Quick-release ear protector components and helmets equipped with these ear protectors.

Abstract

This patent application relates to a quick-detachable ear protector assembly and a helmet incorporating the ear protector assembly, comprising a helmet body and a quick-detachable ear protector assembly; the ear protector assembly includes a shell for covering the ears, the shell having a connecting portion for connecting to the helmet body, the connecting portion extending along the edge of the shell, one end of the connecting portion having a limiting hook portion, and the other end of the connecting portion having a limiting structure for engaging with a locking component on the helmet; the helmet body is provided with a limiting post engaging with the limiting hook portion, and a locking component engaging with the limiting structure. The quick-detachable ear protector assembly of this application can be quickly attached and detached from the helmet body, enabling rapid switching between MICH and FAST helmets, and rapid switching between ear protector assemblies with pure impact protection and those with intelligent / voice features, while meeting advanced protective safety standards.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This patent application relates to helmets and ear protection components thereof, and more specifically, to a quick-release ear protection component and a helmet having the ear protection component. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, widely used tactical helmets can be broadly categorized into two types: MICH helmets (Modular Integrated Communications Helmet) and FAST (Future Assault Shell Technology) helmets. MICH helmets typically include ear protectors, while FAST helmets usually do not. Each type of helmet has its advantages. Most existing MICH helmets feature ear protectors that are an integral part of the helmet body, without any detachable design.

[0003] There are also a few rare detachable ear protection components, but these older detachable ear protection components are relatively complex in structure and cumbersome to assemble and disassemble, making it impossible to achieve quick assembly and disassembly or quick switching between MICH and FAST helmets. Even if these older designs are detachable, they may not be able to pass stringent testing standards for impact resistance, resistance to corrosive liquids, flame retardancy, and so on. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this patent application is to provide a quick-release ear protector assembly and a helmet with the ear protector assembly, so as to enable quick switching between MICH helmets and FAST helmets, as well as quick switching between ear protector assemblies with intelligent voice function and ear protector assemblies without voice function.

[0005] In one embodiment of the quick-release ear protector assembly according to this patent application, a housing for covering the ears is included, the housing having a connecting portion for connection to a helmet body, the connecting portion extending along the edge of the housing, one end of the connecting portion having a limiting hook portion, and the other end of the connecting portion having a limiting structure for engaging with a locking component on the helmet body.

[0006] In one embodiment of the quick-release ear protector assembly according to this patent application, the limiting structure is a through hole through which the locking component passes.

[0007] In one embodiment of the quick-release ear protection assembly according to this patent application, the housing contains an audio component and the housing has an audio interface.

[0008] In one embodiment of the helmet according to this patent application, it includes a helmet body and a quick-detachable ear protector assembly; the ear protector assembly includes a shell for covering the ears, the shell having a connecting portion for connecting to the helmet body, the connecting portion extending along the edge of the shell, one end of the connecting portion having a limiting hook portion, and the other end of the connecting portion having a limiting structure for cooperating with a locking component on the helmet; the helmet body is provided with a limiting post cooperating with the limiting hook portion, and a locking component cooperating with the limiting structure; in the locked state, the limiting hook portion hooks the limiting post, and the locking component fixes the other end of the connecting portion to the helmet body through the limiting structure; in the detached state, the locking component disengages from the limiting structure, and the ear protector assembly can rotate relative to the limiting post and disengage from the limiting post.

[0009] In one embodiment of the helmet according to this patent application, the limiting structure is a through hole through which the locking member passes.

[0010] In one embodiment of the helmet according to this patent application, the locking component is a screw.

[0011] In one embodiment of the helmet according to this patent application, the housing is provided with an audio component, the housing is provided with an audio interface, and the helmet body has a connector for connection to the audio interface.

[0012] In one embodiment of the helmet according to this patent application, the helmet body has a clamping groove that mates with the connecting portion, and in the locked state, the connecting portion is located within the clamping groove.

[0013] In one embodiment of the helmet according to this patent application, the helmet body has screws for retracting the clamping groove and clamping the connecting portion.

[0014] In one embodiment of the helmet according to this patent application, the limiting post is a screw.

[0015] The quick-release ear protector assembly and the helmet with the ear protector assembly described in this patent application have the following advantages: The quick-release ear protector assembly of this application can be quickly removed from the helmet body, and can achieve rapid switching between MICH helmets and FAST helmets while meeting advanced protective safety standards. Attached Figure Description

[0016] This patent application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. In the accompanying drawings:

[0017] Figure 1 This is an external schematic diagram of an embodiment of the quick-release ear protector assembly of this patent application;

[0018] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the inner side of the ear protection assembly shown;

[0019] Figure 3 This is an external schematic diagram of another embodiment of the quick-release ear protector assembly of this patent application;

[0020] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the inner side of the ear protection assembly shown;

[0021] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the ear protection components shown;

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the helmet of this patent application without the quick-release ear protection components installed;

[0023] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The diagram shows the helmet with the quick-release ear protection components installed.

[0024] Figures 8a-8f This is a schematic diagram illustrating the disassembly and assembly steps of the quick-release ear protection component of the helmet according to this patent application. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To provide a clearer understanding of the technical features, objectives, and effects of this patent application, the specific embodiments of this patent application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] The following describes in detail embodiments of the quick-release ear protection assembly and medical bed of this patent application, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout.

[0027] In the description of the quick-release ear protector assembly in this patent application, it should be understood that the terms "front," "rear," "upper," "lower," "upper end," "lower end," "upper part," and "lower part," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used solely for the convenience of describing this patent application and for simplification, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this patent application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0028] See Figure 1 and Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the quick-release ear protector assembly according to this patent application. The quick-release ear protector assembly 2 includes a housing 20 for covering the ears. The housing 20 has a connecting portion 21 for connecting to the helmet body 1. The connecting portion 21 extends along the edge of the housing. One end 210 of the connecting portion 21 has a limiting hook portion 211, and the other end 212 of the connecting portion 21 has a limiting structure 213 for cooperating with a locking member 10 on the helmet body 1. In this embodiment, the limiting structure 212 is a through hole 212 through which the locking member 10 passes. The limiting member 10 can be a screw. The limiting member 10 can pass through the through hole 212 to fix the other end 212 of the connecting portion 21 of the ear protector assembly 2 to the helmet body 1. The limiting hook portion 211 of one end 210 of the connecting portion 21 of the ear protector assembly 2 hooks onto the limiting post 12 on the helmet body 1, thereby fixing the ear protector assembly 2 to the helmet body 1. During disassembly, simply loosen and detach the limiting structure 213 at the other end 212 of the connection portion 21 of the limiting component 10 and the ear protector assembly 2, then rotate the ear protector assembly 2 around the limiting post 12 at a certain angle, and then the ear protector assembly can be easily removed. The quick-release ear protector assembly 2 of this embodiment focuses on coverage and purely mechanical protection against physical impacts.

[0029] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the quick-release ear protector assembly according to this patent application. The basic result of the ear protector assembly 2 in this embodiment is similar to... Figure 1 and Figure 2The ear protector assembly 2 shown has a basically the same structure. This quick-release ear protector assembly 2 includes a shell 20 for covering the ears. The shell 20 has a connecting portion 21 for connecting to the helmet body 1. The connecting portion 21 extends along the edge of the shell. One end 210 of the connecting portion 21 has a limiting hook portion 211, and the other end 212 of the connecting portion 21 has a through hole 213 for engaging with the locking member 10 on the helmet body 1. The difference from the previous embodiment is that in this embodiment, an audio component 22 is integrated into the ear protector assembly 2. An audio interface 23 is provided on the shell. The audio component 22 may include a speaker and a microphone, and the audio interface 23 may be a 3.5mm headphone jack. By setting the audio component 22 on the ear protector assembly 2, the reliance on traditional wired earplugs (for secure and reliable connection to a company-wide or team-wide radio or squad Bluetooth Mesh protocol communication system) can be eliminated, greatly improving operational efficiency. In dynamic tactical operations involving constant movement and physical exertion, these wired components are easily detached. By using an integrated audio solution, this design ensures that the user remains connected without losing audio functionality due to accidental detachment and / or the earplugs failing to stay securely in place. The built-in audio system, a core component of the helmet shell, can be manufactured using injection molding or co-injection molding processes, and the audio components can be later attached or added to the helmet shell via permanent adhesive bonding, mechanical connections, and / or temporary connections (such as Velcro or magnetic attachments).

[0030] The ear protection component 2 in this embodiment employs a dedicated universal audio jack protocol, facilitating seamless connectivity with common audio communication systems used by various law enforcement agencies, tactical units, and rescue organizations. This feature ensures that users can easily and effectively connect to their respective radio communication systems and networks. Furthermore, with the use of appropriate connection accessories, the design is also compatible with mobile phone devices. This secondary connectivity capability serves as a reliable backup communication system, enhancing the overall versatility and usability of the device in emergency situations.

[0031] Furthermore, the ear protection component 2 in this embodiment employs a battery-free design. This battery-free approach ensures uninterrupted functionality and eliminates the risk of audio function loss / malfunction due to forgetting to charge, which is especially important in high-risk work environments where hearing communications from organizational broadcasts, internal team commanders, and colleagues is crucial for individual user safety. Users can use these ear protection components at any time, improving safety and convenience. In addition, the battery-free design reduces long-term maintenance costs and minimizes environmental waste associated with battery disposal and replacement. This innovation also simplifies the user experience, minimizing the need for regular maintenance, making it more attractive for organizational purchase and long-term use. This battery-free design aims to provide a sustainable, reliable, and user-friendly audio solution for the quick-release ear protection component 2, addressing the common drawbacks of any battery-dependent design.

[0032] See Figure 6 and Figure 7 The image shows an embodiment of a helmet according to this patent application. In this embodiment, it includes a helmet body 1 and a quick-detachable ear protector assembly 2. The ear protector assembly 2 includes a shell 20 for covering the ears. The shell 20 has a connecting portion 21 for connecting to the helmet body. The connecting portion 21 extends along the edge of the shell 20. One end 210 of the connecting portion 21 has a limiting hook portion 211, and the other end 212 of the connecting portion 21 has a limiting structure 213 for engaging with a locking member 10 on the helmet. The helmet body 1... The helmet is equipped with a limiting post 11 that mates with the limiting hook portion 211, and a locking component 10 that mates with the limiting structure. In this embodiment, the limiting post 11 is a screw, or it can be any other component that can mate with the limiting hook 211. In the locked state, the limiting hook portion 211 hooks onto the limiting post 11, and the locking component fixes the other end 212 of the connecting portion 20 to the helmet body 1 through the limiting structure. In the disassembled state, the locking component 10 disengages from the limiting structure 213, and the ear protector assembly 2 can rotate relative to the limiting post 11 and disengage from the limiting post 11. In this embodiment, the limiting structure 213 is a through hole 213 through which the locking component 10 passes, and the locking component 10 can be a screw.

[0033] In this embodiment, the helmet body 1 has a clamping groove 13 that cooperates with the connecting part 20. In the locked state, the connecting part 20 is located in the clamping groove 13. By locking the locking member 10, the clamping groove 13 can be contracted and clamp the connecting part 20.

[0034] See Figures 8a to 8f This is a schematic diagram illustrating the quick-release process of the ear protection component 2 in one embodiment of the helmet according to this patent application. See also... Figures 8a-8fWhen installing the ear protector assembly 2 onto the helmet body 1, first hook the limiting hook 211 of one end 210 of the connecting part 20 of the ear protector assembly 2 onto the limiting post 11 on the helmet body 1. Then, rotate the ear protector assembly 2 upwards around the limiting post 11, so that the through hole 213 of the other end 212 of the connecting part 20 of the ear protector assembly 2 rotates to a position that engages with the locking component 10. Then, the locking component 10 passes through the through hole 213 and is tightened to fix the other end 212 of the connecting part 21 of the ear protector assembly 2 onto the helmet body 1. Because the limiting hook 211 hooks onto the limiting post 11, the other end 210 of the connecting part 20 of the ear protector assembly 2 cannot move relative to the helmet body 1. When disassembling the ear protector assembly 2, use a combination of... Figures 8a-8f The reverse procedure is to first loosen the locking component 10 so that it disengages from the through hole 213, then rotate the ear protector assembly 2 downward around the limiting post 11, and then disengage the limiting hook 211 from the limiting post 11, thereby quickly removing the ear protector assembly 2.

[0035] In another embodiment of the helmet according to this patent application, the ear protection component 2 may have an audio component inside the housing 20, the housing has an audio interface, and the helmet body has a connector for connecting to the audio interface.

[0036] The ear protector assembly 2 and helmet of this patent application ingeniously employ a "single screw + single hook design mechanism" to achieve quick assembly and disassembly of the ear protector assembly 1. More specifically, by unscrewing one screw 10 and rotating the ear protector assembly 2 at an angle, the ear protector detaches from the helmet guide rail. During installation, the reverse sequence is used: first, the ear protector assembly 2 is hung in the appropriate position, and then one screw 10 is screwed in, achieving quick installation of the ear protector assembly 2. This unique design not only securely locks the ear protector assembly 2 to the helmet body 1 but also ensures that the operation procedure is simple enough for users to operate themselves.

[0037] The quick-release ear protector assembly and the helmet with the ear protector assembly described in this patent application have the following advantages: The quick-release ear protector assembly of this application can be quickly removed from the helmet body, and can achieve quick switching between MICH helmets and FAST helmets, as well as quick switching between ear protector assemblies with intelligent voice function and ear protector assemblies without voice function, while meeting advanced protective safety standards.

[0038] The embodiments of this patent application have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this patent application is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. The specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art can make many other forms based on the teachings of this patent application without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. All of these are within the protection scope of this patent application.

Claims

1. A quick-release ear protection assembly, characterized by, The device includes a housing for covering the ears, the housing having a connecting portion for connecting to the helmet body, the connecting portion extending along the edge of the housing, one end of the connecting portion having a limiting hook portion, and the other end of the connecting portion having a limiting structure for engaging with a locking component on the helmet body.

2. The quick-release ear protection assembly of claim 1, wherein, The limiting structure is a through hole through which the locking component passes.

3. The quick-release ear protection assembly of claim 1, wherein, The housing contains an audio component and has an audio interface.

4. A helmet characterized in that, The helmet includes a helmet body and a quick-detachable ear protector assembly. The ear protector assembly includes a shell for covering the ears, the shell having a connecting portion for connection to the helmet body, the connecting portion extending along the edge of the shell, one end of the connecting portion having a limiting hook, and the other end having a limiting structure for engaging with a locking component on the helmet. The helmet body has a limiting post that engages with the limiting hook, and a locking component that engages with the limiting structure. In the locked state, the limiting hook hooks onto the limiting post, and the locking component secures the other end of the connecting portion to the helmet body via the limiting structure. In the detached state, the locking component disengages from the limiting structure, and the ear protector assembly can rotate relative to and detach from the limiting post.

5. The helmet of claim 4, wherein, The limiting structure is a through hole through which the locking component passes.

6. The helmet of claim 5, wherein, The locking component is a screw.

7. The helmet of claim 4, wherein, The housing contains an audio component, the housing has an audio interface, and the helmet body has a connector that connects to the audio interface.

8. The helmet of claim 4, wherein, The helmet body has a clamping groove that mates with the connecting part. When locked, the connecting part is located within the clamping groove.

9. The helmet of claim 8, wherein, The helmet body has screws for retracting the clamping groove and clamping the connecting portion.

10. The helmet of claim 4, wherein, The limiting post is a screw.

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