Foldable helmet

Abstract

The present invention relates to a helmet and armor components for protecting the head of a user, the helmet comprising a flexible and / or foldable helmet, a head-fitting component having an outer surface and an inner surface, and a plurality of armor components arranged and attached at preselected positions on the outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component to provide the helmet, the helmet having at least a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion separated by gaps. The armor components, when attached to the helmet, absorb forces experienced during a crash to a level that reduces the risk of injury to the user.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to bicycle helmets and helmet protection components, and more particularly to flexible and / or foldable helmets having unique folding structures and protection components having improved protection structures for protecting a user's head. [Background technology]

[0002] Protective headgear and helmets have been used in a wide variety of applications and throughout many industries, including sports, athletics, construction, mining, transportation, and others, to prevent injury to the user's head and brain. Injury and injury to the user can be prevented or reduced by helmets that prevent direct contact of hard or sharp objects with the user's head. Injury and injury to the user can also be prevented or reduced by helmets that absorb, distribute, or handle the force of an impact.

[0003] Helmet fit, temperature control, and storage possibilities can all be important to a helmet wearer, and improvements in these can reduce distractions for the user, thereby increasing helmet performance without reducing safety.

[0004] To ensure that more people wear helmets, for example when cycling, it would be desirable to have the following: - Helmets must protect the user's head. The helmet should be comfortable, fit snugly on the user's head and without any protruding parts between the head and the helmet, ensuring comfort over long periods of use and during activity, e.g. pedalling. - It is best if the helmet is neither too cold nor too warm to wear. It is desirable for the helmet to not allow the accumulation of water vapor, either from sweat or from the environment, e.g., to protect the user's head from rain, while also facilitating the transport of sweat from the user's head.

[0005] Current bicycle helmets typically consist of an outer shell, a foam layer, and an inner polymer ribbon assembly that faces the user's head, and these helmets can be uncomfortable to wear. Furthermore, the ribbon assembly's fittings can have protruding parts that chafe the user's head, preventing long-term wear without discomfort. Furthermore, current helmets often have an open configuration to ensure proper ventilation, allowing, for example, rain and sun to reach the user's head.

[0006] Further disadvantages of standard bicycle helmets: - Conventional helmets are rigid, do not conform to the head and must be adjusted with additional helmet pads; - Typical helmets are made from polystyrene, which is prone to cracking. If you drop your bike helmet on a hard surface, such as asphalt or a concrete floor, it is usually recommended to discard the helmet, as the helmet structure may have deteriorated; - Conventional helmets are designed to protect against severe head injuries, not against trauma resulting from smaller accidents. Conventional helmets have non-linear protection because, for example, polystyrene only flexes at certain high impact forces. Most bike accidents are minor and non-fatal, but most bike accidents result in severe concussions because the hard and rigid polystyrene of conventional helmets does not absorb low force impacts.

[0007] Thus, protective components and improved flexible and / or foldable helmets would be advantageous, and in particular, more efficient and / or reliable protective components and flexible and / or foldable helmets would be advantageous. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] Objective of the invention It is an object of the present invention to provide a flexible and / or foldable helmet that has an improved fit for the user's head, is comfortable during the user's activity regardless of the external temperature or other aspects of the weather, and has improved safety while at the same time being easier to store.

[0009] A further object of the present invention is to provide an alternative to the prior art. SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT APPLICATION

[0010]

[0010] Thus, the above objects, as well as certain other objects, are intended to be obtained in a first aspect of the present invention by providing a flexible bicycle helmet for protecting a user's head along and above the periphery of the skull extending from the frontal bone to the occipital bone, the flexible helmet comprising: - a flexible head-fitting component made from a fabric configured to provide vapor transport, the flexible head-fitting component having an outer surface and an inner surface, and configured to have a shape to fit over a user's head; - a plurality of body armor components positioned and attached at preselected locations on an outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component to provide a flexible helmet, the flexible helmet having at least a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion separated by gaps; - a base having a bottom surface configured to be attached to a flexible head-fitting component; and an outer component arranged on the base opposite the bottom surface and made of a material different from, or having a higher density than, said base; A plurality of armor components comprising: The present invention relates to a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising the steps of:

[0011] A flexible helmet is particularly advantageous for providing a comfortable helmet which protects the user's head from impact while also protecting the user from the environment, such as high / low temperatures, rain, snow, sun, etc.

[0012] Furthermore, this flexible helmet assembly provides linear impact protection, thereby allowing for low force impact absorption, preventing a wider range of impact events to the user that should be prevented / prevented.

[0013] Furthermore, the flexible properties of the flexible helmet allow for continued use even after the helmet has been dropped, due to the elastic properties of the flexible helmet.

[0014] Yet another advantage of the flexible helmet is the reduction in the shear volume of the helmet since the thickness of the helmet is less than helmets shown in the prior art.

[0015] It will be appreciated that the flexible head-fitting component provides a comfortable inner liner that conforms to the user's head and conforms to the shape of the user while providing sufficient temperature and moisture control to allow the user to be active while wearing the flexible helmet.

[0016] In an alternative embodiment of the first aspect, the present invention provides a head-fitting component having an outer surface and an inner surface and configured to have a shape to fit on a user's head; a plurality of armor components positioned and attached at preselected locations on an exterior surface of the head-fitting component to provide a helmet, the helmet having at least a front portion, a center portion, and a rear portion separated by gaps; A foldable helmet for protecting the head of a user, comprising: A foldable helmet is provided, wherein an inner surface of a head-fitting component in an open configuration is configured to be placed on a user's head, and the head-fitting component is foldable within a gap to enable the helmet to be folded into a closed configuration, the closed configuration being provided by at least a front portion and / or a rear portion that folds inwardly toward a central portion of the helmet.

[0017] It will be appreciated that the flexible and foldable features of the present invention are not mutually exclusive; rather, the flexible feature of a flexible helmet may further render the flexible helmet also foldable.

[0018] In the context of the present invention, vapor transport will be understood as the moisture vapor dissipation properties of a fabric, which is thus made from a suitable yarn or polyester that allows the removal of vapors from the user's head.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the flexible head-fitting component is constructed from multiple layers, the innermost layer of which is made from wool, such as Merino wool, or polyester, allowing vapour to dissipate more quickly away from the user's head into the other layers of the flexible head-fitting component.

[0020] In some embodiments, the woven fabric is constructed from several layers of fabric with different filament denier to allow for unidirectional transport of vapor away from the user's head.

[0021] The reference enthalpy of vaporization at 25°C is 44 kJ / mol. 1 mole of water weighs approximately 18g and 1g of water can therefore dissipate 2.4kJ of energy, where 1g of water=2.400J. Therefore, 0.41 g of water = 1.000 J. To remove 1.000 W (J / s) of heat during a moderate level of exercise, say 20 minutes of cycling, the fabric can produce a maximum evaporation of 1.200 s x 0.41 g / s = 492 g of water.

[0022] In preferred embodiments, the fabric is capable of transporting steam at a rate of between 1 and 15 grams of water per minute, more preferred embodiments between 5 and 20 grams of water per minute, and even more preferred embodiments between 10 and 25 grams of water per minute.

[0023] In another preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible head-fitting component is made from 3D microfiber.

[0024] Preferably, the inner surface of the flexible head-fitting component is coated with a vapor transport coating to further facilitate the dissipation and removal of vapor from the user's head.

[0025] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the plurality of armor components further comprises an intermediate component sandwiched between the base and outer components. This embodiment may be particularly advantageous when providing armor components with several crash dissipative features, i.e., when the outer component is crash resistant and crash dissipative, and the base and / or intermediate components further dissipate and absorb crashes by elastic deformation.

[0026] In another advantageous embodiment, the base of the armor component further comprises a cavity configured to accommodate the intermediate component, and the outer layer covers an outer surface of the base and the intermediate layer, it being understood that the cavity in the base may partially or completely bury the intermediate component.

[0027] The intermediate component may further provide improved resistance and dissipation of shear forces towards the user's head.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the intermediate component is made from a different material than the base, or the intermediate layer has a different density than the base.

[0029] In another preferred embodiment, at least some of the plurality of armor components are of different sizes and / or shapes depending on their respective positions on the flexible head-mounting component.

[0030] In yet another preferred embodiment, the proximal cavities of at least some of the armor components are of different sizes and / or shapes, and if the intermediate components are of a single size and shape, then the cavities may be substantially filled, e.g., by positioning one, two or more intermediate components within the cavities.

[0031] In another embodiment, at least some of the bases of the plurality of armor components comprise two or more cavities, each of which is capable of receiving an intermediate component, each of which is of a similar size and shape.

[0032] These embodiments are particularly advantageous for reducing waste and facilitating quick and easy assembly because a single size and shape intermediate component can be used for various size / shape cavities in the base. In the context of the present invention, folding inward may be understood as pushing a portion toward a central portion of the helmet interior.

[0033] The present invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous in obtaining a helmet that can be stored using a minimum of space, since the helmet can be folded to reduce its size.

[0034] In one embodiment of the invention, the helmet further comprises a spacing element configured to be disposed about the plurality of armor components to prevent gap contraction and further configured to deform when the helmet is folded.

[0035] In another embodiment of the invention, the spacing component may be configured to transport a fluid, e.g., vapor, e.g., water, e.g., sweat, and further comprises an outer surface, which is preferably water repellent.

[0036] In another embodiment of the invention, the head-fitting component may comprise at least two layers of different materials. In some embodiments of the invention, the head-fitting component is a liner.

[0037] In the context of the present invention, a liner may be understood as a textile material that provides a fit on the user's head and at the same time provides protection to the head.

[0038] In another embodiment of the present invention, the head fitting component is made from an elastic material having elastic properties, such as an elastic fabric.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the spacing components may be made from a mesh fabric or foam, such as Airtex® mesh fabric.

[0040] In some embodiments, at least the base of the protective component is made from a compression molded foam, such as EVA or PU.

[0041] In some embodiments, the flexible head-fitting component is made from one or more of nylon, polyester, polyurethane, or wool. It will be appreciated that the flexible head-fitting component may be made from multiple layers, such as layers having different denier per filament, and / or the layers are made from one or more of the above materials to increase the rate at which vapor dissipates and is removed from the user's head.

[0042] The present invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous in obtaining a helmet that can be fitted to a user's head because the head-fitting components are modifiable, thereby reducing the circumference of the helmet as a result of which it can be fitted to a variety of head types.

[0043] In another embodiment of the invention, the liner may be configured to transport fluids, such as vapor, such as water, such as sweat, and further comprises an outer surface, which is preferably water repellent or waterproof. In some embodiments, the outer surface of one or more of the spacing component and the flexible head-fitting component may be coated with or fabricated from a unidirectional vapor permeable membrane to transport vapor / moisture from the user's head towards the external environment.

[0044] In the context of the present invention, the coating may be selected from one or more of an oleophobic or hydrophobic coating.

[0045] It will be further understood that the membrane may fit inside or be coated onto the head-fitting component to convey vapor transport from the user's head to the external environment, e.g., it may be a semi-permeable coating.

[0046] In another embodiment of the invention, the head-fitting component may be configured to absorb moisture, e.g., water, e.g., sweat, on an inner surface, and / or the flexible head-fitting component may be configured to wick moisture, e.g., water, e.g., sweat, on an outer surface. In some embodiments, the head-fitting component is made from a fabric having cooling properties.

[0047] In the context of the present invention, the water repellent ability of the flexible head-fitting and / or spacing components will be understood as preventing moisture from trying to get inside the helmet, but allowing or transmitting moisture to escape from the helmet.

[0048] The present invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous in providing a helmet that can provide a cooling effect to a user wearing the helmet, since sweat or water can be transported away from the user's skin and released into the surrounding atmosphere.

[0049] In another embodiment of the invention, the helmet further comprises fasteners on each side of the helmet, the fasteners being attached to one or more preselected locations on the head-fitting component and including a latching mechanism at the other end, the latching mechanism being configured to latch around or under a user's chin.

[0050] In another embodiment of the invention, the surface area of ​​the rear portion is greater than the surface area of ​​the front portion.

[0051] In another embodiment of the invention, the armor components may be attached to the head-mounted component using an adhesive, for example a flexible adhesive, for example a polyurethane-based adhesive, for example a silicone-based adhesive.

[0052] In another embodiment of the invention, the thickness of the helmet may be in the range of 10 to 20 mm, such as 12 to 20 mm, for example 14 to 18 mm.

[0053] The present invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous in resulting in a helmet that can be manufactured using a smaller amount of material, due to the improved helmet thickness.

[0054] In another embodiment of the invention, the helmet forms a volume inside the helmet in the open configuration, and the volume in the closed configuration may be less than 70% of the volume in the open configuration, for example less than 65% of the volume in the open configuration.

[0055] In the context of this application, the thickness of the helmet may be understood as the thickness of the helmet measured from the inner surface of the head-mounting component to the outer surface of the armor component. The thickness may be the average thickness in some embodiments.

[0056] In another embodiment of the invention, the thickness of the head-fitting component may range from 1 to 7 mm, for example from 2 to 5 mm.

[0057] In the context of this application, the thickness of the head-fitting component may be understood as the thickness of the head-fitting component measured from the inner surface of the head-fitting component to the outer surface of the head-fitting component. The thickness is in some embodiments an average thickness.

[0058] In another embodiment of the invention, the width of the gap may be in the range of 10 to 18 mm, for example 12 to 16 mm.

[0059] In another embodiment of the invention, the helmet further comprises an extension component extending to the exterior of the helmet subsequent to the head-fitting component, the extension component providing light protection to the user.

[0060] In another embodiment of the invention, the front portion and / or the middle portion and / or the rear portion comprise a plurality of armor components positioned and attached at preselected locations in the portions separated by longitudinal gaps.

[0061] In the context of the present application, the longitudinal direction may be understood as the direction going from the rear part of the helmet towards the front part of the helmet, that is, going from the rear of the helmet towards the front of the helmet.

[0062] In one embodiment of the invention, the longitudinal gap is perpendicular to the gap.

[0063] In another embodiment of the present invention, the central portion may be an armor component.

[0064] In another embodiment of the present invention, the flexible and / or foldable helmet is a bicycle helmet.

[0065] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a flexible bicycle helmet according to the first aspect, the method comprising: - determining a head size of a flexible helmet, said head size corresponding to a head size of a user; - providing a flexible head fitting component from a vapor transport fabric, the flexible head fitting component corresponding to said head size; - determining a layout of gaps and armor components along an outer region of a flexible head-fitting component; - securing a plurality of armor components to an outer surface of a flexible head-mounting component in a pattern based on the layout; The present invention relates to a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising the steps of:

[0066] In an advantageous embodiment, the method comprises: - providing one or more steam-transporting spaced apart components on an outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component corresponding to the layout of the gaps, the steam-transporting components protruding from the outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component defining the pattern; - disposing armor components within a pattern based on a pattern and / or layout defined by the spacing components; The composition further comprises:

[0067] In another advantageous embodiment, the method comprises: - Providing a flexible adhesive that secures the armor component to the flexible head-mounted component The composition further comprises:

[0068] In yet another advantageous embodiment, in which the armor component is composed of three components, the method comprises the steps of: - providing a base having a bottom surface configured to be secured to an outer surface of a flexible head-fitting component; - providing an intermediate component on a surface of the base opposite the bottom surface; - providing an outer component covering at least an intermediate component; The composition further comprises:

[0069] In yet another advantageous embodiment, in which the armor component is composed of three components, the method comprises the steps of: - providing a base having a bottom surface configured to be secured to an outer surface of a flexible head-fitting component; - at least partially embedding an intermediate component within a surface of the base opposite the bottom surface; - providing an outer component covering at least an intermediate component; The composition further comprises:

[0070] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a flexible and / or foldable protective gear component for a helmet, which, when attached to the helmet, absorbs forces experienced during a crash to a level that reduces the risk of injury to the user, the protective gear component comprising: - a base having a top portion and a bottom portion configured to be attached to a head-fitting component of a flexible and / or foldable helmet, and further comprising a cavity; - an outer component disposed and attached on top of the base and configured to receive an impact with a force and further configured to dissipate the force received from the impact over a surface area of ​​the outer component; - an intermediate component disposed within a cavity in the base and having a preselected structure, e.g. a lattice structure, e.g. a honeycomb-like structure, configured to be elastically deformable in response to forces received through the outer component during a crash; and The present invention relates to a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising the steps of:

[0071] The present invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous in obtaining armor components that can absorb the same amount of force that a typical bicycle helmet can absorb through the entire protective portion of the helmet.

[0072] In another embodiment of the invention, the intermediate component and / or the base may be made from a material that is elastically deformable when the ambient temperature is in the range of -20 to 50 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -20 to 40 degrees Celsius, for example in the range of -10 to 30 degrees Celsius, for example in the range of -5 to 25 degrees Celsius.

[0073] In another embodiment of the present invention, the intermediate component may be made from a thermoplastic elastomeric material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), such as a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), preferably comprising a non-Newtonian additive, such as a shear thinning additive, such as a shear thickening additive.

[0074] In another embodiment of the invention, the stiffness of the outer component may be greater than the stiffness of the middle component, which may be greater than the stiffness of the base.

[0075] In another embodiment of the invention, the outer component may be made from a thermoplastic polymeric material, such as a polycarbonate material, with the base preferably being made from a low density material, such as polyurethane (PU).

[0076] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a method of folding a foldable helmet, the method comprising: - a head-fitting component having an outer surface and an inner surface and configured to have a shape to fit over a user's head, and a plurality of armor components positioned and attached at preselected locations on the outer surface of the head-fitting component to provide a helmet, the helmet having at least a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion separated by gaps; providing a foldable helmet comprising: - exerting a force on a front portion and / or a rear portion, said front and / or rear portion comprising a plurality of armor components disposed and attached at preselected locations on an outer surface of a head-mounting component of the helmet; - folding the front portion inwards using an exerted force; The present invention relates to a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising the steps of:

[0077] In another embodiment of the invention, the method comprises: - Folding the rear section inwards using the force exerted The composition further comprises:

[0078] Each of the first, second, third and fourth aspects of the invention may be combined with any of the other aspects. These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

[0079] The helmet and armor components according to the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate one way of implementing the invention and are not to be construed as limiting other possible embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claim set. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0080] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a trimetric view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a partial view of an armor component according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a trimetric view of a spaced apart component, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a side view of a foldable helmet in a closed configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an exploded trimetric view of armor components according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a side view of the skull illustrating the area covered by the flexible helmet. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows a flow diagram of a method embodiment according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0081] With reference to FIG. 1, a trimetric view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The illustrated helmet is a flexible and / or foldable helmet for protecting the head of a user, comprising a head-mounted component 2, which has an outer surface and an inner surface, not illustrated in the figure. The flexible and / or foldable helmet further comprises a plurality of armor components 3 arranged and attached at preselected positions on the outer surface of the head-mounted component 2 to provide a helmet 1, which has at least a front portion 11, a middle portion 12, and a rear portion 13 separated by a gap 4. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 is an open configuration of the helmet, with the inner surface of the head-mounted component 2 configured to be placed on the head of a user, and the head-mounted component 2 being foldable at least into the gap 4, thereby allowing the helmet 1 to be folded into a closed configuration. One embodiment of the closed configuration is illustrated in FIG. 7. The closed configuration can be provided by folding the front and rear portions inward toward the center portion of the helmet 1. In some embodiments, either the front or rear portions fold inward toward the center portion of the helmet 1. The helmet further comprises an extension component 14 that continues to the head-fitting component that extends to the outside of the helmet. The extension component 14 can be made from the same material as the head-fitting component and provides light protection for the user.

[0082] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, the front portion 11 and the central portion 12 comprise a plurality of armor components 3 arranged and attached at preselected locations on the portions 11, 12. The armor components arranged within one portion are separated by longitudinal gaps 10. The armor components can be attached to the head-mounted components using a flexible adhesive, preferably polyurethane- or silicone-based.

[0083] In other embodiments, the central portion 12 is the armor component 3 .

[0084] 2, a trimetric view of an armor component (outer portion 8 not illustrated) according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The armor component absorbs forces encountered during an impact. The armor component 3 comprises a base 6, which comprises a cavity configured to accommodate an intermediate component, an outer component 8 disposed on and attached to the top of the base 6, and an intermediate component 7, which is disposed within the cavity 9 in the base 6. The outer component 8 and intermediate component 7 are bonded together with the base, typically using a flexible adhesive.

[0085] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the intermediate component 7 has a lattice structure that is configured to elastically deform in response to forces received through the outer component 8 during a crash, which may occur if a user falls onto a motorcycle while wearing the helmet. In other embodiments, the structure of the intermediate component may be a honeycomb-like structure. The intermediate component may be made of a material that is elastically deformable when the ambient temperature is in the range of −20 to 40 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of −10 to 30 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of −5 to 25 degrees Celsius. Typically, the intermediate component 7 is made of a thermoplastic elastomer material, such as a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV). The intermediate component may further comprise, in some embodiments, a non-Newtonian additive, such as a shear-thinning additive, such as a shear-thickening additive, which may improve the absorption of forces in some scenarios. Typically, the outer component 8 is made of a thermoplastic polymer material, such as a polycarbonate. The base is typically made of a low-density material, such as polyurethane (PU).

[0086] Preferably, the shape and / or structure of the intermediate component is optimized for crash-to-weight ratio while being fittable into the cavity in the base. Optimization of shape and structure based on crash and weight requirements allows the helmet to be modified based on the intended use.

[0087] In one embodiment, the stiffness of the material of the outer component 8 is greater than the stiffness of the material of the middle component 7, which is greater than the stiffness of the material of the base 6. The stiffness is determined by the formula:

[0088]

number

[0089] Referring to FIG. 3, a bottom view of a flexible and / or foldable helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The head-fitting component is typically made of a woven material configured to have a shape that fits the user's head. In the illustrated embodiment, an extension component 14 is disposed at the front portion of the head-fitting component 2, which extends to the outside of the helmet to protect the user from light. The extension component may further protect the user's eyes from rain, thereby improving the safety of the helmet.

[0090] The head-fitting component is typically made from a textile material and may be referred to as a liner. The material may be selected based on fluid transport properties so that sweat or water inside the helmet can be transported away from the user's head and released into the surrounding atmosphere. In some embodiments, the head-fitting component 2 comprises multiple layers, each layer made from a different material, for example one material being water repellent on the surface. The thickness of the head-fitting component 2 is typically in the range of 1-7 mm. In some embodiments, this may even be in the range of 2-5 mm.

[0091] 4, a trimetric view of a spacing component is illustrated according to an embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated spacing component 4 is made in one piece in this embodiment, for example, using a 3D printer with a preselected polymer, preferably one with elastic properties. In other embodiments, the spacing component 5 is made from multiple pieces. In some embodiments, the spacing component 4 is made using a foam, for example, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), for example, PU.

[0092] 4 is typically disposed around a number of armor components 3 to, among other things, prevent contraction of gaps 4 while allowing deformation when the helmet is folded into a closed configuration. The spacing components may be made from an elastomeric polymer material, preferably a foam, such as polyurethane (PU), for example EVA, which may be selected based on fluid transport properties such that fluids, such as sweat, can be effectively transported from the helmet to the surrounding atmosphere.

[0093] With reference to Figure 5, an exploded view of a helmet is illustrated according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 illustrates an assembled flexible and / or foldable helmet 1 comprising a head-mounting component and a number of armor components 3. The illustrated armor components illustrate a base 6 comprising a cavity 9, a middle component 7, and an outer component 8, and their preselected arrangement (as a rectangular area marked on the outer surface of the head-mounting component) on the outer surface of the head-mounting component 2.

[0094] With reference to FIG. 6, a partial cross-sectional view of a helmet according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The illustrated flexible and / or foldable helmet comprises a head-mounted component 2, an outer component 8 of the armor component, an intermediate component 7 of the armor component, a base 6 of the armor component, a gap 4, and a spacer component 5 disposed within the gap 4. The helmet preferably further comprises fasteners (not illustrated) on each side of the helmet. The fasteners are at one end and are typically attached to one or more preselected locations on the outer surface of the head-mounted component (2) but below the armor component 3. The fasteners may comprise a latching mechanism at the other end, where the latching mechanism is configured to latch around or under the chin of a user.

[0095] Preferably, the gap 4 extends in a transverse direction of the helmet, that is, from one side of the helmet to the opposite side of the helmet. More preferably, the gap 4 is perpendicular to the longitudinal gap 10.

[0096] The flexible and / or foldable helmet will typically have a thickness in the range of 10-20 mm, such as 12-20 mm, e.g. 14-18 mm. The thickness may be measured as the distance from the inner surface 2 of the head-fitting component to the outer surface of the outer component 8. In some embodiments, the thickness may be a median thickness determined based on multiple measurements at different locations on the helmet. The width of the gap 4 will typically be in the range of 10-18 mm, e.g. 12-16 mm, and is measured as the distance from one end of the armor component 3 to the other end of the armor component 3 separated by the gap 4.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 7, a side view of a foldable helmet in a closed configuration is illustrated according to an embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated foldable helmet in a closed configuration comprises a front portion, a center portion, and a rear portion. The gaps between the portions allow the helmet to be folded by a person, for example, using force exerted by pressing the front portion and / or the rear portion towards the center portion. In the illustrated embodiment, the thumb is placed on the rear portion while the remaining fingers are placed on the center portion. The rear portion is larger than the front portion in the illustrated embodiment.

[0098] With reference to FIG. 8, an exploded triangular view of an armor component 3 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The armor component 3 is composed of an outer component 8 and a base 6 comprising six cavities 9, each of which accommodates an intermediate component 7. It will be understood that the armor component 3 is not limited to supporting, for example, approximately six intermediate components 7, and is presented here merely to illustrate the principles of the armor component 3. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a single cavity 9 having a different shape than that of the intermediate components 7 may fit two or more intermediate components 7, ensuring that the cavity 9 is substantially filled with the intermediate components 7.

[0099] With reference to FIG. 9, a side view of a skull illustrating the area covered by a flexible helmet is illustrated. A helmet boundary line H_L is shown, extending in an arc from the occipital bone O_B at the rear of the skull to the frontal bone F_B at the front of the skull. The flexible helmet is configured to substantially cover the area of ​​the skull at and above the helmet boundary line H_L, toward and including the top of the user's head. In a preferred embodiment, the arc of the helmet boundary line H_L extends to free the user's ears (not shown) from the helmet. It will be further understood that the helmet boundary line H_L may deviate slightly, for example by + / - 4 cm, depending on the size, fit, and shape of the user's head, but will always desirably cover at least the peripheral area extending from a portion of the occipital bone O_B to the frontal bone F_B.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 10, a flow chart of an embodiment of a method for manufacturing a flexible bicycle helmet is illustrated, the method comprising the steps of: S1 - determining a head size of a flexible helmet, said head size corresponding to the head size of a user; S2 - Providing a flexible head fitting component from a vapor transport fabric, the flexible head fitting component corresponding to said head size; S3 - determining the layout of gaps and armor components along an outer region of the flexible head-fitting component; S4 - fixing a plurality of armor components to an outer surface of a flexible head-mounting component in a pattern based on said layout; The present invention relates to a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising the steps of:

[0101] In some embodiments, the central portion at least partially opens when the front and / or rear portions are folded inwardly.

[0102] The following items are a list of embodiments according to the present invention: Item 1. - a head-fitting component 2 having an outer surface and an inner surface and configured to have a shape to fit onto a user's head; - a plurality of armor components 3 arranged and attached at preselected positions on an outer surface of the head-fitting component 2 to provide a helmet 1, the helmet 1 having at least a front portion 11, a middle portion 12, and a rear portion 13 separated by gaps 4; A foldable helmet 1 for protecting the head of a user, comprising: Helmet 1, wherein the inner surface of head-fitting component 2 in the open configuration is configured to be placed on a user's head, and head-fitting component 2 is foldable at least within gap 4, thereby enabling helmet 1 to be folded into a closed configuration, the closed configuration being provided by at least the front and / or rear portions folding inwardly toward a central portion of helmet 1.

[0103] Item 2. The foldable helmet of item 1, further comprising a spacing element 5, the spacing element 5 being disposed around the plurality of armor elements 3 and configured to prevent contraction of the gaps 4 and further configured to deform when the helmet 1 is folded.

[0104] Item 3. The foldable helmet of item 2, wherein the spacing element 5 is configured to transport fluid, such as vapor, such as water, such as sweat, and further comprising an outer surface, the outer surface preferably being water repellent.

[0105] Item 4. A foldable helmet according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the head-fitting component 2 comprises at least two layers of different materials.

[0106] Item 5. The foldable helmet according to any of items 1 to 4, wherein the head-fitting component 2 is configured to absorb moisture, e.g., water, e.g., sweat, on an inner surface and / or the head-fitting component 2 is configured to release moisture, e.g., water, e.g., sweat, on an outer surface.

[0107] Item 6. The foldable helmet of any of items 1 to 5, further comprising fasteners on each side of the helmet, the fasteners being attached to one or more preselected locations on the head-fitting component 2 and comprising a latching mechanism at the other end, the latching mechanism being configured to latch around or under a user's chin.

[0108] Item 7. A foldable helmet according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the multiple armor components 3 are attached to the head-fitting component 2 using a flexible adhesive.

[0109] Item 8. The foldable helmet according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the thickness of the helmet 1 is in the range of 10 to 20 mm, for example 12 to 20 mm, for example 14 to 18 mm.

[0110] Item 9. The foldable helmet according to any one of items 1 to 8, further comprising an extension component 14 following the head-fitting component that extends to the outside of the helmet, the extension component providing protection to the user from light, e.g., sunlight.

[0111] Item 10. The foldable helmet of any of items 1 to 9, wherein the front portion 11 and / or the middle portion 12 and / or the rear portion 13 comprises a plurality of armor components 3 positioned and attached at preselected locations in the portions 11, 12, 13 separated by longitudinal gaps 10.

[0112] Item 11. A foldable helmet according to any one of items 1 to 10, wherein the central portion 12 is a protective gear component 3.

[0113] Item 12. A protective gear component 3 for a foldable helmet 1, which, when attached to the helmet 1, absorbs forces experienced during a crash to a level that reduces the risk of injury to the user, - a base 6 having a top part and a bottom part configured to be attached to a head-fitting component 2 of a foldable helmet 1, such as the head-fitting component 2 disclosed in any of items 1 to 11, and further comprising a cavity 9; - an outer component 8 arranged and attached on top of the base 6 and configured to receive an impact with a force and further configured to distribute the force received by the impact over a surface area of ​​the outer component 8; - an intermediate component 7 arranged in the cavity 9 in the base 6 and having a preselected structure, for example a lattice structure, for example a honeycomb-like structure, configured to be elastically deformable in response to forces received through the outer component 8 during a crash; Protective equipment component 3 comprising:

[0114] Item 13. The armor component 3 according to item 12, wherein the intermediate component 7 is made of a material that is elastically deformable when the ambient temperature is in the range of -20 to 40 degrees Celsius, for example in the range of -10 to 30 degrees Celsius, for example in the range of -5 to 25 degrees Celsius.

[0115] Item 14. The armor component according to item 12 or 13, wherein the intermediate component 7 is made of a thermoplastic elastomer material, such as a TPE, such as a TPV, and preferably comprises a non-Newtonian additive, such as a shear-thinning additive, such as a shear-thickening additive.

[0116] Item 15. The armor component according to items 12 to 14, wherein the stiffness of the outer component 8 is greater than the stiffness of the intermediate component 7, and the stiffness of the intermediate component 7 is greater / higher than the stiffness of the base 6.

[0117] Item 16. The armor component according to any one of items 12 to 15, wherein the outer component 8 is made of a thermoplastic polymer material, such as a polycarbonate material, and the base 6 is preferably made of a low-density material, such as PU.

[0118] Item 17. A foldable helmet according to any one of items 1 to 11, comprising a protective gear component according to any one of items 12 to 16.

[0119] Item 18. - providing a foldable helmet comprising a head-fitting component having an outer surface and an inner surface and configured to have a shape to fit onto a user's head, and a plurality of armor components, such as the armor components according to any of items 12 to 16, that are positioned and attached at preselected positions on the outer surface of the head-fitting component to provide a helmet, the helmet having at least a front portion, a middle portion and a rear portion separated by gaps, such as the foldable helmet 1 according to any of items 1 to 11; - exerting a force on a front portion and / or a rear portion, said front and / or rear portion comprising a plurality of armor components disposed and attached at preselected locations on an outer surface of a head-mounting component of the helmet; - folding the front portion inwards using an exerted force; A method for folding a foldable helmet, comprising:

[0120] Item 19. A method of folding a foldable helmet according to item 18, further comprising folding the rear portion inwardly using an exerted force.

[0121] Item 1.1. - a flexible head-fitting component made from a fabric configured to transport vapor, having an outer surface and an inner surface, and configured to have a shape to fit over a user's head; - a plurality of body armor components positioned and attached at preselected locations on an outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component to provide a flexible helmet, the flexible helmet having at least a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion separated by gaps; - a base having a bottom surface configured to be attached to a flexible head-fitting component; and an outer component arranged on the base opposite the bottom surface and made of a material different from, or having a higher density than, said base; A plurality of armor components comprising: A flexible bicycle helmet 1 for protecting a user's head along and above the periphery of the skull extending from the frontal bone to the occipital bone, comprising:

[0122] Item 1.2. The flexible helmet of item 1.1, further comprising one or more vapor transport spacing components, the spacing components being disposed on and fluidly connected to at least an outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component, the spacing components protruding from the outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component and abutting sides of at least the bases of the plurality of armor components, the spacing components being configured to prevent gap contraction.

[0123] Item 1.3. The flexible helmet of item 1.2, wherein the outer surface of the spacing component is water repellent.

[0124] Item 1.4. A flexible helmet according to any one of items 1 to 1.3, wherein a plurality of armor components 3 are attached to the head-mounting component 2 using a flexible adhesive.

[0125] Item 1.5. A flexible helmet according to any one of items 1 to 1.4, wherein the thickness of the flexible helmet 1 is in the range of 10 to 20 mm, for example 12 to 20 mm, for example 14 to 18 mm.

[0126] Item 1.6. The flexible helmet according to any of items 1 to 1.5, wherein the front portion 11 and / or the middle portion 12 and / or the rear portion 13 comprises a plurality of armor components 3 arranged and attached at preselected positions in the portions 11, 12, 13 separated by longitudinal gaps 10.

[0127] Item 1.7. A flexible helmet according to any one of items 1 to 1.6, wherein the central portion 12 is a protective gear component 3.

[0128] Item 1.8. The flexible helmet of any of items 1 to 1.7, wherein the plurality of armor components further comprises an intermediate component sandwiched between the base and outer components.

[0129] Item 1.9. The flexible helmet of any of items 1.1 to 1.7, wherein the base of the armor component further comprises a cavity configured to accommodate the intermediate component, and an outer layer covers an outer surface of the base and the intermediate layer.

[0130] Item 1.10. The flexible helmet according to items 1.8 or 1.9, wherein the intermediate component is made from a different material than the base or the intermediate layer has a different density than the base.

[0131] Item 1.11. A flexible helmet according to any of items 1.8 to 1.10, wherein the intermediate component has a preselected structure, such as a lattice structure, such as a honeycomb-like structure, configured to be elastically deformable in response to forces experienced through the outer component (8) during a crash.

[0132] Item 1.12. A flexible helmet according to any of items 1.8 to 1.11, wherein the intermediate component 7 is made of a material that is elastically deformable when the ambient temperature is in the range of -20 to 40 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -10 to 30 degrees Celsius, for example in the range of -5 to 25 degrees Celsius.

[0133] Item 1.13. The flexible helmet according to any of items 1.8 to 1.12, wherein the intermediate component 7 is made from a thermoplastic elastomer material, such as a TPE, such as a TPV, and preferably comprises a non-Newtonian additive, such as a shear-thinning additive, such as a shear-thickening additive.

[0134] Item 1.14. A flexible helmet according to any one of items 1.8 to 1.13, wherein the stiffness of the outer component 8 is greater than the stiffness of the intermediate component 7, which is greater than the stiffness of the base 6.

[0135] Item 1.15. A flexible helmet according to any of items 1 to 1.14, wherein the outer component 8 is made from a thermoplastic polymer material, e.g. a polycarbonate material, and the base 6 is preferably made from a low density material, e.g. PU.

[0136] Item 1.16. The flexible helmet according to any of items 1 to 1.15, which is a foldable helmet configured to be folded into a closed configuration by folding along one or more of the gaps 4.

[0137] Item 1.17. The flexible helmet according to item 1.16, foldable into a closed configuration by at least the front and / or rear portions folding inwardly towards a central portion of the helmet 1.

[0138] Item 1.18. The flexible helmet according to items 1.16 or 1.17, wherein the spacing element 5 is configured to elastically deform when the helmet 1 is folded.

[0139] Item 1.19. - determining a head size of a flexible helmet, said head size corresponding to a head size of a user; - providing a flexible head fitting component from a vapor transport fabric, the flexible head fitting component corresponding to said head size; - determining a layout of gaps and armor components along an outer region of a flexible head-fitting component; - securing a plurality of armor components to an outer surface of a flexible head-mounting component in a pattern based on the layout; 2. A method for producing the flexible bicycle helmet of claim 1, comprising:

[0140] Item 1.20. - providing one or more steam-transporting spaced apart components on an outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component corresponding to the layout of the gaps, the steam-transporting components protruding from the outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component defining the pattern; - disposing armor components within a pattern based on a pattern and / or layout defined by the spacing components; The method according to claim 1.19, further comprising:

[0141] Item 1.21. - The method according to item 1.19 or 1.20, further comprising providing a flexible adhesive to secure the armor component to the flexible head-mounting component.

[0142] Item 1.22. The method according to any one of items 1.19 to 1.21, in which the armor component is composed of three components: - providing a base having a bottom surface configured to be secured to an outer surface of a flexible head-fitting component; - providing an intermediate component on a surface of the base opposite the bottom surface; - providing an outer component covering at least an intermediate component; The method further comprising:

[0143] Item 1.23. The method according to any one of items 1.19 to 1.21, in which the armor component is composed of three components: - providing a base having a bottom surface configured to be secured to an outer surface of a flexible head-fitting component; - at least partially embedding an intermediate component within a surface of the base opposite the bottom surface; - providing an outer component covering at least an intermediate component; The method further comprising:

[0144] Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it is not to be construed as being limited in any way to the examples presented. The scope of the present invention is set out by the appended claims. In the context of the claims, the term "comprising" or "comprises" does not exclude other possible elements or steps. Reference to indications such as "a" or "an" shall not be construed as excluding a plurality. If reference signs are used in the claims for elements shown in the drawings, this too shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, individual features mentioned in different claims may in some cases be advantageously combined, and the mention of these features in different claims does not exclude that a combination of features is not possible or advantageous. [Explanation of symbols]

[0145] 1. Helmet 2 Head-fitting components 3 Protective equipment components 4 Gap 5 Spacing components 6 base 7 Intermediate component 8 Outer component 9 Cavity 10 Longitudinal gap 11 Front portion 12 Central portion 13 Rear portion 14 Extending component

Claims

1. - a flexible head-fitting component (2) made from a fabric configured to transport vapor, having an outer surface and an inner surface, and configured to have a shape to fit the user's head; - a plurality of armor components (3) arranged and attached at preselected positions on an outer surface of a flexible head-fitting component (2) to provide a flexible helmet (1), the flexible helmet having at least a front portion (11), a middle portion (12) and a rear portion (13) separated by a gap (4); - a base (6) having a bottom surface adapted to be attached to a flexible head-fitting component, and an outer component arranged on said base opposite said bottom face and made of a material different from that of said base or having a higher density than said base; A plurality of armor components (3) comprising: A flexible bicycle helmet (1) for protecting a user's head along and above the periphery of the skull extending from the frontal bone to the occipital bone, comprising:

2. 2. The flexible helmet according to claim 1, further comprising one or more vapor transport spacing components (5), the spacing components (5) being arranged on and fluidly connected to at least an outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component, the spacing components protruding from the outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component and abutting at least a side of a base of a plurality of armor components (3), the spacing components being configured to prevent contraction of the gap (4).

3. A flexible helmet according to claim 2, wherein the outer surface of the spacing element (5) is water repellent.

4. 4. The flexible helmet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a plurality of armor components (3) are attached to the head-mounting component (2) using a flexible adhesive.

5. A flexible helmet according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the thickness of the flexible helmet (1) is in the range of 10 to 20 mm, such as 12 to 20 mm, for example 14 to 18 mm.

6. 6. The flexible helmet according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the front portion (11) and / or the middle portion (12) and / or the rear portion (13) comprises a plurality of armor components (3) arranged and attached at preselected positions in the portions (11, 12, 13) separated by longitudinal gaps (10).

7. 7. Flexible helmet according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the central portion (12) is an armor component (3).

8. 8. The flexible helmet of claim 1, wherein the plurality of armor components further comprises an intermediate component sandwiched between the base and the outer component.

9. 8. The flexible helmet of claim 1, wherein the base of the armor component further comprises a cavity configured to accommodate an intermediate component, and the outer layer covers an outer surface of the base and the intermediate layer.

10. 10. The flexible helmet of claim 8 or 9, wherein the intermediate component is made from a different material than the base or has a different density than the base.

11. 11. A flexible helmet as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the intermediate component has a preselected structure, such as a lattice structure, such as a honeycomb-like structure, configured to be elastically deformable in response to forces experienced through the outer component (8) during a collision.

12. A flexible helmet according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the intermediate component (7) is made of a material that is elastically deformable when the ambient temperature is in the range of -20 to 40 degrees Celsius, such as in the range of -10 to 30 degrees Celsius, for example in the range of -5 to 25 degrees Celsius.

13. 13. Flexible helmet according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the intermediate component (7) is made from a thermoplastic elastomeric material, such as a TPE, such as a TPV, preferably comprising a non-Newtonian additive, such as a shear thinning additive, such as a shear thickening additive.

14. 14. Flexible helmet according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the outer component (8) is stiffer than the intermediate component (7), which is stiffer than the base (6).

15. 15. The flexible helmet according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the outer component (8) is made from a thermoplastic polymer material, e.g. a polycarbonate material, and the base (6) is preferably made from a low density material, e.g. PU.

16. 16. The flexible helmet according to any one of claims 1 to 15, which is a foldable helmet configured to be folded into a closed configuration by folding along one or more of the gaps (4).

17. 17. The flexible helmet according to claim 16, which is foldable into a closed configuration by at least the front and / or rear portions being folded inwards towards the central portion of the helmet (1).

18. 18. Flexible helmet according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the spacer elements (5) are configured to undergo elastic deformation when the helmet (1) is folded.

19. - determining a head size of the flexible helmet, the head size corresponding to a head size of a user; - providing a flexible head fitting component from a vapor transport fabric, said flexible head fitting component corresponding to said head size; determining a layout of gaps and armor components along an outer region of the flexible head-fitting component; - fixing a plurality of armor components to an outer surface of said flexible head-mounting component in a pattern based on said layout; 10. A method for making the flexible bicycle helmet of claim 1, comprising:

20. providing one or more steam-transporting spaced apart components on an outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component corresponding to the layout of the gaps, the steam-transporting spaced apart components protruding from the outer surface of the flexible head-fitting component defining a pattern; - arranging armor components within a pattern defined by said spacing components and / or within a pattern based on said layout; 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:

21. - providing a flexible adhesive for fixing the armour component to the flexible head-fitting component; 21. The method of claim 19 or 20, further comprising:

22. 22. The method of any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the armor component is comprised of three components: providing a base having a bottom surface adapted to be fixed to an outer surface of said flexible head-fitting component; - providing an intermediate component on a surface of said base opposite said bottom surface; - providing an outer component covering at least said intermediate component; The method further comprising:

23. 22. The method of any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the armor component is comprised of three components: providing a base having a bottom surface adapted to be fixed to an outer surface of said flexible head-fitting component; - at least partially embedding an intermediate component within a surface of said base opposite said bottom surface; - providing an outer component covering at least said intermediate component; The method further comprising:

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