opposing base 7, which is shaped to pass through a slit in the head receiving system 3 and expand upon reaching the other side. The connection between the clamping device 5 and the head receiving system 3 in this embodiment is similar to... Figure 1B .

[0079] Figure 1DThe embodiment also includes a spacer 27 for each clamping device 5. The spacer 27 is a nylon ring or a polytetrafluoroethylene ring. The extendable elongated body 8 of the clamping device 5 passes through the central hole of the spacer 27. The spacer 27 is arranged such that it is located between the inner surface of the liner 2B and the outer surface of the honeycomb structure 4. In this way, the spacer 27 acts as a buffer between the liner 2B and the honeycomb structure 4, allowing relative sliding. In this embodiment, the head receiving system 3 can move relative to the honeycomb structure 4, and together they can move relative to the liner 2B. Alternatively, the liner 2B of the embodiment of FIG. 1F may be replaced by a low-friction coating arranged facing the honeycomb structure 4 to reduce friction between the two elements of the helmet 1.

[0080] Figure 2 shows the clamping device according to the invention and how it interacts with the honeycomb structure 4.

[0081] The clamping device 5 of Figure 2 includes a stretchable elongated body 8 attached to a base 6. The stretchable elongated body 8 includes opposing bases 7 serving as holding portions. The stretchable elongated body 8 is made of an elastic material, allowing it to become elongated. The opposing bases 7 are spaced apart from the base 6, with their spacing corresponding to the length of the stretchable elongated body 8. This length is related to the thickness of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure 4, therefore, it must be as... Figure 2A The stretchable elongated body 8A also includes an extension portion 22 that extends beyond the opposing base 7. To allow the stretchable elongated body 8 to pass through an opening chamber 9, the extension portion 22 is inserted into the opening base 11 of the opening chamber 9, and once it reaches the opposite side of the honeycomb structure 4, it is as shown in the diagram. Figure 2A The extended portion 22 is pulled as shown until the retaining portion 2A passes through the opening chamber 9 and emerges from the opposite side. The elasticity of the opposing base 7 allows it to pass through one of the opening chambers 9 of the clamping device 5. At this point, releasing the extended portion 22 allows the elasticity of the elongated body 8 to expand the opposing base 7 on the opposite side of the honeycomb structure 4. In this way, the clamping device 5 generates a force that attracts the opposing base 7 and the base 6 towards each other. After the above positioning stage, as... Figure 2A As shown, use scissors or other tools to cut off the excess portion 22, and the clamping device 5 as shown... Figure 2B As shown. This clamping device 5 can change shape and follow the deformation of the honeycomb structure 4. For example, in Figure 2C In the middle, a force F is applied orthogonally to the honeycomb structure 4, and the opening chamber 9 axially contracts. In this case, the stretchable elongated body 8 will relax and shorten. If the impact force F is at an angle, such as Figure 2D As shown, the honeycomb structure 4 will also undergo lateral translation and slight bending. In this case, the clamping device 5 deforms, allowing the honeycomb structure 4 to translate / deform.

[0082] Alternatively, the stretchable elongated body 8 of the clamping device 5 is at least partially made of a viscoelastic polymer. In particular, the stretchable elongated body 8 may be made entirely of a viscoelastic polymer, or may include an external elastic portion incorporating a viscoelastic material, such as viscoelastic foam.

[0083] Advantageously, the extendable elongated body 8 of the clamping device 5 is configured not to hinder the collapse of the honeycomb structure 4. In particular, the clamping device 5 is configured as follows: Figure 2C The compressive force required for the structure to collapse along direction X is less than or equal to the compressive force required to deform the opening chamber 9 of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure 4 along the same direction X.

[0084] Figure 3 shows the helmet 1 of the embodiment of Figure 1 during the impact of the tilting force F on the outer shell 2A.

[0085] In particular, Figure 3A It shows Figure 1A The helmet 1 of this embodiment is subjected to an impact. This impact is represented by a tilting force F, which causes the outer shell 2A to rotate R relative to the wearer's head 25. The first portion of the impact force F is absorbed by the strap system 3A, which deforms before the head 25 reaches the honeycomb structure 4. Once the head 25 contacts the honeycomb structure 4, the opening chamber 9 collapses, absorbing the normal component Fn of the force F. In Figure 3, the collapse of the opening chamber 9 is represented by a reduction in the thickness of the honeycomb structure 4. Simultaneously, the clamping device 5 extends laterally to allow relative movement of the honeycomb structure 4 relative to the outer shell 2A. The deformation (elongation) of the clamping device 5 allows the absorption of the tangential component Ft of the impact force F.

[0086] Figure 3B It shows Figure 1B In the embodiment, when the helmet 1 is subjected to an angular impact by a force F, this force causes the outer shell 2A to rotate R relative to the wearer's head 25. The deformation of the honeycomb structure 4 and the clamping device 5... Figure 3A Similar to the description in the text. The openings 9 of the honeycomb structure 4 gradually buckle in the axial direction to absorb the normal component Fn of the force F, while the clamping device 5 bends and extends to absorb the tangential component Ft of the force F. The clamping device 5 holds the honeycomb structure 4 by means of the elongation of the slender body 8.

[0087] Figure 3C It shows Figure 1CIn the embodiment, when the helmet 1 is subjected to an angular impact of force F, this force causes the shell 2 to rotate R relative to the wearer's head 25. In this situation, the grid structure 4 slides on the bottom of the recess 14 by means of a low-friction layer 26 disposed on the outer surface of the base 6. Therefore, the honeycomb structure 4 deforms both in-plane and out-of-plane. The honeycomb structure 4 impacts and compresses against the sidewall of the recess 14. The grid structure slides in the recess 14, deforming the solid portion 12 and absorbing most of the tangential component Ft of the force F. At the same time, the top-to-bottom contraction of the opening chamber 9 absorbs the normal component Fn of the force F. Furthermore, the bending of the clamping device 5 helps to absorb the tangential component Ft of the force F during the deformation of the grid structure.

[0088] Figure 3D It shows Figure 1D In the embodiment, when the helmet 1 is subjected to an angled impact of force F, the force causes the shell 2 to rotate R relative to the wearer's head 25. The deformation of the clamping device 5 and the bending of the honeycomb structure 4 together absorb the tangential component Ft of the impact force F, while the normal component Fn of the impact force F is absorbed by the axial progressive buckling of the openings 9 of the honeycomb structure 4.

[0089] Specifically, Figure 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the clamping device 5 of Figure 3. The clamping device 5 includes a base 6 integrally connected to an extendable elongated body 8, which in turn is integrally formed with the opposing base 7. Figure 5 shows this variant of the clamping device 5 in detail. Specifically, from... Figure 5C It is immediately apparent that base 6 is wider than the relative base 7. In fact, base 6 is frequently used as a mating surface for connecting other components of helmet 1, such as... Figure 1A and 1C As shown. From Figure 5A As can be seen, the base 6 has a slight curvature on both its inner and outer surfaces. This shape allows for better adaptation to the honeycomb structure 4 and the shell 2. Furthermore, as... Figure 5B As shown, the base 6 can be made of a different material than the elastic material of the stretchable elongated body 8. In particular, the base 6 can be made of rigid plastics such as nylon, polycarbonate, or ABS, and co-molded with the elastic material of the stretchable elongated body 8.

[0090] like Figure 4B As shown, Figure 4A The clamping device 5 is first attached to the housing 2, for example, through an adhesive layer (connecting device 15). Secondly, as... Figure 4CAs shown, a honeycomb structure 4 is arranged on the outer shell 2A, allowing the extendable elongated body 8 to pass through the opening chamber 9, and causing the protruding portion 22 to come onto the honeycomb structure 4. Third, the protruding portion 22 is pulled, causing the opposing base 7 to emerge from the honeycomb structure 4. Once the protruding portion 22 is released, the opposing base 7 pushes the honeycomb structure 4 towards the outer shell 2A, as... Figure 4D As shown. Finally, the excess portion 22 is cut off to achieve a quick and inexpensive connection between the outer shell 2A and the honeycomb structure 4. The arrangement in Figure 4 corresponds to Figure 1A and 3A The arrangement of the embodiment shown.

[0091] In the embodiment of Figure 4, the honeycomb structure 4 is an array of energy-absorbing openings 9, but the same applies to the case of a grid structure.

[0092] All features described in the embodiment of Figure 1 can be used in combination to obtain more embodiments not shown but included in this invention.

[0093] In summary, the present invention, conceived in this way, is readily subject to numerous modifications and variations, all of which fall within the scope of the inventive concept. Furthermore, all features can be replaced by technically equivalent alternatives. In fact, the number can vary depending on specific technical requirements. Finally, all features of the previously described embodiments can be combined in any way to obtain other embodiments not described herein for practical and clear reasons.

[0094] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0095] 1 Helmet

[0096] 2. Shell

[0097] 2A Housing

[0098] 2B Internal shock-absorbing pad

[0099] 3 Head Receiving System

[0100] 3A Lacing System

[0101] 3B Comfort System

[0102] 4. Honeycomb energy-absorbing structure

[0103] 5. Clamping device

[0104] 6. Base

[0105] 7. Relative base

[0106] 8. Extendable slender body

[0107] 9 Opening chamber

[0108] 10 Sidewalls

[0109] 11. The base of the opening of the opening chamber

[0110] 12 Solid parts of the grid structure

[0111] 13. Opening portion of the grid structure

[0112] 14 recess

[0113] 15. Connecting device

[0114] 22. Exceeding portion

[0115] 23. Holes in the shell

[0116] 25. Wearer's head

[0117] 26 Low-friction layer

[0118] 27 Spacer

[0119] 28 Ventilation openings

[0120] F force

[0121] Normal component of force Fn

[0122] The tangential component of the force Ft

[0123] R relative rotation

Claims

1. A helmet (1), comprising: -Shell (2); -Head receiving system (3); - At least one honeycomb energy-absorbing structure (4), the at least one honeycomb energy-absorbing structure (4) comprising a plurality of interconnected open chambers (9), configured to absorb energy during impact on the shell (2) by deformation; - At least one clamping device (5), the at least one clamping device (5) includes a base (6) and an opposing base (7), the base (6) and the opposing base (7) being connected to each other by means of an extendable elongated body (8) to form an integral piece sized to pass through at least one opening (9) of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure (4); The stretchable elongated body (8) is configured to stretch significantly and reversibly relative to its initial length when stretched.

2. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stretchable elongated body (8) is configured to achieve a maximum elongation between 150% and 500% of its initial length.

3. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stretchable elongated body (8) is at least partially made of an elastic or viscoelastic material.

4. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The honeycomb energy-absorbing structure (4) includes an array of energy-absorbing openings (9) interconnected via their sidewalls (10).

5. The helmet (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, Each of the opening chambers (9) has an opening base (11) facing the housing (2) and an opposite opening base (11) facing the head receiving system.

6. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The honeycomb energy-absorbing structure (4) is a grid structure, which includes a solid portion (12) and an opening portion (13) configured to form a grid of interconnected open chambers (9).

7. The helmet (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The honeycomb energy-absorbing structure (4) is arranged such that one side of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure (4) faces the housing (2) and the opposite side faces the head receiving system (3).

8. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping device (5) is configured such that the compressive force required to cause the clamping device (5) to collapse in one direction (X) is less than or equal to the force required to deform the opening (9) of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure (4) in the same direction (X).

9. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (2) consists only of the hard outer shell (2A).

10. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (2) includes a rigid or semi-rigid outer shell (2A) and an inner shock-absorbing pad (2B) connected to each other.

11. The helmet (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The inner shock-absorbing pad (2B) includes a recess (14) configured to retain the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure (4).

12. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The head receiving system (3) includes a strap system (3A) or a comfort system (3B).

13. The helmet (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The lacing system (3A) or the comfort system (3B) is connected to the opposite base (7) or the base (6) of the at least one clamping device (5).

14. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base (6) or the opposite base (7) is connected to the housing (2) or the head receiving system (3) via a connecting device (15).

15. The helmet (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The connecting device (15) includes a Velcro fastener, an adhesive layer, or one or more snap-fit ​​fasteners.

16. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extendable elongated body (8) is inserted into the hole (23) of the housing (2), and the base (6) or the opposite base (7) abuts against the housing (2).

17. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that... Includes a low-friction layer disposed on the base (6) or the opposite base (7) of the at least one clamping device (5).

18. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping device (5) includes an overhang (22) connected to the opposing base (7) for pulling the stretchable elongated body (8) through the at least one opening chamber (9).

19. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the honeycomb energy-absorbing structure (4) is greater than the initial length of the stretchable elongated body (8) of the clamping device (5).

20. The helmet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base is rigid or semi-rigid.

21. The helmet (1) according to claim 20, characterized in that, The rigid or semi-rigid base is co-molded with the stretchable elongated body (8).

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