Helmets and helmet chin straps

Abstract

The helmet includes an outer shell having a front, a top, and a rear. The helmet further includes a chin strap having a first mounting body and a second mounting body that define a length of the strap between the first and second mounting bodies, and the chin strap is configured to selectively adjust the length of the strap. The first and second mounting bodies are each coupled to the outer shell so that the chin strap can selectively pivot relative to the outer shell between a retracted position and a deployed position. The chin strap moves toward the front of the outer shell as the chin strap pivots from the deployed position to the retracted position. At least a portion of the chin strap is semi-rigid so that it can be used in tension and compression without changing shape.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to an improved retention system for helmets. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a semi-rigid, micro-adjustable chin strap arrangement for helmets, where the strap can pivot out of the way for storage and removal of the helmet. [Background technology]

[0002] Safety helmets are well known and may be worn when participating in a variety of activities, including, but not limited to, many different fields of recreation, transportation, military, and construction. For example, helmets are commonly worn for cycling, snowboarding and skiing, skateboarding, rock climbing, football, baseball, field hockey, ice hockey, horseback riding, scooter and motorcycle riding, combat and construction sites, to name a few. One aspect that nearly all conventional helmets have in common is one or more flexible webbing straps that connect under the user's chin and help secure the helmet in place on the wearer's head.

[0003] Conventional safety helmets, typically worn by users participating in activities requiring head protection, such as cyclists, may include dome-shaped bodies of various sizes and shapes. To more securely hold the helmet in place on the wearer's head, a chin strap may need to be tightened. The chin strap may be flexible webbing and may include a buckle that can be attached to the helmet and extend under the helmet wearer's chin during use to form a helmet retention system. In many helmets, one strap may be connected to the helmet behind each of the user's ears, and another strap may be connected to the helmet in front of each of the user's ears. On each side, these straps may be connected together to effectively form a single strap. The two single straps may be adjustable in length to provide a snug fit under the user's chin.

[0004] The helmet's chin strap helps to keep the helmet securely attached to the wearer's head, not only minimizing the occurrence of vertical movement that would cause the helmet to be thrown off the wearer's head, but also generally helps to minimize the occurrence of the helmet pivoting away from or out of position on the front or back of the wearer's head, exposing vulnerable areas of the user's head to impact.

[0005] These straps are typically difficult to adjust properly, which can lead many users to wear improperly adjusted helmets, reducing the effectiveness of the safety helmet. For example, it may be difficult to adjust the straps so that they are symmetrical from where they meet under the user's ears on a given side of the helmet. Further difficulty may be associated with adjusting the straps so that they are all taut when the buckles are engaged.

[0006] Although conventional helmets can meet certain safety standards when the straps are adjusted correctly, in practice, few users use their helmets in a correctly adjusted configuration. Furthermore, all adjustments are typically made while the helmet is off the user's head, resulting in a process that can be completed by trial and error. Even after seven adjustment attempts, at least one of the straps (e.g., in front of or behind the ears) will likely come loose when the buckle is engaged, potentially allowing the helmet to slip off in the event of a crash. Furthermore, because adjustments are so time-consuming, few users bother to adjust them to the desired tightness. This is because the required level of tightness may not be comfortable, and in most cases, users may not engage in the most dangerous parts of their activities that require tight straps. Consequently, most users end up wearing their helmets with unevenly or too loosely adjusted straps, even when they know they are about to engage in the most dangerous parts of their activities. Undoubtedly, this improper use of conventional straps can result in a significant number of head injuries and even deaths.

[0007] Conventional helmet strap systems may include hair band strap systems that extend around the forehead, sides, and back of the head to secure the helmet and improve the overall fit to the wearer, but in most cases the portion of the retention system that extends under the user's chin includes flexible webbing straps with conventional buckles.

[0008] However, such fastening strap systems, especially when not properly adjusted, do not always prevent undesirable pivoting of the helmet toward the front or back of the wearer's head due to the position of the straps that hold the helmet in place and extend below the chin. This potential pivoting can result in exposing the back or front of the wearer's head, which can be dangerous, especially during a multiple impact fall.

[0009] Proper adjustment of the chin strap is typically crucial for a helmet to adequately protect the user's head. However, when adjusted correctly, a snug chin strap can be uncomfortable, so many users unbuckle the chin strap during less dangerous uses. For example, because a ski or snowboard helmet may not be necessary for safety while on a ski lift, many users unbuckle the chin strap while on the ski lift and then buckle the chin strap before skiing. Naturally, users sometimes forget to buckle the strap, which is dangerous and could lead to the helmet falling off the head. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a helmet retention system that is easy to adjust to a proper retention position and that can be easily moved to a non-use position when not engaged in an activity requiring the helmet's protection. Various aspects of the present disclosure address this particular need, as described in more detail below. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a helmet configured to be worn on a user's head is provided. The helmet includes an outer shell having a front portion, a top portion, and a rear portion. The helmet further includes a chin strap having a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion, the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion defining a strap length between the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion, and the chin strap is configured to allow the strap length to be selectively adjustable. The first mounting portion and the second mounting portion are each pivotally connected to the outer shell such that the chin strap is selectively pivotable relative to the outer shell between a retracted position and a deployed position. The chin strap moves toward the front of the outer shell when the chin strap pivots from the deployed position to the retracted position. At least a portion of the chin strap is semi-rigid so that it is disposable in tension and compression without changing shape.

[0012] The front of the helmet may define a recess, and at least a portion of the chin strap may be received in the recess when the strap is in the stowed position. The front may include a leading edge defining a forward-most surface and a lower-most surface. The rear of the helmet may define a rear-most surface. At least a portion of the strap may cross the lower-most surface as the chin strap transitions from the deployed position to the stowed position, and at least a portion of the strap may be between the forward-most surface and the lower-most surface when the chin strap is in the stowed position.

[0013] The helmet may additionally include a shell magnet coupled to the shell and a strap magnet coupled to the strap, the shell magnet and strap magnet positioned and configured to create a magnetic coupling between the shell and the chin strap when the chin strap is in the retracted position.

[0014] The shell and chin strap may be configured to create a frictional engagement between the shell and the chin strap to retain the chin strap in the stowed position. The chin strap may define a pivot angle relative to the shell as the chin strap pivots between the stowed position and the deployed position, the pivot angle may be between 60 and 150 degrees, more preferably between 80 and 130 degrees.

[0015] The chin strap may include a pair of end portions and a central portion, and each end portion may be angled relative to the central portion. The shell may include a lower edge, at least a portion of which defines a contour complementary to the contour of the chin strap.

[0016] The chin strap may include a pair of arms that are movable in a first direction away from each other to increase the length of the strap and in an opposite second direction toward each other to decrease the length of the strap. The helmet may additionally include a dial in operative communication with the pair of arms. The dial may be rotatable relative to the pair of arms such that rotation of the dial in a first rotational direction moves the pair of arms away from each other and rotation of the dial in a second rotational direction moves the pair of arms toward each other. Each of the pair of arms may include a tooth that interacts with the dial.

[0017] The shell may include a lower portion extending in spaced relation to the front portion to define an opening therebetween, the opening being sized to allow a user to see through the opening when wearing the helmet.

[0018] The helmet may include a tab operatively coupled to the chin strap and rotatable relative to the shell, the tab being configured such that rotation of the tab relative to the shell facilitates transition of the chin strap between the stowed position and the deployed position.

[0019] The helmet may additionally include a pair of curved guides coupled to the shell in opposing relationship, and the chin strap may include a pair of followers slidable along each of the curved guides as the chin strap transitions between the stowed and deployed positions.

[0020] The outer shell may include an inner surface defining a cavity sized to receive at least a portion of the user's head. The inner surface may include a forward-most point on a front surface, a rearward-most point on a rear surface parallel to the front surface, and an uppermost point on a superior surface perpendicular to both the front and rear surfaces. The outer shell may be associated with a pivot zone having a center located a first distance from the front surface, a second distance from the rear surface, and a third distance from the superior surface, the first distance being 50-60% of the second distance and the second distance being equal to the third distance. The pivot zone may be circular and have a diameter that is 80-90% of the first distance. At least a portion of the pivot zone may overlap the outer shell.

[0021] The present disclosure will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. These and other features and advantages of the various embodiments disclosed herein will become better understood with regard to the following description and drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of a helmet assembly being worn by a user with a pivoting retractable chin strap in a stowed position. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the pivoting retractable chin strap pivoted partway down in the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 1 . [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a side view of the pivoting retractable chin strap pivoted further down in the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a side view of the pivoting retractable chin strap pivoted even further downward in the helmet assembly illustrated in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a side view of the pivotally retractable chin strap of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 1 pivoted completely under the user's chin and ready to be retracted. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a side view of the pivotally retractable chin strap of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 1 pivoted fully down and retracted and ready for use. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a front view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is a front view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a front view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment helmet assembly with a pivoting retractable chin strap slightly pivoted downward from a stowed position. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 12 with the pivoting retractable chin strap pivoted all the way down and ready for retraction. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment helmet assembly with a pivotally retractable chin strap in a stowed position. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 14 with the pivoting retractable chin strap pivoted all the way down and ready for retraction. [Figure 16] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 14 with the pivotally retractable chin strap pivoted all the way down and retracted, ready for use. [Figure 17]FIG. 10 is a side view of another alternative embodiment helmet assembly with a pivotally retractable chin strap in a stowed position. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a side view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 17 with the pivoting retractable chin strap pivoted all the way down and ready for retraction. [Figure 19] FIG. 18 is a side view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 17 with the pivotally retractable chin strap pivoted all the way down and retracted, ready for use. [Figure 20] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the pivotally retractable chin strap assembly illustrated in FIGS. 1-11 prior to retraction. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a perspective rear view of the pivotally retractable chin strap assembly illustrated in FIG. 20. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a perspective front view of an alternative embodiment pivotally retractable chin strap assembly prior to retraction. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a perspective rear view of the pivotally retractable chin strap assembly illustrated in FIG. 22. [Figure 24] FIG. 17 is a perspective front view of the pivotally retractable chin strap assembly shown in FIGS. 14-16 prior to retraction. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a perspective rear view of the pivotally retractable chin strap assembly shown in FIG. 24. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the retracted pivoting retractable chin strap assembly shown in FIGS. 24-25 after retraction. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a perspective rear view of the pivotally retractable chin strap assembly shown in FIG. 26 in a retracted position. [Figure 28] FIG. 12 is a side view of the helmet assembly shown in FIGS. 1-11, with a strong force pulling the rear of the helmet upward and forward in accordance with certain industry testing standards. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a side view of the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 28, with a strong force pulling the front of the helmet upward and rearward in accordance with certain industry testing standards. [Figure 30]FIG. 12 is a side view of the helmet assembly illustrated in FIGS. 1-11 showing preferred pivotal rotation position zones. [Figure 31] FIG. 10 is a side view of an alternative embodiment helmet assembly with the pivotally retractable chin strap in a stowed position while the helmet assembly is being worn by a user. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a side view of the pivoting retractable chin strap in the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 31 pivoted all the way down and ready to be retracted. [Figure 33] FIG. 32 is a side view of the pivotally retractable chin strap in the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 31 pivoted down and retracted fully and ready for use. [Figure 34] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the helmet assembly of the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 31. [Figure 35] FIG. 10 is a side view of another alternative embodiment helmet assembly with the pivotally retractable chin strap in a stowed position while the helmet assembly is being worn by a user. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a side view of the pivoting retractable chin strap in the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 35 pivoted all the way down and ready to be retracted. [Figure 37] FIG. 10 is a side view of an alternative embodiment helmet assembly with the pivotally retractable chin strap in a stowed position while the helmet assembly is being worn by a user. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a side view of the pivoting retractable chin strap in the helmet assembly shown in FIG. 37 pivoted all the way down and ready to be retracted. [Figure 39] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a helmet assembly with a pivotally retractable chin strap in a retracted position while the helmet assembly is being worn by a user. [Figure 40] FIG. 40 is a side view of the helmet assembly of the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 39. [Figure 41]FIG. 40 is a side view of the helmet assembly of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 39 with the pivoting retractable chin strap pivoted all the way down and ready for retraction. [Figure 42] FIG. 42 is a side view of the helmet assembly of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 41 with the pivotally retractable chin strap retracted and being worn by a user. [Figure 43] FIG. 42 is a side cross-sectional view of the helmet assembly of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 41. [Figure 44] FIG. 41 is a side cross-sectional view of the helmet assembly of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 40. [Figure 45] FIG. 10 is a side view of an alternative embodiment helmet assembly with the pivotally retractable chin strap in a stowed position while the helmet assembly is being worn by a user. [Figure 46] FIG. 46 is a side view of the helmet assembly of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 45 with the pivoting retractable chin strap pivoted all the way down and ready for retraction. [Figure 47] FIG. 46 is a side view of the helmet assembly of the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 45 with the chin strap contracted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] Common reference numbers are used throughout the drawings and detailed description to refer to like elements. The detailed description set forth below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended to describe certain embodiments of a helmet retention mechanism and is not intended to represent the only form that may be developed or utilized. While the description describes various structures and functions or structures or functions in conjunction with the illustrated embodiments, it should be understood that the same or equivalent structures and functions or structures or functions may be realized by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the scope of this disclosure. It is further understood that the use of relational terms (e.g., first and second) is used only to distinguish one entity from another, without necessarily requiring or implying an actual such relationship or order between such entities.

[0024] Generally speaking, the present disclosure relates to a helmet assembly having a pivotally retractable chin strap for easily and comfortably adjusting the fit of the chin strap and for allowing selective positioning of the chin strap between deployed and retracted positions relative to the outer shell of the helmet assembly.

[0025] FIGS. 1-11 and 20-21 depict a first embodiment of a helmet assembly 10 (e.g., a helmet) configured to be wearable on a user's head. The helmet assembly 10 generally includes a helmet shell assembly 20 and a chin strap assembly 40 (e.g., a chin strap). The helmet shell assembly 20 may include a shell 21 having an inner surface defining a cavity sized to receive at least a portion of a user's head. The shell 21 may also include a front portion 23, a top portion 25, and a rear portion 27. The front portion 23 may include a visor 24 defining a pocket recess 28 ( FIG. 11 ). More specifically, the front portion 23 may include a leading edge 29 that may extend across the front surface of the outer shell 21. The leading edge 29 may define a forward-most surface 31 (e.g., a vertical line tangent to the leading edge 29) and a lower-most surface 33 (e.g., a horizontal line tangent to the leading edge 29) when viewed from the perspective illustrated in FIG. 1 . The pocket recess 28 may be bounded, at least in part, by a forward-most surface 31 and a lower-most surface 33. The significance of the pocket recess 28 will be explained in more detail below.

[0026] Chin strap assembly 40 may be comprised of arms 51 and 52, pivot ends 42a and 42b (e.g., first and second attachments), a torsion adjustment mechanism 44 including a torsion adjustment knob 46, and pad 41. According to one embodiment, chin strap assembly 40 may be made primarily from injection-molded nylon or other equivalent material known in the art for its strong tensile properties while being able to bend slightly when adjusted. In this regard, at least arms 51, 52 may be disposable in both tension and compression. Thus, arms 51, 52 differ from conventional woven chin straps, which are generally incapable of being disposed in compression.

[0027] FIG. 1 shows a user wearing the preferred embodiment 10 with the chin strap assembly 40 in the stowed position and the torsional adjustment mechanism 44 and the torsional adjustment tab 46 disposed within the pocket recess 28. When the chin strap 40 is in the stowed position, the chin strap 40 may be substantially hidden or out of the user's field of view. Furthermore, hiding or obscuring the chin strap 40 may create an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the user. Light friction between the chin strap assembly 40 and the outer shell assembly 20 may hold the chin strap assembly 40 in its stowed position relative to the helmet outer shell assembly 20. For example, the torsional adjustment mechanism 44 and / or the tab 46 may contact the visor 24 or other portions of the outer shell 21, and such contact may hold the chin strap assembly 40 in the stowed position. While the chin strap assembly 40 is in the stowed position, the chin strap 40 is disengaged from under the wearer's chin, allowing the user to easily put on and take off the helmet 10 without hindrance.

[0028] 2-5 show chin strap assembly 40 being pivoted sequentially downward from a stowed position to a deployed position (e.g., under the chin). Note that because of the location of the attachment points of pivot ends 42a, 42b with shell assembly 20, torsional adjustment mechanism 44 can pivot between the stowed position and the deployed position (e.g., under the user's chin) without impinging on the user's nose, chin, or any other part of the user's face.

[0029] According to one embodiment, as the chin strap 40 transitions from the stowed position to the deployed position, at least a portion of the chin strap 40 traverses the lower-most surface 33 defined by the front portion 23. Specifically, the torsional adjustment mechanism 44 passes from above the lower-most surface 33 to below the lower-most surface 33. As the chin strap 40 transitions from the deployed position to the stowed position, at least a portion of the chin strap 40 again traverses the lower-most surface, and the torsional adjustment mechanism passes from below the lower-most surface 33 to above the lower-most surface 33. When in the stowed position, the torsional adjustment mechanism 44 is above the lower-most surface 33 and between the forward-most surface 31 and a rearward-most surface defined by the rear portion 27 of the shell 21 and parallel to the forward-most surface 31.

[0030] The chin strap assembly 40 may define a strap length as the distance along the chin strap 40 between the attachment points of the chin strap assembly 40 with the shell assembly 20 (e.g., the length along the strap between the pivot ends 42 a, 42 b). The length may be selectively and incrementally adjustable to allow for selective loosening and tightening of the strap 40 as needed. For example, the strap 40 may be loosened / lengthened to facilitate pivoting of the strap 40 between the retracted and deployed positions.

[0031] When the straps 40 are in the deployed position, the straps 40 can be tightened / shortened to secure the helmet 10 to the user's head. FIG. 6 shows the chin strap assembly 40 contracted by the user to properly secure the helmet 10 to the user's head. Note also that one particular embodiment of the twist assembly 44 may allow for easy and quick contraction or lengthening by rotating the twist knob 46 using two fingers of one hand. Once contracted, the helmet 10 may be secured to the user's head with such size and position adjustment of the strap assembly 40 accurately, safely, and quickly accomplished. Note that the mechanism 44 of the chin strap assembly 40 may be locked to any particular adjustment length (e.g., adjustable in selective increments) via an internal locking mechanism, such as a gear.

[0032] Conventional helmet chin straps tend to be difficult to adjust properly, resulting in most users wearing an improperly adjusted and unsafe helmet. Furthermore, optimizing the fit of a conventional chin strap for safety can compromise comfort, potentially resulting in users becoming unwilling to use the helmet in a safe configuration even for short periods of time. Thus, helmet 10 may be safer because it is much easier to precisely adjust the chin strap, which may be loosened for less risky uses.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the contour 47 of the chin strap 40 closely matches the contour 26 of the outer shell 20 to conceal the chin strap 40 as much as possible when the chin strap 40 is in the retracted position and to provide the user with the widest possible field of view when the chin strap 40 is stowed. In this regard, the outer shell 21 may include a contoured lower edge including a first segment 35 and a second segment 37 angled relative to the first segment 35. Each first segment 35 may be positioned adjacent to an attachment point of the chin strap 40, and the second segment 37 may extend from and define an angle with the first segment 35. The chin strap 40 may be similarly configured and include a pair of end portions 39 and a central portion 43, each end portion 39 extending from and defining an angle with the central portion 43. The angle defined by chin strap 40 can be similar in shape and size to the angle defined by shell 21 so that, when chin strap 40 is in the retracted position, the ends of chin strap 40 lie adjacent to or abutting first segment 35 of the shell's lower edge and at least some of central portion 43 of chin strap 40 lie adjacent to or abutting second segment 37 of the shell's lower edge.

[0034] Helmet 10 may be configured so that a user can easily loosen chin strap 40 assembly when a danger no longer exists (e.g., no longer participating in a risk-related activity), and then quickly and securely fasten chin strap 40 using only one hand when transitioning to a risky activity. For example, chin strap assembly 40 can be loosened while riding a ski lift and then refastened before skiing. While fastening chin strap 40 can be easily and easily accomplished with one hand, conventional chin straps typically require the use of two hands to fasten the buckle. Furthermore, conventional helmets typically must be removed from the user's head to adjust the tightness. Thus, users almost always wear conventional helmets with a chin strap that is too loose for safety.

[0035] Although not shown in the drawings, helmet 10 may include an adjustable headband assembly that can encircle the wearer's head. The adjustable headband assembly may be similar to the adjustment mechanism described in U.S. Patent No. 8,032,993 to Musal, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. The adjustable headband assembly may be quickly and easily fine-tuned with one hand. While a headband assembly may be preferable for adjustability, comfort, and safety for most activities where a helmet is typically worn, such as cycling, snowboarding, skiing, skateboarding, rock climbing, baseball, field hockey, ice hockey, horseback riding, combat, and construction sites, to name a few, it need not be included in all helmets.

[0036] As illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13 , helmet 110 is depicted as an alternative embodiment of helmet 10, with the primary difference being that pivotally retractable chin strap assembly 140 may be magnetically retained in its stowed position. Outer shell 120 includes pocket 128 with magnet 126 for magnetically coupling to magnet 148, which may be located within or adjacent to twist mechanism 144 of chin strap assembly 140. Magnets 126, 148 may be sized and configured such that as chin strap 140 approaches the stowed position, the magnetic force between magnets 126, 148 is sufficient to retain chin strap 140 in the stowed position. To transition chin strap 140 from the stowed position toward the deployed position, a force sufficient to overcome the magnetic force is applied to chin strap 140, causing the chin strap to continue toward the deployed position. While various means can be designed to help retain chin strap assembly 140 in its stowed position, a magnet may be convenient and simple. Examples of other means may include friction, ball detents, flex detents and various locking systems.

[0037] As shown in Figures 14-16 and 24-27, helmet assembly 210 is yet another embodiment that includes a different type of pivotally retractable chin strap assembly 240. Instead of a twisting motion to retract and extend the strap, chin strap assembly 240 is comprised of arms 251, 252, ratchet mechanisms 253, 254, connector strap 247, pads 241a, 241b, and buttons 257, 258. Connector strap 247 includes teeth 248, shown in Figure 25, that engage with buttons 257, 258. Chin strap assembly 240 has pivots 242a, 242b for rotating chin strap 240 between a retracted position, shown in Figure 14, and a chin-ready position (e.g., a deployed position), shown in Figure 15, without striking the user's face. After pivoting chin strap assembly 240 under their chin with one hand, a user can press surface 255 firmly against surface 256 to retract chin strap assembly 240 into a safe and proper position. To tighten chin strap 240, the user presses surface 255 of feature 253 firmly against surface 256 of feature 254, moving features 253 and 254 toward each other as shown in FIGS. 26 and 27 , effectively shortening chin strap 240. To loosen chin strap 240, the user can press buttons 257 and / or 258 downward, which disengages teeth 248 of connector strap 247. Pads 241 a, 241 b may provide comfortable contact with the user's chin.

[0038] 17-19, a helmet 310 is shown that is similar to helmet 10, except that the chin strap 340 has a straight surface 347 instead of the curved contour 47. While helmet 10 may offer improved visibility to the user over embodiment 310, the chin strap assembly 340 of embodiment 310 may have greater tensile strength due to its straighter contour 347.

[0039] 20 and 21, chin strap assembly 40 is comprised of arms 51 and 52 with pivots 42a and 42b. When twist knob 46 (e.g., a dial) is rotated in a first rotational direction, arms 51, 52 move in a first direction, e.g., away from each other and extending out from mechanism 44, effectively lengthening the overall length of chin strap assembly 40. When twist knob 46 is rotated in an opposite second rotational direction, arms 51, 52 move in a second direction, e.g., toward each other and into mechanism 44, effectively shortening the overall length of chin strap assembly 40. Pad 41 is provided for comfortable contact with the user's chin.

[0040] As shown in Figures 22 and 23, chin strap assembly 440 is a variation of chin strap 40 and is comprised of arms 451, 452 with pivots 442a, 442b. Arm 451 has two legs 454, 458 separated by a groove, and leg 458 has a gear tooth 456. Arm 452 has two legs 455, 459 separated by a groove, and leg 459 has a gear tooth 457. When twist knob 446 on housing 444 is turned, legs 454, 455, 456, 457 retract into housing 444, effectively shortening the overall length of chin strap assembly 440. Pad 441 may be included to provide a comfortable contact point with the user's chin.

[0041] As shown in FIGS. 28 and 29 , when a force is applied to pull the helmet in direction “B,” the bottom of the chin strap 40, e.g., the twist mechanism 44, is pulled toward the user's chin in direction “A,” resisting this movement. While FIGS. 28 and 29 are exaggerated for clarity, the helmet 10 likely would not be able to move as much as shown when the chin strap 40 is properly adjusted. There are testing standards for bicycle helmets that apply loads such as those shown to determine whether the strap system can adequately secure the helmet on the user's head. As previously mentioned, prior art strap systems are notoriously difficult to properly adjust, and one consequence of this is that in actual use, when forces are applied as shown, the helmet can easily move out of its optimal protective position. However, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure, a pivotally retractable chin strap assembly 40, 140, 240, 340, 640, 740 secures the helmet embodiments 10, 110, 210, 310, 510, 610, 710 in place.

[0042] An important feature of helmet 10 that helps it withstand forces in direction "B" is that the position of pivots 22, 42 causes mechanism 44 of chin strap 40 to move in direction "A" regardless of whether helmet 10 is pulled forward and upward as shown in FIG. 28 or backward and upward as shown in FIG. 29. To cause this to occur, pivots 22, 42 can be low enough to move backward toward the user's ears when the helmet is pulled as shown in FIG. 28, and pivots 22, 42 can move forward toward the user's nose when the helmet is pulled as shown in FIG. 29. In that way, chin strap 40 can fit more snugly against the user's chin, preventing the helmet 10, 110, 210, 310, 510, 610, 710 from shifting as shown in FIGS. 28 and 29.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 30, the chin strap pivot position zone 63 is of limited size to ideally achieve four goals. First, when pivoting from the stowed position to the under-chin position, the mechanism 44 of the chin strap assembly 40 ideally does not strike the user's nose, chin, or other facial features. Second, the mechanism 44 of the chin strap assembly 40 ideally is a reasonable distance below the user's chin before deflation so that the deflation process is reasonable for the user. If the distance is too great, the deflation process becomes inconvenient. Third, the mechanism 44 of the chin strap 40 ideally does not extend beyond the user's forehead and into the line of sight while still being a reasonable distance in front of the helmet. At some point, the mechanism 44 may be so far from the front of the outer shell 20 that it becomes an eyesore and makes the helmet less compact. Regarding the fourth goal, as shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, when shell 20 is pulled in the general direction "B," pivots 42a, 42b can cause mechanism 44 to retract in the general direction "A" toward the user's chin. If pivots 42a, 42b are too far forward or too high, pulling shell 20 in the "B" direction in FIG. 28 will not cause mechanism 44 to retract upward in the "A" direction toward the user's chin, and shell 20 will slip off the user's head. If pivots 42a, 42b are too far back or too high, pulling shell 20 in the "B" direction in FIG. 29 will not cause mechanism 44 to retract upward in the "A" direction toward the user's chin, and shell 20 will slip off the user's head.

[0044] Thus, according to at least one embodiment, the pivot zone 63 of the chin strap assembly comprises all of the pivot locations about which the chin strap 40 can pivot while satisfying the aforementioned ideal goals. The helmet assembly 10 can be sized and configured such that the pivot zone 63 overlaps a portion of the outer shell 20.

[0045] The chin strap assembly 40 can pivot through a range "U" between its stowed position and a usable position under the user's chin. The angle "U" can be between approximately 70 and 140 degrees, depending on the pivot position. As shown, the angle "U" represents an arc of radius "R" with a center point 65, which is the center of the chin strap pivot position zone 63. The center point 65 is located a distance X behind the helmet forehead support position 62, a distance Y in front of the rear of the helmet at head support position 61, and a distance Z below the top of the helmet at head support position 60. The helmet forehead support position 62 can be the forward-most point on the inner surface of the outer shell 21, which is on the forward plane. The rear of the helmet at head support position 61 can be the rearmost point on the inner surface of the outer shell 21, which is on the rear plane parallel to the forward plane. The top of the helmet at head support position 60 can be the uppermost point on an upward plane perpendicular to both the forward and rear planes. In one particular embodiment, Y=Z and X is approximately 36% of the distance between the front and back of the user's head support, or X~=0.56Y. The diameter "V" of the chin strap pivot location zone 63 may be 85% of the distance X, or diameter V=0.85X. For example, for a typical large helmet for an adult male user, X=76 mm, Y=135 mm, Z=135 mm, and diameter "V"=65 mm.

[0046] By way of example, FIG. 30 illustrates circular arcs having center points at the extreme ends of chin strap pivot location zone 63. Specifically, radius "T" has center point 66 located at the bottom of pivot zone 63, radius "R" has center point 67 located at the forward-most point of pivot zone 63, radius "P" has center point 68 located at the top of pivot zone 63, and radius "Q" has center point 69 located at the rear-most point of pivot zone 63. The chin strap radii vary depending on the center points selected for the chin strap pivots. For example, for a large helmet for an adult male user, radius "R" may be approximately 140 mm, radius P may be approximately 165 mm, radius Q may be approximately 170 mm, radius "S" may be approximately 125 mm, and radius "T" may be approximately 135 mm. These are approximate radii from pivot points 65, 66, 67, 68, and 69 to the inside of mechanism 44.

[0047] As shown in FIGS. 31-34 , construction hard hat 510 is comprised of shell assembly 520, chin strap assembly 40, and headband assembly 530. Headband assembly 530 has an adjustment mechanism 534 and a twist knob 536. Headband assembly 530 can be quickly and easily fine-tuned and locked into place with one hand. The general functionality of helmet 510 is similar to helmet 10 in that chin strap assembly 40 has a stowed position and can pivot downward about pivot 522b to be under the user's chin, and mechanism 44 can be quickly adjusted with twist knob 46 to properly seat the helmet 510 on the user's head. In construction applications, there may be many times when the chin strap is not needed, so being able to wear the hard hat with the chin strap either loosened or in the stowed position can be particularly convenient. The user can then quickly and easily deploy and adjust the chin strap 40 when needed, such as when working high up on a building or in windy conditions. The helmet 510 has a recess 523 in the outer shell 520 for storing the mechanism 44 therein.

[0048] As illustrated in FIGS. 35 and 36 , a helmet 610 demonstrates the use of a virtual pivot point 665. The helmet 610 is comprised of a shell assembly 620 having a curved guide 625 extending downwardly from a shell 621 and operatively coupled to a follower 645 included in a chin strap assembly 640. Specifically, the curved guide 625 and the follower 645 are configured such that the follower 645 slides along the curved guide 625 as the chin strap assembly 640 transitions between a stowed position and a deployed position. In this manner, the follower 645 can translate or slide along the curved guide 625, while the chin strap assembly 640 pivots about the virtual pivot point 665 between the stowed position illustrated in FIG. 35 and the chin-ready position illustrated in FIG. 36 . The virtual pivot point 665 could ideally be located anywhere within the pivot zone 63 illustrated in FIG. 30 . It is envisioned that the curved guide 625 may be curved in a non-circular manner, which may result in a virtual pivot zone instead of a virtual pivot point 665.

[0049] As shown in Figures 37 and 38, helmet 710 demonstrates the use of a virtual pivot point 765. Helmet 710 is comprised of a shell assembly 720 having a curved guide slot 725, shown in phantom in Figure 37, into which a follower portion 746 of chin strap assembly 740 slides. There is a stop rib 747 that prevents follower portion 746 from sliding completely out of guide slot 725. In this manner, chin strap 740 pivots about virtual pivot point 765 between a stowed position and a chin-ready position.

[0050] As shown in Figures 39-44, helmet 810 is a full-face helmet including a shell assembly 820, a chin strap assembly 840, and a tab 850 exterior to shell assembly 820 and in operative communication with chin strap assembly 840. Shell assembly 820 has a mouth guard 821 in spaced relation to an upper portion 825 defining an opening 827 therebetween to allow a user to see through helmet 810. Mouth guard 821 may extend from both sides of helmet 810 in front of the user's mouth to provide enhanced protection for the user's face. Chin strap assembly 840 transitions about pivots 822a, 822b between a stowed position, shown in Figures 39-40 and 44, and a deployed, under-chin position, shown in Figures 41 and 43. In embodiments including a mouth guard 821, the chin strap assembly 840 will be aligned with the mount guard 821 when in the stowed position and can extend below the mouth guard 821 when in the deployed position. A twist tab 850 allows the user to move the chin strap assembly 840 from the stowed position to the deployed position. Tab 850 is not required but may be convenient in full-face helmets to facilitate pivoting the chin strap assembly 840. Twist tab 846 of mechanism 844 can lengthen or shorten the chin strap assembly 840. FIG. 42 shows the chin strap assembly 840 fastened to a user's chin. Note that pivots 822a, 822b can be positioned to retract the chin strap 840 into a position that does not impinge on the user's face or obstruct the user's view when putting the helmet 810 on or removing it. There is a pocket recess 828 into which the mechanism 844 fits when stored while not needed. Various means or mechanisms could be used to securely hold the chin strap 840 in its stored position, such as friction, magnets, ball detents, flex detents, and others.

[0051] Because the way shell assembly 820 of a full-face helmet surrounds the user's head, full-face helmets may have more freedom in the location of pivots 822a, 822b than non-full-face helmets because they cannot move up / forward as shown in FIG. 28 . Therefore, pivots 822a, 822b may not need to be in a position that provides a more snug fit for chin strap assembly 840 when force B (shown in FIG. 28 ) is applied to helmet 810. However, chin strap assembly 840 must prevent helmet 810 from moving as shown in FIG. 29 . Therefore, the location of pivots 822a, 822b should ideally achieve the following goals. The first goal is that mechanism 844 of chin strap assembly 840 cannot impinge on the user's nose, chin, or other facial features when pivoting from the stowed position to the under-chin position. A second goal is that mechanism 844 of chin strap assembly 840 can be a reasonable distance below the chin before retraction so that the retraction process is reasonable for the user. If the distance is too great, the retraction process can be inconvenient. A third goal is that mechanism 844 of chin strap 840 cannot be beyond the user's nose and into the user's line of sight while still being within mouth guard 821 of shell assembly 820. A fourth goal is that when shell 820 is pulled in the general direction "B" shown in FIG. 29, pivots 822a, 822b can cause mechanism 844 to retract toward the user's chin in the general direction "A."

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 45-47 , helmet 910 is comprised of a shell assembly 920 with supports 926 on each side and a chin strap assembly 940. Helmet 910 differs from all other embodiments in that chin strap 940 may not include an adjustment mechanism in the area of the user's chin. Instead, chin strap assembly 940 may include a mechanism 944 on the side of the helmet. Mechanism 944 may be present on both sides of the helmet or only one side. As shown, strap 940 of the chin strap assembly pivots about pivot 929, and mechanism 944 may be located at pivot point 929. Turning twist knob 946 pulls strap end 949, shown in dotted lines in FIG. 47 , through mechanism 944, shortening chin strap assembly 940 and tightening chin strap assembly 940 around the user's chin.

[0053] As shown, mechanism 944 is located at pivot 929, but it could be located anywhere between pivot 944 and chin liner 945. Chin liner 945 slides along chin strap 940 and, while not essential, adds comfort.

[0054] Mechanism 944 is a twist mechanism, although various other types of adjustment mechanisms known in the prior art are viable, such as a ratchet system similar to the mechanism illustrated in Figures 24-27. The helmet embodiment illustrated in the drawings is a helmet commonly used for cycling, construction work, and motorcycling. However, it should be apparent from these teachings how the pivotally adjustable chin strap can be applied to many other helmets, such as those used for snowboarding, skiing, skateboarding, rock climbing, football, baseball, field hockey, ice hockey, horseback riding, scooter riding, combat, etc. While the chin strap pivot shown is a simple rotating pivot, there are other ways to achieve the chin strap movement necessary to retract to the desired position and cause retraction when the helmet is pulled forward / up and backward / up without striking the user's face during movement between the retracted position and the position under the user's chin. One solution would be a linkage mechanism, such as a four-bar linkage.

[0055] The details set forth herein are by way of example for illustrative discussion only, and are not presented for the purpose of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood explanation of the principles and conceptual aspects of the various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, no attempt has been made to present in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the different features of the various embodiments, which, when read in conjunction with the drawings, will become apparent to those skilled in the art how they may be implemented.

Claims

1. A helmet configured to be worn on a user's head, the helmet comprising: an outer shell having a front, a top, a rear and an inner surface, the helmet having a forehead support location at a forward-most point of the inner surface of the outer shell and a rear of a head support location at a rear-most point of the inner surface of the outer shell; a chin strap, a first arm and a first attachment connected to the first arm; a second arm and a second attachment connected to the second arm, each of the first attachment body and the second attachment body is connectable to the outer shell at a respective position within a circular zone having a center located at a distance X from the forehead support position and a distance Y from the rear of the head support position, the distance X being shorter than the distance Y, and the circular zone having a diameter that is 80 to 90% of the distance X; the chin strap defines a strap length as a distance along the chin strap between the first attachment and the second attachment, the first arm and the second arm being movable relative to one another to facilitate selective adjustment of the strap length, the strap length increasing as the first arm and the second arm move away from one another, and the strap length decreasing as the first arm and the second arm move toward one another; each of the first attachment and the second attachment is pivotally coupled to the shell such that the chin strap is selectively pivotable relative to the shell between a stowed position and a deployed position, the chin strap moving toward the front of the shell as the chin strap pivots from the deployed position to the stowed position; a chin strap, wherein both the first arm and the second arm are configured to be usable in tension and compression; a dial in operative communication with both the first arm and the second arm, the dial rotatable relative to both the first arm and the second arm such that rotation of the dial in a first rotational direction increases the length of the strap and rotation of the dial in a second rotational direction decreases the length of the strap; and A helmet equipped with:

2. The helmet of claim 1 , wherein the front portion of the helmet defines a recess, and at least a portion of the chin strap is received within the recess when the strap is in the stowed position.

3. 3. The helmet of claim 2, wherein the front portion includes a leading edge defining a forward-most surface and a lower-most surface, the rear portion of the helmet defining a rearward-most surface, at least a portion of the chin strap traverses the lower-most surface as the chin strap transitions from the deployed position to the stowed position, and at least a portion of the chin strap is between the forward-most surface and the lower-most surface when the chin strap is in the stowed position.

4. 10. The helmet of claim 1, further comprising a shell magnet coupled to the shell and a strap magnet coupled to the strap, the shell magnet and the strap magnet positioned and configured to create a magnetic coupling between the shell and the chin strap when the chin strap is in the retracted position.

5. The helmet of claim 1 , wherein the shell and the chin strap are configured to create a frictional engagement between the shell and the chin strap to retain the chin strap in the stowed position.

6. 10. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the chin strap defines a pivot angle with respect to the shell as the chin strap pivots between the stowed position and the deployed position, the pivot angle being between 70 and 140 degrees.

7. The helmet of claim 1 , wherein the chin strap includes a pair of end portions and a central portion, each end portion being angled relative to the central portion.

8. The helmet of claim 1 , wherein the shell includes a lower edge, at least a portion of which defines a contour complementary to a contour defined by an edge of the chin strap.

9. The helmet of claim 1 , wherein the first arm and the second arm each include a tooth that interacts with the dial.

10. 2. The helmet of claim 1, wherein the shell includes a lower portion extending in spaced relation from the front portion to define an opening therebetween, the opening being sized to allow a user to see through the opening while wearing the helmet.

11. 10. The helmet of claim 1, further comprising a tab operatively coupled to the chin strap and rotatable relative to the shell, the tab configured such that rotation of the tab relative to the shell facilitates transition of the chin strap between the stowed position and the deployed position.

12. 2. The helmet of claim 1, further comprising a pair of curved guides coupled to the shell in opposing relationship, the chin strap having a pair of followers slidable along each of the curved guides as the chin strap transitions between the stowed position and the deployed position.

13. 2. The helmet of claim 1, wherein a forward-most point of the inner surface of the outer shell lies on a forward surface, a rearward-most point of the inner surface of the outer shell lies on a rear surface parallel to the forward surface, and the inner surface of the outer shell further has an uppermost point that lies on a superior surface that is perpendicular to both the forward and rear surfaces, the outer shell being associated with the circular zone having a center that is a first distance from the forward surface equal to the distance X, a second distance from the rear surface equal to the distance Y, and a third distance from the superior surface, wherein the first distance is 50-60% of the second distance, and the second distance is equal to the third distance.

14. The helmet of claim 13, wherein at least a portion of the circular zone overlaps the outer shell.

15. 1. A chin strap for use with a helmet shell to secure the shell to a user's head, the helmet having a forehead support location at a forward-most point on an inner surface of the shell and a rear portion of a head support location at a rear-most point on an inner surface of the shell, the chin strap comprising: a first arm and a first attachment connected to the first arm; a second arm and a second attachment connected to the second arm; a dial operatively communicating with both the first arm and the second arm; Equipped with the chin strap defines a strap length as a distance along the chin strap between the first attachment and the second attachment, the first arm and the second arm are movable relative to one another to facilitate selective adjustment of the strap length, the length of the strap increasing as the first arm and the second arm move away from one another and the length of the strap decreasing as the first arm and the second arm move toward one another, and the dial is rotatable relative to both the first arm and the second arm such that rotation of the dial in a first rotational direction increases the length of the strap and rotation of the dial in a second rotational direction decreases the length of the strap; each of the first attachment and the second attachment is pivotally coupled to the shell such that the chin strap is selectively pivotable relative to the shell between a stowed position and a deployed position, the chin strap moving toward a front of the shell as the chin strap pivots from the deployed position to the stowed position; each of the first attachment and the second attachment is connectable to the outer shell at a respective position within a circular zone having a center located at a distance X from the forehead support position and a distance Y from the head support position, the distance X being shorter than the distance Y, and the circular zone having a diameter that is 80-90% of the distance X; The chin strap, wherein both the first arm and the second arm are configured to be usable in tension and compression.

16. A chin strap as described in claim 15, wherein each of the first arm and second arm includes an end portion and a central portion, the end portion being connected to one of the first attachment body and the second attachment body, and each end portion being angled relative to the central portion.

17. A helmet configured to be worn on a user's head, the helmet comprising: an outer shell having a front, a top, a rear and an inner surface, the helmet having a forehead support location at a forward-most point of the inner surface of the outer shell and a rear of a head support location at a rear-most point of the inner surface of the outer shell; a chin strap pivotally coupled to the shell, A first arm; A second arm; an intermediate body connected to both the first arm and the second arm; a chin strap, wherein each of the first and second arms is connectable to the outer shell at a respective position within a circular zone having a center located at a distance X from the forehead support position and a distance Y from the rear of the head support position, the distance X being shorter than the distance Y, and the circular zone having a diameter that is 80 to 90% of the distance X; Equipped with the chin strap defines a strap length, the first arm and the second arm are movable relative to one another to facilitate selective adjustment of the strap length, the length of the strap increasing when the first arm and the second arm are moved away from one another, and the length of the strap decreasing when the first arm and the second arm are moved toward one another; The helmet wherein the chin strap is selectively pivotable relative to the shell between a stowed position and a deployed position, and the chin strap moves toward the front of the shell as the chin strap pivots from the deployed position to the stowed position.

18. 18. The helmet of claim 17, wherein the front portion of the helmet defines a recess, and at least a portion of the intermediate body is received within the recess when the chin strap is in the stowed position.

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