helmet

Abstract

Helmet (1) comprising a shell (2); at least one insert (3) of a cellular energy-absorbing material arranged inside the shell (2); at least one side retainer (4) fixed to the shell (2) and shaped to laterally retain an outermost portion (3A) of the at least one insert (3) with respect to the shell (2) leaving free an innermost portion (3B) of said at least one insert (3).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of helmets with cellular energy-absorbing structures. In particular, the present invention relates to helmets using layered structures. Even more particularly, the present invention relates to the industrial helmets.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] In the state of the art helmet solutions using cellular energy-absorbing structures are known. These kinds of structures have excellent properties in terms of impact energy absorption with respect to traditional helmets having only hard shells or having foam materials.

[0003] An example in this sense is disclosed in the document EP4082372A1 which relates to a solution wherein a cellular liner is connected to a hard shell through clamping elements or is arranged in a pocket of a foam liner connected to the outer shell. Depending on the eccentricity of forces, the cellular liner can slightly move with respect to shell in case of an oblique impact and the cellular liner could be displaced or globally bend instead of progressive buckling, if the cellular liner gets too inclined. Furthermore, the cells of the cellular liner can split or crack during their compression against the hard shell, because they are not laterally supported, leading to a strong reduction of the energy absorbed by the cellular liner. A similar solution is disclosed in the document EP4082373A1, in which plugs limit the lateral movements of a cellular liner in a helmet.

[0004] Another solution related to an industrial helmet is described in the document WO2021260187A1 which describes a head engagement device that can move relative to a head mount that is suspended within the outer shell. In this helmet, the shell can comprise a layer of an energy absorbing material like a foam material or a honeycomb-like structure. This solution is silent about the way the honeycomb-like structure is connected to the outer shell. Another solution is known from the document U.S. Pat. No. 6,658,671B1 in which an inner shell is linked to an outer shell through connecting members, but these connecting members allow relative movements between the outer shell and the inner shell.

[0005] None of the available solutions provides helmets comprising cellular energy-absorbing inserts that are connected to the shell of the helmet so as to guarantee a stable connection between shell and cellular inserts during a normal, oblique or lateral impact. A stable connection guarantees that cellular insert is properly compressed during an impact, maximizing the energy absorbed.

[0006] Furthermore, since cellular energy-absorbing materials are more expensive with respect to foams, none of the available solutions suggests minimizing the usage of cellular energy-absorbing inserts for realizing a cheaper helmet, without affecting its safety.

[0007] Finally, none of the available solutions simplify the helmet construction and assembly, making it cheaper.SUMMARY

[0008] Said and other drawbacks of the state of the art are now solved by a helmet comprising a shell, at least one insert of a cellular energy-absorbing material arranged inside the shell; at least one side retainer fixed to the shell and shaped to laterally retain an outermost portion of the at least one insert with respect to the shell leaving free an innermost portion of said at least one insert. This architecture of the helmet allows to hold in position the cellular insert during an impact. During an impact, in particular during an oblique impact, the cellular insert does not slip away and an optimal compression of the insert is achieved. During a compression of the insert, the cells of the insert tend to split and separate while they're compressed against the inner surface of the shell, vice versa the side retainer guarantees that the cells remain interconnected and grouped to each other and no separation occurs.

[0009] In particular, the outer surface of the at least one insert can be in direct contact with an inner surface of the shell. The insert is in direct contact with the shell, without an intermediate liner, like a foam liner or a low friction layer. In this way, the energy of an impact is spread by the shell over a wider portion of the insert / s.

[0010] Preferably, the at least one side retainer can be fixed to the shell through connecting means. The side retainer is anchored to the shell in a firm manner so that the side retainer can slightly deform, due to its elasticity, but not move relative to the shell.

[0011] Advantageously, the shell can comprise at least one vent. The at least one vent allows a ventilation of the helmet.

[0012] In particular, the height of the side retainer is smaller, preferably significantly smaller, than the height of the at least one insert. In this manner, the outermost portion of the insert is held and the innermost portion is left free. The height refers to a direction that runs from outside to inside.

[0013] The cellular energy absorbing material of the at least one insert can comprise a plurality of interconnected open cells configured to absorb energy by plastic deformation in response to a longitudinal compressive load applied to said cells. This kind of cellular material provides excellent results in terms of energy-absorption and is very light weight. Preferably, each cell comprises a tube having a sidewall and a longitudinal axis, and the cells are connected to each other through their sidewalls. This feature enables the production of a sheet of interconnected side-by-side cells.

[0014] In particular, at least part of the longitudinal axes of the cells can be normal to an inner surface of the shell on which the at least one insert is arranged. This arrangement of cells maximizes the absorption of the normal component of the impact force.

[0015] Advantageously, the shell can be a durable hard shell. This feature enables the helmet to be used as an industrial helmet, thus a helmet used by workers at a construction or industrial site.

[0016] The at least one side retainer can comprise an upper side retainer and a lower side retainer. These two retainers allow to hold more inserts simultaneously, optimizing the assembling phase of the helmet and its costs.

[0017] In particular, the upper side retainer can comprise a wrapping portion surrounding part of the at least one insert. This wrapping portion wounds the insert arranged in the top portion of the shell for keeping it in position during the normal use and during an impact.

[0018] Preferably, the upper side retainer can also comprise one or more extensions outwardly and radially protruding from the wrapping portion. These extensions act as shoulders for the lateral insert / s, thus the insert / s arranged in a portion of the shell that is close to its mouth.

[0019] In particular, the lower side retainer can comprise an annular element that follows the shape of an inner surface of the shell. This side retainer prevents the lateral insert / s from coming out of the shell.

[0020] The shell can comprise multi-purpose connections and the annular element of the lower side retainer can comprise connectors configured to cooperate with the multi-purpose connections to firmly connect the lower side retainer to the shell. Since the multi-purpose connections are typical of industrial helmets, the lower side retainer can be attached to all helmets having multi-purpose connections without the need for a specific modification of the shell.

[0021] In particular, the helmet can comprise a top retainer fixed to the shell and shaped so as to inwardly trap the at least one insert with respect to shell. This top retainer prevents the top insert inside the apex of the shell from inwardly falling out of the shell.

[0022] Advantageously, the top retainer can comprise a dome-shaped portion shaped so as to fit with an apex of the wearer's head. In this way, the helmet remains on the head of the wearer exclusively thanks to this dome-shaped portion and to a retention system that fastens under the chin.

[0023] The at least one side retainer and / or the top retainer can be deformable and exhibit a bending stiffness that is comparable to or less than the out-of-plane compressive stiffness of the at least one insert. This feature is to prevent the retainer / s from having any affect or limit on the energy-absorbing behaviour of the cellular insert in case of an impact.

[0024] These and other advantages will be better understood thanks to the following description of different embodiments of said invention given as non-limitative examples thereof, making reference to the annexed drawings.DRAWINGS DESCRIPTION

[0025] In the drawings:

[0026] FIG. 1 shows an isometric view of a first embodiment helmet according to the present invention viewed from below;

[0027] FIG. 2 shows an isometric view from above of the helmet of FIG. 1;

[0028] FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view according to a transversal-vertical plan of the helmet of FIG. 1;

[0029] FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view according to a longitudinal-vertical plan of the helmet of FIG. 1;

[0030] FIG. 5 shows an isometric exploded view of the helmet of FIG. 1;

[0031] FIG. 6 shows a group composed by a first version of an upper side retainer, a top retainer and an insert, that is cross-sectioned according to a longitudinal-vertical plan;

[0032] FIG. 7 shows a group composed by a first version of an upper side retainer, a top retainer and an insert, that is cross-sectioned according to a transversal-vertical plan;

[0033] FIG. 8 shows an isometric view of a group composed by a first version of an upper side retainer, a top retainer and an insert viewed from above;

[0034] FIG. 9 shows the group of FIG. 8 viewed from below;

[0035] FIG. 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of helmet according to the present invention in correspondence of a its apex;

[0036] FIG. 11 shows an isometric view of a second embodiment helmet according to the present invention viewed from below;

[0037] FIG. 12 shows an isometric view from above of the helmet of FIG. 11;

[0038] FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional view according to a transversal-vertical plan of the helmet of FIG. 11;

[0039] FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view according to a longitudinal-vertical plan of the helmet of FIG. 11;

[0040] FIG. 15 shows an isometric exploded view of the helmet of FIG. 11;

[0041] FIG. 16 shows a group composed by a second version of an upper side retainer, a top retainer, a lower side retainer and a plurality of inserts viewed from above;

[0042] FIG. 17 shows the group of FIG. 16 viewed from below;

[0043] FIG. 18 shows an exploded view of the group of FIG. 16;

[0044] FIG. 19 shows the group of FIG. 16 sectioned according to a longitudinal-vertical plan;

[0045] FIG. 20 shows the group of FIG. 16 sectioned according to a transversal-vertical plan;DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The following description of one or more embodiments of the invention refers to the annexed drawings. The same reference numbers indicate equal or similar parts. The object of the protection is defined by the annexed claims. Technical details, structures or characteristics of the solutions here-below described can be combined with each other in any suitable way.

[0047] With the reference number 1 is represented a helmet according to the present invention. In particular, FIGS. 1-5 depict a first embodiment of the helmet, and FIGS. 11-15 depict a second embodiment of the helmet.

[0048] In the present description the term “insert”, “cellular insert” are used as abbreviations of “insert of a cellular energy-absorbing material”.

[0049] The main components of the helmet 1 according to the present invention are the shell 2, the insert / s 3 and the side retainer / s 4. These components will be detailed in the following.

[0050] The helmets 1 of the present invention comprise a head retention system (not represented) that is used to secure the helmet circumferentially and fasten the helmet under the chin of the wearer. In this manner the helmet 1 is maintained over the head of the wearer.

[0051] The helmet 1 according to the present invention is an industrial helmet, also called work helmet. An industrial helmet 1 is typically used by workers at construction / industrial sites.

[0052] A traditional industrial helmet 1 has an outer hard shell and a system for keeping the helmet over the head of the worker.

[0053] In the construction and industrial sites, the helmets are mainly used to protect the head of the worker from the fall of objects. For this reason, a first embodiment of the helmet 1, shown in FIGS. 1-5, has only one cellular insert 3 arranged at the apex of the shell 2. Alternatively, the helmets can protect the head of the worker not only from falling objects but also from side impacts to the front, back, sides of the head, due to a fall to the ground of the worker or a lateral impact on the helmet. For this reason, a second embodiment of the helmet 1, shown in FIGS. 10-15, has one cellular insert 3 arranged at the apex of the shell 2, like that of first embodiment, and other inserts 3 laterally arranged inside the shell 2.

[0054] The American National Standard for Industrial Head Protection, ANSI Z89.1, provides industrial hard hat performance and testing requirements, and establishes types and classes of protective helmets. Type 1 helmets are designed to reduce force as a result of an impact to only the top of the head. Type 2 helmets are designed to reduce force as a result of an impact to the front, back, sides and top of the head. The helmet of first embodiment satisfies type 1 requirements of ANSI Z89.1, while the helmet of second embodiment satisfies type 2 requirements of ANSI Z89.1.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 1, the insert 3 is arranged over the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2. In particular, the insert 3 is arranged in the apex of the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2.

[0056] The insert 3 is held in its position through a side retainer 4 and a top retainer 7.

[0057] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the side retainer 4 is fixed to the shell 2 through connections means 6, e.g. screws, as well as the top retainer 7. The point of connections of the side retainer 4 with the shell 2 coincide with those of top retainer 7 with the shell 2, this means that with the same connecting means 6 both the top retainer 7 and the side retainer 4 are fixed to the shell 2, as shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 8 and 9.

[0058] The side retainer 4 of this embodiment is also called upper side retainer 4′, to distinguish it from the lower side retainer 4″ of the second embodiment.

[0059] The side retainer 4 of FIGS. 1-5 is shaped like a ring, but it can be shaped like a “C”, and it's configured to surround the base of the insert 3 that is in contact with the shell 2. This base is also called outermost portion 3A of the insert 3, as shown in FIG. 10, because the base of the insert 3 that is in contact with the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 is arranged towards the outside of the helmet when the helmet is assembled.

[0060] The side retainer 4 does not completely surround the sides of the insert 3, but simply surrounds its outermost base, because the aim of this element is to avoid that insert 3 laterally slides over the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2.

[0061] The height H2 of the side retainer 4 is less than 50% of the height H1 of the insert 3, preferably less than 30% of the height H1 of the insert 3, even more preferably less than 20% of the height H1 of the insert 3.

[0062] Since the side retainer 4 only holds the outermost portion 3A of the insert 3, the innermost portion 3B, thus the opposite base of the insert 3, is free and not retained by the side retainer 4.

[0063] In this manner, the lateral movement of the insert 3 over the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 is prevented.

[0064] In order to prevent an inward movement of the insert 3, thus a detachment from the shell 2, the insert 3 is inwardly locked by a top retainer 7, as shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4 and 5. The insert 3 is thus able to deform in case of compression, but it's not able to disconnect from the shell 2.

[0065] The top retainer 7 comprises some legs 7″ through which a dome-shaped portion 7′, also called cradle, is connected to the shell 2. Connecting means 6 are used to connect the top retainer 7 to the shell 2.

[0066] The legs 7″ of the top retainer 7 are three in the embodiments depicted, but can be two or four.

[0067] In the two embodiments, the top retainer 7 instead of a fourth leg 7″, it comprises a shoulder 7″′, in this manner the insert is caged by the top retainer 7.

[0068] The top retainer 7 aims to prevent inward movements of the insert 3 with respect to the shell 2, but it also limits lateral movements of the innermost portion 3B of the insert 3.

[0069] The dome-shaped portion 7′ of the top retainer 7 is used to position the wearer's head relative to the shell 2 and provide stability to the helmet.

[0070] The shell 2 also comprises vents 5 for ventilating the inside of the shell 2, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 5.

[0071] As shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, the shell 2 also comprises multi-purpose connections 9 for connecting other elements / devices to the helmet 1 like a sun shield or hearing protectors. As explained in the following, these connections 9 can be used to connect a specific side retainer 4 to the shell 2.

[0072] The shell 2 is made of rigid plastic material, like ABS, HDPE or polypropylene.

[0073] The insert 3 is curved, as shown in FIG. 5, and fits with a part of the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. Alternatively, the insert 3 can be flat, as shown in FIG. 10 and only certain parts of the inserts 3 are in contact with the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2. This means that the outer surface 3C of the insert 3 is not always complementary to a portion of the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2. Even if the first and second embodiments have curved inserts 3, a part or all of these inserts 3 can be flat as in the example of FIG. 10.

[0074] FIGS. 6-9 show in details how the insert 3, the side retainer 4 and the top retainer 7 cooperate with each other to trap and hold the insert 3.

[0075] In particular, in FIGS. 6-9 is clearly visible how the cellular insert 3 is made. The insert 3 comprises a cellular energy-absorbing material that performs better than traditional foam or hard materials in terms of energy-absorption, in particular in terms of absorption of compressive impact energy. The insert 3 is made of a plurality of interconnected open cells 8. These cells 8 are configured to absorb energy by plastic deformation in response to a longitudinal compressive load.

[0076] Each cell 8 comprises a tube having a sidewall and a longitudinal axis. The cells 8 are interconnected via their sidewalls.

[0077] The cells 8 of the insert 3 are preferably tubes. The tubes depicted in the figures have circular cross-sections. Alternatively, the cross-section of the cells / tubes 8 can be a square, a hexagon, a non-uniform hexagon, a re-entrant hexagon, a chiral truss, a diamond, a triangle or an arrowhead. In particular, the cross-section of the cells / tubes 8 can be shaped so that the insert 3 exhibits a monoclastic, anticlastic or synclastic behaviour. Alternatively, the cells 8 can be the cells of a lattice structure.

[0078] Almost all cells 8 of the inserts 3 have longitudinal axes that are normal to the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2. In this way the energy absorption is improved.

[0079] The cells 8 can be welded to each other via their sidewalls. Alternatively, the cells 8 can be bonded by means of adhesive layers interposed between adjacent sidewalls. The cells 8 can be connected so as to minimize the gap between adjacent tubes. Alternatively, the cells 8 can be monolithically extruded or 3D printed so as to share sidewalls.

[0080] When the cells 8 have a circular cross-section, the outer diameter of the circular cross-section can range between 2.5 and 8 mm, and the wall thickness of said cells 8 can range between 0.05 and 0.3 mm. According to these dimensional values, the energy absorption of insert 3 is optimized. Furthermore, these values allow to achieve a very light helmet 1.

[0081] The insert 3 has a height H1 that ranges between 15 and 60 mm.

[0082] In a particular version that is not shown, the insert 3 can comprise an upper and / or lower sheet layer. Said sheet layer can be a polymeric fabric, or a film, firmly attached to the front edges of said open cells 8 through a heat-activated adhesive. When a load is applied, the fabric spreads the energy on a plurality of cells 8, even if the load is applied punctually. The heat-activated adhesive can be a thermoset polyester web film adhesive.

[0083] The curvature of the outer surface 3C of the insert 3 can be obtained through thermoforming of the insert 3. Alternatively, can have synclastic or monoclastic behaviours. In the latter case, the insert 3 adapts its shape to the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 with a single-curved shape or a double-curved shape.

[0084] The second embodiment of FIG. 11-15 is substantially equal to the first embodiment except for the presence of inserts 3 arranged on the sides of the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2, for the presence of an upper side retainer 4′ that is shaped differently from that of first embodiment and for the presence of a lower side retainer 4″.

[0085] In the second embodiment of FIGS. 11-15, the helmet 1 comprises a shell 2 like that of the first embodiment.

[0086] The cellular insert 3 of the first and second embodiments are the same.

[0087] The shell 2 is connected through connecting means 6 to an upper side retainer 4′ and to a top retainer 7. The latter is equal to that of first embodiment.

[0088] Like in the first embodiment, the shell 2 has the same vents and multi-purpose connections 9. Moreover, the shell 2 is made of a hard plastic material like in the first embodiment.

[0089] The upper side retainer 4′ is shaped differently from that of first embodiment, because it holds not only the top insert 3′, thus the insert 3 arranged in correspondence of the apex of the inner surface 2′, but it also holds the sides of the lateral inserts 3″.

[0090] The lateral inserts 3″, visible in FIGS. 11, 13, 14 and, even better, in FIG. 15, are independent inserts 3 that are arranged on the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 in correspondence of the sides of the shell 2, so close to the edge of shell 2, where the shell 2 is opened to receive the wearer's head.

[0091] Like the side retainer 4 of the first embodiment, the upper side retainer 4′ comprises a wrapping portion 4A, so a portion that surrounds the top insert 3′.

[0092] In addition, the upper side retainer 4′ of second embodiment has a plurality of extensions outwardly and radially protruding from the wrapping portion 4A.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 15, the extensions 4B are four, but they can be more or they can be connected to each other to form a single extension.

[0094] The extensions 4B realize a shoulder against which the lateral inserts 3″ abut.

[0095] The lateral inserts 3″, like the top insert 3′, lie on the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 and they are retained from one side by the extensions 4B of the upper side retainer 4′ and from the opposite side by another type of side retainer 4 that is called lower side retainer 4″.

[0096] Preferably, the extensions 4B are shaped for providing an outward radial force which acts on the lateral inserts 3″, pushing them towards the lower side retainers 4″.

[0097] As in the first embodiment, the upper side retainer 4′ comprises loops 4C to receive the connecting means 6 that are used to fix the upper side retainer 4′ to the shell 2.

[0098] The lower side retainer 4″ comprises an annular element 4D and some connectors 4E.

[0099] The annular element 4D, clearly visible in FIG. 15, is arranged on the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2, close to the perimetral edge of the shell 2, and it's connected to the shell 2 through connectors 4E that are shaped to snap-fit with the multi-purpose connectors 9 of the shell 2. The multi-purpose connectors 9 are four but they can be more or less than four.

[0100] The lower side retainer 4″ and the extensions 4B of the upper side retainer 4′ hold the sides of the lateral inserts 3″. In this manner, the lateral inserts 3″ cannot move laterally.

[0101] In particular, as already explained for the side retainer 4 of the first embodiment, the upper and lower side retainers 4′, 4″ do not retain all the sides of the inserts 3, but only their outermost portion, thus the bases of these inserts 3 that are in contact with the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2.

[0102] The lateral inserts 3″ do not need an inward retainer, like the top retainer 7 for the top insert 3′, because the inserts 3″ are laterally slightly compressed and held fixed under compression thanks to the upward clamping force of the lower side retainers 4″ and the downward pressure of the extensions 4B. The removal for this need of an inward retainer is beneficial to maximise the size range offered by the helmet. Alternatively, additional inward retainers, constructively similar to the top retainer 7, are arranged astride the lateral inserts 3″, for preventing their inward movements. In this case, the inward retainers (not shown) can or cannot comprise a dome-shaped portion similar to that of the top retainer 7, for receiving a portion of the wearer's head, and they comprise similar legs for the connection to the shell.

[0103] The lateral inserts 3″ shown in FIGS. 11-15 are curved but can be flat like that of FIG. 10, in this case, the lateral inserts 3″ can be more pieces than those shown in FIG. 15.

[0104] The inserts 3 are held to the shell 2 by means of the side retainers 4.

[0105] For all the features of the second embodiment that are not specifically described, it's made reference to the corresponding feature of the first embodiment.

[0106] In the FIGS. 16-20 are shown the side retainers 4 and the inserts 3, together with the top retainer 7, without the presence of the shell 2. In these figures is clearly visible how the outermost portions 3A of the top and lateral inserts 3′, 3″ are retained, while the innermost portions 3B are left free. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 13, the heights H2 of the side retainers 4, 4′, 4″ are significantly smaller than the heights H1 of the inserts 4, 4′, 4″.

[0107] As shown in FIGS. 16-20, the top and lateral inserts 3, 3″ are laterally caged by the upper and lateral side retainers 4′, 4″. In this manner, during a compression of the inserts 3, cause by a normal or oblique impact, the outermost portions 3A of the inserts 3 remain stable and in position and the cells 8 of the inserts 3 progressively buckle, providing an efficient and optimal absorption of the impact energy.

[0108] Top retainer legs 7″ can comprise a geometric perturbation, like the knee visible in FIG. 10 at half height of the legs 7″. These geometric perturbations facilitate the folding of the legs 7″ during an impact, without affecting the compressive behaviours of the inserts 3.

[0109] Indeed, the top retainer 7, as well as the side retainers 4, do not limit or threaten the compression of the inserts 3. The side retainers 4 and / or the top retainer 7 are configured to not oppose resistance in case of an impact and they exhibit a stiffness in bending that is comparable to or inferior to the out-of-plane compressive stiffness of the inserts 3. In this way, in case of a compression of the helmet due to an impact, the retainers 4,7 deform and do not act as rigid beams, following the compressive deformation of the insert 3.

[0110] The side retainers 4 and the top retainer 7 are preferably made of a polymer like nylon or polyethylene. Alternatively, the side retainers 4 are made of an elastomeric material. In this manner, the upper side retainer 4′ can apply pressure to the top insert 3′ when it's arranged inside the upper side retainer 4′.

[0111] The shape of the shell 2 can vary, without departing from this invention.

[0112] In both the embodiments, the side retainer 4, 4′, 4″ can also comprise at least one hook element configured to prevent inward movements of the insert / s 3 with respect to the shell 2. The hook element (not shown) can be a L-shaped element inwardly protruding from the wrapping portion 4A of the upper side retainer 4′ or from the annular element 4D of the lower side retainer 4″. The hook element is configured to hold the innermost portion 3B of the insert 3, so that an inward movement is prevented, as it happens with the top retainer 7.

[0113] Concluding, the invention so conceived is susceptible to many modifications and variations all of which fall within the scope of the inventive concept, furthermore all features can be substituted to technically equivalent alternatives. Practically, the quantities can be varied depending on the specific technical requirements. Finally, all features of previously described embodiments can be combined in any way, so as to obtain other embodiments that are not herein described for reasons of practicality and clarity.LEGEND OF REFERENCE SIGNS1 helmet

[0115] 2 shell

[0116] 2′ inner surface (of the shell)

[0117] 3 insert

[0118] 3′ top insert

[0119] 3″ lateral insert

[0120] 3A outermost portion (of the insert)

[0121] 3B innermost portion (of the insert)

[0122] 3C outer surface (of the insert)

[0123] 4 side retainer

[0124] 4′ upper side retainer

[0125] 4″ lower side retainer

[0126] 4A wrapping portion (of the upper side retainer)

[0127] 4B extension (of the upper side retainer)

[0128] 4C loop (of the upper side retainer)

[0129] 4D annular element (of the lower side retainer)

[0130] 4E connector (of the lower side retainer)

[0131] 5 vent

[0132] 6 connecting means

[0133] 7 top retainer

[0134] 7′ dome-shaped portion (of the top retainer)

[0135] 7″ leg (of the top retainer)

[0136] 7″′ shoulder (of the top retainer)

[0137] 8 cell

[0138] 9 multi-purpose connection (of the shell)

[0139] H1 height of the insert

[0140] H2 height of the side retainer

Examples

second embodiment

[0058]The side retainer 4 of this embodiment is also called upper side retainer 4′, to distinguish it from the lower side retainer 4″ of the

[0059]The side retainer 4 of FIGS. 1-5 is shaped like a ring, but it can be shaped like a “C”, and it's configured to surround the base of the insert 3 that is in contact with the shell 2. This base is also called outermost portion 3A of the insert 3, as shown in FIG. 10, because the base of the insert 3 that is in contact with the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 is arranged towards the outside of the helmet when the helmet is assembled.

[0060]The side retainer 4 does not completely surround the sides of the insert 3, but simply surrounds its outermost base, because the aim of this element is to avoid that insert 3 laterally slides over the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2.

[0061]The height H2 of the side retainer 4 is less than 50% of the height H1 of the insert 3, preferably less than 30% of the height H1 of the insert 3, even more preferably les...

first embodiment

[0087]The shell 2 is connected through connecting means 6 to an upper side retainer 4′ and to a top retainer 7. The latter is equal to that of

[0088]Like in the first embodiment, the shell 2 has the same vents and multi-purpose connections 9. Moreover, the shell 2 is made of a hard plastic material like in the first embodiment.

[0089]The upper side retainer 4′ is shaped differently from that of first embodiment, because it holds not only the top insert 3′, thus the insert 3 arranged in correspondence of the apex of the inner surface 2′, but it also holds the sides of the lateral inserts 3″.

[0090]The lateral inserts 3″, visible in FIGS. 11, 13, 14 and, even better, in FIG. 15, are independent inserts 3 that are arranged on the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 in correspondence of the sides of the shell 2, so close to the edge of shell 2, where the shell 2 is opened to receive the wearer's head.

[0091]Like the side retainer 4 of the first embodiment, the upper side retainer 4′ comprises a...

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of helmets with cellular energy-absorbing structures. In particular, the present invention relates to helmets using layered structures. Even more particularly, the present invention relates to the industrial helmets.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] In the state of the art helmet solutions using cellular energy-absorbing structures are known. These kinds of structures have excellent properties in terms of impact energy absorption with respect to traditional helmets having only hard shells or having foam materials.

[0003] An example in this sense is disclosed in the document EP4082372A1 which relates to a solution wherein a cellular liner is connected to a hard shell through clamping elements or is arranged in a pocket of a foam liner connected to the outer shell. Depending on the eccentricity of forces, the cellular liner can slightly move with respect to shell in case of an oblique impact and the cellular liner could be displaced or globally bend instead of progressive buckling, if the cellular liner gets too inclined. Furthermore, the cells of the cellular liner can split or crack during their compression against the hard shell, because they are not laterally supported, leading to a strong reduction of the energy absorbed by the cellular liner. A similar solution is disclosed in the document EP4082373A1, in which plugs limit the lateral movements of a cellular liner in a helmet.

[0004] Another solution related to an industrial helmet is described in the document WO2021260187A1 which describes a head engagement device that can move relative to a head mount that is suspended within the outer shell. In this helmet, the shell can comprise a layer of an energy absorbing material like a foam material or a honeycomb-like structure. This solution is silent about the way the honeycomb-like structure is connected to the outer shell. Another solution is known from the document U.S. Pat. No. 6,658,671B1 in which an inner shell is linked to an outer shell through connecting members, but these connecting members allow relative movements between the outer shell and the inner shell.

[0005] None of the available solutions provides helmets comprising cellular energy-absorbing inserts that are connected to the shell of the helmet so as to guarantee a stable connection between shell and cellular inserts during a normal, oblique or lateral impact. A stable connection guarantees that cellular insert is properly compressed during an impact, maximizing the energy absorbed.

[0006] Furthermore, since cellular energy-absorbing materials are more expensive with respect to foams, none of the available solutions suggests minimizing the usage of cellular energy-absorbing inserts for realizing a cheaper helmet, without affecting its safety.

[0007] Finally, none of the available solutions simplify the helmet construction and assembly, making it cheaper.SUMMARY

[0008] Said and other drawbacks of the state of the art are now solved by a helmet comprising a shell, at least one insert of a cellular energy-absorbing material arranged inside the shell; at least one side retainer fixed to the shell and shaped to laterally retain an outermost portion of the at least one insert with respect to the shell leaving free an innermost portion of said at least one insert. This architecture of the helmet allows to hold in position the cellular insert during an impact. During an impact, in particular during an oblique impact, the cellular insert does not slip away and an optimal compression of the insert is achieved. During a compression of the insert, the cells of the insert tend to split and separate while they're compressed against the inner surface of the shell, vice versa the side retainer guarantees that the cells remain interconnected and grouped to each other and no separation occurs.

[0009] In particular, the outer surface of the at least one insert can be in direct contact with an inner surface of the shell. The insert is in direct contact with the shell, without an intermediate liner, like a foam liner or a low friction layer. In this way, the energy of an impact is spread by the shell over a wider portion of the insert / s.

[0010] Preferably, the at least one side retainer can be fixed to the shell through connecting means. The side retainer is anchored to the shell in a firm manner so that the side retainer can slightly deform, due to its elasticity, but not move relative to the shell.

[0011] Advantageously, the shell can comprise at least one vent. The at least one vent allows a ventilation of the helmet.

[0012] In particular, the height of the side retainer is smaller, preferably significantly smaller, than the height of the at least one insert. In this manner, the outermost portion of the insert is held and the innermost portion is left free. The height refers to a direction that runs from outside to inside.

[0013] The cellular energy absorbing material of the at least one insert can comprise a plurality of interconnected open cells configured to absorb energy by plastic deformation in response to a longitudinal compressive load applied to said cells. This kind of cellular material provides excellent results in terms of energy-absorption and is very light weight. Preferably, each cell comprises a tube having a sidewall and a longitudinal axis, and the cells are connected to each other through their sidewalls. This feature enables the production of a sheet of interconnected side-by-side cells.

[0014] In particular, at least part of the longitudinal axes of the cells can be normal to an inner surface of the shell on which the at least one insert is arranged. This arrangement of cells maximizes the absorption of the normal component of the impact force.

[0015] Advantageously, the shell can be a durable hard shell. This feature enables the helmet to be used as an industrial helmet, thus a helmet used by workers at a construction or industrial site.

[0016] The at least one side retainer can comprise an upper side retainer and a lower side retainer. These two retainers allow to hold more inserts simultaneously, optimizing the assembling phase of the helmet and its costs.

[0017] In particular, the upper side retainer can comprise a wrapping portion surrounding part of the at least one insert. This wrapping portion wounds the insert arranged in the top portion of the shell for keeping it in position during the normal use and during an impact.

[0018] Preferably, the upper side retainer can also comprise one or more extensions outwardly and radially protruding from the wrapping portion. These extensions act as shoulders for the lateral insert / s, thus the insert / s arranged in a portion of the shell that is close to its mouth.

[0019] In particular, the lower side retainer can comprise an annular element that follows the shape of an inner surface of the shell. This side retainer prevents the lateral insert / s from coming out of the shell.

[0020] The shell can comprise multi-purpose connections and the annular element of the lower side retainer can comprise connectors configured to cooperate with the multi-purpose connections to firmly connect the lower side retainer to the shell. Since the multi-purpose connections are typical of industrial helmets, the lower side retainer can be attached to all helmets having multi-purpose connections without the need for a specific modification of the shell.

[0021] In particular, the helmet can comprise a top retainer fixed to the shell and shaped so as to inwardly trap the at least one insert with respect to shell. This top retainer prevents the top insert inside the apex of the shell from inwardly falling out of the shell.

[0022] Advantageously, the top retainer can comprise a dome-shaped portion shaped so as to fit with an apex of the wearer's head. In this way, the helmet remains on the head of the wearer exclusively thanks to this dome-shaped portion and to a retention system that fastens under the chin.

[0023] The at least one side retainer and / or the top retainer can be deformable and exhibit a bending stiffness that is comparable to or less than the out-of-plane compressive stiffness of the at least one insert. This feature is to prevent the retainer / s from having any affect or limit on the energy-absorbing behaviour of the cellular insert in case of an impact.

[0024] These and other advantages will be better understood thanks to the following description of different embodiments of said invention given as non-limitative examples thereof, making reference to the annexed drawings.DRAWINGS DESCRIPTION

[0025] In the drawings:

[0026] FIG. 1 shows an isometric view of a first embodiment helmet according to the present invention viewed from below;

[0027] FIG. 2 shows an isometric view from above of the helmet of FIG. 1;

[0028] FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view according to a transversal-vertical plan of the helmet of FIG. 1;

[0029] FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view according to a longitudinal-vertical plan of the helmet of FIG. 1;

[0030] FIG. 5 shows an isometric exploded view of the helmet of FIG. 1;

[0031] FIG. 6 shows a group composed by a first version of an upper side retainer, a top retainer and an insert, that is cross-sectioned according to a longitudinal-vertical plan;

[0032] FIG. 7 shows a group composed by a first version of an upper side retainer, a top retainer and an insert, that is cross-sectioned according to a transversal-vertical plan;

[0033] FIG. 8 shows an isometric view of a group composed by a first version of an upper side retainer, a top retainer and an insert viewed from above;

[0034] FIG. 9 shows the group of FIG. 8 viewed from below;

[0035] FIG. 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of helmet according to the present invention in correspondence of a its apex;

[0036] FIG. 11 shows an isometric view of a second embodiment helmet according to the present invention viewed from below;

[0037] FIG. 12 shows an isometric view from above of the helmet of FIG. 11;

[0038] FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional view according to a transversal-vertical plan of the helmet of FIG. 11;

[0039] FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view according to a longitudinal-vertical plan of the helmet of FIG. 11;

[0040] FIG. 15 shows an isometric exploded view of the helmet of FIG. 11;

[0041] FIG. 16 shows a group composed by a second version of an upper side retainer, a top retainer, a lower side retainer and a plurality of inserts viewed from above;

[0042] FIG. 17 shows the group of FIG. 16 viewed from below;

[0043] FIG. 18 shows an exploded view of the group of FIG. 16;

[0044] FIG. 19 shows the group of FIG. 16 sectioned according to a longitudinal-vertical plan;

[0045] FIG. 20 shows the group of FIG. 16 sectioned according to a transversal-vertical plan;DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The following description of one or more embodiments of the invention refers to the annexed drawings. The same reference numbers indicate equal or similar parts. The object of the protection is defined by the annexed claims. Technical details, structures or characteristics of the solutions here-below described can be combined with each other in any suitable way.

[0047] With the reference number 1 is represented a helmet according to the present invention. In particular, FIGS. 1-5 depict a first embodiment of the helmet, and FIGS. 11-15 depict a second embodiment of the helmet.

[0048] In the present description the term “insert”, “cellular insert” are used as abbreviations of “insert of a cellular energy-absorbing material”.

[0049] The main components of the helmet 1 according to the present invention are the shell 2, the insert / s 3 and the side retainer / s 4. These components will be detailed in the following.

[0050] The helmets 1 of the present invention comprise a head retention system (not represented) that is used to secure the helmet circumferentially and fasten the helmet under the chin of the wearer. In this manner the helmet 1 is maintained over the head of the wearer.

[0051] The helmet 1 according to the present invention is an industrial helmet, also called work helmet. An industrial helmet 1 is typically used by workers at construction / industrial sites.

[0052] A traditional industrial helmet 1 has an outer hard shell and a system for keeping the helmet over the head of the worker.

[0053] In the construction and industrial sites, the helmets are mainly used to protect the head of the worker from the fall of objects. For this reason, a first embodiment of the helmet 1, shown in FIGS. 1-5, has only one cellular insert 3 arranged at the apex of the shell 2. Alternatively, the helmets can protect the head of the worker not only from falling objects but also from side impacts to the front, back, sides of the head, due to a fall to the ground of the worker or a lateral impact on the helmet. For this reason, a second embodiment of the helmet 1, shown in FIGS. 10-15, has one cellular insert 3 arranged at the apex of the shell 2, like that of first embodiment, and other inserts 3 laterally arranged inside the shell 2.

[0054] The American National Standard for Industrial Head Protection, ANSI Z89.1, provides industrial hard hat performance and testing requirements, and establishes types and classes of protective helmets. Type 1 helmets are designed to reduce force as a result of an impact to only the top of the head. Type 2 helmets are designed to reduce force as a result of an impact to the front, back, sides and top of the head. The helmet of first embodiment satisfies type 1 requirements of ANSI Z89.1, while the helmet of second embodiment satisfies type 2 requirements of ANSI Z89.1.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 1, the insert 3 is arranged over the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2. In particular, the insert 3 is arranged in the apex of the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2.

[0056] The insert 3 is held in its position through a side retainer 4 and a top retainer 7.

[0057] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the side retainer 4 is fixed to the shell 2 through connections means 6, e.g. screws, as well as the top retainer 7. The point of connections of the side retainer 4 with the shell 2 coincide with those of top retainer 7 with the shell 2, this means that with the same connecting means 6 both the top retainer 7 and the side retainer 4 are fixed to the shell 2, as shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 8 and 9.

[0058] The side retainer 4 of this embodiment is also called upper side retainer 4′, to distinguish it from the lower side retainer 4″ of the second embodiment.

[0059] The side retainer 4 of FIGS. 1-5 is shaped like a ring, but it can be shaped like a “C”, and it's configured to surround the base of the insert 3 that is in contact with the shell 2. This base is also called outermost portion 3A of the insert 3, as shown in FIG. 10, because the base of the insert 3 that is in contact with the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 is arranged towards the outside of the helmet when the helmet is assembled.

[0060] The side retainer 4 does not completely surround the sides of the insert 3, but simply surrounds its outermost base, because the aim of this element is to avoid that insert 3 laterally slides over the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2.

[0061] The height H2 of the side retainer 4 is less than 50% of the height H1 of the insert 3, preferably less than 30% of the height H1 of the insert 3, even more preferably less than 20% of the height H1 of the insert 3.

[0062] Since the side retainer 4 only holds the outermost portion 3A of the insert 3, the innermost portion 3B, thus the opposite base of the insert 3, is free and not retained by the side retainer 4.

[0063] In this manner, the lateral movement of the insert 3 over the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 is prevented.

[0064] In order to prevent an inward movement of the insert 3, thus a detachment from the shell 2, the insert 3 is inwardly locked by a top retainer 7, as shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4 and 5. The insert 3 is thus able to deform in case of compression, but it's not able to disconnect from the shell 2.

[0065] The top retainer 7 comprises some legs 7″ through which a dome-shaped portion 7′, also called cradle, is connected to the shell 2. Connecting means 6 are used to connect the top retainer 7 to the shell 2.

[0066] The legs 7″ of the top retainer 7 are three in the embodiments depicted, but can be two or four.

[0067] In the two embodiments, the top retainer 7 instead of a fourth leg 7″, it comprises a shoulder 7″′, in this manner the insert is caged by the top retainer 7.

[0068] The top retainer 7 aims to prevent inward movements of the insert 3 with respect to the shell 2, but it also limits lateral movements of the innermost portion 3B of the insert 3.

[0069] The dome-shaped portion 7′ of the top retainer 7 is used to position the wearer's head relative to the shell 2 and provide stability to the helmet.

[0070] The shell 2 also comprises vents 5 for ventilating the inside of the shell 2, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 5.

[0071] As shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, the shell 2 also comprises multi-purpose connections 9 for connecting other elements / devices to the helmet 1 like a sun shield or hearing protectors. As explained in the following, these connections 9 can be used to connect a specific side retainer 4 to the shell 2.

[0072] The shell 2 is made of rigid plastic material, like ABS, HDPE or polypropylene.

[0073] The insert 3 is curved, as shown in FIG. 5, and fits with a part of the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. Alternatively, the insert 3 can be flat, as shown in FIG. 10 and only certain parts of the inserts 3 are in contact with the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2. This means that the outer surface 3C of the insert 3 is not always complementary to a portion of the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2. Even if the first and second embodiments have curved inserts 3, a part or all of these inserts 3 can be flat as in the example of FIG. 10.

[0074] FIGS. 6-9 show in details how the insert 3, the side retainer 4 and the top retainer 7 cooperate with each other to trap and hold the insert 3.

[0075] In particular, in FIGS. 6-9 is clearly visible how the cellular insert 3 is made. The insert 3 comprises a cellular energy-absorbing material that performs better than traditional foam or hard materials in terms of energy-absorption, in particular in terms of absorption of compressive impact energy. The insert 3 is made of a plurality of interconnected open cells 8. These cells 8 are configured to absorb energy by plastic deformation in response to a longitudinal compressive load.

[0076] Each cell 8 comprises a tube having a sidewall and a longitudinal axis. The cells 8 are interconnected via their sidewalls.

[0077] The cells 8 of the insert 3 are preferably tubes. The tubes depicted in the figures have circular cross-sections. Alternatively, the cross-section of the cells / tubes 8 can be a square, a hexagon, a non-uniform hexagon, a re-entrant hexagon, a chiral truss, a diamond, a triangle or an arrowhead. In particular, the cross-section of the cells / tubes 8 can be shaped so that the insert 3 exhibits a monoclastic, anticlastic or synclastic behaviour. Alternatively, the cells 8 can be the cells of a lattice structure.

[0078] Almost all cells 8 of the inserts 3 have longitudinal axes that are normal to the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2. In this way the energy absorption is improved.

[0079] The cells 8 can be welded to each other via their sidewalls. Alternatively, the cells 8 can be bonded by means of adhesive layers interposed between adjacent sidewalls. The cells 8 can be connected so as to minimize the gap between adjacent tubes. Alternatively, the cells 8 can be monolithically extruded or 3D printed so as to share sidewalls.

[0080] When the cells 8 have a circular cross-section, the outer diameter of the circular cross-section can range between 2.5 and 8 mm, and the wall thickness of said cells 8 can range between 0.05 and 0.3 mm. According to these dimensional values, the energy absorption of insert 3 is optimized. Furthermore, these values allow to achieve a very light helmet 1.

[0081] The insert 3 has a height H1 that ranges between 15 and 60 mm.

[0082] In a particular version that is not shown, the insert 3 can comprise an upper and / or lower sheet layer. Said sheet layer can be a polymeric fabric, or a film, firmly attached to the front edges of said open cells 8 through a heat-activated adhesive. When a load is applied, the fabric spreads the energy on a plurality of cells 8, even if the load is applied punctually. The heat-activated adhesive can be a thermoset polyester web film adhesive.

[0083] The curvature of the outer surface 3C of the insert 3 can be obtained through thermoforming of the insert 3. Alternatively, can have synclastic or monoclastic behaviours. In the latter case, the insert 3 adapts its shape to the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 with a single-curved shape or a double-curved shape.

[0084] The second embodiment of FIG. 11-15 is substantially equal to the first embodiment except for the presence of inserts 3 arranged on the sides of the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2, for the presence of an upper side retainer 4′ that is shaped differently from that of first embodiment and for the presence of a lower side retainer 4″.

[0085] In the second embodiment of FIGS. 11-15, the helmet 1 comprises a shell 2 like that of the first embodiment.

[0086] The cellular insert 3 of the first and second embodiments are the same.

[0087] The shell 2 is connected through connecting means 6 to an upper side retainer 4′ and to a top retainer 7. The latter is equal to that of first embodiment.

[0088] Like in the first embodiment, the shell 2 has the same vents and multi-purpose connections 9. Moreover, the shell 2 is made of a hard plastic material like in the first embodiment.

[0089] The upper side retainer 4′ is shaped differently from that of first embodiment, because it holds not only the top insert 3′, thus the insert 3 arranged in correspondence of the apex of the inner surface 2′, but it also holds the sides of the lateral inserts 3″.

[0090] The lateral inserts 3″, visible in FIGS. 11, 13, 14 and, even better, in FIG. 15, are independent inserts 3 that are arranged on the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 in correspondence of the sides of the shell 2, so close to the edge of shell 2, where the shell 2 is opened to receive the wearer's head.

[0091] Like the side retainer 4 of the first embodiment, the upper side retainer 4′ comprises a wrapping portion 4A, so a portion that surrounds the top insert 3′.

[0092] In addition, the upper side retainer 4′ of second embodiment has a plurality of extensions outwardly and radially protruding from the wrapping portion 4A.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 15, the extensions 4B are four, but they can be more or they can be connected to each other to form a single extension.

[0094] The extensions 4B realize a shoulder against which the lateral inserts 3″ abut.

[0095] The lateral inserts 3″, like the top insert 3′, lie on the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 and they are retained from one side by the extensions 4B of the upper side retainer 4′ and from the opposite side by another type of side retainer 4 that is called lower side retainer 4″.

[0096] Preferably, the extensions 4B are shaped for providing an outward radial force which acts on the lateral inserts 3″, pushing them towards the lower side retainers 4″.

[0097] As in the first embodiment, the upper side retainer 4′ comprises loops 4C to receive the connecting means 6 that are used to fix the upper side retainer 4′ to the shell 2.

[0098] The lower side retainer 4″ comprises an annular element 4D and some connectors 4E.

[0099] The annular element 4D, clearly visible in FIG. 15, is arranged on the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2, close to the perimetral edge of the shell 2, and it's connected to the shell 2 through connectors 4E that are shaped to snap-fit with the multi-purpose connectors 9 of the shell 2. The multi-purpose connectors 9 are four but they can be more or less than four.

[0100] The lower side retainer 4″ and the extensions 4B of the upper side retainer 4′ hold the sides of the lateral inserts 3″. In this manner, the lateral inserts 3″ cannot move laterally.

[0101] In particular, as already explained for the side retainer 4 of the first embodiment, the upper and lower side retainers 4′, 4″ do not retain all the sides of the inserts 3, but only their outermost portion, thus the bases of these inserts 3 that are in contact with the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2.

[0102] The lateral inserts 3″ do not need an inward retainer, like the top retainer 7 for the top insert 3′, because the inserts 3″ are laterally slightly compressed and held fixed under compression thanks to the upward clamping force of the lower side retainers 4″ and the downward pressure of the extensions 4B. The removal for this need of an inward retainer is beneficial to maximise the size range offered by the helmet. Alternatively, additional inward retainers, constructively similar to the top retainer 7, are arranged astride the lateral inserts 3″, for preventing their inward movements. In this case, the inward retainers (not shown) can or cannot comprise a dome-shaped portion similar to that of the top retainer 7, for receiving a portion of the wearer's head, and they comprise similar legs for the connection to the shell.

[0103] The lateral inserts 3″ shown in FIGS. 11-15 are curved but can be flat like that of FIG. 10, in this case, the lateral inserts 3″ can be more pieces than those shown in FIG. 15.

[0104] The inserts 3 are held to the shell 2 by means of the side retainers 4.

[0105] For all the features of the second embodiment that are not specifically described, it's made reference to the corresponding feature of the first embodiment.

[0106] In the FIGS. 16-20 are shown the side retainers 4 and the inserts 3, together with the top retainer 7, without the presence of the shell 2. In these figures is clearly visible how the outermost portions 3A of the top and lateral inserts 3′, 3″ are retained, while the innermost portions 3B are left free. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 13, the heights H2 of the side retainers 4, 4′, 4″ are significantly smaller than the heights H1 of the inserts 4, 4′, 4″.

[0107] As shown in FIGS. 16-20, the top and lateral inserts 3, 3″ are laterally caged by the upper and lateral side retainers 4′, 4″. In this manner, during a compression of the inserts 3, cause by a normal or oblique impact, the outermost portions 3A of the inserts 3 remain stable and in position and the cells 8 of the inserts 3 progressively buckle, providing an efficient and optimal absorption of the impact energy.

[0108] Top retainer legs 7″ can comprise a geometric perturbation, like the knee visible in FIG. 10 at half height of the legs 7″. These geometric perturbations facilitate the folding of the legs 7″ during an impact, without affecting the compressive behaviours of the inserts 3.

[0109] Indeed, the top retainer 7, as well as the side retainers 4, do not limit or threaten the compression of the inserts 3. The side retainers 4 and / or the top retainer 7 are configured to not oppose resistance in case of an impact and they exhibit a stiffness in bending that is comparable to or inferior to the out-of-plane compressive stiffness of the inserts 3. In this way, in case of a compression of the helmet due to an impact, the retainers 4,7 deform and do not act as rigid beams, following the compressive deformation of the insert 3.

[0110] The side retainers 4 and the top retainer 7 are preferably made of a polymer like nylon or polyethylene. Alternatively, the side retainers 4 are made of an elastomeric material. In this manner, the upper side retainer 4′ can apply pressure to the top insert 3′ when it's arranged inside the upper side retainer 4′.

[0111] The shape of the shell 2 can vary, without departing from this invention.

[0112] In both the embodiments, the side retainer 4, 4′, 4″ can also comprise at least one hook element configured to prevent inward movements of the insert / s 3 with respect to the shell 2. The hook element (not shown) can be a L-shaped element inwardly protruding from the wrapping portion 4A of the upper side retainer 4′ or from the annular element 4D of the lower side retainer 4″. The hook element is configured to hold the innermost portion 3B of the insert 3, so that an inward movement is prevented, as it happens with the top retainer 7.

[0113] Concluding, the invention so conceived is susceptible to many modifications and variations all of which fall within the scope of the inventive concept, furthermore all features can be substituted to technically equivalent alternatives. Practically, the quantities can be varied depending on the specific technical requirements. Finally, all features of previously described embodiments can be combined in any way, so as to obtain other embodiments that are not herein described for reasons of practicality and clarity.LEGEND OF REFERENCE SIGNS1 helmet

[0115] 2 shell

[0116] 2′ inner surface (of the shell)

[0117] 3 insert

[0118] 3′ top insert

[0119] 3″ lateral insert

[0120] 3A outermost portion (of the insert)

[0121] 3B innermost portion (of the insert)

[0122] 3C outer surface (of the insert)

[0123] 4 side retainer

[0124] 4′ upper side retainer

[0125] 4″ lower side retainer

[0126] 4A wrapping portion (of the upper side retainer)

[0127] 4B extension (of the upper side retainer)

[0128] 4C loop (of the upper side retainer)

[0129] 4D annular element (of the lower side retainer)

[0130] 4E connector (of the lower side retainer)

[0131] 5 vent

[0132] 6 connecting means

[0133] 7 top retainer

[0134] 7′ dome-shaped portion (of the top retainer)

[0135] 7″ leg (of the top retainer)

[0136] 7″′ shoulder (of the top retainer)

[0137] 8 cell

[0138] 9 multi-purpose connection (of the shell)

[0139] H1 height of the insert

[0140] H2 height of the side retainer

Examples

second embodiment

[0058]The side retainer 4 of this embodiment is also called upper side retainer 4′, to distinguish it from the lower side retainer 4″ of the

[0059]The side retainer 4 of FIGS. 1-5 is shaped like a ring, but it can be shaped like a “C”, and it's configured to surround the base of the insert 3 that is in contact with the shell 2. This base is also called outermost portion 3A of the insert 3, as shown in FIG. 10, because the base of the insert 3 that is in contact with the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 is arranged towards the outside of the helmet when the helmet is assembled.

[0060]The side retainer 4 does not completely surround the sides of the insert 3, but simply surrounds its outermost base, because the aim of this element is to avoid that insert 3 laterally slides over the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2.

[0061]The height H2 of the side retainer 4 is less than 50% of the height H1 of the insert 3, preferably less than 30% of the height H1 of the insert 3, even more preferably les...

first embodiment

[0087]The shell 2 is connected through connecting means 6 to an upper side retainer 4′ and to a top retainer 7. The latter is equal to that of

[0088]Like in the first embodiment, the shell 2 has the same vents and multi-purpose connections 9. Moreover, the shell 2 is made of a hard plastic material like in the first embodiment.

[0089]The upper side retainer 4′ is shaped differently from that of first embodiment, because it holds not only the top insert 3′, thus the insert 3 arranged in correspondence of the apex of the inner surface 2′, but it also holds the sides of the lateral inserts 3″.

[0090]The lateral inserts 3″, visible in FIGS. 11, 13, 14 and, even better, in FIG. 15, are independent inserts 3 that are arranged on the inner surface 2′ of the shell 2 in correspondence of the sides of the shell 2, so close to the edge of shell 2, where the shell 2 is opened to receive the wearer's head.

[0091]Like the side retainer 4 of the first embodiment, the upper side retainer 4′ comprises a...

Claims

1. A helmet comprising:a shell;at least one insert of a cellular energy-absorbing material arranged inside the shell;at least one side retainer fixed to the shell and shaped to laterally retain an outermost portion of the at least one insert with respect to the shell leaving free an innermost portion of said at least one insert.

2. The helmet according to claim 1, wherein an outer surface of the at least one insert is in contact with an inner surface of the shell.

3. The helmet according to claim 1, wherein the at least one side retainer is fixed to the shell through connecting means.

4. The helmet according to claim 1, wherein the height of the side retainer is smaller than the height of the at least one insert.

5. The helmet according to claim 1, wherein the cellular energy absorbing material of the at least one insert comprises a plurality of interconnected open cells configured to absorb energy by plastic deformation in response to a longitudinal compressive load applied to said cells.

6. The helmet according to claim 5, wherein at least part of the longitudinal axes of the cells are normal to an inner surface of the shell on which the at least one insert is arranged.

7. The helmet according to claim 1, wherein the shell is a hard shell.

8. The helmet according to any claim 1, wherein the at least one side retainer comprises an upper side retainer and a lower side retainer.

9. The helmet according to claim 8, wherein the upper side retainer comprises a wrapping portion surrounding part of the at least one insert.

10. The helmet according to claim 9, wherein the upper side retainer also comprises one or more extensions outwardly protruding from the wrapping portion.

11. The helmet according to claim 8, wherein the lower side retainer comprises an annular element following the shape of an inner surface of the shell.

12. The helmet according to claim 11, wherein the shell comprises multi-purpose connections and the annular element of the lower side retainer comprises connectors configured to cooperate with the multi-purpose connections to firmly connect the lower side retainer to the shell.

13. The helmet according to claim 1, further comprising a top retainer fixed to the shell and shaped so as to inwardly trap the at least one insert with respect to shell.

14. The helmet according to claim 13, wherein the top retainer comprises a dome-shaped portion shaped so as to fit with an apex of the wearer's head.

15. The helmet according to claim 1, wherein the at least one side retainer and / or the top retainer are deformable and exhibit a bending stiffness that is comparable to or less than the out-of-plane compressive stiffness of the at least one insert.

Images