Foldable helmet

Abstract

The invention relates to a helmet and a protective element for protecting the head of a user. The helmet is flexible and / or collapsible and comprises: a head fitting element (2) having an outer surface and an inner surface; a plurality of protective elements (3) arranged and attached at preselected locations on the outer surface of the head fitting element to provide a helmet having at least a front portion (11), a middle portion (12) and a rear portion (13) separated by gaps (4). The protective element provides absorption of forces received during an impact when attached to the helmet to achieve a level of reducing the risk of injury to the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a bicycle helmet and a protective element for a helmet, and more particularly to a flexible and / or foldable helmet having a unique fold and a protective element having improved protection for protecting a user's head. Background Art

[0002] Protective headgear and helmets have been used in a wide variety of applications and across a variety of industries (including sports, athletics, construction, mining, transportation, etc.) to prevent injury to the user's head and brain. Helmets can prevent or reduce injury and damage to the user by preventing hard or sharp objects from directly contacting the user's head. Helmets can also prevent or reduce injury and damage to the user by absorbing, dispersing or otherwise controlling the impact force.

[0003] The fit, temperature control and storage possibilities of a helmet may be important to a user wearing the helmet, and these improvements may reduce user distraction and thereby improve the performance of the helmet without compromising safety.

[0004] To ensure that more people wear helmets (e.g. when riding bicycles), the following requirements should be implemented:

[0005] A helmet must protect the wearer's head.

[0006] The helmet should be comfortable, fit tightly to the user's head, without any protruding components between the head and the helmet, and ensure comfort during prolonged use and activities (such as cycling).

[0007] The helmet should be neither too cold nor too hot when worn.

[0008] The helmet should not accumulate water vapor from sweat or the environment, for example to protect the user's head from rain, while also facilitating the transfer of sweat from the user's head.

[0009] Current bicycle helmets typically include an outer shell, a foam layer, and an inner polymer strap assembly that faces the user's head and can be uncomfortable to wear. In addition, the assembly of the strap assembly can have protruding portions that rub against the user's head, which prevents comfortable, prolonged wear. Further, to ensure proper ventilation, current helmets typically have an open configuration that allows, for example, rain and sunlight to reach the user's head.

[0010] Further disadvantages of ordinary bicycle helmets:

[0011] Ordinary helmets are rigid and do not conform to the head and must be adjusted with additional helmet padding;

[0012] Ordinary helmets are made of polystyrene, which can break easily. If a bicycle helmet is dropped on a hard surface, such as asphalt or concrete, it is generally recommended to discard the helmet as the structure of the helmet may be damaged;

[0013] Regular helmets are meant to protect against serious head injuries, not against trauma from smaller accidents.

[0014] Conventional helmets have nonlinear protection, such as polystyrene that only bends at certain high impact forces. While most bicycle crashes are minor and non-fatal, most bicycle accidents result in severe concussions because the hard and rigid polystyrene of conventional helmets cannot absorb low impact forces.

[0015] Hence, a protective element and an improved flexible and / or foldable helmet would be advantageous, and in particular a more effective and / or reliable protective element and a flexible and / or foldable helmet would be advantageous.

[0016] Purpose of the Invention

[0017] An object of the present invention is to provide a flexible and / or foldable helmet which has an improved fit to the user's head, is comfortable regardless of the external temperature or other aspects of the weather and during the user's activities, has improved safety and is easier to store.

[0018] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an alternative to the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0019] Therefore, in a first aspect of the present invention, the above objects and various other objects are achieved by providing a flexible bicycle helmet for protecting the user's head along and above the periphery of the skull extending from the frontal bone to the occipital bone, the flexible helmet comprising:

[0020] a flexible head conforming element made of a fabric suitable for vapor transmission, the flexible head conforming element having an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the flexible head conforming element is configured to have a shape that conforms to a user's head;

[0021] A plurality of protective elements arranged and attached at preselected locations on an outer surface of a flexible head-fitting element to provide a flexible helmet having at least a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion separated by a gap; the protective elements comprising:

[0022] a base having a bottom surface adapted for attachment to a flexible head-engaging element, and

[0023] An external member is arranged on the base opposite to the bottom surface, the external member being made of another material different from the material of the base or having a higher density than the density of the base.

[0024] Flexible helmets are particularly advantageous for providing a comfortable helmet that protects the user's head from impacts while also protecting the user from environmental influences, such as heat / cold temperatures, rain, snow, sun, and the like.

[0025] Further, the construction of the flexible helmet provides linear impact protection, thereby being able to absorb lower force impacts, facilitating a wider range of impact incidents to the user.

[0026] Furthermore, due to the elastic properties of the flexible helmet, the flexible properties of the flexible helmet can continue to be used even after the helmet is dropped.

[0027] Yet another advantage of a flexible helmet is that the absolute volume of the helmet is reduced, since the thickness of the helmet is lower than that shown in the prior art.

[0028] It will be appreciated that the flexible head conforming element provides a comfortable lining towards the user's head, conforming to the shape of the user, while providing adequate temperature and moisture control to enable the user to move while wearing the flexible helmet.

[0029] In an alternative embodiment of the first aspect, the present invention provides a foldable helmet for protecting a user's head, the helmet comprising:

[0030] a head conforming element having an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the flexible head conforming element is configured to have a shape that conforms to a user's head;

[0031] a plurality of protective elements arranged and attached at preselected locations on the outer surface of the head-fitting element to provide a helmet having at least a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion separated by a gap;

[0032] wherein the inner surface of the head fitting element in the open configuration is configured to be arranged on the user's head, and wherein the head fitting element is bendable at least in the gap to allow the helmet to be folded into a closed configuration, the closed configuration being provided by folding at least the front portion and / or the rear portion of the helmet inwardly toward the middle portion.

[0033] It should be understood that the flexible and foldable features of the present invention are not mutually exclusive, but rather the flexible feature of the flexible helmet may further allow the flexible helmet to be further foldable.

[0034] In the context of the present invention, vapour transport is understood as the moisture dissipation properties of the fabric. Thus, the fabric is made of a suitable yarn or polyester that is able to remove vapour from the user's head.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the flexible head conforming element is composed of multiple layers, with the innermost layer being made of wool, such as merino wool or polyester, so that vapor can dissipate more quickly to the other layers of the flexible head conforming element and away from the user's head.

[0036] In some embodiments, the textile fabric is comprised of multiple layers of fabric having different deniers per filament to enable unidirectional transport of vapor away from the user's head.

[0037] The standard enthalpy of vaporization at 25°C is 44 kJ / mol.

[0038] 1 mol of water weighs about 18 g, so 1 g of water can consume 2.4 kJ of energy, where 1 g of water = 2400 J and therefore 0.41 g of water = 1000 J.

[0039] To get rid of 1000W (J / s) of heat during moderate intensity exercise (such as cycling for 20 minutes), the fabric can provide evaporation of up to 1200s*0.41g / s=492g of water.

[0040] In preferred embodiments, the fabric is capable of transmitting vapor at a rate of 1 to 15 grams of water per minute, in more preferred embodiments, 5 to 20 grams of water per minute, and in even more preferred embodiments, 10 to 25 grams of water per minute.

[0041] In another preferred embodiment, at least some of the flexible head conforming elements are made of 3D microfibers.

[0042] Preferably, the inner surface of the flexible head engaging element is coated with a vapor transmission coating to further promote the dissipation of vapor away from the user's head.

[0043] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the plurality of protection elements further comprises an intermediate element sandwiched between the base and the outer element. This embodiment may be particularly advantageous for providing a protection element with multiple impact dissipation features, i.e., for example, wherein the outer element is impact resistant and impact dissipating, and the base and / or the intermediate element further dissipates and absorbs impacts by elastic deformation.

[0044] In another advantageous embodiment, the base of the protection element further comprises a cavity adapted to receive the intermediate element, and wherein the outer layer covers the outer surface of the base and the intermediate layer.It should be understood that the cavity of the base may be partially or fully embedded in the intermediate element.

[0045] An intermediate element as described above may further provide improved resistance and dissipation of shear forces towards the user's head.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the intermediate element is made of a different material than the base, or the density of the intermediate layer is different than the density of the base.

[0047] In another preferred embodiment, at least some of the plurality of protective elements have different sizes and / or shapes depending on their unique locations on the flexible head engaging element.

[0048] In yet another preferred embodiment, the cavities of at least some of the bases of the protective element have different sizes and / or shapes, and wherein an intermediate element of a single size and shape can substantially fill the cavity, such as by positioning one, two or more intermediate elements into the cavity.

[0049] In another embodiment, at least some of the bases of the plurality of protective elements include two or more cavities, and wherein each cavity can receive an intermediate element, each intermediate element having a similar size and shape.

[0050] These embodiments are particularly advantageous for reducing waste and facilitating quick and easy assembly, as an intermediate element of a single size and shape can be used with cavities of bases of various sizes / shapes.

[0051] In the context of the present invention, folding inwards may be understood as pushing the parts towards the middle part inside the helmet.

[0052] The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for obtaining a helmet that can be stored using a minimum of space, since the helmet can be folded to reduce its size.

[0053] In one embodiment of the present invention, the helmet further comprises a spacer element, which is arranged around the plurality of protection elements and is configured to prevent collapse of the gaps and is further configured to deform when the helmet is folded.

[0054] In another embodiment of the invention, the spacer element may be configured to transmit a fluid, such as vapor, such as water, such as sweat, and further comprises an outer surface, which is preferably waterproof.

[0055] In another embodiment of the present invention, the head conforming element may include at least two layers of different materials. In some embodiments of the present invention, the head conforming element is a liner.

[0056] In the context of the present invention, a lining is understood to be a textile material that provides a fit to the user's head while also providing protection for the head.

[0057] In another embodiment of the present invention, the head conforming element is made of a material having elastic properties, such as elastic fabric.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the spacer element may be made of a mesh textile, such as Airtex mesh textile, or a foam.

[0059] In some embodiments, at least the base of the protective element is made of compression molded foam, such as EVA or PU.

[0060] In some embodiments, the flexible head-fitting element is made of one or more of nylon, polyester, polyurethane or wool. It should be understood that the flexible head-fitting element can be made of multiple layers (such as layers with different deniers per filament), and / or wherein the layers are made of one or more of the above materials to increase the rate at which the vapor dissipates away from the user's head.

[0061] The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for obtaining a helmet that can be fitted to a user's head, as the head fitting element is modifiable and can thereby be fitted to a variety of head shapes, such that the circumference of the helmet can be reduced.

[0062] In another embodiment of the invention, the liner can be configured to transmit fluids, such as vapor, such as water, such as sweat, and further comprises an outer surface, which is preferably waterproof or impermeable. In some embodiments, the outer surface of one or more of the spacer element and the flexible head-fitting element can be coated with or made of a one-way vapor film to transmit vapor / moisture from the user's head toward the external environment.

[0063] In the context of the present invention, the coating may be selected from one or more of an oleophobic or a hydrophobic coating.

[0064] It will further be appreciated that a membrane (such as a semi-permeable coating) may be adhered or coated to the interior of the head conforming element to diffuse vapors from the user's head to the external environment.

[0065] In another embodiment of the invention, the head conforming element can be configured to absorb moisture, such as water, such as sweat, on the inner surface, and / or wherein the flexible head conforming element can be configured to release moisture, such as water, such as sweat, on the outer surface. In some embodiments, the head conforming element is made of a fabric with cooling properties.

[0066] In the context of the present invention, the waterproof capability of the flexible head conforming element and / or the spacer element should be understood as preventing moisture from entering the interior of the helmet, but allowing or diffusing moisture to leave the helmet.

[0067] The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for obtaining a helmet which can provide a cooling effect to a user wearing the helmet as sweat or water can be transported away from the user's skin and released into the surrounding atmosphere.

[0068] In another embodiment of the present invention, the helmet further comprises a fastener on each side of the helmet, the fastener being attached at one or more preselected locations on the head fitting element and comprising a locking mechanism at the other end, the locking mechanism being configured to lock around or under the chin of the user.

[0069] In another embodiment of the invention, the surface area of ​​the rear portion is greater than the surface area of ​​the front portion.

[0070] In another embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of protective elements may be attached to the head engaging element using an adhesive, such as a flexible adhesive, such as a polyurethane based adhesive, such as a silicone based adhesive.

[0071] In another embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the helmet may be in the range of 10-20 mm, such as 12-20 mm, such as 14-18 mm.

[0072] The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for obtaining a helmet which can be manufactured using less material due to the improvement in the thickness of the helmet.

[0073] In another embodiment of the invention the helmet forms a volume inside the helmet in the open configuration, wherein the volume in the closed configuration may be lower than 70% of the volume in the open configuration, such as lower than 65% of the volume in the open configuration.

[0074] In the context of the present application, the thickness of a helmet may be understood as the thickness of the helmet measured from the inner surface of the head fitting element to the outer surface of the protective element. The thickness may in some embodiments be an average thickness.

[0075] In another embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the head engaging element may be in the range of 1-7 mm, such as 2-5 mm.

[0076] In the context of the present application, the thickness of the head conforming element may be understood as the thickness of the head conforming element measured from the inner surface of the head conforming element to the outer surface of the head conforming element. The thickness may be an average thickness in some embodiments.

[0077] In another embodiment of the present invention, the width of the gap may be in the range of 10-18 mm, such as 12-16 mm.

[0078] In another embodiment of the present invention, the helmet further comprises an extension element as a continuation of the head fitting element extending to the exterior of the helmet, the extension element providing light protection for the user.

[0079] In another embodiment of the invention, the front portion and / or the middle portion and / or the rear portion comprises a plurality of protection elements arranged and attached at preselected positions in the portion separated by longitudinal gaps.

[0080] In the context of the present application, the longitudinal direction may be understood as the direction from the rear part of the helmet towards the front part of the helmet, ie from the rear part of the helmet towards the front part of the helmet.

[0081] In one embodiment of the invention, the longitudinal gap is perpendicular to the gap.

[0082] In another embodiment of the present invention, the middle portion may be a protective element.

[0083] In another embodiment of the invention, the flexible and / or foldable helmet is a bicycle helmet.

[0084] In a second aspect, the invention relates to a method of manufacturing a flexible bicycle helmet according to the first aspect, the method comprising:

[0085] determining a head size of the flexible helmet, said head size corresponding to the head size of the user,

[0086] providing a flexible head conforming element by the vapor transmission fabric, the flexible head conforming element corresponding to the head size,

[0087] Determine the placement of clearance and protection elements along the outer area of ​​the flexible head conforming element,

[0088] A plurality of protective elements are secured to an outer surface of the flexible head conforming element in a pattern based on the layout.

[0089] In an advantageous embodiment, the method further comprises:

[0090] providing one or more vapor transmission spacer elements on an outer surface of the flexible head conforming element corresponding to the arrangement of the gaps, the vapor transmission elements protruding from the outer surface of the flexible head conforming element defining a pattern,

[0091] The protection elements are arranged in a pattern defined by the spacing elements and / or in a pattern based on the layout.

[0092] In another advantageous embodiment, the method further comprises:

[0093] A flexible adhesive is provided for securing the protective element to the flexible head engaging element.

[0094] In another advantageous embodiment, wherein the protection element comprises three elements, the method further comprises:

[0095] providing a base having a bottom surface adapted to be secured to an outer surface of a flexible head engaging element,

[0096] The intermediate element is arranged on a surface of the base opposite to the bottom surface,

[0097] An outer member is provided covering at least the intermediate member.

[0098] In another advantageous embodiment, wherein the protection element comprises three elements, the method further comprises:

[0099] providing a base having a bottom surface adapted to be secured to an outer surface of a flexible head engaging element,

[0100] embedding the intermediate element at least partially in a surface of the base opposite to the bottom surface,

[0101] An outer member is provided covering at least the intermediate member.

[0102] In a third aspect, the invention relates to a protective element for a flexible and / or foldable helmet, the protective element providing, when attached to the helmet, an absorption of the forces received during an impact to a level that reduces the risk of injury to the user, the protective element comprising:

[0103] a base having a top and a bottom, wherein the bottom is configured to be attached to a head fitting element of a flexible and / or foldable helmet, and wherein the base further comprises a cavity;

[0104] an external element disposed and attached on top of the base and configured to receive an impact having a force, the external element further configured to disperse the force received by the impact over a surface area of ​​the external element; and

[0105] An intermediate element is disposed in the cavity in the base and has a preselected structure, such as a lattice structure, such as a honeycomb structure, configured to be elastically deformable in response to forces received by the external element during an impact.

[0106] The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for obtaining a protective element that can absorb an equivalent amount of force that a typical bicycle helmet can absorb over the entire protective portion of the helmet.

[0107] In another embodiment of the present invention, the intermediate element and / or the base may be made of a material that can be elastically deformed when the ambient temperature is in the range of -20 to 50 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -20 to 40 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -10 to 30 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -5 to 25 degrees Celsius.

[0108] In another embodiment of the invention, the intermediate element may be made of a thermoplastic elastomeric material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), such as a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), and preferably comprises a non-Newtonian additive, such as a shear thinning additive, such as a shear thickening additive.

[0109] In another embodiment of the invention, the stiffness of the outer element may be greater than the stiffness of the intermediate element, and wherein the stiffness of the intermediate element may be greater than the stiffness of the base.

[0110] In another embodiment of the present invention, the outer element may be made of a thermoplastic polymer material, such as a polycarbonate material, and wherein the base is preferably made of a low-density material, such as polyurethane (PU).

[0111] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for folding a foldable helmet, the method comprising:

[0112] A foldable helmet is provided, the helmet comprising: a head fitting element having an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the head fitting element is configured to have a shape that fits a user's head;

[0113] a plurality of protective elements arranged and attached at preselected locations on the outer surface of the head-fitting element to provide a helmet having at least a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion separated by a gap;

[0114] applying a force on a front portion and / or a rear portion comprising a plurality of protective elements arranged and attached at preselected locations on an outer surface of a head-fitting element of the helmet; and

[0115] Use the applied force to fold the front section inward.

[0116] In another embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises:

[0117] Use the applied force to fold the rear section inwards.

[0118] The first, second, third and fourth aspects of the present invention may each be combined with any other aspect.These and other aspects of the present invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0119] The helmet and protective element according to the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate one way of implementing the invention and should not be interpreted as limiting other possible embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0120] Figure 1 is a three-axis view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] Figure 2 is a partial view of a protection element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0122] Figure 3 is a bottom view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] Figure 4 is a triaxial view of a spacing element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] Figure 5 is an exploded view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] Figure 7 is a side view of a foldable helmet in a closed configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0127] Figure 8 is an exploded triaxial view of a protection element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] Fig. 9 is a side view of the skull showing the area covered by the flexible helmet.

[0129] Fig.10 A flow chart of an embodiment of a method according to the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0130] refer to Figure 1 , showing a triaxial view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention. The helmet shown is a flexible and / or foldable helmet for protecting the user's head, comprising a head fitting element 2 (not shown in this figure) having an outer surface and an inner surface. The flexible and / or foldable helmet further comprises a plurality of protective elements 3 arranged and attached at preselected positions on the outer surface of the head fitting element 2 to provide a helmet 1 having at least a front portion 11, a middle portion 12 and a rear portion 13 separated by a gap 4. Figure 1The illustrated embodiment is an open configuration of the helmet, wherein the inner surface of the head conforming element 2 is configured to be disposed on the user's head, and wherein the head conforming element 2 is bendable at least in the gap 4 to allow the helmet 1 to be folded into a closed configuration. Figure 7 One embodiment of a closed configuration is shown. The closed configuration can be provided by folding the front portion and the rear portion inwardly towards the middle portion of the helmet 1. In some embodiments, the front portion or the rear portion is folded inwardly towards the middle portion of the helmet 1. The helmet further comprises an extension element 14 as a continuation of the head fitting element extending to the outside of the helmet. The extension element 14 can be made of the same material as the head fitting element and provides light protection for the user.

[0131] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the front portion 11 and the middle portion 12 comprise a plurality of protection elements 3 arranged and attached at preselected locations in the portions 11, 12. The protection elements arranged in the portions are separated by longitudinal gaps 10. The protection elements may be attached to the head fitting element using a flexible adhesive, preferably a polyurethane-based adhesive or a silicone-based adhesive.

[0132] In other embodiments, the middle portion 12 is the protective element 3 .

[0133] refer to Figure 2 , shows a triaxial view of a protection element (outer part 8 not shown) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The protection element provides absorption of forces received during an impact. The protection element 3 comprises: a base 6 comprising a cavity configured to receive an intermediate element; an outer element 8 arranged and attached on top of the base 6; and an intermediate element 7, wherein the intermediate element 7 is arranged in a cavity 9 in the base 6. The outer element 8 and the intermediate element 7 are typically glued together with the base using a flexible adhesive.

[0134] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the intermediate element 7 has a grid structure that is configured to be elastically deformable in response to the force received by the external element 8 during an impact, which may occur if the user falls from the bicycle while wearing a helmet. In other embodiments, the structure of the intermediate element can be a honeycomb structure. The intermediate element can be made of a material that is elastically deformable when the ambient temperature is in the range of -20 to 40 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -10 to 30 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -5 to 25 degrees Celsius. Typically, the intermediate element 7 is made of a thermoplastic elastomer material, such as a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV). In some embodiments, the intermediate element may further include a non-Newtonian additive, such as a shear thinning additive, such as a shear thickening additive, which can improve the absorption of force in some cases.

[0135] Typically, the outer element 8 is made of a thermoplastic polymer material, such as polycarbonate. The base is typically made of a low density material, such as polyurethane (PU).

[0136] Preferably, the shape and / or structure of the intermediate element is optimized by the impact to weight ratio while being able to fit into the cavity of the base. Optimization of shape and structure based on impact requirements and weight requirements allows the helmet to be modified based on the intended use.

[0137] In one embodiment, the stiffness of the material of the outer element 8 is greater than the stiffness of the material of the intermediate element 7, and wherein the stiffness of the material of the intermediate element 7 is greater than the stiffness of the material of the base 6. The stiffness can be determined using the Young's modulus (E) using the following formula:

[0138]

[0139] Where E is Young's modulus, σ is stress measured in force per unit area, and ε is strain.

[0140] refer to Figure 3 , shows a bottom view of a flexible and / or foldable helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention. The head fitting element is generally made of a fabric material and is configured to have a shape that fits the user's head. In the illustrated embodiment, an extension element 14 is arranged at the front portion of the head fitting element 2, which extends outside the helmet to provide light protection for the user. The extension element can further provide rain protection for the user's eyes, which can improve the safety of the helmet.

[0141] The head fitting element is typically made of a fabric material and may be referred to as a liner. The material may be selected based on fluid transport properties so that sweat or water within the helmet may be transported away from the user's head and released into the surrounding atmosphere. In some embodiments, the head fitting element 2 includes multiple layers, wherein each layer is made of a different material, such as one material that is superficially waterproof.

[0142] The thickness of the head fitting element 2 is usually in the range of 1-7 mm. In certain embodiments, it can even be in the range of 2-5 mm.

[0143] refer to Figure 4 , shows a triaxial view of a spacer element according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the spacer element 5 shown is made into a single piece, such as using a 3D printer to make a preselected polymer (preferably with elastic properties). In other embodiments, the spacer element 5 is made of multiple pieces. In some embodiments, the spacer element 5 is made of foam, such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), such as PU.

[0144] Figure 4 The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is generally arranged around a plurality of protective elements 3 to prevent collapse of the gap 4 while being deformable when the helmet is folded into a closed configuration. The spacer elements may be made of a resilient polymer material, preferably a foam such as polyurethane (PU), such as EVA, and the material may be selected based on fluid transport properties so that fluids (such as sweat) can be effectively transported from the helmet to the surrounding atmosphere.

[0145] refer to Figure 5 , showing an exploded view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 An assembled flexible and / or foldable helmet 1 is shown, comprising a head conforming element, a plurality of protective elements 3. The protective element shown shows a base 6 including a cavity 9, an intermediate element 7 and an outer element 8, and their preselected arrangement on the outer surface of the head conforming element 2 (marked as squares on the outer surface of the head conforming element).

[0146] refer to Figure 6 , a partial cross-sectional view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The flexible and / or foldable helmet shown comprises a head fitting element 2, an outer element 8 of a protective element, an intermediate element 7 of a protective element, a base 6 of a protective element, a gap 4 and a spacing element 5 arranged in the gap 4. The helmet preferably further comprises a fastener (not shown) located on each side of the helmet. The fastener is usually attached at one end thereof to the outer surface of the head fitting element (2) but at one or more preselected positions below the protective element 3. The fastener may be provided with a locking mechanism at the other end, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to lock around or below the user's chin.

[0147] Preferably, the gap 4 extends in the transverse direction of the helmet, the transverse direction being the direction from one side of the helmet to the opposite side of the helmet. More preferably, the gap 4 is perpendicular to the longitudinal gap 10.

[0148] The thickness of the flexible and / or foldable helmet is typically in the range of 10-20 mm, such as 12-20 mm, such as 14-18 mm. The thickness can be measured as the distance from the inner surface of the head fitting element 2 to the outer surface of the outer element 8. In some embodiments, the thickness can be a median thickness determined based on multiple measurements at different locations on the helmet.

[0149] The width of the gap 4 , measured as the distance from one end of the protection element 3 to the other end of the protection element 3 separated by the gap 4 , will typically be in the range of 10-18 mm, such as 12-16 mm.

[0150] refer to Figure 7, shows a side view of a foldable helmet in a closed configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention. The foldable helmet shown in the closed configuration includes a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion. Gaps provided between these portions allow the helmet to be folded using a force applied by a person, such as by pushing the front portion and / or the rear portion toward the middle portion. In the illustrated embodiment, the thumb is placed on the rear portion, while the remaining fingers are placed on the middle portion. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion is larger than the front portion.

[0151] refer to Figure 8 , shows an exploded triaxial view of a protection element 3 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The protection element 3 includes an outer element 8, a base 6, the base including six cavities, each cavity 9 accommodating an intermediate element 7. It should be understood that the protection element 3 is not limited to supporting, for example, six, more or less intermediate elements 7, but is only shown herein to illustrate the principle of the protection element 3. In addition, in some embodiments, a single cavity 9 having a shape different from that of the intermediate element 7 can be equipped with two or more intermediate elements 7 to ensure that the cavity 9 is substantially filled by the intermediate element 7.

[0152] refer to Fig. 9 , showing the area covered by the flexible helmet in a side view of the skull. A helmet line H_L is shown, which extends in an arc from the occipital bone O_B at the back of the skull toward the frontal bone F_B at the front of the skull. The flexible helmet is adapted to substantially cover the area of ​​the skull at and above the helmet line H_L, toward and including the top of the user's head. In a preferred embodiment, the arcuate extension of the helmet line H_L releases the user's ears (not shown) from the helmet. It should also be understood that the helmet line H_L may deviate slightly, such as + / - 4 cm, depending on the size, fit and shape of the user's head, but should always cover at least the peripheral area extending from a portion of the occipital bone O_B to the frontal bone F_B.

[0153] refer to Fig.10 , a flow chart showing an embodiment of a method for manufacturing a flexible bicycle helmet, the method comprising the following steps:

[0154] S1-determining the head size of the flexible helmet, said head size corresponding to the head size of the user,

[0155] S2 - a flexible head-fitting element provided by a vapor-transporting fabric, the flexible head-fitting element corresponding to said head size,

[0156] S3-determine the layout of the gaps and protective elements along the outer area of ​​the flexible head conforming element,

[0157] S4-Securing a plurality of protective elements to the outer surface of the flexible head conforming element in a pattern based on the layout.

[0158] In some embodiments, when the front portion and / or the rear portion are folded inwardly, the middle portion is at least partially unfolded.

[0159] The following items are a list of embodiments according to the present invention:

[0160] Item 1. A foldable helmet 1 for protecting a user's head, the helmet comprising:

[0161] a head conforming element 2 having an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the flexible head conforming element 2 is configured to have a shape that conforms to a user's head;

[0162] a plurality of protective elements 3 arranged and attached at preselected locations on the outer surface of the head-fitting element 2 to provide a helmet 1 having at least a front portion 11, a middle portion 12, and a rear portion 13 separated by a gap 4;

[0163] wherein the inner surface of the head fitting element 2 in the open configuration is configured to be arranged on the user's head, and wherein the head fitting element 2 is bendable at least in the gap 4 to allow the helmet 1 to be folded into a closed configuration, which is provided by folding at least the front portion and / or the rear portion of the helmet 1 inwardly toward the middle portion.

[0164] Clause 2. A foldable helmet according to clause 1, further comprising a spacer element 5, which is arranged around the plurality of protection elements 3 and is configured to prevent collapse of the gaps 4, and the spacer element 5 is further configured to deform when the helmet 1 is folded.

[0165] Clause 3. A foldable helmet according to clause 2, wherein the spacer element 5 is configured to transmit a fluid, such as vapor, such as water, such as sweat, and further comprises an outer surface, which is preferably waterproof.

[0166] Clause 4. A foldable helmet according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the head conforming element 2 comprises at least two layers of different materials.

[0167] Item 5. A foldable helmet according to any of the preceding items, wherein the head fitting element 2 is configured to absorb moisture, such as water, such as sweat, on the inner surface, and / or wherein the head fitting element 2 is configured to release moisture, such as water, such as sweat, on the outer surface.

[0168] Item 6. A foldable helmet according to any of the preceding items, further comprising a fastener located on each side of the helmet, the fastener being attached at one or more preselected locations on the head fitting element 2, and comprising a locking mechanism at the other end, the locking mechanism being configured to lock around or under the user's chin.

[0169] Clause 7. A foldable helmet according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the plurality of protective elements 3 are attached to the head conforming element 2 using a flexible adhesive.

[0170] Clause 8. A foldable helmet according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the thickness of the helmet 1 is in the range of 10-20 mm, such as 12-20 mm, such as 14-18 mm.

[0171] Clause 9. A foldable helmet according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising an extension element 14 as a continuation of the head fitting element extending to the exterior of the helmet, the extension element providing light protection to the user, such as from sunlight.

[0172] Clause 10. A foldable helmet according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the front portion 11 and / or the middle portion 12 and / or the rear portion 13 comprises a plurality of protective elements 3 arranged and attached at preselected positions in the portions 11, 12, 13 separated by longitudinal gaps 10.

[0173] Clause 11. A foldable helmet according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the middle portion 12 is a protective element 3.

[0174] Clause 12. A protective element 3 for a foldable helmet 1, the protective element 3 providing, when attached to the helmet 1, an absorption of the forces received during an impact to a level that reduces the risk of injury to the user, the protective element 3 comprising:

[0175] a base 6 having a top and a bottom, wherein the bottom is configured to be attached to a head fitting element 2 of a foldable helmet 1, such as the head fitting element 2 disclosed in any of clauses 1-11, and wherein the base 6 further comprises a cavity 9;

[0176] an external element 8 arranged and attached on top of the base 6 and configured to receive an impact having a force, the external element 8 being further configured to disperse the force received by the impact over a surface area of ​​the external element 8; and

[0177] The intermediate element 7 , which is arranged in the cavity 9 in the base 6 and has a preselected structure, such as a grid structure, such as a honeycomb structure, configured to be elastically deformable in response to the forces received by the outer element 8 during an impact.

[0178] Item 13. A protective element 3 according to item 12, wherein the intermediate element 7 is made of a material that can be elastically deformed when the ambient temperature is in the range of -20 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -10 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -5 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius.

[0179] Clause 14. Protection element according to any of clauses 12 or 13, wherein the intermediate element 7 is made of a thermoplastic elastomer material, such as TPE, such as TPV, and preferably comprises a non-Newtonian additive, such as a shear thinning additive, such as a shear thickening additive.

[0180] Clause 15. Protection element according to any of clauses 12 to 14, wherein the stiffness of the outer element 8 is greater than the stiffness of the intermediate element 7 , and wherein the stiffness of the intermediate element 7 is greater than the stiffness of the base 6 .

[0181] Clause 16. The protection element according to any of Clauses 12 to 15, wherein the outer element 8 is made of a thermoplastic polymer material, such as a polycarbonate material, and wherein the base 6 is preferably made of a low-density material, such as PU.

[0182] Clause 17. A foldable helmet according to any of Clauses 1-11, comprising a protective element according to any of Clauses 12-16.

[0183] Clause 18. A method for folding a foldable helmet, the method comprising:

[0184] A foldable helmet is provided, the foldable helmet comprising: a head fitting element having an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the head fitting element is configured to have a shape that fits the user's head; a plurality of protective elements, such as the protective element according to any one of clauses 12-16, arranged and attached at preselected positions on the outer surface of the head fitting element to provide a helmet having at least a front portion, a middle portion and a rear portion separated by a gap, such as the foldable helmet 1 according to any one of clauses 1-11;

[0185] applying a force on a front portion and / or a rear portion comprising a plurality of protective elements arranged and attached at preselected locations on an outer surface of a head-fitting element of the helmet; and

[0186] Use the applied force to fold the front section inward.

[0187] Clause 19. A method for folding a foldable helmet according to Clause 18, further comprising folding the rear portion inwardly using the applied force.

[0188] Clause 1.1. A flexible bicycle helmet 1 for protecting a user's head along and above the periphery of the skull extending from the frontal bone to the occipital bone, the flexible helmet comprising:

[0189] a flexible head conforming element made of a fabric suitable for vapor transmission, the flexible head conforming element having an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the flexible head conforming element is configured to have a shape that conforms to a user's head;

[0190] A plurality of protective elements arranged and attached at preselected locations on an outer surface of a flexible head-fitting element to provide a flexible helmet having at least a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion separated by a gap; the protective elements comprising:

[0191] a base having a bottom surface adapted for attachment to a flexible head-engaging element, and

[0192] An external member is arranged on the base opposite to the bottom surface, the external member being made of another material different from the material of the base or having a higher density than the density of the base.

[0193] Item 1.2. The flexible helmet according to Item 1.1 also includes one or more vapor-transmitting spacer elements, which are arranged at least and fluidly connected to the outer surface of the flexible head-fitting element, and the spacer elements protrude from the outer surface of the flexible head-fitting element and are at least adjacent to the side surfaces of the bases of multiple protective elements, and the spacer elements are configured to prevent collapse of the gap.

[0194] Clause 1.3. A flexible helmet according to Clause 1.2, wherein the outer surface of the spacer element is waterproof.

[0195] Clause 1.4. A flexible helmet as recited in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the plurality of protective elements 3 are attached to the head conforming element 2 using a flexible adhesive.

[0196] Clause 1.5. A flexible helmet according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the thickness of the flexible helmet 1 is in the range of 10-20 mm, such as 12-20 mm, such as 14-18 mm.

[0197] Clause 1.6. A flexible helmet according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the front portion 11 and / or the middle portion 12 and / or the rear portion 13 comprises a plurality of protective elements 3 arranged and attached at preselected positions in the portions 11, 12, 13 separated by longitudinal gaps 10.

[0198] Clause 1.7. A flexible helmet according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the middle portion 12 is a protective element 3.

[0199] Clause 1.8. The flexible helmet of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the plurality of protective elements further comprises an intermediate element sandwiched between the base and the outer element.

[0200] Clause 1.9. A flexible helmet according to any of Clauses 1.1 to 1.7, wherein the base of the protective element further comprises a cavity adapted to receive the intermediate element, and wherein the outer layer covers the outer surface of the base and the intermediate layer.

[0201] Clause 1.10. A flexible helmet according to clause 1.8 or 1.9, wherein the intermediate element is made of a different material than the base, or the density of the intermediate layer is different from the density of the base.

[0202] Clause 1.11. A flexible helmet according to any one of clauses 1.8 to 1.10, wherein the intermediate element has a preselected structure, such as a grid structure, such as a honeycomb structure, which is configured to be elastically deformable in response to forces received by the external element (8) during an impact.

[0203] Clause 1.12. A flexible helmet according to any one of clauses 1.8 to 1.11, wherein the intermediate element 7 is made of a material that can be elastically deformed when the ambient temperature is in the range of -20 to 40 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -10 to 30 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -5 to 25 degrees Celsius.

[0204] Clause 1.13. A flexible helmet according to any of Clauses 1.8 to 1.12, wherein the intermediate element 7 is made of a thermoplastic elastomer material, such as TPE, such as TPV, and preferably includes non-Newtonian additives, such as shear thinning additives, such as shear thickening additives.

[0205] Clause 1.14. A flexible helmet according to any of Clauses 1.8 to 1.13, wherein the stiffness of outer element 8 is higher than the stiffness of intermediate element 7, and wherein the stiffness of intermediate element 7 is higher than the stiffness of base 6.

[0206] Clause 1.15. A flexible helmet according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the outer element 8 is made of a thermoplastic polymer material, such as a polycarbonate material, and wherein the base 6 is preferably made of a low-density material, such as PU.

[0207] Clause 1.16. A flexible helmet as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the flexible helmet is a foldable helmet adapted to be folded into a closed configuration by folding along one or more gaps 4 .

[0208] Clause 1.17. A flexible helmet according to clause 1.16, wherein the helmet 1 can be folded into a closed configuration by folding at least the front portion and / or the rear portion of the helmet inwardly towards the middle portion.

[0209] Clause 1.18. A flexible helmet according to clause 1.16 or 1.17, wherein the spacing element 5 is configured to deform elastically when the helmet 1 is folded.

[0210] Clause 1.19. A method of manufacturing a flexible bicycle helmet according to Clause 1, the method comprising:

[0211] determining a head size of the flexible helmet, said head size corresponding to the head size of the user,

[0212] providing a flexible head conforming element by the vapor transmission fabric, the flexible head conforming element corresponding to the head size,

[0213] Determine the placement of clearance and protection elements along the outer area of ​​the flexible head conforming element,

[0214] A plurality of protective elements are secured to an outer surface of the flexible head conforming element in a pattern based on the layout.

[0215] Clause 1.20. The method according to clause 1.19, further comprising:

[0216] providing one or more vapor transmitting spacer elements on an outer surface of the flexible head conforming element corresponding to the arrangement of the gaps, the vapor transmitting elements protruding from the outer surface of the flexible head conforming element defining a pattern,

[0217] The protection elements are arranged in a pattern defined by the spacing elements and / or in a pattern based on the layout.

[0218] Clause 1.21. A method according to clause 1.19 or 1.20, further comprising:

[0219] A flexible adhesive is provided for securing the protective element to the flexible head engaging element.

[0220] Clause 1.22. The method of any one of Clauses 1.19 to 1.21, wherein the protection element comprises three elements, the method further comprising:

[0221] providing a base having a bottom surface adapted to be secured to an outer surface of a flexible head engaging element,

[0222] The intermediate element is arranged on a surface of the base opposite to the bottom surface,

[0223] An outer member is provided covering at least the intermediate member.

[0224] Clause 1.23. The method of any one of Clauses 1.19 to 1.21, wherein the protection element comprises three elements, the method further comprising:

[0225] providing a base having a bottom surface adapted to be secured to an outer surface of a flexible head engaging element,

[0226] embedding the intermediate element at least partially in a surface of the base opposite to the bottom surface,

[0227] An outer member is provided covering at least the intermediate member.

[0228] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments, it should not be interpreted as being limited in any way to the examples presented. The scope of the present invention is set forth by the appended claims. In the context of the claims, the terms "comprise" or "include" do not exclude other possible elements or steps. In addition, references such as "one" or "an" should not be interpreted as excluding pluralities. The use of reference numerals in the claims regarding elements shown in the drawings should also not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present invention. In addition, the various features mentioned in different claims may be advantageously combined, and mentioning these features in different claims does not exclude that the combination of features is impossible and advantageous.

[0229] List of reference symbols used

[0230] 1 Helmet

[0231] 2 Head fitting components

[0232] 3 Protection components

[0233] 4 Clearance

[0234] 5 Spacer elements

[0235] 6 Base

[0236] 7 Intermediate components

[0237] 8 External Components

[0238] 9 Cavity

[0239] 10 Longitudinal gap

[0240] 11Front section

[0241] 12Central part

[0242] 13 rear part

[0243] 14 Extension elements.

Claims

1. A flexible bicycle helmet (1) for protecting a user's head along and above the periphery of the skull extending from the frontal bone to the occipital bone, the flexible helmet comprising: a flexible head-conforming element (2), the flexible head-conforming element being made of a fabric suitable for vapor transmission, the flexible head-conforming element having an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the flexible head-conforming element (2) is configured to have a shape that fits the user's head; A plurality of protective elements (3) arranged and attached at preselected locations on the outer surface of the flexible head-fitting element (2) to provide the flexible helmet (1), the flexible helmet having at least a front portion (11), a middle portion (12) and a rear portion (13) separated by a gap (4); the protective elements comprising: a base (6) having a bottom surface adapted to be attached to the flexible head engaging element, and An external member is arranged on the base opposite to the bottom surface, the external member being made of another material different from the material of the base or having a density higher than that of the base.

2. The flexible helmet according to claim 1 further comprises one or more vapor-transmitting spacer elements (5), wherein the spacer elements (5) are arranged at least on and fluidly connected to the outer surface of the flexible head-fitting element, the spacer elements protrude from the outer surface of the flexible head-fitting element and are adjacent to at least the side surfaces of the bases of the plurality of protective elements (3), and the spacer elements are configured to prevent the collapse of the gap (4).

3. The flexible helmet according to claim 2, wherein: The outer surface of the spacer element (5) is waterproof.

4. A flexible helmet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The plurality of protective elements (3) are attached to the head conforming element (2) using a flexible adhesive.

5. A flexible helmet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The thickness of the flexible helmet (1) is in the range of 10-20 mm, such as 12-20 mm, such as 14-18 mm.

6. A flexible helmet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The front portion (11) and / or the middle portion (12) and / or the rear portion (13) comprises a plurality of protective elements (3) arranged and attached at preselected positions in the portions (11, 12, 13) separated by longitudinal gaps (10).

7. A flexible helmet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The middle part (12) is the protection element (3).

8. A flexible helmet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The plurality of protection elements further includes an intermediate element sandwiched between the base and the outer element.

9. The flexible helmet according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The base of the protection element further comprises a cavity adapted to receive the intermediate element, and wherein the outer layer covers the outer surface of the base and the intermediate layer.

10. The flexible helmet according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The intermediate element is made of a different material than the base, or the intermediate layer has a different density than the base.

11. The flexible helmet according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein: The intermediate element has a preselected structure, such as a lattice structure, such as a honeycomb structure, configured to be elastically deformable in response to forces received by the outer element (8) during an impact.

12. The flexible helmet according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein: The intermediate element (7) is made of a material that can be elastically deformed when the ambient temperature is in the range of -20 to 40 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -10 to 30 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -5 to 25 degrees Celsius.

13. The flexible helmet according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein: The intermediate element (7) is made of a thermoplastic elastomer material, such as TPE, such as TPV, and preferably comprises a non-Newtonian additive, such as a shear thinning additive, such as a shear thickening additive.

14. The flexible helmet according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein: The outer element (8) has a higher stiffness than the intermediate element (7), and wherein the intermediate element (7) has a higher stiffness than the base (6).

15. A flexible helmet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The outer element (8) is made of a thermoplastic polymer material, such as a polycarbonate material, and wherein the base (6) is preferably made of a low-density material, such as PU.

16. A flexible helmet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The flexible helmet is a foldable helmet adapted to be folded into a closed configuration by folding along the one or more gaps (4).

17. The flexible helmet according to claim 16, wherein: The helmet (1) is foldable into a closed configuration by folding at least the front portion and / or the rear portion of the helmet inwardly towards the middle portion.

18. The flexible helmet according to claim 16 or 17, wherein: The spacing element (5) is configured to deform elastically when the helmet (1) is folded.

19. A method of manufacturing the flexible bicycle helmet according to claim 1, the method comprising: determining a head size of the flexible helmet, the head size corresponding to the head size of the user, providing a flexible head conforming element by the vapor transmission fabric, the flexible head conforming element corresponding to the head size, determining the placement of gaps and protective elements along the outer area of ​​the flexible head conforming element, A plurality of protective elements are secured to the outer surface of the flexible head conforming element in a pattern based on the layout.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising: providing one or more vapor transmitting spacer elements on an outer surface of the flexible head conforming element corresponding to the arrangement of the gaps, the vapor transmitting elements protruding from the outer surface of the flexible head conforming element defining a pattern, The protection elements are arranged in a pattern defined by the spacing elements and / or in a pattern based on the layout.

21. The method according to claim 19 or 20, further comprising: A flexible adhesive is provided for securing the protective element to the flexible head engaging element.

22. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein: The protection element includes three elements, and the method further includes: providing a base having a bottom surface adapted to be secured to an outer surface of the flexible head engaging element, placing an intermediate element on a surface of the base opposite to the bottom surface, An outer element is provided covering at least the intermediate element.

23. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein: The protection element includes three elements, and the method further includes: providing a base having a bottom surface adapted to be secured to an outer surface of the flexible head engaging element, embedding an intermediate element at least partially in a surface of the base opposite to the bottom surface, An outer element is provided covering at least the intermediate element.

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