US20050204456A1 - Retention system for headgear - Google Patents
Retention system for headgear Download PDFInfo
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- US20050204456A1 US20050204456A1 US10/816,712 US81671204A US2005204456A1 US 20050204456 A1 US20050204456 A1 US 20050204456A1 US 81671204 A US81671204 A US 81671204A US 2005204456 A1 US2005204456 A1 US 2005204456A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- protective
- retention
- headguard
- head
- piece
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/08—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
- A63B71/10—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the head
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A42—HEADWEAR
- A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
- A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A42—HEADWEAR
- A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
- A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
- A42B3/32—Collapsible helmets; Helmets made of separable parts ; Helmets with movable parts, e.g. adjustable
- A42B3/324—Adjustable helmets
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to fit and retention systems for headgear, especially protective headgear. Specifically, it relates to fit and retention systems for protective headgear which do not require a chinstrap.
- Headgear fit and retention systems are intended to keep the headgear on the head during use, maintain fit and comfort while in use, and allow the user to easily put on and take off the headgear when desired.
- Fit and retention systems all must deal with the basic characteristics of the human head. These characteristics include the generally spheroidal shape, attachment of the head at the neck, and the various features such as the shape and location of eyes and ears, hair, etc.
- the systems must deal with variations among users in head size and head shape. For example, some individuals may have prominent frontal bones, occipital bones, or parietal eminences, while others may not.
- Knit winter hats generally fall into this category.
- the headgear is lightweight and conforms easily to variations in head size and shape. Therefore, many users with different head shapes and sizes can comfortably wear the same kind and size of hat.
- knit winter hats typically remain on the head under quite demanding circumstances such as in skiing, sledding, or other vigorous activities.
- retention and fit issues are relatively inconsequential because it is not critical that the headgear remain on the head.
- a baseball cap falls in this category.
- a baseball cap is worn during leisure activities where retention is not tested.
- retention may not be critical because loss of a cap does not pose a danger to the user. Therefore, users may be more willing to tolerate shortcomings in the retention and fit system.
- fit and retention issues can be critical. For example, if a bicycle or football helmet falls off while a user is engaged in one of those activities, the results could be catastrophic. Therefore, it is essential that secure systems be employed to ensure helmets stay on the user while engaged in those activities.
- Protective helmets use various means to improve retention and fit. For those with hard and stiff shells, compressible padding, padding inserts, and adjustable suspension systems are some of the means by which different head sizes can be accommodated. Football, hockey, bicycle helmets, and construction hard hats would fall into this category. For headgear with soft flexible shells, such as the headgear used in boxing, the martial arts, or soccer, the shape of the entire piece of headgear can be altered with, for example, adjustable length straps to help conform it to the shape of the head.
- Chinstraps typically attach near the edges of the helmet close to the ears and either pass under the chin or over the chin.
- a fastening system such as a buckle or snap allows the user to fasten and unfasten the chinstrap.
- chinstraps may help retain a helmet on the head
- chinstraps can pose problems.
- chinstraps may heighten risk by increasing the rigidity of the head protection system. Forces applied to the head at angular vectors may cause the helmet and the head to rotate. Significant rotational forces can harm both the brain and the neck. An inflexible chinstrap therefore may contribute to injury by placing additional strain on the head as it rotates.
- chinstraps often require adjustment for proper fit. In many instances such adjustments may be difficult and inconvenient. An improperly adjusted chinstrap may, for example, allow the helmet to move too much when subjected to a force thereby exposing an unprotected portion of the head to a blow. This is especially a problem with those chinstraps that require the user to adjust the chinstrap each time the headgear is worn.
- chinstraps are often uncomfortable or inconvenient. Chinstraps that run over the chin usually require a cup to fit on the chin. A chin-cup may restrict the jaw and limit activities such as speech. A chinstrap running under the chin, over the neck, and over the thorax may cause discomfort during normal use and may pose a danger during an accident.
- a first aspect of the invention is a protective headguard comprising a protective pad and a retention element cooperatively attached to the protective pad wherein the headguard defines at least two separate and distinct tensioned and diametrically intersecting circumferential lines of retention when worn on the head.
- a second aspect of the invention is a headguard comprising a protective pad and a pair of separate and distinct, circumferential, diametrically intersecting retention elements attached to the protective pad.
- a third aspect of the invention is a headguard comprising (i) a front protective piece having a plurality of separate pads loosely restrained within a pocket whereby each pad may shift within the pocket relative to the other pads, (ii) a rear protective piece, and (iii) a retention element interconnecting the front protective piece and the rear protective piece.
- a fourth aspect of the invention is a protective headguard comprising a front protective piece and a rear protective piece wherein the front protective piece and the rear protective piece are pivotally attached to one another at diametrically opposed pivot points such that the front protective piece and the rear protective piece may be independently pivoted about the pivot points.
- a fit and retention system for headgear that works with many kinds of headgear including protective headgear with pliable and stiff structures.
- a fit and retention system for headgear that is adjustable and allows accommodation of different head sizes and head shapes.
- a fit and retention system for headgear effective with or without a chinstrap.
- a fit and retention system for headgear that allows the headgear to fit snugly with a minimum degree of tension.
- a fit and retention system for headgear that allows the headgear to be securely affixed to the head with a minimum degree of tension.
- a fit and retention system for headgear that employs at least two “circular lines of retention” (i.e., circular lines around the head that represent the main points of pressure against the head created by the fit and retention system).
- FIG. 1 a is a side elevation of a human head including a depiction of (i) a first great circle located on the mid-sagittal plane, and (ii) a second great circle located on a transverse plane.
- FIG. 1 b is a top view of the human head shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 1 c is a side elevation of a human head including a depiction of (i) a first great circle located on the mid-sagittal plane, and (ii) third circle located on a transverse plane which is not a great circle.
- FIG. 1 d is a side elevation of a human head including a depiction of first, second fourth and fifth great circles.
- FIG. 2 a is a side elevation view of a first embodiment of the invention worn on a human head.
- FIG. 2 b is a back elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 2 a.
- FIG. 2 c is a cross-sectional side view of the invention shown in FIG. 2 a.
- FIG. 3 a is a side elevation view of a second embodiment of the invention worn on a human head.
- FIG. 3 b is a cross-sectional side view of the invention shown in FIG. 3 a.
- FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of a third embodiment of the invention worn on a human head.
- FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of a fourth embodiment of the invention worn on a human head.
- FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of a fifth embodiment of the invention worn on a human head.
- length adjustment means includes any and all means known to those skilled in the art for adjusting the length of a retention cord or strap on headgear including specifically, but not exclusively, (i) cord locks or barrel locks, (ii) ratchet adjusters, (iii) slide adjusters, (iv) ladder locks, (v) cam buckles, (vi) slide buckles, (vii) side-release buckles with slide, (viii) center-release buckles with slide, (ix) bar buckles with series of holes along the length of the strap, (x) combination of loop with hook and loop strap, (xi) combination of loop with strap having a series of snap halves attached along the length of the strap, etc.
- loosely means having relative freedom of movement.
- FIG. 1 a shows a profile of the left side (not numbered) of a human head 100 .
- a first circle 101 represented by dashes, perpendicular to the horizon divides the head 100 into two sides from the middle of the face (unnumbered) to the middle of the back 108 of the head 100 .
- This first circle 101 therefore is located on the mid-sagittal plane (unnumbered).
- the center point 102 of the first circle 101 is marked.
- FIG. 1 a also shows dashes representing a second circle 103 .
- the second circle 103 is located on a transverse plane (unnumbered).
- the second circle 103 has the same center point 102 as the first circle 101 .
- FIG. 1 b shows a top view of the same human head 100 with the same first circle 101 and second circle 103 . In this view, the second circle 103 is visible as a circle and the first circle 101 is visible as a dashed line.
- the first circle 101 and second circle 103 shown in FIGS. 1 a and 1 b are two circles that represent “great circles” of a sphere (unnumbered). Great circles are ones whose plane passes through the center of the sphere.
- the center point 102 marked in FIGS. 1 a and 1 b is the center point 102 of the first circle 101 , the second circle 103 , and the sphere represented by these great circles. That sphere would roughly correspond to the three-dimensional shape of the human head 100 .
- the human head 100 is not a sphere, its shape is more similar to a sphere than it is to other standard shapes. This is especially true if protruding portions of the face such as the nose 113 , mouth 107 , and chin 114 are excluded as well as the neck 115 . In designing a fit and retention system consistent with this invention, excluding these areas of the face and the neck 115 makes sense for two reasons. First, if a chinstrap-like device (not shown) is not going to be used (or is going to be used as a secondary means of retention), the primary retention system could not be located in the chin 114 or neck 115 areas. Second, the typical retention system could not be located on areas of the face; otherwise, vision could be blocked, movement of the mouth 107 could be impeded, and the fit would generally be uncomfortable.
- the third circle 110 were used to form a circular line of retention for a piece of headgear (not shown) on the head 100 , that headgear would be somewhat unstable. Because of the curvature of the human head 100 , tension along this third circle 110 as a circular line of retention would tend to force the headgear upward off the top of the head 100 .
- FIG. 1 d shows an illustration with representations in the form of solid lines of a fourth circle 111 and a fifth circle 112 .
- These circles like the first circle 101 and second circle 103 , are great circles.
- both the fourth circle 111 and the fifth circle 112 would be more stable than the third circle 110 when under tension as tension along the fourth circle 111 and fifth circle 112 would tend to pull those circles toward the center of the sphere rather than in a direction toward the top or bottom of the sphere.
- FIGS. 2 a , 2 b and 2 c show a first embodiment of the invention 200 .
- FIG. 2 a shows a profile of a human head 100 with the first embodiment of the protective headband 200 on it.
- the headband 200 has a front piece 215 and a back piece 216 , and a retention system including a first strap 217 and a second strap 218 extending along intersecting great circles on the head 100 .
- the first strap 217 and second strap 218 intersect at two diametrically opposed locations 223 on either side of the head 100 . Because the profile in FIG. 2 a shows the left side (unnumbered) of the head 100 , only one intersection point 223 is shown.
- the front piece 215 and back piece 216 of the headband 200 can each have padding 219 and 220 and a covering 221 and 222 , respectively.
- the first embodiment of the protective headband 200 shown in FIGS. 2 a through 2 c would be suitable for activities where protection for the top (unnumbered) of the head 100 is either not necessary or not desirable, and where a chinstrap is not required. Activities for which this embodiment and subsequent embodiments might be appropriate include soccer.
- the front piece 215 of the headband 200 depicted in FIG. 2 a wraps from the forehead 204 to the temple areas 224 and, in this embodiment, ends just in front of the ears 225 on either side.
- the back piece 216 of the headband 200 wraps around the occipital bone 226 on the back (unnumbered) of the head 100 and ends just behind the ears 225 on either side of the head 100 .
- padding (not shown) could be inserted between the front piece 215 and the back piece 216 .
- a first strap 217 and a second strap 218 encircle the head 100 .
- Each of the first strap 217 and second strap 218 run through a separate fabric sleeve 227 which holds the straps 217 and 218 in position.
- sleeves 227 are shown in this embodiment as the mechanism for maintaining the first and second straps 217 and 218 in proper position, many other means would also be suitable for maintaining the position of the first and second straps 217 and 218 .
- Such other means might include recessed channels (not shown) in the front piece 215 and/or back piece 216 of the headband 200 , or fabric loops (not shown) on the front piece 215 and/or back piece 216 of the headband 200 through which the first and second straps 217 and 218 could run.
- the first strap 217 can run approximately from the forehead 204 , above the frontal bone 228 across the temple area 224 , and end below the occipital bone 226 at the rear of the head 100 .
- the second strap 218 can run approximately from the forehead 204 , below the frontal bone 228 across the temple area 224 and end above the occipital bone 226 at the rear of the head 100 .
- the first strap 217 and second strap 218 can each be equipped with a connecting length adjustment means 232 and 233 at the rear of the head 100 , such as a combination of a loop 234 and a hook and loop tab 235 .
- the first and second straps 217 and 218 cross at approximately the temple area 224 on each side of the head 100 .
- the first and second straps 217 and 218 approximately track the criss-crossing fourth and fifth great circles 111 and 112 identified in FIG. 1 d .
- the first and second straps 217 and 218 in FIG. 2 a create criss-crossing circular lines of retention that approximate the criss-crossing fourth and fifth great circles 111 and 112 identified in FIG. 1 d.
- the front and back padding 219 and 220 in the front and back pieces 215 and 216 of the headband 200 could be made of many different materials.
- One such material is foam, which would be suitable for many applications.
- the front and back coverings 221 and 222 for the front and back pieces 215 and 216 of the headband 200 could be made of many different materials.
- the front and back coverings 221 and 222 could range from fabric entirely encasing the front and back padding 219 and 220 , to hard plastic covering the exterior surface (unnumbered) of the front and back padding 219 and 220 .
- Many other kinds of padding and coverings such as those identified in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,266,827, 6,349,416, 6,381,760, and 6,397,399 to Lampe et al. could also be used.
- the first and second straps 217 and 218 could be of many different widths and thicknesses and could be made of many different materials. Those depicted in FIGS. 2 a and 2 b are made of an elastic cord-like material The first and second straps 217 and 218 could also have a flat shape. In most instances a stretchable material may be preferable to ensure that sufficient tension is maintained when the headband 200 is worn.
- one suitable connecting length adjustment means 232 and 233 is a combination of a loop 234 and a hook and loop tab 235 .
- Such connecting length adjustment means 232 and 233 allow the size of the first and second straps 217 and 218 to be quickly and easily varied.
- the first and second length adjustment means 232 and 233 each has a loop 234 through which a hook and loop tab 235 can be inserted and then fastened back onto itself.
- the length adjustment means 232 and 233 should be of a type which are capable of allowing adjustments in the length of the first and second straps 217 and 218 , thereby permitting an adjustment in the tension exerted by each strap 217 and 218 .
- the embodiment of the headgear 200 shown in FIGS. 2 a , 2 b and 2 c permits the first and second straps 217 and 218 to be stretched because they are elastic, and permits a change in the length of the first and second straps 217 and 218 .
- FIGS. 3 a and 3 b depict a headband 300 representing a second embodiment of the invention.
- Many aspects of the second embodiment of the invention 300 emulate or resemble those of the first embodiment of the invention 200 shown in FIGS. 2 a , 2 b and 2 c .
- the primary difference between the first embodiment 200 and the second embodiment 300 is the nature of the padding (not collectively numbered).
- the padding 340 through 342 in the front piece 315 and padding 343 through 345 in back piece 316 consists of several individual pads encased in a front covering 321 and a back covering 322 respectively.
- the front and back coverings 321 and 322 in the second embodiment of the invention 300 could be a fabric covering.
- the front piece 315 of the headband 300 has lower pad 340 , a middle pad 341 and an upper pad 342 .
- the back piece 316 of the headband 300 has a lower pad 343 , a middle pad 344 and an upper pad 345 .
- the pads 340 through 345 may be configured such that they accommodate different shapes and features on a human head 100 .
- the middle pad 341 in the front piece 315 of the headband 300 could extend outward more to accommodate a human head 100 with a more protruding frontal bone 328 . As shown in FIG.
- the pads 340 through 345 may also be configured and arranged within the front and back coverings 321 and 322 to permit the pads 340 through 345 to shift to some degree on the surface of the head 100 in the directions of the arrows 346 .
- Such shifting of the pads 340 through 345 may be facilitated by constructing the front and back coverings 321 and 322 from a stretchable fabric and/or providing a gap 347 between the pads 340 through 345 .
- Such shifting can accommodate different shapes and features on a human head 100 and also allows a user to vary the position of the first and second straps 317 and 318 .
- FIG. 4 depicts a headband 400 representing a third embodiment of the invention.
- Many aspects of the third embodiment of the invention 400 emulate or resemble those of the first embodiment of the invention 200 shown in FIGS. 2 a , 2 b and 2 c .
- the primary difference between the first embodiment of the invention 200 and the third embodiment of the invention 400 is the fit and retention system.
- the first embodiment of the invention 200 employs two separate straps 217 and 218 .
- the third embodiment of the invention 400 has an adjustment mechanism (not collectively numbered) with a front unit 450 and a back unit 451 .
- the front unit 450 is connected to the back unit 451 on either side of the head 100 by a rivet 452 or other fixing device.
- the rivets 452 attach the front unit 450 and back unit 451 at the points of intersection (unnumbered) of the circular lines of retention defined by the front unit 450 and back unit 451 .
- the rivets 452 should be configured and arranged to allow the front piece 415 and back piece 416 to move up and down in relation to one another by pivoting about the rivet 452 .
- the rivet 452 could be relatively soft, such as one made from foam or even fabric.
- the rivet 452 could be eliminated with the front unit 450 and the back unit 451 simply connected at a narrowing point, but such an attachment mechanism is not preferred as such an attachment may restrict movement of the front and back pieces 415 and 416 relative to one another.
- the front and back units 450 and 451 could be of many different widths and thicknesses and could be made of many different materials. Those depicted in FIG. 4 are straps The front and back units 450 and 451 could also be a cord similar to the straps of the first and second embodiments of the invention 200 and 300 . In most instances a stretchable material is preferred to ensure that sufficient tension is maintained when the headband 400 is worn.
- the upper portion 453 and lower portion 454 of the front unit 450 and/or the upper portion 455 and lower portion 456 of the back unit 451 can each be equipped with a connecting length adjustment means 432 and 433 , such as a combination of a loop (unnumbered) and a hook and loop tab (unnumbered).
- the third embodiment of the invention 400 could still rely on the great circle concept.
- one circular line of retention would be formed by a combination of the upper portion 453 of the front unit 450 and the lower portion 456 of the back unit 451 .
- Another circular line of retention would be formed by a combination of the lower portion 454 of the front unit 450 and the upper portion 455 of the back unit 451 .
- FIG. 5 depicts a headband 500 representing a fourth embodiment of the invention.
- Many aspects of the fourth embodiment of the invention 500 emulate or resemble those of the first and second embodiments of the invention 200 and 300 shown in FIGS. 2 a , 2 b and 2 c , and FIGS. 3 a and 3 b , respectively.
- the primary difference between the first and second embodiments of the invention 200 and 300 , and the fourth embodiment of the invention 500 is the padding.
- the headgear 500 has a unitary piece of padding 510 that covers the top (unnumbered) of the head 100 as well as those portions of the head 100 covered by the first, second and third embodiments of the invention 200 , 300 and 400 .
- the fit and retention system of the fourth embodiment of the invention 500 functions much the same as the fit and retention system of the first and second embodiments of the invention 100 and 300 .
- a gap 560 in the unitary piece of padding 510 permits the size of the headgear 500 to be expanded or contracted using the first and second straps 517 and 518 .
- FIG. 6 depicts a headband 600 representing a fifth embodiment of the invention.
- This fifth embodiment of the invention 600 has a front piece 615 and a back piece 616 .
- the front and back pieces 615 and 616 are connected to each other by a pair of first and second straps 617 and 618 with a one pair of the straps 617 and 618 located on each side of the head 100 .
- one pair of a first and a second strap 617 and 618 is located on the left side of the head 100 proximate the temple (unnumbered).
- An identical pair of a first and a second strap 617 and 618 is also located on the hidden right side of the head 100 proximate the temple (unnumbered).
- the fifth embodiment of the invention 600 differs from the first embodiment of the invention 200 in several ways.
- the first and second straps 617 and 618 of the fifth embodiment of the invention 600 do not encircle the head 100 .
- the first and second straps 617 and 618 of the fifth embodiment of the invention 600 are connected to the sides (unnumbered) of the front and back pieces 615 and 616 on the side of the head 100 .
- the fifth embodiment of the invention 600 has a slot 665 through the front piece 615 for accommodating passage of the first strap 617 .
- the first strap 617 and second strap 618 of the fifth embodiment of the invention 600 can each be equipped with a connecting length adjustment means (not collectively numbered) proximate the rear of the head 100 , such as a first combination of a first slot 666 in the back piece 616 and a first hook and loop tab 668 cooperatively engaging the first strap 617 and a second combination of a second slot 667 in the back piece 616 and a second hook and loop tab 669 cooperatively engaging the second strap 618 .
- a connecting length adjustment means (not collectively numbered) proximate the rear of the head 100 , such as a first combination of a first slot 666 in the back piece 616 and a first hook and loop tab 668 cooperatively engaging the first strap 617 and a second combination of a second slot 667 in the back piece 616 and a second hook and loop tab 669 cooperatively engaging the second strap 618 .
- the first and second straps 617 and 618 are preferably made of an elastic material, similar to the straps of the fourth embodiment of the invention 500 . Given the elasticity of the first and second straps 617 and 618 , another embodiment could simply rely on the elasticity of the straps 617 and 618 for adjustment, and dispense with the connecting length adjustment means. However, such an embodiment would likely accommodate a smaller range of head 100 sizes.
- the retention system shown in FIG. 6 functions much the same as the first through fourth embodiments of the invention 200 , 300 , 400 and 500 .
- the circular lines of retention encircle the head 100 approximating great circles, and cross each other at two points on the surface of the head 100 .
- the point of intersection 670 is proximate the mid-point of the area of overlap of the first strap 617 and the front piece 615 .
- the circular lines of retention criss-cross one another at two diameterically opposed points and allow inward pressure to be created as shown by the arrows 671 in FIG. 6 .
- a chinstrap (not shown) could optionally be used with the various embodiments of the headband 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 and 600 , especially as a secondary retention means, without significantly compromising their function.
Abstract
Protective headguard comprising a protective pad and a retention element cooperatively attached to the protective pad wherein the headguard defines at least two separate and distinct, diametrically intersecting and inwardly influenced circumferential lines of retention when worn on the head.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/459,487, filed Apr. 2, 2003.
- The present invention generally relates to fit and retention systems for headgear, especially protective headgear. Specifically, it relates to fit and retention systems for protective headgear which do not require a chinstrap.
- The prior art contains many examples of headgear fit and retention systems. Headgear fit and retention systems are intended to keep the headgear on the head during use, maintain fit and comfort while in use, and allow the user to easily put on and take off the headgear when desired.
- Fit and retention systems all must deal with the basic characteristics of the human head. These characteristics include the generally spheroidal shape, attachment of the head at the neck, and the various features such as the shape and location of eyes and ears, hair, etc. In addition the systems must deal with variations among users in head size and head shape. For example, some individuals may have prominent frontal bones, occipital bones, or parietal eminences, while others may not.
- For certain kinds of headgear, retention and fit issues are relatively inconsequential because the existing retention and fitting systems work relatively well. Knit winter hats generally fall into this category. The headgear is lightweight and conforms easily to variations in head size and shape. Therefore, many users with different head shapes and sizes can comfortably wear the same kind and size of hat. Moreover, knit winter hats typically remain on the head under quite demanding circumstances such as in skiing, sledding, or other vigorous activities.
- For other kinds of headgear, retention and fit issues are relatively inconsequential because it is not critical that the headgear remain on the head. A baseball cap falls in this category. In many instances, a baseball cap is worn during leisure activities where retention is not tested. When it is worn in more demanding circumstances such as a baseball game, retention may not be critical because loss of a cap does not pose a danger to the user. Therefore, users may be more willing to tolerate shortcomings in the retention and fit system.
- For many kinds of protective headgear, fit and retention issues can be critical. For example, if a bicycle or football helmet falls off while a user is engaged in one of those activities, the results could be catastrophic. Therefore, it is essential that secure systems be employed to ensure helmets stay on the user while engaged in those activities.
- With most kinds of protective headgear, however, devising fit and retention systems is a difficult endeavor. Many activities require significant protection and therefore headgear may become bulkier and heavier. In addition some materials used in the construction of such helmets may be hard and stiff such as helmet shells. Such materials make it difficult to conform a helmet to the shapes of the heads of different users.
- Protective helmets use various means to improve retention and fit. For those with hard and stiff shells, compressible padding, padding inserts, and adjustable suspension systems are some of the means by which different head sizes can be accommodated. Football, hockey, bicycle helmets, and construction hard hats would fall into this category. For headgear with soft flexible shells, such as the headgear used in boxing, the martial arts, or soccer, the shape of the entire piece of headgear can be altered with, for example, adjustable length straps to help conform it to the shape of the head.
- In many instances, however, additional retention means such as chinstraps become necessary. Chinstraps typically attach near the edges of the helmet close to the ears and either pass under the chin or over the chin. A fastening system such as a buckle or snap allows the user to fasten and unfasten the chinstrap.
- While chinstraps may help retain a helmet on the head, chinstraps can pose problems. First, chinstraps may heighten risk by increasing the rigidity of the head protection system. Forces applied to the head at angular vectors may cause the helmet and the head to rotate. Significant rotational forces can harm both the brain and the neck. An inflexible chinstrap therefore may contribute to injury by placing additional strain on the head as it rotates.
- Second, chinstraps often require adjustment for proper fit. In many instances such adjustments may be difficult and inconvenient. An improperly adjusted chinstrap may, for example, allow the helmet to move too much when subjected to a force thereby exposing an unprotected portion of the head to a blow. This is especially a problem with those chinstraps that require the user to adjust the chinstrap each time the headgear is worn.
- Third, chinstraps are often uncomfortable or inconvenient. Chinstraps that run over the chin usually require a cup to fit on the chin. A chin-cup may restrict the jaw and limit activities such as speech. A chinstrap running under the chin, over the neck, and over the thorax may cause discomfort during normal use and may pose a danger during an accident.
- Finally, even properly adjusted chinstraps may do little to prevent minor shifts in the helmet during normal use. These minor shifts can be very bothersome for activities, for example, that require unimpeded sight.
- Various means have been attempted to improve fit and retention to overcome the shortcomings of systems that rely primarily on the chinstrap. Doing so often requires balancing fit, retention, and comfort as an improvement in one of these attributes tends to come at the expense of another of the attributes. With almost any headgear, retention can be improved by simply making the headgear fit tighter. For headgear such as knit winter hats or winter headbands this does not typically pose a problem. A knit winter hat can fit relatively tight without causing discomfort. The lightness, elasticity, and conformability of such headgear are likely reasons for this.
- For many kinds of protective headgear, however, creating a tighter fit results in discomfort. An American football helmet with a tight fit can be very uncomfortable. The bulk, inelasticity of the headgear structure, and the pressure points created where padding is compressed to fit variations on the head's surface could be causes for this.
- Alternatives to simply tightening the fit have been developed. Many bicycle helmets, for example, have devices that cradle the occipital bone. These systems are not intended to eliminate the chinstrap but are intended to prevent minor shifts during normal use and to reserve the chinstrap for events such as accidents. These systems rely on a retention system that applies pressure to selected points on the head. In the case of the bicycle helmets with the occipital cradle, what amounts to a triangular retention system is created. In this system pressure is applied to a set of points below the occipital bone, points above the occipital bone, and points approximately in the middle of the forehead. However, these systems still rely on a chinstrap for retention purposes. Therefore there is still a pressure point under the chin.
- Alternative fit and retention systems are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,266,827 and 6,349,416 to Lampe et al. The fit and retention systems revealed in these patents can work without chinstraps. These patents describe headgear with adjustable length straps located in positions other than those where chinstraps would typically be located. The adjustable length straps and the structure of the headgear create spaced circular lines of retention. By tightening the adjustable length straps, pressure can be placed on the head at points along one of the circular lines of retention. Unlike a baseball cap, these devices may have two or more circular lines of retention. The circular lines could be located on approximately parallel planes in relation to the head. One circular line of retention could run around the head on one plane ideally positioned below the occipital bone and below the frontal bone but above the brow. Another plane is ideally positioned above the occipital bone and above the frontal bone. While the fit and retention systems disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,266,827 and 6,349,416 to Lampe et al. constitute a significant advance over prior systems, a continuing need exists for further improvements in headgear fit and retention systems.
- Generally, the present invention relates to improvements to headguards. A first aspect of the invention is a protective headguard comprising a protective pad and a retention element cooperatively attached to the protective pad wherein the headguard defines at least two separate and distinct tensioned and diametrically intersecting circumferential lines of retention when worn on the head.
- A second aspect of the invention is a headguard comprising a protective pad and a pair of separate and distinct, circumferential, diametrically intersecting retention elements attached to the protective pad.
- A third aspect of the invention is a headguard comprising (i) a front protective piece having a plurality of separate pads loosely restrained within a pocket whereby each pad may shift within the pocket relative to the other pads, (ii) a rear protective piece, and (iii) a retention element interconnecting the front protective piece and the rear protective piece.
- A fourth aspect of the invention is a protective headguard comprising a front protective piece and a rear protective piece wherein the front protective piece and the rear protective piece are pivotally attached to one another at diametrically opposed pivot points such that the front protective piece and the rear protective piece may be independently pivoted about the pivot points.
- Objects and advantages of this invention include:
- A fit and retention system for headgear that works with many kinds of headgear including protective headgear with pliable and stiff structures.
- A fit and retention system for headgear that is adjustable and allows accommodation of different head sizes and head shapes.
- A fit and retention system for headgear effective with or without a chinstrap.
- A fit and retention system for headgear that allows the headgear to fit snugly with a minimum degree of tension.
- A fit and retention system for headgear that allows the headgear to be securely affixed to the head with a minimum degree of tension.
- A fit and retention system for headgear that employs at least two “circular lines of retention” (i.e., circular lines around the head that represent the main points of pressure against the head created by the fit and retention system).
- A fit and retention system for headgear with circular lines of retention that encircle the head, intersect each other at least twice, and extend from approximately the forehead area to the back of the head.
- The invention may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the invention in connection with the accompanying drawings.
-
FIG. 1 a is a side elevation of a human head including a depiction of (i) a first great circle located on the mid-sagittal plane, and (ii) a second great circle located on a transverse plane. -
FIG. 1 b is a top view of the human head shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 1 c is a side elevation of a human head including a depiction of (i) a first great circle located on the mid-sagittal plane, and (ii) third circle located on a transverse plane which is not a great circle. -
FIG. 1 d is a side elevation of a human head including a depiction of first, second fourth and fifth great circles. -
FIG. 2 a is a side elevation view of a first embodiment of the invention worn on a human head. -
FIG. 2 b is a back elevation view of the invention shown inFIG. 2 a. -
FIG. 2 c is a cross-sectional side view of the invention shown inFIG. 2 a. -
FIG. 3 a is a side elevation view of a second embodiment of the invention worn on a human head. -
FIG. 3 b is a cross-sectional side view of the invention shown inFIG. 3 a. -
FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of a third embodiment of the invention worn on a human head. -
FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of a fourth embodiment of the invention worn on a human head. -
FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of a fifth embodiment of the invention worn on a human head. - Nomenclature
- 100 Human Head
- 101 First Circle
- 102 Center Point
- 103 Second Circle
- 104 Forehead
- 105 Brow
- 106 Eyes
- 107 Mouth
- 108 Back Of Head
- 109 Back Of Neck
- 110 Third Circle
- 111 Fourth Circle
- 112 Fifth Circle
- 113 Nose
- 114 Chin
- 115 Neck
- 200 First Embodiment Of Headband
- 204 Forehead
- 215 Front Piece
- 216 Back Piece
- 217 First Strap
- 218 Second Strap
- 219 Front Padding
- 220 Back Padding
- 221 Front Covering
- 222 Back Covering
- 223 Intersection
- 224 Temple Area Of Head
- 225 Ears
- 226 Occipital Bone
- 227 Sleeve
- 228 Frontal Bone
- 232 First Length Adjustment Means
- 233 Second Length Adjustment Means
- 234 Loop
- 235 Hook And Loop Tab
- 300 Second Embodiment Of Headband
- 315 Front Piece
- 316 Back Piece
- 317 First Strap
- 318 Second Strap
- 321 Front Covering
- 322 Back Covering
- 328 Frontal Bone
- 340 Lower Front Pad
- 341 Middle Front Pad
- 342 Upper Front Pad
- 343 Lower Back Pad
- 344 Middle Back Pad
- 345 Upper Back Pad
- 346 Arrows
- 347 Gap Between Pads
- 400 Third Embodiment Of Headband
- 415 Front Piece
- 416 Back Piece
- 432 First Length Adjustment Means
- 433 Second Length Adjustment Means
- 450 Front Unit
- 451 Back Unit
- 452 Rivet
- 453 Upper Portion Of Front Unit
- 454 Lower Portion Of Front Unit
- 455 Upper Portion Of Back Unit
- 456 Lower Portion Of Back Unit
- 500 Fourth Embodiment Of Headgear
- 510 Padding
- 517 First Strap
- 518 Second Strap
- 560 Gap
- 600 Fifth Embodiment of Headband
- 615 Front Piece
- 616 Back Piece
- 617 First Strap
- 618 Second Strap
- 665 Slot in Front Piece
- 666 First Slot in Back Piece
- 667 Second Slot in Back Piece
- 668 First Hook and Loop Tab
- 669 Second Hook and Loop Tab
- 670 Intersection Point
- 671 Arrows
- Definitions
- As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “length adjustment means” includes any and all means known to those skilled in the art for adjusting the length of a retention cord or strap on headgear including specifically, but not exclusively, (i) cord locks or barrel locks, (ii) ratchet adjusters, (iii) slide adjusters, (iv) ladder locks, (v) cam buckles, (vi) slide buckles, (vii) side-release buckles with slide, (viii) center-release buckles with slide, (ix) bar buckles with series of holes along the length of the strap, (x) combination of loop with hook and loop strap, (xi) combination of loop with strap having a series of snap halves attached along the length of the strap, etc.
- As utilized herein, including the claims, the term “loosely” means having relative freedom of movement.
- As utilized herein, including the claims, the term “separate” means lack of direct connection.
- Construction and Use
-
FIG. 1 a shows a profile of the left side (not numbered) of ahuman head 100. Afirst circle 101, represented by dashes, perpendicular to the horizon divides thehead 100 into two sides from the middle of the face (unnumbered) to the middle of the back 108 of thehead 100. Thisfirst circle 101 therefore is located on the mid-sagittal plane (unnumbered). Thecenter point 102 of thefirst circle 101 is marked.FIG. 1 a also shows dashes representing asecond circle 103. Thesecond circle 103 is located on a transverse plane (unnumbered). Thesecond circle 103 has thesame center point 102 as thefirst circle 101.FIG. 1 b shows a top view of the samehuman head 100 with the samefirst circle 101 andsecond circle 103. In this view, thesecond circle 103 is visible as a circle and thefirst circle 101 is visible as a dashed line. - The
first circle 101 andsecond circle 103 shown inFIGS. 1 a and 1 b are two circles that represent “great circles” of a sphere (unnumbered). Great circles are ones whose plane passes through the center of the sphere. In this case, thecenter point 102 marked inFIGS. 1 a and 1 b is thecenter point 102 of thefirst circle 101, thesecond circle 103, and the sphere represented by these great circles. That sphere would roughly correspond to the three-dimensional shape of thehuman head 100. - Although the
human head 100 is not a sphere, its shape is more similar to a sphere than it is to other standard shapes. This is especially true if protruding portions of the face such as thenose 113,mouth 107, andchin 114 are excluded as well as theneck 115. In designing a fit and retention system consistent with this invention, excluding these areas of the face and theneck 115 makes sense for two reasons. First, if a chinstrap-like device (not shown) is not going to be used (or is going to be used as a secondary means of retention), the primary retention system could not be located in thechin 114 orneck 115 areas. Second, the typical retention system could not be located on areas of the face; otherwise, vision could be blocked, movement of themouth 107 could be impeded, and the fit would generally be uncomfortable. - The boundaries of the excluded areas would, for most uses, be as follows. In relation to the
forehead 104 shown inFIG. 1 a, points on or below thebrow 105 could be foreclosed as potential points along a circular line of retention. In relation to the back 108 of thehead 100, circular lines of retention could not probably be positioned significantly down on the back 109 of theneck 115. - Within this restricted universe, some circular lines of retention will be more optimal than others. The more the circular line of retention deviates from a great circle, the less stable it may be. That is, because a circular line of retention with tension on it will direct pressure inward. A circular line of retention that follows a great circle will direct that pressure toward the center of the sphere. A circular line of retention that follows a circle that is not a great circle will direct pressure at some point other than the center of the sphere. This will tend to make such a circular line of retention less stable. For example, in
FIG. 1 c, athird circle 110, which is not a great circle, is represented. If thethird circle 110 were used to form a circular line of retention for a piece of headgear (not shown) on thehead 100, that headgear would be somewhat unstable. Because of the curvature of thehuman head 100, tension along thisthird circle 110 as a circular line of retention would tend to force the headgear upward off the top of thehead 100. -
FIG. 1 d shows an illustration with representations in the form of solid lines of afourth circle 111 and afifth circle 112. These circles, like thefirst circle 101 andsecond circle 103, are great circles. As individual circular lines of retention around a sphere, both thefourth circle 111 and thefifth circle 112 would be more stable than thethird circle 110 when under tension as tension along thefourth circle 111 andfifth circle 112 would tend to pull those circles toward the center of the sphere rather than in a direction toward the top or bottom of the sphere. - If a plurality of circular lines of retention are connected, for example, at points where two circles intersect, those circular lines of retention will be even more stable because another set of points (not shown), forming a plurality of point sets (not shown), will be directing forces toward the center of the sphere.
- Since the
human head 100 is not typically a sphere, circular lines of retention for a piece of headgear (not shown) cannot generally create true great circles. If, for example, thefourth circle 111 andfifth circle 112 were extended outward or inward sufficiently to accommodate the shape of thehead 100 depicted inFIGS. 1 b and 1 d, then thefourth circle 111 andfifth circle 112 would no longer be great circles. In addition, a fit and retention system with flexible straps (not shown), for example, could stretch and bend to some extent thereby distorting the shape of a circular line of retention. Finally, headgear materials such as the padding (not shown) or the shell (not shown), if the headgear has one, may distort the circular line of retention created by a fit and retention system. However, headgear with circular lines of retention that track, as closely as possible, great circles are still achievable. In order to create a stable a fit and retention system without a chinstrap (not shown), this invention seeks to develop fit and retention systems with circular lines of retention that as closely as possible approximate great circles. -
FIGS. 2 a, 2 b and 2 c show a first embodiment of theinvention 200.FIG. 2 a shows a profile of ahuman head 100 with the first embodiment of theprotective headband 200 on it. Theheadband 200 has afront piece 215 and aback piece 216, and a retention system including afirst strap 217 and asecond strap 218 extending along intersecting great circles on thehead 100. Thefirst strap 217 andsecond strap 218 intersect at two diametricallyopposed locations 223 on either side of thehead 100. Because the profile inFIG. 2 a shows the left side (unnumbered) of thehead 100, only oneintersection point 223 is shown. As shown inFIG. 2 c, thefront piece 215 andback piece 216 of theheadband 200 can each havepadding - The first embodiment of the
protective headband 200 shown inFIGS. 2 a through 2 c would be suitable for activities where protection for the top (unnumbered) of thehead 100 is either not necessary or not desirable, and where a chinstrap is not required. Activities for which this embodiment and subsequent embodiments might be appropriate include soccer. - The
front piece 215 of theheadband 200 depicted inFIG. 2 a wraps from theforehead 204 to thetemple areas 224 and, in this embodiment, ends just in front of theears 225 on either side. Theback piece 216 of theheadband 200 wraps around theoccipital bone 226 on the back (unnumbered) of thehead 100 and ends just behind theears 225 on either side of thehead 100. Although not shown, padding (not shown) could be inserted between thefront piece 215 and theback piece 216. - As shown in
FIG. 2 b, afirst strap 217 and asecond strap 218 encircle thehead 100. Each of thefirst strap 217 andsecond strap 218 run through aseparate fabric sleeve 227 which holds thestraps sleeves 227 are shown in this embodiment as the mechanism for maintaining the first andsecond straps second straps front piece 215 and/orback piece 216 of theheadband 200, or fabric loops (not shown) on thefront piece 215 and/orback piece 216 of theheadband 200 through which the first andsecond straps - The
first strap 217 can run approximately from theforehead 204, above thefrontal bone 228 across thetemple area 224, and end below theoccipital bone 226 at the rear of thehead 100. Thesecond strap 218 can run approximately from theforehead 204, below thefrontal bone 228 across thetemple area 224 and end above theoccipital bone 226 at the rear of thehead 100. Thefirst strap 217 andsecond strap 218, can each be equipped with a connecting length adjustment means 232 and 233 at the rear of thehead 100, such as a combination of aloop 234 and a hook andloop tab 235. - The first and
second straps temple area 224 on each side of thehead 100. When comparingFIG. 2 a toFIG. 1 d, it can be seen that the first andsecond straps great circles FIG. 1 d. The first andsecond straps FIG. 2 a create criss-crossing circular lines of retention that approximate the criss-crossing fourth and fifthgreat circles FIG. 1 d. - The front and back padding 219 and 220 in the front and
back pieces headband 200 could be made of many different materials. One such material is foam, which would be suitable for many applications. Similarly, the front andback coverings back pieces headband 200 could be made of many different materials. The front andback coverings - The first and
second straps FIGS. 2 a and 2 b are made of an elastic cord-like material The first andsecond straps headband 200 is worn. - As shown in
FIG. 2 b, one suitable connecting length adjustment means 232 and 233 is a combination of aloop 234 and a hook andloop tab 235. Such connecting length adjustment means 232 and 233 allow the size of the first andsecond straps loop 234 through which a hook andloop tab 235 can be inserted and then fastened back onto itself. The length adjustment means 232 and 233 should be of a type which are capable of allowing adjustments in the length of the first andsecond straps strap headgear 200 shown inFIGS. 2 a, 2 b and 2 c permits the first andsecond straps second straps -
FIGS. 3 a and 3 b depict aheadband 300 representing a second embodiment of the invention. Many aspects of the second embodiment of theinvention 300 emulate or resemble those of the first embodiment of theinvention 200 shown inFIGS. 2 a, 2 b and 2 c. The primary difference between thefirst embodiment 200 and thesecond embodiment 300 is the nature of the padding (not collectively numbered). In the second embodiment of theinvention 300, shown most clearly inFIG. 3 b, thepadding 340 through 342 in thefront piece 315 andpadding 343 through 345 inback piece 316 consists of several individual pads encased in a front covering 321 and a back covering 322 respectively. As in the first embodiment of theinvention 200, the front andback coverings 321 and 322 in the second embodiment of theinvention 300 could be a fabric covering. Thefront piece 315 of theheadband 300 haslower pad 340, a middle pad 341 and anupper pad 342. Similarly, theback piece 316 of theheadband 300 has alower pad 343, amiddle pad 344 and anupper pad 345. Thepads 340 through 345 may be configured such that they accommodate different shapes and features on ahuman head 100. For example, the middle pad 341 in thefront piece 315 of theheadband 300 could extend outward more to accommodate ahuman head 100 with a more protrudingfrontal bone 328. As shown inFIG. 3 a, thepads 340 through 345 may also be configured and arranged within the front andback coverings 321 and 322 to permit thepads 340 through 345 to shift to some degree on the surface of thehead 100 in the directions of thearrows 346. Such shifting of thepads 340 through 345 may be facilitated by constructing the front andback coverings 321 and 322 from a stretchable fabric and/or providing agap 347 between thepads 340 through 345. Such shifting can accommodate different shapes and features on ahuman head 100 and also allows a user to vary the position of the first andsecond straps -
FIG. 4 depicts aheadband 400 representing a third embodiment of the invention. Many aspects of the third embodiment of theinvention 400 emulate or resemble those of the first embodiment of theinvention 200 shown inFIGS. 2 a, 2 b and 2 c. The primary difference between the first embodiment of theinvention 200 and the third embodiment of theinvention 400 is the fit and retention system. The first embodiment of theinvention 200 employs twoseparate straps FIG. 4 , the third embodiment of theinvention 400 has an adjustment mechanism (not collectively numbered) with afront unit 450 and aback unit 451. Thefront unit 450 is connected to theback unit 451 on either side of thehead 100 by arivet 452 or other fixing device. Preferably therivets 452 attach thefront unit 450 andback unit 451 at the points of intersection (unnumbered) of the circular lines of retention defined by thefront unit 450 andback unit 451. - The
rivets 452 should be configured and arranged to allow thefront piece 415 andback piece 416 to move up and down in relation to one another by pivoting about therivet 452. Therivet 452 could be relatively soft, such as one made from foam or even fabric. Therivet 452 could be eliminated with thefront unit 450 and theback unit 451 simply connected at a narrowing point, but such an attachment mechanism is not preferred as such an attachment may restrict movement of the front andback pieces - The front and
back units FIG. 4 are straps The front andback units invention headband 400 is worn. - The
upper portion 453 andlower portion 454 of thefront unit 450 and/or theupper portion 455 andlower portion 456 of theback unit 451 can each be equipped with a connecting length adjustment means 432 and 433, such as a combination of a loop (unnumbered) and a hook and loop tab (unnumbered). - Despite the different configuration of the fit and retention system in the third embodiment of the
invention 400, the third embodiment of theinvention 400 could still rely on the great circle concept. In the case of the third embodiment of theinvention 400, one circular line of retention would be formed by a combination of theupper portion 453 of thefront unit 450 and thelower portion 456 of theback unit 451. Another circular line of retention would be formed by a combination of thelower portion 454 of thefront unit 450 and theupper portion 455 of theback unit 451. -
FIG. 5 depicts aheadband 500 representing a fourth embodiment of the invention. Many aspects of the fourth embodiment of theinvention 500 emulate or resemble those of the first and second embodiments of theinvention FIGS. 2 a, 2 b and 2 c, andFIGS. 3 a and 3 b, respectively. The primary difference between the first and second embodiments of theinvention invention 500 is the padding. As shown inFIG. 5 , theheadgear 500 has a unitary piece ofpadding 510 that covers the top (unnumbered) of thehead 100 as well as those portions of thehead 100 covered by the first, second and third embodiments of theinvention invention 500 functions much the same as the fit and retention system of the first and second embodiments of theinvention gap 560 in the unitary piece of padding 510 permits the size of theheadgear 500 to be expanded or contracted using the first andsecond straps -
FIG. 6 depicts aheadband 600 representing a fifth embodiment of the invention. This fifth embodiment of theinvention 600 has afront piece 615 and aback piece 616. The front andback pieces second straps straps head 100. As shown inFIG. 6 , one pair of a first and asecond strap head 100 proximate the temple (unnumbered). An identical pair of a first and asecond strap head 100 proximate the temple (unnumbered). - The fifth embodiment of the
invention 600 differs from the first embodiment of theinvention 200 in several ways. First, the first andsecond straps invention 600 do not encircle thehead 100. As shown inFIG. 6 , the first andsecond straps invention 600 are connected to the sides (unnumbered) of the front andback pieces head 100. Second, the fifth embodiment of theinvention 600 has aslot 665 through thefront piece 615 for accommodating passage of thefirst strap 617. - As with the other embodiments of the invention, the
first strap 617 andsecond strap 618 of the fifth embodiment of theinvention 600 can each be equipped with a connecting length adjustment means (not collectively numbered) proximate the rear of thehead 100, such as a first combination of afirst slot 666 in theback piece 616 and a first hook andloop tab 668 cooperatively engaging thefirst strap 617 and a second combination of asecond slot 667 in theback piece 616 and a second hook andloop tab 669 cooperatively engaging thesecond strap 618. - The first and
second straps invention 500. Given the elasticity of the first andsecond straps straps head 100 sizes. - In the end, the retention system shown in
FIG. 6 functions much the same as the first through fourth embodiments of theinvention head 100 approximating great circles, and cross each other at two points on the surface of thehead 100. In the fifth embodiment of theinvention 600, the point ofintersection 670 is proximate the mid-point of the area of overlap of thefirst strap 617 and thefront piece 615. Hence, the circular lines of retention criss-cross one another at two diameterically opposed points and allow inward pressure to be created as shown by thearrows 671 inFIG. 6 . - A chinstrap (not shown) could optionally be used with the various embodiments of the
headband - The present invention should not be considered limited to the particular examples described above, but rather should be understood to cover all aspects of the invention as fairly set out in the claims arising from this application. For example, while suitable sizes, materials, fasteners, and the like have been disclosed in the above discussion, it should be appreciated that these are provided by way of example and not of limitation as a number of other sizes, materials, fasteners, and so forth may be used without departing from the invention. Various modifications as well as numerous structures to which the present invention may be applicable will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art to which the present invention is directed upon review of the present specifications. The claims which arise from this application are intended to cover such modifications and structures.
Claims (20)
1. A protective headguard to be worn on a human head, comprising a protective pad and a retention element cooperatively attached to the protective pad wherein the headguard defines at least two separate and distinct tensioned and diametrically intersecting circumferential lines of retention when worn on the head.
2. The protective headguard of claim 1 wherein the retention element is elastic.
3. The protective headguard of claim 2 wherein the retention element defines a strap extending along at least a portion of each line of retention.
4. The protective headguard of claim 1 wherein the retention element includes a strap extending along at least a portion of each line of retention, and a length adjustment means cooperatively attached to each strap for permitting an adjustment of the length of each strap.
5. The protective headguard of claim 1 wherein the protective pad and retention element are configured and arranged such that the diametric points of intersection of the circumferential lines of retention are positioned proximate each temple of a wearer when the protective headguard is worn on the head.
6. The protective headguard of claim 1 wherein the headgear is configured and arranged so that one circumferential line of retention runs above an occipital bone of a wearer and another circumferential line of retention runs below the occipital bone of a wearer.
7. The protective headguard of claim 1 wherein the angle at which the circumferential lines of retention intersect when the headguard is worn is adjustable.
8. The protective headguard of claim 1 wherein the positions of the diametric points of intersection of the circumferential lines of retention may be circumferentially shifted.
9. A protective headguard to be worn on a human head, comprising a protective pad and a pair of separate and distinct, tensioned and diametrically intersecting retention elements attached to the protective pad.
10. The protective headguard of claim 9 wherein at least a segment of each retention element is elastic.
11. The protective headguard of claim 9 wherein the retention elements are elastic.
12. The protective headguard of claim 9 wherein the retention elements have a length and include a length adjustment means cooperatively attached to each retention element for permitting an adjustment in the tension of each retention element when the protective headguard is worn on the head.
13. The protective headguard of claim 9 wherein the protective pad and retention element are configured and arranged such that the diametric points of intersection of the circumferential lines of retention are positioned proximate each temple of a wearer when the protective headguard is worn on the head.
14. A protective headguard to be worn on a human head, comprising:
(a) a front protective piece comprising a plurality of separate pads loosely restrained within a pocket whereby each pad may shift within the pocket relative to the other pads,
(b) a rear protective piece,
(c) and a retention element interconnecting the front protective piece and the rear protective piece.
15. The protective headguard of claim 14 wherein the retention element is elastic.
16. The protective headguard of claim 15 wherein the retention element defines a strap.
17. The protective headguard of claim 14 wherein the retention element includes a strap and a length adjustment means cooperatively attached to the strap for permitting an adjustment of the length of each strap.
18. The protective headguard of claim 14 wherein the front protective piece comprises at least three separate pads.
19. The protective headguard of claim 14 wherein the pocket is divided into separate cells with a single pad retained within each cell.
20. A protective headguard to be worn on a human head, comprising a front protective piece and a rear protective piece wherein the front protective piece and the rear protective piece are pivotally attached to one another at diametrically opposed pivot points whereby the front protective piece and the rear protective piece may be independently pivoted about the pivot points.
Priority Applications (1)
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US10/816,712 US20050204456A1 (en) | 2003-04-02 | 2004-04-02 | Retention system for headgear |
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US10/816,712 US20050204456A1 (en) | 2003-04-02 | 2004-04-02 | Retention system for headgear |
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US20050204456A1 true US20050204456A1 (en) | 2005-09-22 |
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US10/816,712 Abandoned US20050204456A1 (en) | 2003-04-02 | 2004-04-02 | Retention system for headgear |
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US20160120253A1 (en) * | 2012-02-06 | 2016-05-05 | Christopher Schenk | Head Encircling Sensory Deprivation Pillow |
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US20180199653A1 (en) * | 2017-01-18 | 2018-07-19 | Quentin Kelly Paige, SR. | Lightweight protective headgear |
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US20210307441A1 (en) * | 2016-09-01 | 2021-10-07 | Adrienne Yeung | Headband with impact protection |
US20210337915A1 (en) * | 2020-04-30 | 2021-11-04 | Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA | Safety helmet with a sheathed bearing element, process for removing the sheathing from the safety helmet and process for manufacturing such a safety helmet |
US11337480B2 (en) * | 2014-04-25 | 2022-05-24 | Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. | Bicycle helmet fit system |
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USD956359S1 (en) * | 2020-01-07 | 2022-06-28 | Xenith, Llc | Protective headgear |
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-
2004
- 2004-04-02 US US10/816,712 patent/US20050204456A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US20130319422A1 (en) * | 2003-08-18 | 2013-12-05 | Ric Investments, Llc | Patient interface assembly and system using same |
US20140123372A1 (en) * | 2003-09-26 | 2014-05-08 | Charles Shen | Ball cap shield |
US20120131726A1 (en) * | 2009-08-05 | 2012-05-31 | Christopher Schenk | Head encircling sensory deprivation pillow |
US8959723B2 (en) | 2010-12-30 | 2015-02-24 | Trek Bicycle Corporation | Adjustable and vented apparel closure assembly |
US20120233746A1 (en) * | 2011-03-14 | 2012-09-20 | Jwa Seung Jin | Snowboard and ski head protector |
US20120246789A1 (en) * | 2011-04-02 | 2012-10-04 | Mia Hunter | Absorbent Headband Device |
US20160120253A1 (en) * | 2012-02-06 | 2016-05-05 | Christopher Schenk | Head Encircling Sensory Deprivation Pillow |
US9021616B2 (en) * | 2012-04-25 | 2015-05-05 | David Baty | Protective gear |
US8613114B1 (en) | 2012-07-25 | 2013-12-24 | 2nd Skull, LLC | Head guard |
US20140157494A1 (en) * | 2012-07-25 | 2014-06-12 | 2nd Skull, LLC | Head guard |
US8763166B1 (en) * | 2012-07-25 | 2014-07-01 | 2nd Skull, LLC | Head guard |
US8997265B2 (en) | 2012-07-25 | 2015-04-07 | 2nd Skull, LLC | Head guard |
US9392831B2 (en) | 2013-05-09 | 2016-07-19 | Storelli Sports, Inc. | Protective head guard |
US10219572B1 (en) * | 2014-03-10 | 2019-03-05 | John E. Whitcomb | Baseball cap having impact protection |
WO2015138078A1 (en) * | 2014-03-13 | 2015-09-17 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Protective headband |
US10716353B2 (en) | 2014-03-13 | 2020-07-21 | Matscitechno Licensing Company | Protective headband |
US11337480B2 (en) * | 2014-04-25 | 2022-05-24 | Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. | Bicycle helmet fit system |
US11154680B2 (en) | 2014-09-16 | 2021-10-26 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited | Headgear for a respiratory mask |
WO2016043602A1 (en) * | 2014-09-16 | 2016-03-24 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited | Headgear for a respiratory mask |
US10531698B2 (en) | 2016-05-06 | 2020-01-14 | Hummingbird Sports, Llc | Soft athletic helmet and rear closure mechanism |
US11470905B2 (en) | 2016-05-06 | 2022-10-18 | Hummingbird Sports, Llc | Soft athletic helmet and rear closure mechanism |
US11771166B2 (en) | 2016-05-06 | 2023-10-03 | Hummingbird Sports, Llc | Soft athletic helmet and rear closure mechanism |
US20210307441A1 (en) * | 2016-09-01 | 2021-10-07 | Adrienne Yeung | Headband with impact protection |
US20180199653A1 (en) * | 2017-01-18 | 2018-07-19 | Quentin Kelly Paige, SR. | Lightweight protective headgear |
US10959478B2 (en) | 2017-09-22 | 2021-03-30 | Hummingbird Sports, Llc | Eye protection orientation system |
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US20210337915A1 (en) * | 2020-04-30 | 2021-11-04 | Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA | Safety helmet with a sheathed bearing element, process for removing the sheathing from the safety helmet and process for manufacturing such a safety helmet |
US20220175074A1 (en) * | 2020-12-08 | 2022-06-09 | LIFT Airborne Technologies LLC | Helmet fit system |
US11583024B2 (en) * | 2020-12-08 | 2023-02-21 | LIFT Airborne Technologies LLC | Helmet fit system |
WO2024050160A1 (en) * | 2022-08-31 | 2024-03-07 | Vuzix Corporation | Headband with mountable electronics |
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