HELMET MOUNT FOR MOTORCYCLE

Abstract

The present invention relates to an innovative bracket for attaching a helmet to a motorcycle. This bracket consists of a helmet clip that includes both an outer and an inner clamp and a bolt. The outer and inner clamps are specifically designed to securely clamp the helmet. Another essential component of the invention is a mounting element. This mounting element consists of a connecting flange and a housing. Both the connecting flange and the housing are connectable to one another. The housing also has a cylindrical recess that serves as a rail. This rail is designed to enable reliable fixation of the bolt of the helmet clip. The mounting element can be directly connected to the motorcycle with the holder of a pillion passenger rail, so that the mounting element is aligned approximately parallel along the direction of travel.Due to this special geometry, the bolt of the helmet clasp can be connected to the mounting element in such a way that the motorcycle helmet is attached to the pillion rail in an exposed state.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an innovative bracket for attaching a helmet to a motorcycle. This bracket consists of a helmet clip that includes both an outer and an inner clamp and a bolt. The outer and inner clamps are specifically designed to securely clamp the helmet. Another essential component of the invention is a mounting element. This mounting element consists of a connecting flange and a housing. Both the connecting flange and the housing are connectable to one another. The housing also has a cylindrical recess that serves as a rail. This rail is designed to enable reliable fixation of the bolt of the helmet clip. The mounting element can be directly connected to the motorcycle with the holder of a pillion passenger rail, so that the mounting element is aligned approximately parallel along the direction of travel.Due to this special geometry, the bolt of the helmet clasp can be connected to the mounting element in such a way that the motorcycle helmet is attached to the pillion rail in an exposed state. Background and state of the art

[0002] In the world of motorcycling, mobility and efficiency are crucial. For enthusiasts who traverse the roads alone but still want the option to carry a passenger or simply carry an extra helmet, the question often arises how to transport an extra helmet effectively and safely. In recent years, technology has advanced, and various motorcycle helmet mounting systems have been introduced to offer riders flexibility and convenience. The following is the state of the art in this field. Helmets were primarily attached to motorcycles by simply hanging them from a hook or buckle on the motorcycle. Over time, innovations led to the development of tensioning nets that could be pulled over the helmet and hooked under the pillion seat.This method, although more effective than the previous one, was not without its own challenges. The need to constantly carry and install the net presented a hindrance for many riders. Another approach involved the use of safety buckles and straps to secure the helmet to the motorcycle. Although this approach was simpler, the constant movement of the helmet often resulted in damage to the paint and bodywork of the motorcycle. Helmet boxes were also introduced, which could be mounted on the rear of the motorcycle. Although they provided a secure place to store the helmet, they were often criticized as unsightly and aerodynamically inefficient. Despite these innovations, there was still room for improvement, and it became clear that there was a need for an efficient, secure, and aesthetically pleasing motorcycle helmet storage system. It is clear that previous solutions, while functional, were impractical.The techniques described so far. Object of the invention

[0003] The object of the invention is to develop a reliable fastening system for motorcycle helmets that provides a stable mount while allowing easy assembly and disassembly. This system should be resistant to stress and vibration, be universally applicable to various motorcycle models, and effectively protect the helmet from potential external damage. Furthermore, it is an object of the invention to develop an adaptable, cost-effective fastening system for motorcycle helmets that integrates seamlessly into the structure and geometry of motorcycles. Summary of the invention

[0004] The object is achieved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0005] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a holder for effectively attaching a helmet to a motorcycle. The holder comprises a helmet clip having an outer and an inner clamp as well as a bolt, and a mounting element having a connecting flange and a housing. The housing has a cylindrical lateral recess in the form of a rail, which is configured to securely fix the bolt of the helmet clip. The bolt is pushed into the housing connected to the connecting flange, so that the helmet is adaptively and freely mounted at the rear parallel to the direction of travel. The mounting element can be connected directly to the pillion rail of the motorcycle, whereby the housing runs along its longitudinal direction parallel to the direction of travel of the motorcycle.

[0006] This parallel arrangement surprisingly allows for an even distribution of forces and ensures a stable and secure helmet attachment, while simultaneously preventing unwanted tipping or rocking of the helmet. The mounting element, when mounted in this specific parallel orientation, thus offers a clear technical advantage in terms of the stability, safety, and aesthetics of the entire mounting structure. This design not only provides a safe and efficient way to transport the helmet, but also has the surprising advantage of allowing quick and easy access to the helmet while minimally impacting the motorcycle's aerodynamics, as the helmet's pre-designed aerodynamics remain in the direction of travel.In particular, by connecting the mounting component to the mounting flanges of the pillion rail located at the rear of the motorcycle using the connecting flange, the helmet mount is seamlessly integrated into the existing mounting points of the pillion rail, which has the advantage of avoiding complex reworking or adjustments to the motorcycle and enabling a simple and efficient installation that maintains the integrity of the motorcycle.

[0007] The geometry of the connecting flange is designed to adapt to the specific mounting flanges of the respective pillion upright. This ensures that the mount is universally applicable while also being optimally adapted to the respective motorcycle model. For a stable and secure attachment, the connecting flange is screwed directly under the mounting flanges of the pillion upright using screws.

[0008] A significant advantage is the seamless integration into existing motorcycle structures. Since no new mounting points need to be created, the integrity and aesthetics of the motorcycle remain unaffected. Furthermore, the specific geometry of the connection flange provides a tailor-made fit, ensuring optimal stability and safety. Using the existing mounting points on the pillion upright not only reduces installation time but also minimizes potential sources of error that could arise from additional modifications. Overall, the inventive solution results in an efficient, robust, and aesthetically pleasing helmet mount.

[0009] For the purposes of the invention, a "mounting component" is a specially designed unit or component used to securely attach a helmet to a motorcycle. The mounting component is designed to integrate seamlessly into the existing structure of the pillion passenger rail, providing maximum stability and safety. It consists of a mounting flange and a housing and is designed for easy installation and removal. The mounting flange and the housing are connected via screw connections.

[0010] For the purposes of this invention, a "passenger rail" refers to a specially designed support and holding device, typically mounted on the rear of a motorcycle. This rail primarily serves to provide additional support and safety for a passenger while riding. Depending on its construction and design, the passenger rail can also serve as an attachment point for other accessories, such as a luggage rack or, in this case, a helmet mount. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand the stresses and strains of riding and the additional weight of luggage or other attached items.

[0011] For the purposes of the invention, a "connection flange" is preferably a component made of a material with high strength. The connection flange is also preferably corrosion-resistant to withstand environmental influences. The connection flange is designed for direct contact with the attachment points of a motorcycle, with the contact preferably being a direct mechanical contact. The connection flange is preferably bent 90° at one point to form a bearing surface for direct mechanical contact with the housing.

[0012] For the purposes of the invention, a "housing" refers to a structural unit designed to accommodate, protect, or secure specific parts or components. In this context, the housing serves in particular to guide the bolt safely and precisely while providing an interface for further mechanical interactions. It is designed to provide the necessary stability and integrity to ensure the correct function and safety of the system. The housing can be made of a robust material that is resistant to the stresses and environmental influences to which it may be exposed during operation. In the described invention, the housing serves as a central element that accommodates the bolt and interacts with other components, such as the spring and the rail, to ensure reliable and secure attachment of the helmet.

[0013] For the purposes of the invention, a "helmet clip" refers to a specially developed mechanical device designed to securely and firmly attach a helmet to a motorcycle. The helmet clip consists of a combination of an outer clip, an inner clip, and a bolt that slide together onto the helmet shell to clamp the helmet in place. The helmet clip is tightened and securely fixed with the help of screws. The special design, including the rubber inlet and wedge geometry, ensures that the helmet clip not only holds the helmet securely, but also enables a non-slip installation and offers sufficient clamping force to hold the helmet securely under a variety of conditions. The helmet clip thus serves as a key component in the fastening device to ensure reliable and secure attachment of the helmet.

[0014] In another aspect, the helmet clip is configured to be positioned on the helmet through the interaction of the outer clip and the inner clip. The inner clip is positioned on the inner surface of the helmet shell such that the inner surface of the inner clip rests on the inner surface of the helmet shell. The inner clip has two drill holes at one end.

[0015] The outer clamp is positioned on the outer surface of the helmet shell, so that the inner surface of the outer clamp rests against the outer surface of the helmet shell. The outer clamp has an elongated, wedge-shaped base. At one end of this clamp is a recessed, rectangular cutout that extends across the entire width of the object and serves as a rubber inlet.

[0016] This rubber inlet is specially configured to accommodate a rubber that can be precisely inserted into the rubber inlet. The rubber used is preferably a synthetic or natural material that is highly hard and resistant to abrasion and wear. The rubber is positioned in the rubber inlet or on the inner surface of the outer clamp so that the rubber also rests on the outer surface of the helmet shell. The robustness and slip resistance of the rubber, as well as the similar function of a spring ring to minimize looseness during vibrations, ensure a secure and firm helmet attachment. The rubber is also preferably coated with an adhesive material to distribute the resulting shear forces between clamping force and adhesive strength.

[0017] A flange extends over the second end of the outer clamp and preferably has two holes along its contact surface. A recess is located on the lower outer side wall of the flange, which acts as a bolt inlet. The flange is preferably long enough to provide sufficient leverage to allow highway travel.

[0018] The inner clamp and the outer clamp are positioned parallel to each other on the helmet shell so that the holes in the inner clamp and the holes in the flange of the outer clamp are coaxial. The bolt has a flange along its length, which also includes two holes. The bolt flange is configured to be inserted into the bolt inlet so that the holes in the bolt are coaxial with the holes in the flange of the outer clamp and the inner clamp. The inner clamp, the outer clamp, and the bolt are firmly connected to each other via two screws, so that the helmet is firmly clamped.

[0019] Tightening these screws not only creates a firm connection between the clamps, but also simultaneously secures the bolt in the bolt inlet. This simultaneous fixation by the same mechanisms ensures reliable and stable helmet positioning.

[0020] In a further preferred embodiment, the inner and outer clamps of the helmet clasp have a wedge geometry. The wedge shape of the clamps enables efficient fixation of the helmet by creating a firm connection between the clamps and the helmet shell. According to the invention, the wedge-shaped inner and outer clamps are wider at one end and gradually taper to a narrower end. This wedge shape facilitates the insertion of the clamps between the helmet shell and the helmet. The wedge geometry allows the clamps to wedge into the helmet shell and thus hold the helmet securely. This is often achieved by tightening screws or bolts that pull the clamps together and simultaneously hold the wedges in position.

[0021] The wedge geometry, combined with non-slip materials such as rubber inserts, ensures reliable adhesion and prevents the helmet from slipping, even in demanding environments or during shocks. A particularly advantageous feature is that the clamps' material and mechanical properties can be adjusted to ensure they remain fixed to the helmet, while remaining flexible enough to allow easy attachment and removal of the helmet. This eliminates the need for buffers or additional protective layers and maximizes the efficiency of the mount.

[0022] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the housing of the mounting element comprises a rail. This rail is characterized by a U-shaped rail geometry and is specifically designed to securely accommodate and secure the bolt that is attached to the helmet.

[0023] When the bolt is inserted into this U-shaped rail, it follows a defined path dictated by the shape of the rail. The compression spring positioned within the housing is compressed by the insertion of the bolt. This enables a precisely defined rotational movement of the bolt. This rotation causes the bolt to engage the deeper safety groove in the rail and securely lock into place. The spring feedback prevents accidental retraction.

[0024] The advantageous design of the U-shaped rail geometry ensures a reliable and secure connection and offers the surprising advantage of preventing any accidental loosening or slipping of the bolt, even when exposed to strong vibrations or shocks. Thus, the precise rail geometry, combined with the locking mechanism, ensures a permanent and secure attachment of the helmet.

[0025] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting flange has a specific thickness of 1-10 mm, preferably a thickness of 2-5 mm, and particularly preferably a thickness of 3 mm. This provides an optimal balance between stability and weight, ensuring reliable fastening without unnecessarily increasing the overall weight of the bracket. The connecting flange is preferably manufactured using modern cutting or punching processes.

[0026] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting flange is specially designed to undergo a bending operation after production. The connecting flange is bent through an angle of preferably 90°. This specific bend allows the flange to seamlessly adapt to the contours and structure of the motorcycle, in particular the pillion upright. Bending the flange not only improves its aesthetic appearance but also ensures a stronger, more stable connection to the motorcycle. The combination of the selected material thickness and the bending process ensures that the flange has the necessary mechanical strength without compromising its integrity or function.

[0027] The material used for the mounting flange and housing is carefully selected from a group of materials that preferably includes aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, zinc, and brass. This selection not only guarantees mechanical stability and durability, but also excellent corrosion resistance, which is essential to ensure the integrity of the mount under various weather conditions.

[0028] The housing, which is crucial for the functionality of the bracket, can be precisely manufactured using SLM printing, SLS printing and / or CNC milling, depending on production numbers and cost-effectiveness, thus ensuring high accuracy and fit. Detailed description

[0029] In the following, the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to examples and illustrations, without being limited to these. Brief description of the figures Fig. 1 Schematic representation of a motorcycle with a holder for a motorcycle helmet according to a preferred embodiment of the invention Fig. 2 Schematic representation of a holder for a motorcycle helmet according to a preferred embodiment of the invention A: Assembly process; B: mounted helmet Fig. 3 Schematic representation of a holder for a motorcycle helmet according to a preferred embodiment of the invention (front view A; rear view B) Fig. 4 Schematic representation of a pillion rail of a motorcycle rear in an exploded view and of a mounting component according to a preferred embodiment of the invention Fig. 5 Schematic representation of a helmet clasp in an exploded view according to a preferred embodiment of the invention Fig. 6 Schematic representation of a motorcycle helmet and a helmet clip in an exploded view according to a preferred embodiment of the invention Detailed description of the illustrations

[0030] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a motorcycle. It shows a bracket 2 for attaching a motorcycle helmet to the pillion rail 3 of a motorcycle. The bracket 2 comprises a mounting component and a helmet clip. The mounting component is attached to the pillion rail 3 of the motorcycle; the exact attachment is not visible in this view.

[0031] The Fig. Figure 2 shows two schematic representations of a pillion rail of a motorcycle. Shown is a bracket 2 for attaching a motorcycle helmet to the pillion rail 3 of a motorcycle. The bracket 2 comprises a mounting component and a helmet clip 5. The motorcycle helmet 1 is firmly clamped to the helmet clip 5, which has an outer clip 9 and an inner clip 8 and a bolt 11. The bolt 11 is pushed into the designated opening in the housing 22, as shown in Figure A. During this process, the compression spring 24 is compressed by the bolt 11 and allows rotation of the helmet 1 into the safety groove of the rail 23. The spring feedback prevents accidental release. As soon as the bolt reaches the safety groove 23, the spring 24 relaxes. This is achieved by the U-shape of the rail geometry 23 and thus prevents the helmet 1 from accidentally coming off again.In Figure B, the mounting component is attached to the pillion passenger support 3. The mounting component includes a connecting flange 21 and a housing. The connecting flange 21 is not visible in this figure.

[0032] The Fig. Figure 3 shows schematic exploded views of an assembly component consisting of a connecting flange 21 and a housing 22 with a milled rail, thread, compression spring 24, and screw 25. Figure A shows the assembly component from the front, and Figure B shows the assembly component from the rear. The connecting flange 21 is manufactured using a cutting or punching process, preferably from stainless steel or aluminum sheet, and is provided with three countersunk holes. The connecting flange 21 is then bent by 90°. This creates a support surface that serves to connect the connecting flange 21 to the housing 22. The housing 22 is manufactured from stainless steel or aluminum using an SLM printing process and / or milled using a CNC milling machine.

[0033] The Fig. 4 shows a schematic exploded view of the motorcycle rear end 17 to illustrate the mounting to the pillion rail 3. The existing mounting points of the pillion rail 3 are used. The geometry of the connecting flange 21 preferably varies depending on the given mounting flanges 16 of the pillion rail 3. By positioning the connecting flange 21 directly below the mounting flanges 16 of the pillion rail 3, the connecting flange 21 is securely fastened to the mounting flanges 16 with the aid of screws. This ensures a stable and permanent connection capable of securely supporting the helmet 1 without any risk of loosening or slipping.

[0034] The Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of the assembly of the helmet clip 5 to the motorcycle helmet 1. The outer clamp 9 includes an integrated rubber inlet 12 at one end. This specifically designed rubber inlet 12 serves to receive and secure a hard rubber element 10. The hard rubber serves a dual purpose: On the one hand, it acts as a spring nut to ensure a uniform and sustained clamping force. On the other hand, it functions as a non-slip intermediate layer that prevents the mounting device from being displaced or coming loose during operation of the motorcycle. The device is assembled through the interaction of the outer clamp 9 and inner clamp 8. These two parts are precisely positioned over the helmet shell and connected to each other via a flange using two screws 4. The flange extends over the second end of the outer clamp 9 and preferably has two holes along the support surface.On the lower outer side wall of the flange is a recess that serves as a bolt inlet 13. Tightening these screws not only creates a firm connection between the clamps, but also securely fixes the bolt 11 in the bolt inlet 13. This simultaneous fixation by the same screws ensures increased stability and safety of the entire system. A special feature of this mounting system is the specially developed wedge geometry of the clamps. This geometry was designed to generate maximum clamping force when tightening the screws 4, ensuring that the helmet clip 5 remains firmly and permanently connected to the helmet 1.

[0035] The Fig.Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of the assembly of the helmet clip 5 to the motorcycle helmet 1. The inner clip 8 is positioned directly on the inside of the helmet. Opposite, the outer clip 9 is located on the outside of the helmet. The combination of inner and outer clips offers a stable fastening solution that ensures that the motorcycle helmet 1 can be mounted firmly and securely. The rubber 10 is a crucial element of this system. It serves to absorb vibrations and act as a sealing element. This flexible material helps ensure that the mounted helmet 1 sits firmly without slipping or damaging the helmet 1. The bolt 11, which can be seen in the illustration, acts as a connecting element that connects the helmet clip 5 to the mounting component or connecting flange 21. Reference symbol 1 helmet 2 bracket 3 pillion rails 4 Motorcycle 5 helmet clasp 6 Motorcycle flange 7 screws of the helmet clasp 8 inner bracket 9 Outer clamp 10 rubber 11 bolts 12 rubber inlet 13 Bolt inlet 14 screws of the pillion rail 15 bench 16 mounting flanges of the pillion rail 17 Motorcycle rear 18 rear wheel 19 Helmet holder motorcycle 20 Mounting point connection flange 21 Connection flange 22 housings 23 Rail 24 compression spring 25 Screw with spring groove

Claims

[1] Bracket (2) for a motorcycle (4) for attaching a helmet, comprising: - a helmet clasp (5) comprising an outer (9), an inner clamp (8) and a bolt (11), wherein the outer (9) and the inner clamp (9) are configured to clamp the helmet, - a mounting element, wherein the mounting element comprises a connecting flange (21) and a housing (22), wherein the connecting flange (21) and the housing (22) are connectable and the housing has a cylindrical recess as a rail (23), which is configured such that the rail (23) enables a fixation of the bolt (11), characterized bythat the mounting element can be connected to the receptacle of a pillion bar (3) of the motorcycle (4) in such a way that the mounting element can be aligned approximately parallel along the direction of travel and the bolt (11) of the helmet clasp (5) can be connected to the mounting element in such a way that the motorcycle helmet is held in an exposed state on the pillion bar. [2] Holder (2) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the helmet clip (5) is configured to be positioned on the helmet such that an inner surface of the inner clip (8) rests on an inner surface of a helmet shell, and the inner surface of the outer clip (9) rests on an outer surface of the helmet shell, so that the inner clip (8) and outer clip (9) are aligned parallel to each other and are fixed to each other by means of screws (7). [3] Holder (2) according to claim 1, characterized bythat the outer clamp (9) has a bolt inlet (13) at the first end and comprises a rubber inlet (12) on an inner surface of the outer clamp (9) at a second end, which is configured to receive and fix a hard rubber (10). [4] Holder (2) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the bolt (11) can be connected to the helmet clasp (5) via the bolt inlet (13) and is fixed via the screws (7). [5] Holder (2) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the inner (8) and outer clamp (9) of the helmet clasp (5) have a wedge geometry. [6] Holder (2) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the rail (23) of the housing (22) of the mounting element has a U-shaped rail geometry (23) which is configured to receive and fix the bolt (11). [7] Holder (2) according to claim 5, characterized bythat by receiving the bolt (11) in the rail (23) a compression spring (24) is compressed, so that by rotating the bolt (11), the bolt (11) engages in the safety groove (23). [8] Holder (2) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the connecting flange (21) has a thickness of 1-10 mm, preferably a thickness of 2-5 mm and particularly preferably a thickness of 3 mm [9] Holder (2) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the connecting flange and the housing comprise a material selected from a group comprising aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, zinc, brass. [10] Holder (2) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the connecting flange (21) is manufactured by means of punching and / or cutting processes, the housing (22) is manufactured by means of SLM printing processes, SLS processes and / or milling processes.

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