EXTERNAL SYSTEM FOR A PROTECTIVE HELMET

Description

1. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to an external system for a protective helmet, in particular a ballistic protective helmet or an impact-resistant helmet, and to a corresponding protective helmet. 2. State of the art

[0002] Protective helmets, especially ballistic and impact-resistant helmets, are widely used by police and military forces. They protect the wearer from head injuries caused by indirect or direct gunfire and shrapnel, as well as from blunt head injuries caused by blows.

[0003] Depending on the mission, it is often necessary to attach accessories to the outside of a protective helmet. Such accessories include, for example, a visor, a light, a night vision device, a camera, or additional protective shields against direct frontal fire.

[0004] In the prior art, such accessories are attached to the protective helmet via rails or a so-called shroud, which is a front bracket in the forehead area.

[0005] For example, WO 2019 / 195760 A1 discloses a system for attaching helmet accessories, comprising a shroud configured to connect to a helmet and an arm assembly with a first arm configured to be rotatably connected to the shroud. The system includes an accessory interface configured to couple with an accessory and engage with the arm assembly.

[0006] US 2006 / 282939 A1 further discloses a platform referred to here as "Mounting rail"The mounting rail is designed to securely hold one or more optional accessories for a protective helmet at the desired locations. It is attached using five fasteners, two on each side and one at the front, which preferably penetrate the helmet's shell via through-holes used in conjunction with appropriate retaining elements (not shown).

[0007] The WO 2019 / 155269 reveals a one-piece outer system for a protective helmet.

[0008] However, it is disadvantageous if fastening elements such as rails are attached to the helmet shell by means of screws, bolts, or similar methods and penetrate it completely or partially. One of the underlying insights of the present invention is that such bolts or screws penetrating the helmet shell reduce the protective effect of the helmet. For example, a bolt or screw can become a secondary projectile upon impact, which can cause serious head injuries. Furthermore, the material of a projectile, although a solid, behaves like a liquid at high speeds and under the high pressures occurring upon impact. Therefore, upon impact, the projectile can penetrate even small gaps between the bolt / screw and the bore or thread in the helmet shell. "permeate"and thus directly and seriously injure the wearer's head. Even a blow from a heavy object could cause bolts or screws to penetrate the skullcap and seriously injure the head.

[0009] Furthermore, as already mentioned, it is regularly necessary to attach certain accessories, such as lighting, night vision devices, and / or cameras, to the outside of a protective helmet. Such accessories require a rigid connection to the helmet. Otherwise, various disadvantages, some of which are safety-relevant, can result for the helmet wearer. For example, a night vision device that is not rigidly connected to the helmet often only allows for limited night vision. It is also generally known that a camera that is not held securely in place cannot capture an accurate image. Systems known from the prior art often do not allow for such a stable or rigid connection with accessories, which would prevent their optimal use.

[0010] In summary, the object of the present invention is therefore to improve the protective effect of a protective helmet, to enable the interchangeability of accessories and also to enable a stable fixing of accessories. 3. Summary of the invention

[0011] This problem is at least partially solved by the subject matter of independent claims.

[0012] One aspect of the invention relates to an external system for a protective helmet. The protective helmet can be, for example, a ballistic helmet or an impact helmet.

[0013] The external system comprises a first lateral rail and a second lateral rail positioned opposite the first when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet. Both the first and second lateral rails have at least one hook. These hooks can each be designed to engage an edge of the helmet's shell. In this way, the external system can be easily attached to the helmet shell without any element penetrating or entering the shell.

[0014] The external system further comprises at least one cross-connecting element, wherein the at least one cross-connecting element detachably connects the first lateral rail to the second lateral rail when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet. This feature, whereby the at least one cross-connecting element detachably connects the first lateral rail to the second lateral rail in the mounted state, can, for example, mean that a positive-locking and / or force-locking connection exists between the at least one cross-connecting element and the first lateral rail, as well as between the at least one cross-connecting element and the second lateral rail. It has been shown that an external system, wherein at least one cross-connecting element connects the first lateral rail to the second lateral rail, enables a particularly stable or rigid attachment of the rails to a protective helmet.This is primarily due to the direct force transmission between the two side rails. This allows for a stable and rigid fixation of accessories. Furthermore, the use of at least one cross-connector linking the first side rail to the second side rail minimizes the number of individual parts required, thus reducing assembly effort.

[0015] Furthermore, the external system offers the advantage that accessories can be attached to a helmet shell without elements such as screws or bolts penetrating or entering the shell, while still ensuring secure attachment. The external system therefore improves the protective effect of a safety helmet compared to the current state of the art.

[0016] The at least one cross-connecting element can be designed such that, when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet, it tensions the first and second lateral rails against the helmet shell. This has the advantage of preventing unwanted movement of the rails. For example, when the external system is mounted, the hooks of the first and second lateral rails can be pulled or tensioned against the edge of the helmet shell by means of the at least one cross-connecting element. It is understood that the at least one cross-connecting element must possess a tensile strength for this purpose. For example, the at least one cross-connecting element can have a tensile strength of at least 1000 MPa, preferably at least 2000 MPa, and most preferably at least 2500 MPa (measured using a standard method).

[0017] Furthermore, at least one cross-connecting element can be designed to at least partially correspond to the outer contour of a protective helmet. This allows for straightforward assembly or easy fitting of the outer system. Preferably, the at least one cross-connecting element is U-shaped. For example, the at least one cross-connecting element can comprise a stamped sheet metal piece that has subsequently been bent to conform to the outer shape of the protective helmet.

[0018] Furthermore, the at least one cross-connecting element can, for example, have an elongation at break of at least 30%, preferably at least 50%. The elongation at break is the strain value of the at least one cross-connecting element before a stress drop to less than or equal to 10% of its strength value occurs. This elongation at break ensures good durability of the at least one cross-connecting element, even with regular replacement of the first or second lateral rail or regular reassembly, e.g., for maintenance and cleaning purposes.

[0019] Within the scope of the present disclosure, the feature of a "cross-connection" as contained in the aforementioned cross-connection element may refer to the fact that the cross-connection element intersects a vertex line of a protective helmet substantially perpendicularly when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet.

[0020] "Essentially" in the context of the present disclosure means that the exact geometric form and / or description is not required, but rather deviations within the scope of general tolerances also fall under the corresponding wording.

[0021] Furthermore, the formulations "when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet" and "in the mounted state of the external system" are to be considered equivalent within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0022] The described advantages of the invention have a particularly significant impact on ballistic and impact-resistant helmets. However, ballistic and impact-resistant helmets also present entirely different challenges than, for example, lighter helmets such as bicycle helmets or helmets commonly worn on construction sites. For instance, the issue of secondary projectiles does not exist with these lighter helmets. Concepts derived from bicycle helmets or "Construction helmets" Therefore, these principles cannot be readily applied to ballistic and impact helmets.

[0023] The at least one cross-connecting element can be a strip. A strip within the meaning of the present disclosure can be an elongated element, wherein the elongated element has a cross-section whose dimensions are small relative to the length of the element. Preferably, the length of the elongated element is larger relative to the dimensions of the cross-section by a factor of 20, and more preferably by a factor of 80. Optionally, the strip has a substantially rectangular cross-section, wherein the cross-section further optionally has a width-to-height ratio in the range of 2 to 15. More preferably, the width-to-height ratio is in the range of 3 to 10. Rectangular cross-sections, and in particular the aforementioned ratios, have proven advantageous because they allow for a flat bearing surface on a helmet dome and are therefore particularly positionally stable. This results in a stable orRigid attachment of the external system to a protective helmet is possible. Accordingly, a stable and rigid fixation of accessories can be achieved.

[0024] However, at least one of the cross-connecting elements can also include a tension cable. A tension cable can have a substantially elliptical cross-section. In particular, the tension cable can have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0025] Preferably, at least one cross-connecting element is screwed to the first and / or second lateral rail when the external system is mounted on the helmet. Screwing has proven advantageous because it allows for easy adjustment of the external system to the helmet.

[0026] Preferably, when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet, at least one cross-connecting element is screwed to the first and / or second lateral rail using at least one screw, and the at least one screw is arranged such that it can regulate a tensile force acting on the at least one cross-connecting element. This allows precise adjustment of how tightly or stably the external system is mounted to the protective helmet. Furthermore, any loosening of the external system can be easily and quickly compensated for. For example, in one embodiment, when the external system is mounted, the hooks of the first and second lateral rails can be pulled or tensioned against the edge of the helmet shell with an adjustable force using the at least one cross-connecting element.

[0027] Preferably, when the external system is mounted on the helmet, at least one cross-connecting element is screwed to the first lateral rail, and this at least one cross-connecting element has at least one projection that engages positively with the second lateral rail. For example, the at least one cross-connecting element can have two lateral projections at one end, forming a T-shaped end piece. Accordingly, the second lateral rail can have an opening that allows the insertion of the at least one cross-connecting element but retains the lateral projections or the T-shaped end piece. By achieving a positive-locking connection between the at least one cross-connecting element and the second lateral rail, the safety of the external system can be increased, as this reduces the number of elements that could develop into a secondary projectile upon impact.

[0028] Furthermore, it is preferred that the external system is mounted on the protective helmet, that at least one cross-connecting element is screwed to the first lateral rail and that at least one cross-connecting element is connected to the second lateral rail by means of at least one rivet.

[0029] The two options above for connecting the at least one cross-connecting element to the first lateral rail and the second lateral rail have the advantage that no adjustment, for example by means of a screw, is required between the at least one cross-connecting element and the second lateral rail, and therefore the adjustment and / or assembly of the external system is made easier.

[0030] The outer system can further comprise a longitudinal element. The longitudinal element can be adapted to be positioned between the first and second rails when the outer system is mounted on the protective helmet. Furthermore, the longitudinal element can have at least one fastening element adapted to engage with the at least one transverse connecting element or an edge of a helmet shell. The fastening element can, for example, be a hook at one end of the longitudinal element adapted to at least partially engage the at least one transverse connecting element or an edge of a helmet shell. Preferably, the at least one longitudinal element extends in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the at least one transverse connecting element.Within the scope of this disclosure, the feature "longitudinal," as it is contained in the aforementioned longitudinal element, can refer to the fact that the longitudinal element extends substantially parallel to a vertex line of a protective helmet when the external system is mounted on the helmet. The longitudinal element can enable the attachment of an application along a vertex line of a protective helmet without the need for fasteners that penetrate the helmet shell and constitute potential secondary projectiles. It should be noted that the longitudinal element can include the features of the at least one transverse connecting element described above. For example, the longitudinal element can also be a strip.

[0031] Furthermore, the external system can include a front bracket. This front bracket can be a shroud. The front bracket can be detachably attached to the longitudinal element and have at least one fastening element designed to engage positively with the helmet's shell. Accordingly, in the assembled state, the front bracket can be attached to the helmet by means of its fastening element and the fastening element of the longitudinal element. This allows the front bracket to be attached without the need for fasteners that penetrate or pass through the helmet shell and thus represent potential secondary projectiles. Preferably, the front bracket is attached to the longitudinal element by at least one screw connection.Thus, when the external system is mounted on the helmet, the screw connection allows adjustment of the tension applied to the front bracket between the helmet shell and at least one cross-connector. This improves the stability of the front bracket. This is particularly advantageous because the position of the front is crucial for demanding applications. For example, in combat situations, most fire comes from the front. The shroud can be used to attach an additional shield, significantly increasing the helmet's impact resistance. A night vision device, a lamp, and / or a camera can also be advantageously attached to the front of the external system.

[0032] The front bracket or shroud can, for example, include a fastening element designed to grip the edge of a helmet shell of a protective helmet. Furthermore, the front bracket or shroud can, for example, have two hooks as fastening elements. This has the advantage of improving tilt stability and lateral torsional rigidity. The at least two hooks can be spaced relatively far apart compared to the width of the shroud or the front bracket. For example, the at least two hooks can be spaced at least 20%, preferably at least 50%, and most preferably at least 75% apart from the width of the shroud or the front bracket. It is also possible to use only one hook. Preferably, this single hook has a width of at least 20%, more preferably at least 50%, and most preferably at least 75% of the width of the shroud or the front bracket.This is advantageous because it prevents the shroud or the front bracket from tilting to the side.

[0033] The at least one transverse connecting element can form an overlap point with the longitudinal element. The external system can further comprise at least one positioning element adapted to be positioned between the helmet shell and the overlap point and to fix the position of the overlap point relative to the helmet shell when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet. This further improves the stability of the external system in the assembled state. For example, the at least one positioning element can comprise a recess into which the at least one transverse connecting element and the longitudinal element can be inserted, the recess preferably being configured such that the at least one transverse connecting element and the longitudinal element can be inserted substantially perpendicular to each other. Furthermore, the positioning element can comprise a plastic, rubber, studs, and / or spikes.It has been found that such positioning locking elements are less prone to slipping on the surfaces of protective helmets.

[0034] The first lateral rail, the second lateral rail, the at least one transverse connecting element, and / or the longitudinal element may comprise a metal, preferably titanium. The use of metal improves the stability and, in particular, the multi-hit capability of the external system. It has been shown that even if the external system is struck by one or more projectiles, it can still reliably secure accessories. Furthermore, titanium has the advantage of being particularly lightweight and resistant.

[0035] However, it is also possible that the first lateral rail, the second lateral rail, at least one transverse connecting element, and / or the longitudinal element comprise a polymer. This has the advantage that the individual components can be manufactured cost-effectively using injection molding. The polymer is advantageously non-flammable.

[0036] Furthermore, it is possible for the first lateral rail, the second lateral rail, at least one cross-connecting element, and / or the longitudinal element to comprise an organo-sheet. An organo-sheet can comprise carbon fibers embedded in a polymer matrix. The polymer matrix can be a thermoplastic polymer, a polyamide, or a polyetheretherketone. Organo-sheets have the advantage, particularly due to the carbon fibers, of being multi-hit capable. Furthermore, this allows for the injection molding of all mounting points. The carbon fibers can be woven, which further improves strength.

[0037] The outer system can comprise a first cross-connection element, a second cross-connection element, and a third cross-connection element, wherein the first, second, and third cross-connection elements each detachably connect the first and second side rails when the outer system is mounted on the helmet. Three cross-connection elements have proven advantageous in that they provide a particularly stable hold of the outer system to a helmet without increasing the weight and / or complexity of the outer system, for example, by adding further cross-connection elements. However, it is understood that helmets used under special stresses may require more than three cross-connection elements. Furthermore, the use of three cross-connection elements allows for a distinctly multi-hit capable protection, i.e.,Even if a protective helmet is hit by multiple projectiles and two of the three cross-connecting elements are destroyed, the outer system generally remains attached to the helmet shell due to the redundancy of the fastening. Therefore, the outer system improves the protective effect of a protective helmet compared to the current state of the art.

[0038] Preferably, when the external system is mounted on the protective helmet, the first cross-connection element is attached to a rear end of the first lateral rail and to a rear end of the second lateral rail, the third cross-connection element is attached to a front end of the first lateral rail and to a front end of the second lateral rail, and the second cross-connection element is positioned between the first and third cross-connection elements. This arrangement ensures a particularly secure hold of the external system within the helmet shell.

[0039] The first side rail, the second side rail, and / or the front bracket may include a mounting point for an application. This mounting point allows for the attachment of accessories (applications) such as (but not limited to) a light, a camera, a visor, an additional protective shield, or a night vision device.

[0040] The first and second lateral rails can each have at least two hooks, preferably at least one of which has a U-shaped profile. Two hooks per lateral rail have proven advantageous in that the external system can be attached to a helmet shell particularly securely. A U-shaped profile, in particular, ensures a firm hold on the helmet shell, even during rapid movements. Furthermore, two hooks allow the helmet shell to be gripped both in front of and behind ear protection. This is advantageous because helmet ear protection can vary depending on the application, and the external system is therefore independent of the ear protection design.

[0041] Furthermore, one of the at least two hooks of the first side rail can protrude from the front end of the first side rail, and a second of the at least two hooks of the first rail can protrude from the rear end of the first side rail. Similarly, one of the at least two hooks of the second side rail can protrude from the front end of the second side rail, and a second of the at least two hooks of the second side rail can protrude from the rear end of the second side rail. This arrangement ensures that as much installation space as possible is available for attaching accessories to the rail without compromising their attachment to a cap. In particular, accessories with a relatively large weight can be mounted in any position.

[0042] The first and second lateral rails can each have at least one embossed feature, the embossing projecting outwards when the external system is mounted on the helmet, the embossing having a substantially flat surface, and the embossing rising wedge-shaped from the adjacent, unembossed area of ​​the respective rail. The substantially flat surface of the at least one embossed feature can serve for mounting a visor adapter to which a visor can be detachably attached. The wedge shape allows for at least partial compensation of any inclination of the first lateral rail relative to the second lateral rail, thus enabling a simpler (geometrically less complex) design of the visor adapter.

[0043] Another aspect of the invention relates to a protective helmet comprising a helmet shell and an outer system as described above, wherein the at least one hook of the first lateral rail and the at least one hook of the second lateral rail of the outer system each engage an edge of the helmet shell.

[0044] The protective helmet according to the invention combines all the advantages of the external system described above with a helmet shell, so that the advantages described above also apply to the protective helmet.

[0045] The helmet shell can be made of titanium, titanium-PE, titanium-aramid, PE-aramid, PE, and / or a PE-carbon-aramid material. PE stands for polyethylene. These materials are lightweight and durable. The external system can be attached to the shell without any penetrating or entering element. A penetrating or entering element could be, for example, a screw or bolt. This could become a secondary projectile under impact and cause serious head injury to the wearer. A penetrating or entering element can also injure the head upon impact. Furthermore, the material of a projectile, although a solid, behaves like a liquid at high speeds and under the high pressures encountered upon impact. Therefore, upon impact, the projectile can penetrate even small gaps between the bolt / screw and the hole or thread in the shell. "permeate"and thus also directly and seriously injure the wearer's head. The invention therefore significantly improves the protective effect of the helmet.

[0046] It is understood that the external system of the present invention is fundamentally interchangeable. In particular, the external system can be used on various helmet shells. This makes it possible to combine the advantages of the external system with the advantages of specific helmet shells. For example, in situations of low risk, the external system according to the invention could be used with a lighter helmet shell, while in situations of particularly high risk, the external system according to the invention could be used with a heavier helmet shell. Existing helmets can also be easily retrofitted with the external system according to the invention. 4. Brief description of the characters

[0047] Fig. 1shows a top view of a protective helmet according to the invention, Fig. 2 shows a side view of the protective helmet according to the invention, Fig. 3 shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention, Fig. 4 shows a rear view of the protective helmet according to the invention, Fig. 5 shows side views of protective helmets according to the invention, Fig. 6 shows a top view of an example cross-connection element, Fig. 7 shows an example of a right lateral rail, Fig. 8 shows an example of a left lateral rail, Fig. 9A shows an exemplary connection of the right side rail with an exemplary cross-connection element in a side sectional view, Fig. 9B shows an exemplary connection of the right lateral rail with an exemplary cross-connecting element in a top view, Fig. 10Ashows an exemplary connection of the left lateral rail with an exemplary cross-connecting element in a lateral sectional view, Fig. 10B shows the exemplary connection of the left lateral rail with an exemplary cross-connecting element in a cutaway top view, Fig. 10C shows an exemplary connection of the left lateral rail with an exemplary cross-connecting element in different views, Fig. 11 shows a top view of an exemplary longitudinal element, Fig. 12 shows an exemplary screw connection of the front bracket to the longitudinal element in a side sectional view, Fig. 13 shows a top view of an example position locking element, Fig. 14 shows exemplary rail segments according to a first variant and according to a second variant, and Fig. 15 shows a rear view of a protective helmet according to a further embodiment of the invention. 5. Detailed description of the figures

[0048] The figures show examples of protective helmets, external systems, and their components. Some figures show only specific parts of the external system or the protective helmet.

[0049] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a protective helmet 1 according to the invention with an external system 11. The external system 11 comprises a first lateral rail 21, which is arranged on the left side of the protective helmet 1. The external system 11 further comprises a second lateral rail 22, which is arranged on the right side of the protective helmet 1. The second lateral rail 22 is arranged opposite the first lateral rail 21. Furthermore, the first lateral rail 21 and the second lateral rail 22 each have two hooks 38, 39, as shown. Fig. 2, 3 and 4The outer system also comprises three cross-connection elements 31, 32, 33, each of which detachably connects the first lateral rail 21 to the second lateral rail 22. Where necessary for the description of the figures, cross-connection element 31 is referred to as the first cross-connection element 31, cross-connection element 32 as the second cross-connection element 32, and cross-connection element 33 as the third cross-connection element 33.

[0050] The in the Figs. 1 to 5 The protective helmets 1 shown each comprise a helmet shell 16 and an outer system 11, wherein the two hooks 38, 39 of the first lateral rail 21 and the two hooks 38, 39 of the second lateral rail 22 of the outer system 11 each engage an edge of the helmet shell 16.

[0051] In the Figs. 1 to 4 and 6It is shown that the three cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 are strips, the strips having a rectangular cross-section. It is understood that the in Fig. 6 The illustrated cross-connection element 31, 32, 33 is not shown bent for the sake of clarity.

[0052] Furthermore, it is from the Fig. 1 It can be seen that the three cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 are each screwed to the first lateral rail 21. A screw 35a, 35b, 35c is used for each cross-connecting element 31, 32, 33 to the first lateral rail 21. The corresponding screw connections are shown in detail in the Fig. 10A, 10B and 10CThe illustrations show, in particular, that the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 are each screwed to the first lateral rail 21 using a screw 35a, 35b, 35c, which is arranged to regulate a tensile force acting on the respective cross-connecting element 31, 32, 33. In detail, the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 and the first lateral rail 21 each have sections bent outwards (i.e., away from the protective helmet 1). These sections are essentially parallel, so that the screws 35a, 35b, 35c can be inserted perpendicularly through corresponding bores in the sections. Thus, the screws 35a, 35b, 35c run essentially parallel to the areas of the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 and the first lateral rail 21, which adjoin the outwardly bent sections.This allows the screws 35a, 35b, 35c to each regulate the tensile force acting on the corresponding cross-connecting element 31, 32, 33.

[0053] A cover 80 is arranged over each of the screws 35a, 35b, 35c, which ensures adjustability of the screw connection.

[0054] As already mentioned and in Fig. 1 As shown, the three cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 are each screwed to the first lateral rail 21. Furthermore, as shown in the Figs. 6 and 7As shown, the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 each have two projections 34a, 34b which engage positively with openings or slots 28a, 28b, 28c of the second lateral rail 22 when the outer system is assembled. In detail, the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33 have two lateral projections 34a, 34b at one end, forming a T-shaped end piece. The second lateral rail 22 has corresponding openings or slots 28a, 28b, 28c that allow the insertion of the cross-connecting elements 31, 32, 33, but retain the lateral projections 34a, 34b and the T-shaped end piece, respectively. This positive engagement is shown in the Figs. 9A and 9B depicted.

[0055] As especially in the Fig. 1 , 3 and 4 As can be seen, the external system 11 mounted on the protective helmet 1 also includes a longitudinal element 37, which, for the sake of clarity, is shown in its unbent state in Fig. 11The longitudinal element 37 is shown in the assembled state (see illustration). Figs. 1 to 4 ) arranged between the first 21 and the second 22 rail and extends essentially parallel to a vertex line of the protective helmet 1.

[0056] In the Fig. 4 and 11 It is further shown that the longitudinal element 37 has a fastening element 70 which, in the assembled state (cf. Fig. 4 ) with a cross-connecting element 31. In detail, the fastening element 70 engages the cross-connecting element 31, which is closest to a rear head area 3 of the protective helmet 1, in such a way that a displacement of the longitudinal element 37 towards a forehead area 2 of the protective helmet 1 is prevented.

[0057] Furthermore, in the Fig. 1 , 3 , 4 and 11It has been shown that the longitudinal element is a strip having a rectangular cross-section. Furthermore, the longitudinal element 37 extends in a direction that is essentially perpendicular to the three transverse connecting elements 31, 32, 33.

[0058] As in the Fig. 1 , 2 and 3 As shown, the external system 11 also includes a front bracket 40. This front bracket 40 is detachably attached to the longitudinal element 37 and has a fastening element 41 that engages positively with the helmet shell 16 of the protective helmet 1. Fig. 2 The area in which the fastening means is located is designated, but it is not shown how the fastening means 41 engages positively with the helmet shell 16 of the protective helmet 1.

[0059] In the Fig. 1 , 11 and 12It is also shown that the front bracket 40 is attached to the longitudinal element 37 by two screws 60a, 60b. The use of two screws increases the stability of the front bracket 40. In particular, Fig. 12 The figure shows that the longitudinal element 37 is screwed to the front bracket 40 using the two screws 60a, 60b, which are arranged to regulate a tensile force acting on the longitudinal element 37 when the external system 11 is mounted on the protective helmet 1, as shown. This allows precise adjustment of how tightly or stably the external system, and in particular the front bracket, is mounted to the protective helmet.

[0060] As in the Fig. 1 and 3As shown, both the transverse connecting element 32 and the transverse connecting element 33 form an overlap point with the longitudinal element 37. The outer system 11 further comprises two position locking elements 50a, 50b, each arranged between the helmet cap 16 and the overlap point, which fix the position of the overlap point relative to the helmet cap 16. A detailed view of a corresponding position locking element 50a, 50b is shown in Fig. 13 The position securing element 50a, 50b shown includes a recess into which the transverse connecting element 32, 33 and the longitudinal element 37 can be inserted, the recess being configured so that the transverse connecting element 32, 33 and the longitudinal element 37 can be inserted perpendicular to each other.

[0061] In Fig. 1 and Fig. 2The first cross-connecting element 31 is shown to be attached to a rear end of the first lateral rail 21 and to a rear end of the second lateral rail 22, the third cross-connecting element 33 being attached to a front end of the first lateral rail 21 and to a front end of the second lateral rail 22, and the second cross-connecting element 32 being arranged between the first cross-connecting element 31 and the third cross-connecting element 33.

[0062] Furthermore, as in Fig. 1 and 2 As shown, the first lateral rail 21 and the second lateral rail 22 each comprise two holders 25a, 25b for an application. The corresponding holders or rail segments 25a, 25b are shown in detail in Fig. 14These rail segments 25a, 25b allow for the modular attachment of various accessories to the first side rail 21 and the second side rail 22. Each rail segment 25a, 25b has a snap-in section 26a, 26b for the corresponding side rail 21, 22, and on the opposite side of the rail segment, a snap-in section 27a, 27b for accessories. In the first variant 25a, the snap-in section 27a for accessories has a plurality of notches. In the second variant 25b, the snap-in section 27a for accessories has a plurality of projections. In an alternative embodiment, the rail segments 25a, 25b are integrally formed. This reduces the number of individual parts.

[0063] As in the Figs. 7 and 8As can be seen, the first lateral rail 21 and the second lateral rail 22 each include a rail holder 24a, 24b which serves to fasten the rail segments 25a, 25b. The rail holders 24a, 24b are adapted to engage with the snap-in sections 26a, 26b.

[0064] Especially in the Fig. 3 , 4 , 7 and 8 It is shown that the first 21 and the second 22 lateral rails each have two hooks 38, 39. As shown in the front view of the protective helmet 1 in Fig. 3 As shown, the helmet shell 16 has an L-shaped outer form 18 in the area of ​​the first hook 38, the first hook 38 being seated in the L-shaped outer form 18, so that it holds particularly securely to the shell 16. As shown in the rear view of the protective helmet 1 in Fig. 4The helmet shell 16, as shown, has an edge 19 in the area of ​​the second hook 39, which the second hook 39 engages behind, ensuring a secure hold. However, no special design of the shell is generally required. Numerous possible structures are conceivable. Only the first 38 and second 39 hooks must be designed to grip an edge of the shell. This alone guarantees a secure hold. It is possible for the first 38 and second 39 hooks to be bendable and thus even better adapted to the shell, for example, using pliers.

[0065] Furthermore, in the Fig. 2 , 7 and 8It can be seen that a first 38 of the two hooks 38, 39 of the first lateral rail 21 projects from the front end of the first lateral rail 21, and a second 39 of the at least two hooks 38, 39 of the first rail projects from the rear end of the first lateral rail 21. Similarly, it is shown that a first 38 of the at least two hooks 38, 39 of the second lateral rail 22 projects from the front end of the second lateral rail 22, and a second 39 of the at least two hooks 38, 39 of the second lateral rail 22 projects from the rear end of the second lateral rail 22.

[0066] The design of the hooks 38, 39 described above allows the helmet shell 16 to be gripped in front of and behind the ear protection 4, as for example in Fig. 2 This is advantageous because the external system 11 can be mounted independently of the design of the ear protection 4, as shown. Fig. 5can be seen from this.

[0067] Furthermore, in the Fig. 3 to recognize that the first 21 and the second 22 lateral rail each have an embossing 23 that protrudes outwards, the embossing 23 having a substantially flat surface (see Figs. 7 and 8 ) and stands out in a wedge shape against the adjacent and unembossed area of ​​the respective rail 21, 22.

[0068] On the 23 coins in Fig. 3 A blind module 29 is arranged in each case, which is used to prevent the rails 21, 22 from snagging during use, for example on a bush, undergrowth or similar object, or on clothing, when a visor is not needed and therefore part of the rails 21, 22 is exposed. Additionally, the blind module 29 also serves to protect a visor adapter from damage upon impact with a hard object such as a rock, stone, metal object or similar.

[0069] Accordingly Fig. 3The external system 11 further comprises a first securing element 42a, which connects the front bracket 40 to the first lateral rail 21, and a second securing element 42b, which connects the front bracket 40 to the second lateral rail 22. These securing elements 42a and 42b serve as additional safeguards, for example, for a night vision device mounted on the front bracket or shroud 40. Should the night vision device unintentionally detach from the shroud 40, it would fall to the ground and potentially be damaged without the securing elements 42a and 42b, which may include a strap, a belt, or an elastic cord. The securing elements 42a and 42b prevent damage to the night vision device. It is possible that the securing elements 42a and 42b each comprise an injection-molded element that engages with a recess in the first lateral rail 21 or 22.the second lateral rail 22 engages. Alternatively, the securing elements 42a, 42b can each comprise a fastening element with which a band, a strap or an elastic cord engages in a form-fitting manner and which engages with a recess in the first lateral rail 21 or the second lateral rail 22, respectively.

[0070] Fig. 15 Figure 1 shows a rear view of a protective helmet 1 according to a further embodiment of the invention. As can be seen, the outer system 11 comprises a longitudinal element 37, wherein the longitudinal element 37 is arranged between the first and the second rail. The longitudinal element 37 has a fastening element 70 that engages with an edge of the helmet shell 16. In the Fig. 15It is further shown that the longitudinal element 37 is wider in the area of ​​the fastening element 70. In detail, the longitudinal element 37 is at least approximately twice as wide in the area of ​​the fastening element 70. This enables a more stable fastening of the longitudinal element 37 to the protective helmet 1 or the helmet shell 16. Furthermore, it is shown in Fig. 15 It is evident that the first transverse connecting element 31 forms an overlap point with the longitudinal element 37. The outer system 11 includes a position securing element 50c, which is arranged between the helmet cap 16 and the overlap point and fixes or at least stabilizes the position of the overlap point relative to the helmet cap. Reference symbol:

[0071] 1 Protective helmet 2 Forehead area 3 Back of head area 4 Ear protection 11 Outer system 16 Helmet shell 18 L-shaped outer shape 19 Edge 21 First side rail 22 Second side rail 23 Embossing 24a, 24b Rail bracket 25a, 25b Rail segment 26a, 26b Rail snap-in section 27a, 27b Accessory snap-in section 28a, 28b, 28c Openings / slots 29 Blind module 31 First cross-connection element 32 Second cross-connection element 33 Third cross-connection element 34a, 34b Side projections 35a, 35b, 35c Screws 37 Longitudinal element 38 First hook 39 Second hook 40 Front bracket / shroud 41 Fastening device 42a, 42b Locking elements 50a, 50b, 50c Positioning locking elements 60a, 60b Screws 70 Fastening element 80 Housing

Claims

1. Exterior system (11) for a protective helmet (1), comprising: a first lateral rail (21), a second lateral rail (22) which is arranged opposite the first lateral rail (21) when the exterior system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), wherein the first (21) and the second (22) lateral rail each have at least one hook (38, 39), and at least one transverse connection element (31, 32, 33), characterized in that the at least one transverse connection element (31, 32, 33) releasably connects the first lateral rail (21) to the second lateral rail (22) when the exterior system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1).

2. Exterior system (11) according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least one transverse connection element (31, 32, 33) is a strip, wherein the strip preferably has a substantially rectangular cross-section, wherein the cross-section further preferably has a width to height ratio which is in the range from 2 to 15.

3. Exterior system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one transverse connection element (31, 32, 33) is screwed to the first (21) and / or the second (22) lateral rail when the exterior system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1).

4. Exterior system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the exterior system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), the at least one transverse connection element (31, 32, 33) is screwed to the first (21) and / or the second (22) lateral rail using at least one screw (35a, 35b, 35c) and the at least one screw (35a, 35b, 35c) is arranged such that it can regulate a tensile force acting on the at least one transverse connection element (31, 32, 33).

5. Exterior system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the exterior system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), the at least one transverse connection element (31, 32, 33) is screwed to the first lateral rail (21) and the at least one transverse connection element (31, 32, 33) has at least one protrusion (34a, 34b) which positively engages with the second lateral rail (22), or wherein, when the exterior system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), the at least one transverse connection element (31, 32, 33) is screwed to the first lateral rail (21) and the at least one transverse connection element (31, 32, 33) is connected to the second lateral rail (22) by means of at least one rivet.

6. Exterior system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a longitudinal element (37), wherein the longitudinal element (37) is adapted to be arranged between the first (21) and the second (22) rail when the exterior system is mounted on the protective helmet (1), and wherein the longitudinal element (37) has at least one fastening element (70) which is adapted to engage with the at least one transverse connection element (31) or an edge of a helmet cup (16), wherein the at least one longitudinal element (37) preferably extends in a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the at least one transverse connection element (31).

7. Exterior system (11) according to the preceding claim, comprising a front bracket (40), wherein the front bracket (40) is releasably fastened to the longitudinal element (37) and has at least one fastening means (41) which is arranged to positively engage with the helmet cup (16) of the protective helmet (1), wherein the front bracket (40) is preferably fastened to the longitudinal element (37) by at least one screw connection (60a, 60b).

8. Exterior system (11) according to one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the at least one transverse connection element (31, 32, 33) forms an overlap point with the longitudinal element (37), and the exterior system (11) further comprises at least one position securing element (50a, 50b) which is adapted to be arranged between the helmet cup (16) and the overlap point and to fix the position of the overlap point with respect to the helmet cup (16) when the exterior system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1).

9. Exterior system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first lateral rail (21), the second lateral rail (22), the at least one transverse connection element (31) and / or the longitudinal element (37) comprise a metal, wherein the metal is preferably titanium.

10. Exterior system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a first transverse connection element (31), a second transverse connection element (32) and a third transverse connection element (33), wherein the first (31), the second (32) and the third (33) transverse connection element respectively releasably connect the first lateral rail (21) and the second lateral rail (22) when the exterior system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1).

11. Exterior system (11) according to the preceding claim, wherein, when the exterior system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), the first transverse connection element (31) is fastened to a rear end of the first lateral rail (21) and to a rear end of the second lateral rail (22), the third transverse connection element (33) is fastened to a front end of the first lateral rail (21) and to a front end of the second lateral rail (22), and the second transverse connection element (32) is arranged between the first transverse connection element (31) and the third transverse connection element (33).

12. Exterior system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first (21) and the second (22) lateral rail each have at least two hooks (38, 39), wherein preferably at least one of the hooks (38, 39) has a U-shaped profile.

13. Exterior system (11) according to the preceding claim, wherein a first (38) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the first lateral rail (21) protrudes from the front end of the first lateral rail (21) and a second (39) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the first rail protrudes from the rear end of the first lateral rail (21); wherein a first (38) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the second lateral rail (22) protrudes from the front end of the second lateral rail (22) and a second (39) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the second lateral rail (22) protrudes from the rear end of the second lateral rail (22).

14. Exterior system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first (21) and the second (22) lateral rail each have at least one embossment (23), wherein the embossment (23) protrudes outwards when the exterior system (11) is mounted on the protective helmet (1), wherein the embossment (23) has a substantially planar surface, and wherein the embossment (23) rises in a wedge-shaped manner with respect to the adjacent and non-embossed region of the respective rail (21, 22).

15. Protective helmet (1) comprising: a helmet cup (16), and an exterior system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one hook (38, 39) of the first lateral rail (21) and the at least one hook (38, 39) of the second lateral rail (22) of the exterior system (11) each engage around an edge of the helmet cup (16).