Helmet shell for a protective helmet with a reinforcing layer

Abstract

The present invention relates to a helmet shell for a ballistic protective helmet, comprising (a) at least one inner layer (20); (b) at least one outer layer (30); and (c) at least one reinforcement layer (60), wherein the inner layer (20) and the outer layer (30) form an at least partially circumferential closure region (40) of the helmet shell (10), and wherein the reinforcement layer (60) at least partially encloses the closure region (40).

Description

1. Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a helmet shell for a ballistic protective helmet. In particular, the invention relates to a helmet shell with a reinforcement layer and a method for producing such a helmet shell, as well as to a corresponding protective helmet. 2. State of the art

[0002] Ballistic helmets, also known as impact helmets, are widely used by police and the military. They protect the wearer (hereinafter referred to as the "wearer") from head injuries caused, for example, by indirect or direct fire from a projectile and / or fragmentation. They also protect against blunt head injuries caused by impact.

[0003] A helmet shell for a ballistic protective helmet is designed to provide optimal protection for the wearer. Crucial for effective protection is that the helmet shell exhibits high strength and toughness properties. This ensures high stability of the helmet shell while also being able to absorb a projectile, particularly the kinetic energy of such a projectile. It is also crucial for effective protection of the wearer that such advantageous protection can be provided across the entire helmet surface.

[0004] Existing helmet shells do not meet such a requirement. Rather, existing helmet shells, as known from the state of the art, exhibit weaker, less stable, and / or less robust designs at the edges. The protective effect of such helmets is therefore limited by critical weak points. Consequently, such conventional helmet shells pose a danger to the wearer if, for example, a projectile impacts the helmet near one end of the shell. Thus, optimal protective effect cannot be achieved with conventional helmet shells.

[0005] An exemplary helmet shell for a protective helmet is disclosed in EP 4 305 991 A1 of the same applicant.

[0006] One object of the present invention is therefore to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, the present invention is dedicated to the task of improving the protective effect of a ballistic helmet. This should increase the wearer's safety. This safety should be achieved across the entire helmet surface. 3. Summary of the invention

[0007] The above objects, as well as further objects that will become apparent from the following description, are achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims, and those skilled in the art will find references to other suitable embodiments of the present invention in the disclosure of the present application.

[0008] The aims and objectives of the present invention are achieved, among other things, with a product, in particular a helmet shell, a corresponding protective helmet, and a method for producing a helmet shell according to the invention. The technical properties, advantages of the product, and improvements over the prior art presented below also apply to the method for producing the product.

[0009] One aspect of the invention relates to a helmet shell for a ballistic protective helmet, comprising: (a) at least one inner layer; (b) at least one outer layer; and (c) at least one reinforcing layer, wherein the inner layer and the outer layer form an at least partially circumferential closing region of the helmet shell, and wherein the reinforcing layer at least partially encloses the closing region.

[0010] The helmet shell according to the invention improves the stiffening of the helmet shell, particularly in the end region, i.e., in the edge area. Consequently, the strength in this area can be increased, and the impact of a ballistic foreign body can be absorbed more effectively. Thus, the safety of a protective helmet featuring such a helmet shell according to the invention can be significantly increased. This provides the wearer with better protection than is usually the case.

[0011] A helmet shell can, for example, be a substantially spherical shell, spherical cap, or spherical hood. Thus, a helmet shell is held on the wearer's head by means of its substantially spherical portion.

[0012] A closure region can be understood as a region that relates to one end of the shell. For example, if a wearer uses the helmet shell in the usual way, the lower end of the helmet shell could be understood as the closure region. The lower end can essentially be regarded as a lower end along the direction of gravity during normal use or wearing of the protective helmet. The crown of the helmet shell, on the other hand, can be understood as an upper end of the helmet shell along the direction of gravity during normal use of the protective helmet. For the purpose of illustration, the closure region could be understood as a region that is spaced furthest away from the crown of the helmet shell. The closure region is furthermore at least partially circumferential. Preferably, the closure region is completely circumferential, e.g. over an angular range of 360°.However, there may also be individual areas in which additional technical features are incorporated, for example near the wearer's ear area.

[0013] Preferably, the inner layer can have a higher flexural rigidity than the outer layer. The inner layer can be made of titanium, for example, but can also be made of a polyethylene-fiber composite. The outer layer is preferably made of polyethylene and can also be fiber-reinforced. The outer layer is usually in contact with the environment. The inner layer is usually positioned closer to the wearer's head.

[0014] The reinforcement layer at least partially encloses the final area.

[0015] The term "at least partially" in this context means that the reinforcement layer visibly encloses the end area of the helmet shell in certain areas. It is not absolutely necessary for the reinforcement layer to enclose the entire end area. In any case, at least partial enclosing is sufficient to achieve a beneficial effect. This effect includes, among other things, increasing the robustness, strength, and stability of the helmet shell.

[0016] The reinforcement layer can be located on the inside and / or outside of the helmet shell. The reinforcement layer can be the same height inside and outside, or it can be different heights. The reinforcement layer can be provided continuously along the circumference of the helmet shell, or only in certain places, for example, at critical points on the shell.

[0017] The reinforcement layer is a layer that can significantly increase the robustness, strength, and therefore safety of the helmet shell. This layer differs from conventional layers.

[0018] A "ballistic foreign body" in the context of this disclosure can be understood as a projectile, a bullet, a fragmentation impact, or any rapidly moving pointed or blunt object.

[0019] The ballistic helmet can, for example, be an impact helmet. The described advantages of the invention have a significant impact on ballistic helmets. In particular, ballistic helmets present different problems than those associated with lighter helmets, such as bicycle helmets or helmets commonly worn on construction sites. Therefore, improved protection against ballistic foreign bodies is less important for lighter helmets than it is for a ballistic helmet or impact helmet. Concepts familiar from bicycle helmets or "construction site helmets" cannot therefore be readily transferred to ballistic helmets and impact helmets. This is due in particular to the increased kinetic energy of the projectile, which impacts a relatively small area of the helmet.

[0020] According to a further embodiment of the helmet shell, the reinforcement layer in the end region is directed outwards at an angle of at least 20°, preferably 40°, more preferably at least 60°, further preferably at least 80°, most preferably at an angle of at least 90° with respect to the inner layer, and / or the reinforcement layer is directed outwards at an angle of at most 110°, preferably at most 100°, most preferably at an angle of at most 90° with respect to the inner layer.

[0021] The angle of the reinforcement layer can be understood as an angle formed by a tangent of the outward-facing part of the reinforcement layer and a tangent of the non-outward-facing part in the end area of the helmet shell. An angle of 0° would mean that the reinforcement layer is not facing outward. A higher angle can result in improved stiffening in the end area, but too large an angle can sometimes create a weak point in the reinforcement layer material. To account for these opposing effects, the angle should be neither too large nor too small.

[0022] Preferably, the helmet shell is designed such that the reinforcement layer at least partially encloses the outer layer and / or the inner layer in an L-shape.

[0023] An L-shape can be considered essentially rectangular. However, it can also be rounded. This L-shape provides optimal stiffening of the helmet shell at the top.

[0024] A further embodiment relates to one of the above embodiments of the helmet shell, wherein the inner layer and / or the outer layer in the end region has / have an at least partially circumferential end face, wherein the reinforcing layer covers the end face to at least 10%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 50%, further preferably at least 80%, most preferably at least 100%, and / or wherein the reinforcing layer has a projection of a maximum of 40%, preferably a maximum of 30%, more preferably a maximum of 20%, further preferably a maximum of 10%, most preferably no projection with respect to the end face.

[0025] The circumferential frontal surface can be understood as one that, during normal use of the helmet shell, faces downwards and / or is directed away from the crown of the helmet shell. In particular, such a "lower" frontal surface can be considered the lower end of the inner and / or outer layer when viewed along the direction of gravity during normal use or wearing of the protective helmet.

[0026] Typically, such a frontal area is not covered with a reinforcement layer in the prior art, resulting in weak points in the helmet shell. With the above design, this frontal area is advantageously covered by the inner layer. Increased coverage can achieve improved protection. A coverage of 80% can mean that 80% of the frontal area is covered.

[0027] Furthermore, the reinforcement layer can also have an overhang. For example, an overhang of 40% means that the reinforcement layer protrudes outward by a length equal to 40% of the wall thickness of the outer and / or inner layer. An improved protective effect can be achieved by means of an overhang according to the invention.

[0028] Preferably, the reinforcing layer can contact and / or receive the end face.

[0029] Contact or absorption ensures that no dirt, rain, or similar substances penetrate between the inner layer, the outer layer, and the reinforcement layer in the end area of the helmet shell. If there is a gap between these layers in the end area, this gap can be eliminated by applying a substance, such as a sealing compound, particularly putty, and / or adhesive. Advantageously, however, this is already obsolete due to the two layers contacting and / or absorbing each other. This also results in a more compact design. Furthermore, this allows the helmet shell to be designed to save space overall.

[0030] According to a further embodiment, the reinforcing layer encloses the inner layer and / or the outer layer in the end region at least partially in a U-shape.

[0031] The U-shape is to be understood as meaning that the reinforcement layer surrounds the inner layer and / or the outer layer in the closure area, both at least partially from the inside and at least partially from the outside. Consequently, an almost complete enclosure is created, at least partially in the closure area. This contributes in particular to the formation of a compartment pocket in the event of the impact of a ballistic foreign object. Furthermore, the at least partial visibility of the reinforcement layer from the outside can provide an effect beyond the improved protective effect regarding the wearer's acceptance and sense of security.

[0032] Preferably, the outer U-leg of the U-shape can have a length of at least 10%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 120%, more preferably at least 160%, more preferably at least 200%, more preferably at least 250%, most preferably at least 300% of the web of the U-shape connecting both U-legs, and / or the outer U-leg of the U-shape can have a length of at most 150%, preferably at most 500%, preferably at most 450%, more preferably at most 400%, more preferably at most 350%, most preferably at most 300% of the web of the U-shape connecting both U-legs.

[0033] For example, the length of the outer U-leg can be approximately equal to the length of the outward-facing portion of the reinforcement layer after the first bend (this roughly corresponds to the web length), which would be approximately 100%. If the outer U-leg is too long, this could result in a weight penalty. An outer U-leg that is too short could reduce the beneficial protective effect, for example, by forming a pocket in the event of a foreign body impact.

[0034] Preferably, the inner layer and the outer layer can be firmly connected, preferably glued and / or screwed, at least in the end region. Furthermore, the reinforcement layer can be firmly connected, preferably glued and / or screwed, to the inner layer and / or to the outer layer in the end region.

[0035] The inner layer and the outer layer can be connected, for example, by surface bonding, for example using a one-component adhesive, two-component adhesive and / or an adhesive film. The two layers are advantageously not only firmly connected in the end region, but can also be connected across the entire dome area. The two layers can be connected using a combination of surface adhesive film and one- or two-component adhesive. Furthermore, it is also possible to achieve the connection using a substantially strip-like arrangement of one or more adhesive films and / or one or more adhesives. For example, the two layers can be connected using a cross-shaped adhesive structure.

[0036] The reinforcement layer can also be firmly bonded to the inner and / or outer layer in the same or similar manner. This contributes to greater robustness and safety. The reinforcement layer is preferably bonded to the inner and / or outer layer using a one-component adhesive.

[0037] According to the invention, the connection also enables improved resistance and durability to temperature fluctuations. This type of connection also allows for thermal expansion of the different materials of the helmet shell. In particular, the different materials of the helmet shell can have different thermal expansion coefficients and thus move relative to each other at the same temperature. According to the present invention, an improved connection can still be achieved.

[0038] Connections with screws can be advantageous because they are easier to assemble. Furthermore, screw connections can be disassembled essentially non-destructively. This allows for flexible assembly and, if desired, flexible disassembly. For example, simplified disassembly could be helpful for quickly and efficiently replacing a layer and / or a calotte.

[0039] However, it can also be advantageous to use a screw-free connection. A screw could become a secondary projectile under fire and cause serious head injury. Even under impact, a penetrating or penetrating element could cause head injury.

[0040] Preferably, the reinforcement layer in the end region has a radius of curvature with a length that corresponds to at least 100%, preferably at least 140%, more preferably at least 160%, further preferably at least 180%, most preferably at least 200% of a wall thickness of the inner layer in the end region, and / or the reinforcement layer in the end region has a radius of curvature with a length that corresponds to a maximum of 400%, preferably a maximum of 340%, more preferably a maximum of 280%, further preferably a maximum of 240%, most preferably a maximum of 200% of a wall thickness of the inner layer in the end region.

[0041] The radius of curvature of the reinforcement layer should not be too small to avoid excessively weakening the material in the curved area. A strong curvature could potentially make the material more brittle. However, the curvature is beneficial for the wearer's safety. This creates a balance that takes both effects into account. This balance can depend, among other things, on the wall thickness of the layers and / or the processing method. With a wall thickness of the inner layer in the end area of the helmet shell of approximately 1 mm, a radius of curvature of the reinforcement layer of 200% according to the above notation is 2 mm.

[0042] In a further embodiment of the helmet shell according to one of the preceding embodiments, the reinforcement layer encloses the end region in sections in the circumferential direction of the end region so that the helmet shell has at least a first section without a reinforcement layer and at least a second section with a reinforcement layer in the circumferential direction of the end region.

[0043] The sections of the helmet shell in the end region without a reinforcement layer can, for example, have a horizontal and thus non-curved end, or alternatively, a curved end. In this way, specific areas of the wearer's head can be protected in an improved manner. Other areas can, for example, comprise additional components, whereby a reinforcement layer is not required or cannot be made possible by the design. For example, in positions that are difficult to manufacture, such as radii, edges, corners, or the like, no reinforcement layer can be present or it can be only minimally designed. Thus, the provision of a helmet shell according to the invention can be made more efficient and cost-effective.

[0044] In a further embodiment of the helmet shell according to one of the preceding embodiments, the reinforcement layer encloses the end region in sections in the circumferential direction of the end region so that the helmet shell has at least a third and a fourth section with reinforcement layer in the circumferential direction of the end region, wherein the fourth section has a different radius of curvature and / or covers the end surface with a different value and / or has a different projection than the third section with reinforcement layer.

[0045] This arrangement allows for different sections with different stiffeners. In particular, this enables flexible and targeted local improvements and increased safety of the helmet shell.

[0046] The reinforcement layer preferably comprises a fiber composite material, further preferably aramid and / or carbon.

[0047] Furthermore, the inner layer and / or the reinforcement layer may comprise titanium, polyethylene-titanium, aramid-titanium, polyethylene, and / or a polyethylene-carbon-aramid material, wherein the inner layer and / or the reinforcement layer preferably comprises titanium, and / or wherein the outer layer comprises polyethylene.

[0048] These materials are lightweight and durable. Titanium has the advantage of being particularly lightweight and durable. Titanium thus enables excellent protection while remaining lightweight. Aramid is very tensile and non-flammable, making it a particularly preferred material, especially for the reinforcement layer. For example, aramid can have a tensile strength of approximately 3000 MPa. The materials can also include carbon fibers embedded in a polymer matrix. The polymer matrix can comprise a thermoplastic polymer. The polymer matrix can comprise a polyamide or polyetheretherketone. The carbon fibers can be woven. This has the advantage of further improving durability. In this way, a shell for a ballistic protective helmet can be provided, with the shell having a bullet-resistant effect. It is also possible to use unidirectional (UD) carbon fibers.UD fibers run essentially parallel. This allows for a relatively large force to be absorbed in a desired direction. This improves stiffening.

[0049] Most preferably, the reinforcement layer consists essentially of aramid and / or carbon fibers.

[0050] The invention further relates to a ballistic protective helmet comprising: (a) a helmet shell as described herein, and (b) optionally an inner and / or outer system.

[0051] The protective helmet according to the invention combines all of the above-described advantages of the helmet shell with an optional inner and / or outer system. This provides improved overall protection for the wearer while simultaneously utilizing the beneficial effects of both an inner and outer system. This also results in greater comfort for the wearer.

[0052] An external system can, for example, accommodate accessories on the outside of a protective helmet. Such accessories include, for example, a visor, lighting, night vision equipment, a camera, and / or additional protective shields against direct fire from any direction, such as the front, side, and / or rear.

[0053] An interior system can, for example, include cushioning elements that include one or more ventilation channels. This has the advantage of improving ventilation and thus wearing comfort.

[0054] The invention further relates to a method for producing a helmet shell for a ballistic protective helmet, comprising the following steps: (a) providing at least one inner layer and at least one outer layer, wherein the inner layer and the outer layer form an at least partially circumferential closure region of the helmet shell, (b) providing a reinforcement layer, and (c) attaching the reinforcement layer to the closure region in order to at least partially enclose the closure region.

[0055] It is understood that the technical properties, advantages and improvements compared to the prior art shown or described for the helmet shell also apply to the method for producing a helmet shell for a ballistic protective helmet.

[0056] The applicant has succeeded in optimizing the manufacturing process for helmet shells to such an extent that they offer significantly improved ballistic protection than conventional helmet shells. In particular, the process is efficient and cost-effective. 4. Short description of the characters

[0057] Preferred embodiments are described below by way of example only. Reference is made to the accompanying figures: Fig. 1 shows a conventional helmet shell in a side view as well as a detailed view of a conventional helmet shell in a side view; Fig. 2 shows a helmet shell according to the present invention in a side view as well as a detailed view of a helmet shell of the present invention in a side view; Fig. 3 shows three detailed views of a helmet shell according to three further embodiments of the present invention in a side view; Fig. 4a shows two detailed views of a helmet shell according to two further embodiments of the present invention in a side view; Fig. 4b shows a detailed view of a helmet shell according to a further embodiment of the present invention in a side view; Fig. 5 shows a helmet shell in a further embodiment according to the present invention in a side view; Fig. 6 shows a ballistic protective helmet according to Fig. 5in a perspective view; Fig. 7 shows a helmet shell in a further embodiment according to the present invention in a side view; Fig. 8 shows a flow diagram of a method for producing a helmet shell according to the present invention. 5. Detailed description of the characters

[0058] In the following, only a few possible embodiments of the invention are described in detail. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and a variety of other embodiments are applicable without departing from the scope of the invention. The presented embodiments can be modified and combined with each other in many ways whenever they are compatible, and certain features can be omitted where they appear unnecessary. In particular, the disclosed embodiments can be modified by combining certain features of one embodiment with one or more features of another embodiment.

[0059] While the following embodiments are described primarily with reference to a helmet shell for a ballistic protective helmet, those skilled in the art will recognize that the method for producing a corresponding helmet shell also benefits from the features and advantages mentioned.

[0060] Throughout these figures and the description, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. The figures may not be to scale, and the relative size, proportions, and representation of elements in the figures may be exaggerated for clarity, illustration, and convenience.

[0061] Fig. 1shows a conventional helmet shell 10' in a side view and a detailed view of a conventional helmet shell 10' in a side view. An inner layer 20' and an outer layer 30' are shown. In the end area 40' of the conventional helmet shell 10', the front surface 31' of the outer layer has a horizontal and open transition to the surroundings. The helmet shell 10' does not have a reinforcement layer.

[0062] Fig. 2 shows a helmet shell 10 according to the present invention as well as a detailed view of a helmet shell 10 of the present.

[0063] The helmet shell 10 for a ballistic protective helmet comprises at least one inner layer 20, at least one outer layer 30, and at least one reinforcement layer 60. The inner layer 20 and the outer layer 30 form an at least partially circumferential closure region 40 of the helmet shell 10. Furthermore, the reinforcement layer 60 at least partially encloses the closure region 40.

[0064] With this embodiment, the reinforcement layer allows for a significant increase in strength in the terminal area. Thus, the impact of a ballistic foreign body can be absorbed more effectively. In particular, layers 20, 30, 60 can deform in such a way that, upon impact of a foreign body, a capture pocket is formed, preventing the ballistic foreign body from being deflected toward the wearer's body area. The capture pocket can, for example, form around the ballistic foreign body.

[0065] The inner layer 20 comprises titanium and / or polyethylene. Titanium provides excellent protection while maintaining a low weight. The polyethylene can be fiber-reinforced. This is particularly useful when further weight reduction is desired.

[0066] In Fig. 2The reinforcement layer is exemplified as a U-shape. A web 61 and an outer U-leg 62 are shown. Also shown is an at least partially circumferential end face 31, which is formed from the inner layer 20 and / or the outer layer 30.

[0067] Fig. 3 shows three detailed side views of a helmet shell according to three further embodiments of the present invention. As in the previous embodiment, the reinforcement layer 60 is directed outward, for example, at a 90° angle.

[0068] The reinforcement layer 60 contacts the inner layer 20 and the outer layer 30 in the end region 40. Furthermore, the reinforcement layer 60 covers the end face 31 approximately 100%. As shown, the outer U-leg 62 can have a different length than the inner U-leg. However, other configurations and combinations are also conceivable in light of the invention, and the invention is by no means limited to this embodiment.

[0069] Fig. 4a shows two detailed views of a helmet shell according to two further embodiments of the present invention in a side view.

[0070] In this example, the reinforcement layer 60 continues to enclose the inner 20 and outer 30 layers. The reinforcement layer 60 is arranged such that it fits flush with the contour of the inner 20 and outer 30 layers of the end face 31. As shown, the inner layer 20 can be less (left figure in Fig. 4a ) or more (right figure in Fig. 4a ) protrude beyond the end face 31 in the end region 40 (it may therefore have a projection). The reinforcement layer 60 adapts to this contour and can then, for example, represent an offset. This improves the protective effect. As shown in the right-hand figure in Fig. 4a As shown, the reinforcement layer 60 can have a projection of up to 40% with respect to the end face 31.

[0071] Fig. 4b shows a detailed view of a helmet shell according to a further embodiment of the present invention in a side view.

[0072] This embodiment essentially corresponds to the preceding embodiments, and only the differences will be discussed. The reinforcement layer 60 surrounds the inner 20 and outer 30 layers. Furthermore, the reinforcement layer 60 is arranged such that it fits flush with the contour of the inner 20 and outer 30 layers of the end face 31. As shown in Fig. 4b As shown, the inner layer 20 at least partially encloses the outer layer 30 in a U-shape. The inner layer 20 may comprise titanium, in particular be made of titanium. The reinforcement layer 60 may comprise aramid, in particular be made of aramid. The outer U-leg of the U-shape of the inner layer 20 may have a length of at least 1%, 2%, 5%, 8%, or 10% of the web 62 connecting both U-legs of the U-shape of the reinforcement layer 60 (as shown, for example, in Fig. 3 marked).

[0073] In all embodiments shown, the outer U-leg 62 of the U-shape can have a length of approximately 10% to 500% of the web 62 of the U-shape connecting both U-legs. It is understood that this may depend on the thickness of the layers. Other lengths are also conceivable and applicable in light of the invention.

[0074] Furthermore, in all embodiments shown, the reinforcement layer 60 covers the end face 31 approximately 100%. However, other coverage values are also applicable, for example, if the reinforcement layer 60 at least partially encloses the outer layer 30 and / or the inner layer 20 in an L-shape.

[0075] Fig. 5shows a helmet shell in a further embodiment according to the present invention in a side view. Sections 52 (third section) and 53 (fourth section) with reinforcement layer 60 are shown. Any combinations with sections 50 and 51 (as described herein) may also be present. The fourth section 53 has a different radius of curvature and / or covers the end face 31 with a different value and / or has a different projection than the third section 52 with reinforcement layer 60.

[0076] Fig. 6 shows a ballistic protective helmet according to Fig. 5 in a perspective view. The perspective view illustrates the essentially convex shape of the helmet shell 10. Furthermore, the helmet shell 10 is essentially a spherical shell or spherical cap, spherical cap, or spherical hood, allowing it to be placed on the head of a wearer.

[0077] Fig. 7shows a side view of a helmet shell in a further embodiment according to the present invention. The helmet shell 10 has substantially similar or the same properties as the previously described embodiments of a helmet shell 10 according to the invention, unless otherwise described below.

[0078] The reinforcement layer encloses the end region 40 in sections in the circumferential direction of the end region 40, so that the helmet shell 10 has a first section 50 without reinforcement layer 60 and a second section 51 with reinforcement layer 60 in the circumferential direction of the end region 40. Likewise, Fig. 7additional sections 50, 51 of the type described above. Consequently, there are sections without a reinforcement layer 60. By varying the design of the reinforcement layer 60, different sections with different stiffeners can be provided. This can be advantageously used to further increase the safety of the helmet shell 10 and thus the safety of the wearer locally at important sections.

[0079] The sections 51 with the reinforcement layer 60 are located at points along the peripheral direction of the closure region 40, which represent an edge. This can be understood as meaning that the helmet shell 10 experiences a change in height in the vertical direction there.

[0080] The order according to Fig. 7offers the advantage that sections of the helmet shell 10, in particular the end region 40 of the helmet shell 10, can be specifically machined and adapted to local requirements in the circumferential direction of the end region 40. For example, additional components can be provided on the protective helmet 100 in the circumferential direction, whereby a reinforcement layer 60 is not required. Furthermore, in positions that are difficult to manufacture (radii, edges, corners, or the like), no reinforcement layer 60 can be provided, or it can be designed to be minimal. This makes the manufacturing process more efficient and cost-effective.

[0081] Fig. 8 shows a flowchart of a method 1000 for producing a helmet shell 10 according to the present invention.

[0082] The method 1000 for producing a helmet shell 10 for a ballistic protective helmet 100 comprises the following steps: Providing 1100 at least one inner layer 20 and at least one outer layer 30, wherein the inner layer 20 and the outer layer 30 form an at least partially circumferential end region 40 of the helmet shell 10, providing 1200 a reinforcement layer 60, and attaching 1300 the reinforcement layer 60 to the end region 40 in order to at least partially enclose the end region 40.

[0083] The method 1000 could also include further steps, for example a step of forming one of the layers and / or a step of cutting or cutting off the layers.

[0084] The scope of protection is determined by the patent claims and is not limited by the embodiments. 6. List of reference symbols

[0085] 10Helmet shell 20Inner layer 23Wall thickness of the inner layer 30Outer layer 31End face 40End area 50First section without reinforcement layer 51Second section with reinforcement layer 52Third section with reinforcement layer 53Fourth section with reinforcement layer 60Reinforcement layer 61Web 62Outer U-legs 100Safety helmet 1000Process 1100Process section: Provision 1200Process section: Provision 1300Process section: Attachment

Claims

1. A helmet shell (10) for a ballistic protective helmet (100), comprising: (a) at least one inner layer (20); (b) at least one outer layer (30); and (c) at least one reinforcement layer (60), wherein the inner layer (20) and the outer layer (30) form an at least partially circumferential closure region (40) of the helmet shell (10), and wherein the reinforcement layer (60) at least partially encloses the closure region (40).

2. Helmet shell (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the reinforcement layer (60) in the end region (40) is directed outwards at an angle of at least 20°, preferably 40°, more preferably at least 60°, further preferably at least 80°, most preferably at an angle of at least 90° with respect to the inner layer (20), and / or wherein the reinforcement layer (60) in the end region (40) is directed outwards at an angle of at most 110°, preferably at most 100°, most preferably at an angle of at most 90° with respect to the inner layer (20).

3. Helmet shell (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcement layer (60) at least partially encloses the outer layer (30) and / or the inner layer (20) in an L-shape.

4. Helmet shell (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner layer (20) and / or the outer layer (30) in the end region (40) have an at least partially circumferential end face (31), wherein the reinforcement layer (60) covers the end face (31) to at least 10%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 50%, further preferably at least 80%, most preferably at least 100%, and / or wherein the reinforcement layer (60) has a projection of a maximum of 40%, preferably a maximum of 30%, more preferably a maximum of 20%, further preferably a maximum of 10%, most preferably no projection with respect to the end face (31).

5. Helmet shell (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the reinforcing layer (60) contacts and / or receives the end face (31).

6. Helmet shell (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcement layer (60) at least partially encloses the inner layer (20) and / or the outer layer (30) in the end region (40) in a U-shape.

7. Helmet shell (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the outer U-leg (62) of the U-shape has a length of at least 10%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 120%, more preferably at least 160%, more preferably at least 200%, more preferably at least 250%, most preferably at least 300% of the web (61) of the U-shape connecting both U-legs, and / or wherein the outer U-leg (62) of the U-shape has a length of at most 500%, preferably at most 450%, more preferably at most 400%, more preferably at most 350%, most preferably at most 300% of the web (61) of the U-shape connecting both U-legs.

8. Helmet shell (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner layer (20) and the outer layer (30) are firmly connected, preferably glued and / or screwed, at least in the end region (40), wherein, optionally, the reinforcement layer (60) is firmly connected, preferably glued and / or screwed, to the inner layer (20) and / or to the outer layer (30) in the end region (40).

9. Helmet shell (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcement layer (60) in the end region (40) has a radius of curvature with a length which corresponds to at least 100%, preferably at least 140%, more preferably at least 160%, further preferably at least 180%, most preferably at least 200% of a wall thickness (23) of the inner layer (20) in the end region (40), and / or wherein the reinforcement layer (60) in the end region (40) has a radius of curvature with a length which corresponds to a maximum of 400%, preferably a maximum of 340%, more preferably a maximum of 280%, further preferably a maximum of 240%, most preferably a maximum of 200% of a wall thickness (23) of the inner layer (20) in the end region (40).

10. Helmet shell (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcement layer (60) partially encloses the end region (40) in the circumferential direction of the end region (40), so that the helmet shell (10) has at least a first section (50) without reinforcement layer (60) and at least a second section (51) with reinforcement layer (60) in the circumferential direction of the end region (40).

11. Helmet shell (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcement layer (60) partially encloses the end region (40) in the circumferential direction of the end region (40), so that the helmet shell (10) has at least a third (52) and a fourth section (53) with reinforcement layer (60) in the circumferential direction of the end region (40), wherein the fourth section (53) has a different radius of curvature and / or covers the end face (31) with a different value or has a different projection than the third section (52) with reinforcement layer (60).

12. Helmet shell (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcement layer (60) comprises a fiber composite material.

13. Helmet shell (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner layer (20) and / or the reinforcement layer (60) comprises titanium, polyethylene-titanium, aramid-titanium, polyethylene, and / or a polyethylene-carbon-aramid material, wherein the inner layer (20) and / or the reinforcement layer (60) preferably comprises titanium, and / or wherein the outer layer (30) comprises polyethylene.

14. A ballistic protective helmet (100) comprising: (a) a helmet shell (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, and (b) optionally an inner and / or outer system.

15. A method (1000) for producing a helmet shell (10) for a ballistic protective helmet (100), comprising the following steps: (a) providing (1100) at least one inner layer (20) and at least one outer layer (30), wherein the inner layer (20) and the outer layer (30) form an at least partially circumferential end region (40) of the helmet shell (10), (b) providing (1200) a reinforcement layer (60), and (c) attaching (1300) the reinforcement layer (60) to the end region (40) in order to at least partially enclose the end region (40).

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