Protective garment and helmet

Abstract

A protective article of apparel comprising: first and second assemblies (41, 42) configured to move relative to each other; and a sliding interface disposed between the first component and the second component; wherein the sliding interface comprises first and second surfaces (41, 42), the first and second surfaces (41, 42) being opposed to each other and configured to slide relative to each other; the first surface has at least a first region (45) which is at least divided into a first and a second region (47, 48), the first and second regions (47, 48) are configured such that at least one of a static coefficient of friction and a dynamic coefficient of friction of the first region with respect to the second surface is different from at least one of a static coefficient of friction and a dynamic coefficient of friction of the second region with respect to the second surface; the first surface has a second region configured such that a static and / or dynamic coefficient of friction of the first surface with respect to the second surface is different in the first region from the second region (46); the second region is divided into at least first and second regions (49, 50), the first and second regions (49, 50) being configured such that at least one of a static friction coefficient and a dynamic friction coefficient of the first region with respect to the second surface is different from at least one of a static friction coefficient and a dynamic friction coefficient of the second region with respect to the second surface; and an arrangement of the first region and the second region in the first region is different from an arrangement of the first region and the second region in the second region.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to protective clothing, such as a helmet. Background Art

[0002] Impact protection devices are generally intended to reduce the energy transferred to an object (e.g., a person to be protected) by an impact. This can be achieved by an energy absorbing device, an energy redirecting device, or a combination thereof. The energy absorbing device may include an energy absorbing material (e.g., a foam material) or a structure configured to deform elastically and / or plastically in response to an impact. The energy redirecting device may include a structure configured to slide, shear, or otherwise move in response to an impact.

[0003] Impact protection devices include protective clothing for protecting the wearer of the clothing. Protective clothing including energy absorbing devices and / or energy redirecting devices are known. For example, such devices are widely used in protective headgear (e.g. helmets).

[0004] Examples of helmets including energy absorbing and redirecting devices include WO 2001 / 045526 and WO 2011 / 139224 (incorporated herein in their entirety by reference). Specifically, these helmets include at least one layer formed of energy absorbing material and at least one layer capable of moving relative to the head of the helmet wearer under impact.

[0005] Implementing moving parts in a helmet is challenging. For example, ensuring that friction between moving parts can be overcome under impact to allow for sufficient relative movement between parts is challenging. Ensuring that the helmet can be manufactured and assembled relatively easily is challenging.

[0006] Furthermore, it is challenging to connect the two layers of the device in a manner that allows sufficient relative movement between the components of the device under impact and maintains the structural integrity of the device. It is challenging to ensure that the connection can be relatively easy to manufacture and assemble.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a helmet which at least partially solves some of the problems discussed above. Summary of the invention

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an article of protective clothing, comprising: a first component and a second component, which are configured to move relative to each other; and a sliding interface, which is arranged between the first component and the second component; wherein the sliding interface comprises a first surface and a second surface, the first surface and the second surface are opposite to each other and are configured to slide relative to each other; and the first surface has at least a first area, the first area is divided into at least a first zone and a second zone, the first zone and the second zone are at least configured so that at least one of the static friction coefficient and the dynamic friction coefficient of the first zone relative to the second surface is different from at least one of the static friction coefficient and the dynamic friction coefficient of the second zone relative to the second surface.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a helmet is provided, comprising: a first shell and a second shell, which are configured so that the first shell can move relative to the second shell in response to an oblique impact on the helmet; and a sliding interface, which is arranged between the first shell and the second shell; wherein the sliding interface comprises a first surface and a second surface, the first surface and the second surface are each part of a corresponding shell, the first surface and the second surface are opposite to each other and are configured to slide relative to each other; and the first surface has at least a first area and a second area, the first area and the second area are configured so that at least one of the static friction coefficient and the dynamic friction coefficient of the first area relative to the second surface is different from at least one of the static friction coefficient and the dynamic friction coefficient of the second area relative to the second surface.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for manufacturing a helmet assembly is provided, comprising: forming a sheet of material into a shaped form that roughly conforms to the shape of a head, having a concave surface on one side of the shaped form and a convex surface on the other side of the shaped form; fixing the shaped form in a mold so that one of the concave surface and the convex surface forms a part of the mold; and co-molding a second material to the shaped form in the mold; wherein the other concave surface and the convex surface other than one forming portion of the mold have at least a first area, and the at least first area is divided into at least a first zone and a second zone, and the first zone and the second zone are at least configured so that at least one of the static friction coefficient and the dynamic friction coefficient of the first zone relative to the surface of another component of the helmet sliding against the first zone is different from at least one of the static friction coefficient and the dynamic friction coefficient of the second zone relative to the surface of the other component of the helmet. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The present invention is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1schematically shows a cross section of a first example helmet;

[0013] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a second example helmet;

[0014] Figure 3 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a third example helmet;

[0015] Figure 4 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a fourth example helmet;

[0016] Figure 5 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a fifth example helmet;

[0017] Figure 6 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a sixth example helmet;

[0018] Figure 7 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a seventh example helmet;

[0019] Figure 8 An eighth example helmet is shown;

[0020] Fig. 9 A first example of body protection equipment is shown;

[0021] Fig.10 A second example of body protection equipment is shown;

[0022] Fig.11 shows the arrangement of the sliding interface; and

[0023] Figures 12 to 16 Shows the available Fig.11 The patterns of each area of ​​the sliding interface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] It should be noted that the drawings are schematic and that the thickness of the various layers and / or any gaps between layers depicted in the drawings are exaggerated in scale for the sake of clarity and can of course be adjusted as needed and desired.

[0025] Although the examples described below relate to helmets, it should be understood that the present invention is generally applicable to protective equipment (including other types of headgear and other protective clothing).

[0026] The protective device may be understood to have components corresponding to the components of the helmet described below. For example, the protective device may have a layered structure corresponding to the layered structure of the helmet described.

[0027] Terms specific to helmets, such as "radial direction", are understood to have equivalent meanings in the context of other protective equipment (such as "thickness direction"). "Wearer" is generally understood to correspond to the object to be protected by the protective device, and "head" is a specific part of the object (such as different parts of the body that come into contact with the device).

[0028] Refer to the following Figures 1 to 7 Describe the general features of the example helmet.

[0029] Figures 1 to 7 An example helmet 1 is shown that includes an energy absorbing layer 3. The purpose of the energy absorbing layer 3 is to absorb and dissipate energy from an impact to reduce the amount of energy transferred to the helmet wearer. The energy absorbing layer may be the primary energy absorbing element within the helmet 1. Although other elements of the helmet 1 may absorb this energy to a more limited extent, this is not their primary purpose.

[0030] The energy absorbing layer 3 can more effectively absorb energy from the radial component of the impact than the tangential component of the impact. The term "radial" generally refers to a direction substantially toward the center of the wearer's head, such as substantially perpendicular to the outer surface of the helmet 1. The term "tangential" can refer to a direction substantially perpendicular to the radial direction in a plane including the radial direction and the impact direction.

[0031] The energy absorbing layer may be formed of an energy absorbing material such as a foam material. Preferred such materials include expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polyurethane (EPU), vinyl nitrile foam; or strain rate sensitive foam (such as those sold under the brand name Poron TM and D3O TM those that are sold).

[0032] Alternatively or additionally, the energy absorbing layer may have a structure that provides energy absorbing properties. For example, the energy absorbing layer may include deformable elements, such as cells or finger-like protrusions, which deform under impact to absorb and dissipate the energy of the impact.

[0033] like Figure 6 As shown, the energy absorbing layer 3 of the helmet 1 is divided into an outer part 3A and an inner part 3B.

[0034] The energy absorbing layer is not limited to one specific arrangement or material. The energy absorbing layer 3 may be provided by a plurality of layers having different arrangements (i.e. formed of different materials or having different structures). The energy absorbing layer 3 may be a relatively thick layer. For example, it may be the thickest layer of the helmet 1.

[0035] Figures 1 to 7 An example helmet 1 is shown that includes an outer layer 2. The purpose of the outer layer 2 may be to provide rigidity to the helmet. This may help to spread the impact energy over a larger area of ​​the helmet 1. The outer layer 2 may also provide protection from objects that may pierce the helmet 1. Thus, the outer layer may be a relatively strong and / or rigid layer, for example, compared to the energy absorbing layer 3. The outer layer 2 may be a relatively thin layer, for example, compared to the energy absorbing layer 3.

[0036] The outer layer 2 may be formed of a relatively strong and / or rigid material. Preferred such materials include polymeric materials, such as polycarbonate (PC), polyvinylchloride (PVC) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Advantageously, the polymeric material may be fiber reinforced, using materials such as glass fiber, Aramid, Twaron, carbon fiber and / or Kevlar.

[0037] like Figure 7 As shown, one or more outer panels 7 may be mounted on the outer layer 2 of the helmet 1. The outer panels 7 may be formed of a relatively strong and / or rigid material, such as the same type of material that may form the outer layer 2. The material selected for forming the outer panels 7 may be the same as or different from the material used to form the outer layer 2.

[0038] In some example helmets, the size of the outer layer 2 and / or the energy absorbing layer 3 may be adjustable to provide a customized fit. For example, the outer layer 2 may be provided in separate front and rear components. The relative positions of the front and rear components may be adjusted to change the size of the outer layer 2. To avoid gaps in the outer layer 2, the front and rear components may overlap. The energy absorbing layer 3 may also be provided in separate front and rear components. These may be arranged so that the relative positions of the front and rear components may be adjusted to change the size of the energy absorbing layer 3. To avoid gaps in the energy absorbing layer 3, the front and rear components may overlap.

[0039] Figures 1 to 4 An example helmet 1 is shown including an interface layer 4. Figures 5 to 7 Although not shown in the examples, these example helmets may also include an interface layer 4. The purpose of the interface layer 4 may be to provide an interface between the helmet and the wearer. In some arrangements, this may improve the comfort of the wearer. The interface layer 4 may be provided to mount the helmet on the wearer's head. The interface layer 4 may be provided as a single component or as a plurality of sections.

[0040] The interface layer 4 can be configured to at least partially conform to the wearer's head. For example, the interface layer 4 can be elastic and / or can include an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the size of the interface layer 4. In one arrangement, the interface layer can engage the top of the wearer's head. Alternatively or additionally, the interface layer 4 can include an adjustable strap that is configured to encircle the wearer's head.

[0041] The interface layer 4 may include a comfort liner 4A. A plurality of sections of the comfort liner 4A may be provided. The comfort liner 4A may be provided on a base 4B for mounting the comfort liner to the rest of the helmet 1 .

[0042] The purpose of the comfort liner 4A is to increase the comfort of wearing the helmet and / or to provide a better fit. The comfort liner may be formed of a relatively soft material, for example compared to the energy absorbing layer 3 and / or the outer layer 2. The comfort liner 4A may be formed of a foam material. However, the foam material may have a lower density and / or be thinner than the foam material used for the energy absorbing layer 3. Therefore, i.e. in order to reduce damage to the wearer of the helmet, during an impact, the comfort liner 4A will not absorb significant energy. Comfort liners are recognized in the art as being different from energy absorbing layers, even though they may be made of somewhat similar materials.

[0043] The interface layer 4 and / or the comfort liner 4A as a part thereof may be removable. This may allow the interface layer 4 and / or the comfort liner 4A to be cleaned and / or may allow the interface layer and / or the comfort liner 4A to be provided which is configured to fit a specific wearer.

[0044] A strap (eg a chin strap) may be provided to secure the helmet 1 to the wearer's head.

[0045] Figures 1 to 4 The helmet is configured so that the interface layer 4 can move (e.g., slide) in a tangential direction relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the helmet may further include a connector 5 between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4, which allows relative movement between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4 and simultaneously connects multiple elements of the helmet together.

[0046] Figure 5 The helmet is configured so that the outer layer 2 can move (e.g., slide) in a tangential direction relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. Figure 5 As shown, the helmet 1 may further comprise a connector 5 between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the outer layer 2, which allows relative movement between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the outer layer 2 and simultaneously connects a plurality of elements of the helmet together.

[0047] Figure 6The helmet is configured so that the outer member 3A of the energy absorbing layer 3 can move (e.g., slide) in a tangential direction relative to the inner member 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. Figure 6 As shown, the helmet 1 may further include a connector 5 between the outer part 3A of the energy absorbing layer 3 and the inner part 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3, which allows relative movement between the outer part 3A of the energy absorbing layer 3 and the inner part 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 and simultaneously connects multiple elements of the helmet together.

[0048] Figure 7 The helmet is configured so that the outer panel 8 can move (e.g. slide) in a tangential direction relative to the outer layer 2 in response to an impact. Figure 7 As shown, the helmet may also include a connector 5 between the outer plate 8 and the outer layer 2, which allows relative movement between the outer plate 7 and the outer layer 2 and simultaneously connects the various elements of the helmet together.

[0049] The purpose of the helmet layers that move or slide relative to each other can be to redirect impact energy that would otherwise be transmitted to the wearer's head. This can improve the protection provided to the wearer from the tangential component of the impact energy. The tangential component of the impact energy typically results in rotational acceleration of the wearer's head. It is well known that such rotation can cause brain damage. It has been shown that helmets with layers that move relative to each other are able to reduce the rotational acceleration of the wearer's head. A typical reduction might be around 25%, but in some cases it could be as much as 90%.

[0050] Preferably, the relative movement between the helmet layers results in a total offset between the outermost helmet layer and the innermost helmet layer of at least 0.5 cm, more preferably at least 1 cm, and even more preferably at least 1.5 cm. Preferably, the relative movement may occur in any direction, for example in a circumferential direction around the helmet, from left to right, from front to back, and any direction in between.

[0051] Relative movement may be considered to occur substantially in a plane within the relevant range, even though the movement between layers may be rotational rather than linear. Therefore, reference may be made below to movement in a plane.

[0052] Regardless of how the helmet layers are configured to move relative to each other, it is preferred that the relative movement (e.g., sliding) be able to occur under the forces of typical impacts for which the helmet is designed (e.g., impacts that the wearer is expected to survive). Such forces are significantly higher than the forces that the helmet may be subjected to during normal use. Impact forces tend to compress the layers of the helmet together, increasing the reaction forces between the components and thereby increasing friction. In the case where the helmet is configured to have layers that slide relative to each other, the interfaces between them may need to be configured to be able to slide even under the influence of the high reaction forces experienced between them during an impact.

[0053] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, a sliding interface may be provided between the layers of the helmet 1 that are configured to slide relative to each other. At the sliding interface, the surfaces slide against each other to achieve relative sliding between the layers of the helmet 1. The sliding interface may be a low friction interface. Therefore, a friction reducing device may be provided at the sliding interface. Figures 1 to 7 Each example helmet 1 shown further describes an example sliding interface.

[0054] The friction reducing means may be a low friction material or a lubricating material. For example, these may be provided as a continuous layer, or a plurality of discrete patches, or portions of material. Possible low friction materials for the friction reducing means include: wax polymers (e.g. PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, FEP, PE and UHMWPE, Teflon TM ), woven fabrics (e.g. Tamarack TM ), nonwoven fabrics (e.g. felt). This low friction material can have a thickness of about 0.1-5 mm, but other thicknesses can be used, depending on the material selected and the desired properties. Possible lubricating materials include: oils, polymers, microspheres or powders. Combinations of the above can be used.

[0055] In one example, the low friction material or lubricating material may be a material containing polysiloxane. In particular, the material may include (i) an organic polymer, polysiloxane and a surfactant; (i) an organic polymer and a copolymer based on polysiloxane and an organic polymer; or (iii) a non-elastomeric cross-linked polymer obtained or obtainable by cross-linking polysiloxane and an organic polymer. A preferred selection of such a material is described in WO2017148958.

[0056] In one example, the low friction material or lubricating material may include a mixture of (i) an olefin polymer, (ii) a lubricant and optionally one or more other agents. Preferred selections of such materials are described in WO2020115063.

[0057] In one example, the low friction material or lubricating material may include a density of ≤960 kg / m 3 Ultra high molecular weight (UHMW) polymer, the UHMW polymer is preferably an olefin polymer. A preferred selection of this material is described in WO2020115063.

[0058] In one example, the low friction material or lubricating material may include polyketone. Preferred choices for this material are described in WO 2020 / 260185.

[0059] In some arrangements, it may be desirable to configure a low friction interface so that the static and / or dynamic coefficients of friction between the materials forming the sliding surfaces at the sliding interface are between 0.001 and 0.3 and / or below 0.15. The coefficient of friction may be tested by standard methods, such as standard test method ASTM D1894.

[0060] The friction reducing device may be provided on one or both of the layers of the helmet 1 configured to slide relative to each other, or may be an integral part of one or both of the layers of the helmet 1 configured to slide relative to each other. In some examples, a helmet layer may have a dual function including functioning as a friction reducing device. Alternatively or additionally, the friction reducing device may be separate from the layers of the helmet 1 configured to slide relative to each other, but provided between the layers.

[0061] In some examples, instead of a sliding interface, a shear interface can be provided between layers of the helmet 1 that are configured to move relative to each other. At the shear interface, the shear layer shears to enable relative movement between the layers of the helmet 1. The shear layer can include a gel or liquid that can be held within a flexible envelope. Alternatively, the shear layer can include two opposing layers connected by a deformable element that deforms to enable shearing between the two opposing layers.

[0062] A single shear layer may be provided that substantially fills the volume between two layers of the helmet. Alternatively, one or more shear layers may be provided that fill only a portion of the volume between two layers of the helmet, for example, leaving a large amount of space around the shear layer. As described above, this space may include a sliding interface. Thus, the helmet may have a combination of a shear interface and a sliding interface. Such a shear layer may be used as a connector 5, which will be further described below.

[0063] Figures 1 to 7 A connector 5 is schematically shown. The connector 5 is configured to connect two layers of the helmet while enabling relative movement (e.g. sliding or shearing) between the layers. Figures 1 to 7 Compared to the example shown, a different number of connectors 5 may be provided. The connectors 5 may be located Figures 1 to 7 Different locations are shown, for example at the peripheral edge of the helmet 1 instead of in the central part.

[0064] Typically, the connector 5 includes: a first attachment component and a second attachment component, which are respectively configured to be attached to the first and second components of the helmet; and a deformable component between the first and second attachment components, which enables the first and second attachment components to move relative to each other so as to enable movement between the first and second components of the helmet. The connector 5 can absorb some impact energy by deforming.

[0065] Figures 1 to 7 The specific arrangement of each example helmet shown is described below.

[0066] Figure 1 The helmet shown comprises an outer layer 2, an energy absorbing layer 3 and an interface layer 4. The interface layer 4 is provided as a separate layer and comprises a comfort liner.

[0067] Figure 1 The helmet is configured so that the interface layer 4 can slide relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. A sliding interface is provided between the interface layer 4 and the energy absorbing layer 3.

[0068] The sliding layer 7 is provided on the surface of the energy absorbing layer 3 facing the sliding interface. The sliding layer 7 can be molded to the energy absorbing layer 3 or otherwise attached thereto. For example, relative to the energy absorbing layer 3, the sliding layer 7 can be formed of a relatively hard material. The sliding layer 7 is configured to provide a friction reducing device to reduce the friction at the sliding interface. This can be achieved by forming the sliding layer 7 from a low friction material, such as PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, FEP, PE and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this can be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the sliding layer 7 and / or applying a lubricant to the sliding layer 7.

[0069] Alternatively or additionally, friction reducing means for reducing friction at the sliding interface may be provided by forming the energy absorbing layer 3 from a low friction material, by applying a low friction coating to the energy absorbing layer 3 and / or by applying a lubricant to the energy absorbing layer 3 .

[0070] Figure 1The helmet 1 shown also includes a connector 5 attached to the interface layer 4. The connector is also connected to the sliding layer 7 to allow relative sliding between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more connectors 5 can be connected to another part of the rest of the helmet 1 (e.g., the energy absorbing layer 3 or the shell 2). The connector 5 can also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

[0071] It will be appreciated that this arrangement of energy absorbing layer 3 and interface layer 4 may be added to any of the helmets described herein.

[0072] Figure 2 The helmet shown comprises an outer layer 2, an energy absorbing layer 3 and an interface layer 4. The interface layer 4 is provided as a plurality of separate sections, each of which comprises a comfort liner.

[0073] Figure 2 The helmet is configured so that a section of the interface layer 4 can slide relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. A sliding interface is provided between the section of the interface layer 4 and the energy absorbing layer 3.

[0074] The sliding layer 7 is provided on the surface of the energy absorbing layer 3 facing the sliding interface. The sliding layer 7 can be molded to the energy absorbing layer 3 or otherwise attached thereto. For example, relative to the energy absorbing layer 3, the sliding layer 7 can be formed of a relatively hard material. The sliding layer 7 is configured to provide a friction reducing device to reduce the friction at the sliding interface. This can be achieved by forming the sliding layer 7 from a low friction material, such as PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, FEP, PE and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this can be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the sliding layer 7 and / or applying a lubricant to the sliding layer 7.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, friction reducing means for reducing friction at the sliding interface may be provided by forming the energy absorbing layer 3 from a low friction material, by applying a low friction coating to the energy absorbing layer 3 and / or by applying a lubricant to the energy absorbing layer 3 .

[0076] Figure 2 The helmet 1 shown also includes a connector 5 attached to each individual segment of the interface layer 4. The connector 5 is also attached to the sliding layer 7 to allow relative sliding between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the segments of the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more connectors 5 can be connected to another part of the rest of the helmet 1 (e.g., the energy absorbing layer 3 or the shell 2). The connector 5 can also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

[0077] It will be appreciated that this arrangement of energy absorbing layer 3 and interface layer 4 may be added to any of the helmets described herein.

[0078] Figure 3 The helmet shown comprises an outer layer 2, an energy absorbing layer 3 and an interface layer 4. The interface layer 4 is provided as a separate layer and comprises a comfort liner 4A attached to a base 4B. The base 4B may be bonded to the outside of the comfort liner 4A. This bonding may be performed by any means, for example by an adhesive or by high frequency welding or sewing.

[0079] Figure 3 The helmet is configured so that the interface layer 4 can slide relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. A sliding interface is provided between the interface layer 4 and the energy absorbing layer 3.

[0080] The substrate 4B of the interface layer 4 faces the sliding interface. For example, relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 and / or the comfort pad 4A, the substrate 4B can be formed of a relatively hard material. The substrate 4B is configured to provide a friction reducing device to reduce the friction at the sliding interface. This can be achieved by forming the substrate 4B from a low friction material, such as: PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, FEP, PE and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this can be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the substrate 4B and / or applying a lubricant to the substrate 4B. In an alternative example, the substrate 4B can be formed of a fabric material, which is optionally coated with a low friction material.

[0081] Alternatively or additionally, friction reducing means for reducing friction at the sliding interface may be provided by forming the energy absorbing layer 3 from a low friction material, by applying a low friction coating to the energy absorbing layer 3 and / or by applying a lubricant to the energy absorbing layer 3 .

[0082] Figure 3 The helmet 1 shown also includes a connector 5 connected to the interface layer 4. The connector is also connected to the energy absorbing layer to allow relative sliding between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more connectors 5 can be connected to another part of the rest of the helmet 1 (e.g., the shell 2). The connector 5 can also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

[0083] It will be appreciated that this arrangement of energy absorbing layer 3 and interface layer 4 may be added to any of the helmets described herein.

[0084] Figure 4 The helmet shown comprises an outer layer 2, an energy absorbing layer 3 and an interface layer 4. The interface layer 4 is provided as a plurality of separate sections, each of which comprises a comfort liner 4A attached to a base 4B. The base 4B may be bonded to the outside of the comfort liner 4A. This bonding may be performed by any means, for example by an adhesive or by high frequency welding or sewing.

[0085] Figure 4 The helmet is configured so that the interface layer 4 can slide relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. A sliding interface is provided between the interface layer 4 and the energy absorbing layer 3.

[0086] The substrate 4B of each section of the interface layer 4 faces the sliding interface. For example, relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 and / or the comfort pad 4A, the substrate 4B can be formed of a relatively hard material. The substrate 4B is configured to provide a friction reducing device to reduce the friction at the sliding interface. This can be achieved by forming the substrate 4B from a low friction material, such as: PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, FEP, PE and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this can be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the substrate 4B and / or applying a lubricant to the substrate 4B. In an alternative example, the substrate 4B can be formed of a fabric material, which is optionally coated with a low friction material.

[0087] Alternatively or additionally, friction reducing means for reducing friction at the sliding interface may be provided by forming the energy absorbing layer 3 from a low friction material, by applying a low friction coating to the energy absorbing layer 3 and / or by applying a lubricant to the energy absorbing layer 3 .

[0088] Figure 4 The helmet 1 shown also includes a connector 5 attached to a section of the interface layer 4. The connector 5 is also connected to the energy absorbing layer 3 to allow relative sliding between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more connectors 5 can be connected to another part of the rest of the helmet 1 (e.g., the shell 2). The connector 5 can also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

[0089] It will be appreciated that this arrangement of energy absorbing layer 3 and interface layer 4 may be added to any of the helmets described herein.

[0090] Figure 5 The helmet shown comprises an outer layer 2 and an energy absorbing layer 3. Although not shown, an interface layer may additionally be provided.

[0091] Figure 5 The helmet is configured so that the outer layer 2 can slide relative to the energy absorbing layer 3 in response to an impact. A sliding interface may be provided between the outer layer 2 and the energy absorbing layer 3.

[0092] Although not shown, an additional layer may be provided on the surface of the energy absorbing layer 3 facing the sliding interface. The additional layer may be molded to the energy absorbing layer 3 or otherwise attached thereto. For example, the additional layer may be formed of a relatively hard material relative to the energy absorbing layer 3. The additional layer may be configured to provide a friction reducing device to reduce friction at the sliding interface. This may be achieved by forming the additional layer from a low friction material, such as: PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, FEP, PE and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this may be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the additional layer and / or applying a lubricant to the additional layer.

[0093] Alternatively or additionally, a friction reducing device for reducing friction at the sliding interface may be provided by forming the outer layer 2 from a low friction material, providing an additional low friction layer on the surface of the outer layer 2 facing the sliding interface, by applying a low friction coating to the outer layer 2 and / or applying a lubricant to the outer layer 2.

[0094] Figure 5 The helmet 1 shown also includes a connector 5 attached to the outer layer 2. The connector 5 is also attached to the energy absorbing layer 3 (or an additional layer) to allow relative sliding between sections of the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more connectors 5 can be connected to another part (e.g., the interface layer) of the rest of the helmet 1. The connector 5 can also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

[0095] It will be appreciated that this arrangement of outer shell 2 and energy absorbing layer 3 may be added to any of the helmets described herein.

[0096] Figure 6 The helmet shown comprises an outer layer 2 and an energy absorbing layer 3. As shown in the figure, Figure 6 The energy absorbing layer 3 of the helmet shown is divided into an outer part 3A and an inner part 3B. Although not shown, an interface layer may be additionally provided.

[0097] Figure 6 The helmet is configured so that the outer part 3A of the energy absorbing layer 3 can slide relative to the inner part 3B of the energy absorbing layer in response to an impact. A sliding interface can be provided between the outer part 3A of the energy absorbing layer 3 and the inner part 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3.

[0098] Although not shown, an additional layer may be provided on the surface of one or both of the inner and outer parts 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 facing the sliding interface. The additional layer may be molded to the inner or outer parts 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 or otherwise attached thereto. For example, the additional layer may be formed of a relatively hard material relative to the energy absorbing layer 3. The additional layer may be configured to provide a friction reducing device to reduce friction at the sliding interface. This may be achieved by forming the additional layer from a low friction material, such as: PC, PTFE, ABS, PVC, nylon, PFA, FEP, PE and UHMWPE. Alternatively or additionally, this may be achieved by applying a low friction coating to the additional layer and / or applying a lubricant to the additional layer.

[0099] Alternatively or additionally, a friction reducing device for reducing friction at the sliding interface may be provided by forming one or both of the inner and outer parts 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 from a low friction material, providing an additional low friction layer on the surface of the inner and outer parts 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 facing the sliding interface, by applying a low friction coating to the inner and outer parts 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 and / or applying a lubricant to the inner and outer parts 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3.

[0100] Figure 6 The helmet 1 shown also includes a connector 5 attached to the outer layer 2. The connector 5 is also attached to the energy absorbing layer 3 (or an additional layer) to allow relative sliding between sections of the energy absorbing layer 3 and the interface layer 4. Alternatively or additionally, one or more connectors 5 can be connected to another part (e.g., the interface layer) of the rest of the helmet 1. The connector 5 can also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

[0101] It will be appreciated that this arrangement of inner and outer pieces 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3 may be added to any of the helmets described herein.

[0102] Figure 7 The helmet shown comprises an outer layer 2 and an energy absorbing layer 3. Figure 7 As shown, one or more outer panels 7 are mounted to the outer layer 2 of the helmet 1. The outer panels 7 may be formed from a relatively strong and / or rigid material, for example, from the same type of material that may form the outer layer 2. Although not shown, an interface layer may additionally be provided.

[0103] Figure 7 The helmet is configured so that the outer plate 8 can slide relative to the outer layer 2 in response to an impact. A sliding interface can be provided between the outer plate 8 and the outer layer 2.

[0104] A friction reducing device for reducing friction at the sliding interface may be provided by forming the outer layer 2 and / or the outer plate 8 from a low friction material, providing an additional low friction layer on the surface of the outer layer 2 and / or the outer plate 8 facing the sliding interface, by applying a low friction coating to the outer layer 2 and / or the outer plate 8, and / or applying a lubricant to the outer layer 2 and / or the outer plate 8.

[0105] Figure 7 The helmet 1 shown also includes a connector 5 attached to the outer plate 7. The connector 5 is also connected to the outer layer 2 to allow relative sliding between the plate 7 and the outer layer 2. Alternatively or additionally, one or more connectors 5 can be connected to another part of the rest of the helmet 1 (e.g. the energy absorbing layer 3). The connector 5 can also be connected to two or more parts of the rest of the helmet 1.

[0106] In such an arrangement, in the event that the helmet 1 is subjected to an impact, it can be expected that the impact will occur on one or a limited number of the outer panels 17. Therefore, by configuring the helmet so that one or more outer panels 7 can move relative to the outer layer 2 and any outer panels 7 that are not subjected to the impact, the surface receiving the impact (i.e., one or a limited number of outer panels 7) can move relative to the rest of the helmet 1. In the event of an impact, this may reduce the rotational acceleration of the wearer's head.

[0107] It will be appreciated that such an arrangement of an outer plate 7 may be added to any helmet described herein, ie an arrangement having a sliding interface between at least two layers of the helmet 1 .

[0108] Some helmets (such as Figures 1 to 6 The helmet shown in the figure is configured to cover the top portion of the head, and the above-mentioned helmet structure is appropriately located in the helmet to cover the top portion of the head. For example, the helmet can be provided to substantially cover the forehead, top of the head, back of the head and / or temples of the wearer. The helmet can substantially cover the skull of the wearer.

[0109] Some helmets can be configured to cover other portions of the head, alternatively or additionally to the top portion. Figure 8 The helmet shown can cover the cheeks and / or chin of the wearer. Such a helmet can be configured to substantially cover the jaw of the wearer. Figure 8 Helmets of the type shown are generally referred to as full-face helmets. Figure 8 As shown, cheek pads 30 may be provided on both sides (ie, left and right sides) of the helmet 1. The cheek pads 30 may be arranged within the shell 2 of the helmet 1 to protect the sides of the wearer's face from impact.

[0110] The cheek pads 30 may have the same layered structure as the example helmets described above. For example, the cheek pads 30 may include one or more energy absorbing layers as described above and / or interface layers as described above and / or layers that move relative to each other as described above, and optionally the layers may be connected by connectors as described above. Alternatively or additionally, the cheek pads 30 themselves may be configured to move relative to the shell 2 and optionally connected to the shell by connectors as described above.

[0111] Although the above examples described above relate to helmets, the present disclosure may also relate to alternative protective clothing (e.g., body protection gear), such as Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The body protection equipment 100 may provide protection for other parts of the body, such as the calves, knees, thighs, forearms, elbows, upper arms, shoulders, chest, and back. Individual items of body protection equipment may be provided to protect individual body parts, such as Fig. 9 ), or alternatively may be combined in a garment comprising multiple armored regions 101 to protect more than one body part (e.g. Fig.10 ). This body protection gear 100 may be worn for the same activities as the helmets described above, including for combat, athletic sports, and motorsports.

[0112] The body protection equipment 100 may have the same layered structure as the example helmet described above. For example, the body protection equipment 100 may include an outer shell 2 as described above, one or more energy absorbing layers 3 as described above and / or an interface layer as described above, and / or multiple layers that move relative to each other with a sliding interface therebetween as described above, and / or the layers may be connected by a connector 5 as described above.

[0113] The present disclosure relates to providing a sliding interface within a protective garment (e.g., any of the protective garments described above). Primarily, the arrangements of the present disclosure will be described in the context of a helmet, and in particular, a sliding interface between two shells or layers of a helmet. However, it should be understood that the arrangements of the sliding interfaces described may also be applied to other protective garments (e.g., body protection equipment), and / or may be applied to a sliding interface provided within a connector (e.g., those discussed above) that may be used to connect two parts of an item of protective clothing in a manner that allows relative movement between the two parts of the item of protective clothing.

[0114] like Fig.11As shown schematically, a sliding interface according to the present disclosure can be provided between a first component and a second component 41, 42 (e.g., a first shell and a second shell of a helmet) configured to move relative to each other. At the sliding interface, the first component and the second component 41, 42 respectively have a first surface 43 and a second surface 44 that are opposite to each other and configured to slide relative to each other.

[0115] In the sliding interface according to the present disclosure, the first surface 43 has at least a first area 45, which is divided into at least a first zone and a second zone 47, 48. The first zone and the second zone 47, 48 are configured to be different from each other in the way they interact with the second surface 44. In particular, the first zone and the second zone are configured so that at least one of the static friction coefficient and the dynamic friction coefficient of the first zone relative to the second surface is different from the static friction coefficient or the dynamic friction coefficient of the second zone relative to the second surface.

[0116] A plurality of first zones 47 and second zones 48 may be provided in the first region 45. In a preferred arrangement, the first zones 47 and second zones 48 may be evenly distributed over the first region 45, such that in a representative sample of the first surface 43 collected at any position in the first region 45, the proportion of the sample being the first zone and / or the second zone will be substantially consistent.

[0117] One way to provide a uniform distribution of first and second regions 47, 48 is to use a repeating pattern in the first area 45. For example, Fig.12 As shown, the first area 47 can be provided by a plurality of stripes 51, and the second area 48 includes the area 52 between the stripes 51. It will be appreciated that any stripe pattern need not be as Fig.12 Thus, for example, stripes 51 may be curved, for example in Fig.13 In the pattern of multiple contours shown. Or, Fig.14 As shown, the first region 47 may include a plurality of non-mosaic shapes 53 arranged at regular intervals, and the second region 48 may include spaces 54 between the non-mosaic shapes 53. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. Fig.15 and Fig.16 As shown, first region 47 may include a plurality of dots 55 arranged at regular intervals, and second region 48 includes spaces 56 between dots 55. As shown, the size of dots 55 relative to the size of first region 47 may vary depending on requirements and the mechanism used to provide the pattern, as described below.

[0118] It will be appreciated that many other ways of distributing the first regions 47 and the second regions 48 over the first area may be used.

[0119] By selecting the ratio of the first zone 47 to the second zone 48 within the first region 45, the overall static friction coefficient and / or dynamic friction coefficient of the first surface 43 relative to the second surface 44 in the first region 45 can be controlled. In particular, the overall static friction coefficient and / or dynamic friction coefficient of the first region 45 of the first surface 43 relative to the second surface 44 is a zone-weighted average of the static friction coefficient and / or dynamic friction coefficient of the first and second zones 47, 48 of the first surface 43 relative to the second surface 44.

[0120] This arrangement may be beneficial because the applicant has determined that for each design of the protective clothing article, there may be an optimal level of static and / or dynamic friction coefficients between the first surface 43 and the second surface 44 at the sliding interface. For example, as described above, it may be desirable to have a sufficiently low static and / or dynamic friction coefficient at the sliding interface between the two shells of the helmet so that in response to an oblique impact on the outside of the helmet, the outer shell can move (e.g., rotate) relative to the inner shell and / or the wearer's head in order to reduce the rotational energy applied to the wearer's head that may cause brain damage. However, it has also been found that if the static and / or dynamic friction coefficients at the sliding interface are too low, in certain impact situations, the wearer's head may rotate in the opposite direction, i.e., in the direction opposite to the direction in which the oblique impact was directly applied. This reverse rotation in the impact may also cause brain damage. Between the two, there is an optimal level of static and / or dynamic friction coefficients that minimizes the rotation of the head. Therefore, it is desirable to be able to set the desired level of static and / or dynamic friction coefficients between the first surface 43 and the second surface 44 for each specific arrangement (e.g., each specific design of the helmet).

[0121] It will be appreciated that the coefficient of static friction and / or the coefficient of kinetic friction between two surfaces may be varied by changing the material of one or both surfaces. However, in the case of adjusting the performance of a particular helmet or designing a new sliding interface for a new helmet, for example, it may be inconvenient to have to select a different material, as this may have significant cost implications and / or may make the manufacturing process more difficult. In contrast, the present arrangement may be more convenient, as there is no difference in the materials or manufacturing techniques used from one design to another. Instead, only the ratio of the first zone to the second zone needs to be varied.

[0122] In one arrangement, the first region 45 may extend substantially over the entire first surface 43 of the sliding interface. Alternatively, however, the first surface 43 may include at least a second region 46 that is configured differently from the first region 45. For example, the second region 46 may be configured to have a static and / or kinetic friction coefficient relative to the second surface 44 that is different from the static and / or kinetic friction coefficient of the first region 45 relative to the second surface 44.

[0123] In one arrangement, the second region 46 may be unpatterned, i.e., may simply correspond to one of the first zone 47 and the second zone 48 of the first region 45. This may be appropriate if the second region 46 of the first surface 43 of the sliding interface is in a location where a particular level of static and / or dynamic friction coefficient is not particularly significant. In this case, the level of static and / or dynamic friction coefficient relative to the second surface 44 provided by the arrangement of one of the first zone 47 and the second zone 48 of the first region 45 may provide adequate performance in the context of the overall device. For example, in the context of a helmet having a sliding interface between two shells, it may be more important to adjust a particular level of friction in certain areas around the head than in other areas.

[0124] In another arrangement, the second region 46 may be divided into at least a first zone 49 and a second zone 50, and configured such that at least one of a coefficient of static friction and a coefficient of dynamic friction of the first zone 49 relative to the second surface 44 is different from at least one of a coefficient of static friction and a coefficient of dynamic friction of the second zone 50 relative to the second surface 44. The arrangement of the first zone 47 and the second zone 48 in the first region 45 may be different from the arrangement of the first zone 49 and the second zone 50 in the second region.

[0125] In one arrangement, properties of at least one of the first and second zones 47, 48 of the first region may be different from properties of the corresponding first and second zones 49, 50 of the second region, for example such that the coefficient of static friction and / or the coefficient of dynamic friction relative to the second surface 44 are different.

[0126] Alternatively, in an advantageous arrangement, the properties of the first zone 47 of the first region 45 may match the properties of the first zone 49 of the second region 46, and the properties of the second zone 48 of the first region 45 may match the properties of the second zone 50 of the second region 46. For example, the static and / or dynamic friction coefficients relative to the second surface 44 may be the same in the two first zones 47, 49, and the static and / or dynamic friction coefficients relative to the second surface 44 may also be the same in the two second zones 48, 50.

[0127] In this arrangement, the difference between the first region 45 and the second region 46 can be a difference in the distribution (e.g., pattern) of the first areas 47 and the second areas 48 in the first region 45 compared to the first areas 49 and the second areas 50 in the second region 46. Alternatively or additionally, the first region 45 can have a different proportion of the first areas 47 and / or the second areas 48 compared to the proportion of the first areas 49 and / or the second areas 50 in the second region 46.

[0128] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a convenient way to provide a sliding interface with regions having different static friction coefficients and / or dynamic friction coefficients from each other. In particular, the configurations of the first surface 43 and the second surface 44 forming the sliding interface are not completely different in the individual regions 45, 46, they are largely the same and are at least formed of the same composition and differ only in their regional distribution.

[0129] For example, such an arrangement may be advantageous for providing a sliding interface between the two shells of the helmet, as the applicant has recognized that it is beneficial to provide different levels of static and / or dynamic friction coefficients between the first surface 43 and the second surface 44 at different regions of the helmet. Thus, a helmet may be provided having a sliding interface between the first shell and the second shell, the sliding interface between the shells being formed by a first surface and a second surface, each of which is part of a respective shell, facing each other, and configured to slide relative to each other. The first surface may have at least a first region and a second region, the first region and the second region being configured such that at least one of the static and dynamic friction coefficients of the first region relative to the second surface is different from at least one of the static and dynamic friction coefficients of the second region relative to the second surface.

[0130] In this arrangement, the first region may be selected, for example, as one or more of the front region, the back region, the left region, the right region, and the top region of the head. Alternatively or additionally, the first region may be selected to correspond to the location of one or more lobes of the brain of the wearer of the helmet (i.e., at least one of the frontal lobe, parietal lobe, temporal lobe, and occipital lobe in one or both of the two cerebral hemispheres). The second region may be selected as a different one or more of the front region, the back region, the left region, the right region, the top region, and a region corresponding to one of the lobes of the brain of the wearer of the helmet.

[0131] However, it should be understood that a helmet may be provided that has multiple regions within the sliding interface between the two shells that have different static and / or dynamic friction coefficients, the different static and / or dynamic friction coefficients being provided by means other than the arrangement of different first and second zones within the multiple regions. For example, the material forming the first surface 43 and the second surface 44 may be different from the first zone 45 to the second zone 46.

[0132] It should also be understood that although the above description describes the first region 45 and / or the second region 46 as having a first zone and a second zone (where the coefficient of static friction and / or the coefficient of dynamic friction relative to the second surface 44 are different), if desired, the first region 45 and / or the second region 46 can be divided into any number of zones configured to be different from each other. Similarly, the sliding interface can be divided into any number of regions configured to have different overall levels of coefficient of static friction and / or coefficient of dynamic friction from each other. In addition, it should be understood that there may be no obvious boundaries between regions 45, 46 or regions 47, 48, 49, 50. On the contrary, for example, at the boundaries between regions 45, 46 or regions 47, 48, 49, 50, the coefficient of static friction and / or the coefficient of dynamic friction relative to the second surface 44 may gradually transition.

[0133] In order to provide a difference between the static and / or kinetic coefficients of friction relative to the second surface 44 between the two regions 47, 48 of the first surface 43, eg a sliding interface, any of a number of different approaches may be taken.

[0134] In one arrangement, at least one of the zones 47, 48 of the first surface 43 may have a coating provided thereto that modifies the coefficient of static friction and / or the coefficient of dynamic friction relative to the second surface 44 compared to the first surface 43 without the coating. The coating may be configured to increase or decrease the coefficient of static friction and / or the coefficient of dynamic friction relative to the second surface compared to the first surface without the coating. For example, the coating may be any of the low friction or lubricating materials described above. This arrangement may reduce the coefficient of static friction and / or the coefficient of dynamic friction relative to the second surface compared to the first surface without the coating.

[0135] Alternatively or additionally, at least one zone may have a coating applied that increases the static and / or kinetic coefficient of friction relative to the second surface 44 compared to the uncoated first surface 43. Examples of such a coating may be any commonly used paint, such as paint used as a surface treatment for an expanded polystyrene (EPS) layer within a helmet.

[0136] Alternatively or additionally, at least one area of ​​the first surface 43 is worn (eg, scored or roughened) to increase the coefficient of static and / or kinetic friction relative to the second surface 44 as compared to the unworn first surface.

[0137] Alternatively or additionally, at least one region of the first surface 43 may be provided with a plurality of protrusions that engage with the second surface (eg, integrally formed within the first surface 43) so as to increase the effective static and / or kinetic friction coefficients compared to a first surface 43 without the protrusions.

[0138] Alternatively or additionally, the component 41 having the first surface 43 disposed thereon may have at least an outer layer formed of different materials in different regions, the materials being selected to exhibit different static and / or dynamic coefficients of friction relative to each other and relative to the second surface 44 .

[0139] In an alternative or additional arrangement, the component 41 having the first surface 43 disposed thereon may be formed by a base layer formed of a first material that is covered by a relatively thin layer of a second material. In such an arrangement, for example, a first zone 47 of the first region 45 may correspond to an opening disposed in the second material layer that exposes the first material beneath the second material layer to provide a portion of the first surface 44. For example, the base layer may be an energy absorbing material such as expanded polystyrene (EPS) and the second material layer may be formed of a relatively hard material such as polycarbonate (PC) that is co-molded with the EPS layer. By forming the PC layer with openings therein, when the EPS layer is co-molded with the PC layer, the EPS may protrude slightly through the openings in the PC layer such that some areas of the first surface will be provided by the PC layer and some areas will be provided by the EPS protruding slightly through the openings in the PC layer.

[0140] As described above, the present disclosure can be conveniently applied to the formation of helmets in which the components of the helmet include an energy absorbing base layer co-molded with a relatively thin layer of relatively hard material. This arrangement can conveniently form a shell of a helmet that provides a degree of protection against radial impacts on the helmet through the energy absorbing layer, but also provides a relatively hard surface on one side that can form a sliding interface, which, as described above, can be used to provide protection against oblique impacts to the helmet.

[0141] For such an arrangement, the configuration of the sliding interface according to the present disclosure may also provide benefits to the manufacturing process. For example, components of a helmet may be manufactured by a process that first shapes a sheet of material into a shaped form that generally conforms to the shape of the head, with a concave surface on one side of the shaped form and a convex surface on the other side of the shaped form. For example, the shaped form may be produced by a vacuum forming process. The shaped form may then be secured in a mold so that one of the concave and convex surfaces of the shaped form serves as part of the mold. A second material may then be introduced into the mold and co-molded to the shaped form.

[0142] According to the foregoing disclosure, a component of a helmet formed by the process may have an outer surface having at least a first area, the first area being divided into a first zone and a second zone, the first zone and the second zone being configured such that, once the helmet is assembled, at least one of the coefficient of static friction and the coefficient of dynamic friction of the first zone relative to another component of the helmet is different from that of the second zone. To achieve this, modification of the surface to provide the first zone and the second zone may be performed after the co-molding step or after the sheet of material has been formed into a shaped form. Alternatively, it may be more convenient to form the first zone and the second zone on the sheet of material before the sheet of material is formed into a shaped form. For example, if the first zone and the second zone are provided by applying a coating on the surface, this may be most easily performed on a flat sheet, for example, a screen printing process may be used.

[0143] The formation of the first and second zones on the surface before the co-molding step can also facilitate the co-molding process. In particular, the shaped form can be fixed in the mold before the second material is introduced into the mold. In a convenient process, the shaped form can be fixed in the mold using a strip of adhesive material. In this arrangement, the adhesive stripped from the material must adhere to the surface of the shaped form, rather than the surface forming a part of the mold, i.e., the outer surface of the assembly provided with the first and second zones. The strip of adhesive material can be more easily adhered to one of the first and second zones than the other of the first and second zones. In particular, this situation may occur if a coating is applied to the surface. In this case, the strip of adhesive material can better adhere to the surface of some areas without coating, rather than the surface of different designs completely covered by the coating, even when used as part of the sliding interface in the helmet, both surfaces reach the same overall level of friction coefficient.

[0144] To ensure this benefit, the size and distribution of the first and second zones may be selected relative to the size of the strip of adhesive material to be used so that when the adhesive strip is adhered to any portion of the first region, at least a portion of it adheres to each of the first and second zones. It will be appreciated that this would not be achieved, for example, if the first and second zones were much larger than the size of the strip of adhesive material so that in use it could be placed in only one of the first and second zones.

[0145] As described above, in one arrangement, the first and second regions may be provided on the surface of the flat sheet of material prior to the step of forming it into the shaped form. This may include the step of applying a coating on at least one of the first and second regions of the area of ​​the flat sheet of material. Alternatively or additionally, this may include performing an abrasion process on one of the first and second regions. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the first and second regions may be formed during a forming operation to form the shaped form from the flat sheet of material. For example, during the forming operation, a plurality of protrusions may be formed in one of the first and second regions.

[0146] It should be understood that the above-described methods of forming components that can be used in sliding interfaces according to the present disclosure are merely examples that may be applicable to certain sliding interfaces. Alternative manufacturing methods can be used for such sliding interfaces, and can also be used to form components for other sliding interfaces.

[0147] The above-mentioned helmets can be used for various activities. For example, these activities include combat and industrial uses, such as protective helmets for soldiers, and hard hats or helmets used by construction workers, miners or industrial machinery operators. Helmets are also common in sports activities. For example, protective helmets can be used for ice hockey, cycling, motorcycle sports, car racing, skiing, snowboarding, skating, skateboarding, equestrian activities, American football, baseball, rugby, soccer, cricket, lacrosse, rock climbing, golf, air guns, roller hockey and paintball games.

[0148] Examples of injuries that can be prevented or mitigated by the helmets described above include mild traumatic brain injuries (MTBI) such as concussions, and severe traumatic brain injuries (STBI) such as subdural haematomas (SDH), vascular rupture and bleeding, and diffuse axonal injuries (DAI), which can be summarized as excessive stretching of nerve fibers due to high shear deformation in brain tissue.

[0149] Depending on the characteristics of the rotational component of the impact (such as duration, amplitude, and rate of increase), a concussion, SDH, DAI, or a combination of these injuries may be sustained. In general, SDH occurs with short duration and large amplitude accelerations, while DAI occurs with longer, more extensive acceleration loads.

[0150] Variations of the above examples are possible in light of the above teachings. It should be appreciated that the present invention may be implemented in other ways and specifically described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A protective clothing article comprising: a first component and a second component configured to move relative to each other; and a sliding interface, which is arranged between the first component and the second component; wherein the sliding interface comprises a first surface and a second surface, the first surface and the second surface are opposite to each other and are configured to slide relative to each other; The first surface has at least a first area, the first area is divided into at least a first zone and a second zone, the first zone and the second zone are configured such that at least one of a static friction coefficient and a dynamic friction coefficient of the first zone relative to the second surface is different from at least one of a static friction coefficient and a dynamic friction coefficient of the second zone relative to the second surface; The first surface has a second area, and the second area is configured so that the static friction coefficient and / or the dynamic friction coefficient of the first surface relative to the second surface in the first area is different from that in the second area; The second region is divided into at least a first area and a second area, the first area and the second area being configured such that at least one of a static friction coefficient and a dynamic friction coefficient of the first area relative to the second surface is different from at least one of a static friction coefficient and a dynamic friction coefficient of the second area relative to the second surface; and The arrangement of the first and second regions in the first region is different from the arrangement of the first and second regions in the second region.

2. The protective clothing article according to claim 1, wherein: The first regions and the second regions are evenly distributed on the first area.

3. An article of protective clothing according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first regions and the second regions are arranged in a repeating pattern on the first area.

4. An article of protective clothing according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The ratio of the first zone to the second zone is selected so that in the first region, the zone-weighted average of the coefficient of static friction and / or the coefficient of kinetic friction of the first surface relative to the second surface is at a desired level.

5. An article of protective clothing according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein In at least one of the first zone and the second zone of the area of ​​the first surface, a coating is provided which changes the static and / or dynamic friction coefficient relative to the second surface compared to the first surface without the coating.

6. The article of protective clothing according to claim 5, wherein: The coating is configured to increase a static coefficient of friction and / or a dynamic coefficient of friction relative to the second surface as compared to the first surface without the coating.

7. The article of protective clothing according to claim 5, wherein: The coating is configured to reduce a static coefficient of friction and / or a dynamic coefficient of friction relative to the second surface as compared to the first surface without the coating.

8. An article of protective clothing according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein In at least one of the first zone and the second zone of the area of ​​the first surface, the surface is worn so as to increase the static and / or kinetic coefficient of friction relative to the second surface compared to the unworn first surface.

9. An article of protective clothing according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: At least one of the first and second regions of the area of ​​the first surface is provided with a plurality of protrusions which engage with the second surface to increase the effective static and / or kinetic coefficient of friction compared to the first surface without the protrusions.

10. An article of protective clothing according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The component on which the first surface is provided is formed as layers formed of different materials in the first region and the second region, respectively.

11. An article of protective clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The component on which the first surface is arranged is formed by a base layer made of a first material and covered by a layer of a second material; and The first region corresponds to an opening in the second material layer exposing the first material to provide a portion of the first surface.

12. An article of protective clothing according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The article is a helmet; and The first component and the second component are a first shell and a second shell, respectively, and the first shell and the second shell are configured so that in response to an oblique impact on the helmet, the first shell can move relative to the second shell by sliding at a sliding interface.

13. An article of protective clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The article of protective apparel is a helmet comprising a first shell and a second shell and configured such that, in response to an oblique impact on the helmet, the first shell is movable relative to the second shell; and The first component and the second component are disposed in a connector that connects the first shell and the second shell together and allows the first shell to move relative to the second shell by sliding at a sliding interface within the connector.

14. An article of protective clothing comprising: a first component and a second component configured to move relative to each other; and a sliding interface, which is arranged between the first component and the second component; wherein the sliding interface comprises a first surface and a second surface, the first surface and the second surface are opposite to each other and are configured to slide relative to each other; and The first surface has at least a first area and a second area, and the first area and the second area are configured so that at least one of the static friction coefficient and the dynamic friction coefficient of the first area relative to the second surface is different from at least one of the static friction coefficient and the dynamic friction coefficient of the second area relative to the second surface.

15. A helmet comprising: a first shell and a second shell configured such that the first shell is movable relative to the second shell in response to an oblique impact on the helmet; and a sliding interface disposed between the first shell and the second shell; wherein the sliding interface comprises a first surface and a second surface, the first surface and the second surface are each part of a corresponding housing, the first surface and the second surface are opposite to each other and are configured to slide relative to each other; and The first surface has at least a first area and a second area, and the first area and the second area are configured so that at least one of the static friction coefficient and the dynamic friction coefficient of the first area relative to the second surface is different from at least one of the static friction coefficient and the dynamic friction coefficient of the second area relative to the second surface.

16. The helmet according to claim 15, wherein: The first area is at least one of a front area, a rear area, a left area, a right area, a top area, and an area corresponding to one of the lobes of the brain of the wearer of the helmet; and the second area is at least one of a front area, a rear area, a left area, a right area, a top area, and an area corresponding to one of the lobes of the brain of the wearer of the helmet that is different from the first area.

17. A method of manufacturing a helmet assembly, comprising: forming the sheet of material into a shaped form that generally conforms to the shape of the head, having a concave surface on one side of the shaped form and a convex surface on another side of the shaped form; securing the shaped form in a mold such that one of the concave surface and the convex surface forms part of the mold; co-molding a second material to the shaped form within the mold; The other concave surface and the convex surface other than the one forming portion of the mold have at least a first area, the first area is divided into at least a first zone and a second zone, and the first zone and the second zone are configured at least so that at least one of a static friction coefficient and a dynamic friction coefficient of the first zone relative to a surface of another component of the helmet sliding against the first zone is different from at least one of a static friction coefficient and a dynamic friction coefficient of the second zone relative to the surface of the other component of the helmet.

18. A method of manufacturing a helmet assembly according to claim 17, in, The step of securing the shaped form to the mold includes using a strip of adhesive-backed material to hold the shaped form in place in the mold; and The size and distribution of the first and second regions are selected relative to the size of the adhesive strip so that when the adhesive strip adheres to any portion of the first region, a portion of the first region adheres to each of the first and second regions.

19. A method of manufacturing a helmet assembly according to claim 17 or 18, in, The step of forming the shaped form comprises performing a forming operation on a flat sheet of material; and Prior to performing the forming operation, a coating is provided in at least one of the first and second zones of another concave and convex area other than one of the forming portions for the mold, the coating being configured to change a static and / or dynamic coefficient of friction relative to a surface of another component of the helmet as compared to a surface without the coating.

20. A method of manufacturing a helmet assembly according to any one of claims 17 to 19, in, The step of forming the shaped form comprises performing a forming operation on a flat sheet of material; and Before performing the forming operation, one of the first and second zones of the area of ​​the other concave and convex surface other than the one for forming the portion of the mold is worn so as to increase the static and / or dynamic friction coefficient relative to the surface of another component of the helmet compared to the unworn surface.

21. A method of manufacturing a helmet assembly according to any one of claims 17 to 20, in, The step of forming the shaped form comprises performing a forming operation on a flat sheet of material; and In addition to forming the flat sheet into the shaped form, the forming operation also forms a plurality of protrusions in one of the first and second zones of the region of the other concave and convex surface other than one for the forming portion of the mold, the plurality of protrusions being configured to engage with a surface of another component of the helmet to increase the effective static and / or kinetic coefficient of friction compared to a surface without the protrusions.

22. A method of manufacturing a helmet comprising the method of any one of claims 17 to 21.

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