EP4212049A1 - External system for a protective helmet - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an external system (11) for a protective helmet (1), comprising: (a) a first lateral rail, (b) a second lateral rail which is arranged opposite the first lateral rail (21), (c) the first (21) and second (22) lateral rails each have at least two hooks (38, 39), (d) a central element (37) arranged between the first (21) and second (22) rails, and (e) at least a first and second cross-connection member, wherein the first cross-connection member (31) releasably connects the first side rail (21) to the central member (37) and the second cross-connection member (32) connects the second side rail (22) to the central element (37) detachably connects.

Description

1. Technical field

The present invention relates to an external system for a protective helmet, in particular a ballistic protective helmet or an impact protective helmet and a corresponding protective helmet.

2. State of the art

Protective helmets, in particular ballistic protective helmets and impact protection helmets, are used in a variety of ways by the police and military. They protect the wearer from head injuries caused by indirect or direct fire and fragments or from blunt head injuries caused by impact.

Depending on the application, it is regularly necessary to attach accessories to the outside of a protective helmet. Such accessories include, for example, a visor, a light, a night vision device, a camera or additional protective shields against direct fire from the front.

In the prior art, such accessories are attached to the protective helmet via rails or a so-called shroud.

This is how it shows AU 2021/273565 A1 a helmet accessory attachment system comprising a shroud configured to connect to a helmet and an arm assembly having a first arm configured to pivotally connect to the shroud. The system includes an accessory interface configured to be coupled to an accessory and engageable with the arm assembly.

The U.S. 2006/282939 A1 discloses a platform, referred to herein as a "mounting rail," for receiving one or more optional hard hat accessories in desired locations and with positional security. The mounting rail is secured by five fasteners, two on each side and one in front, which preferably penetrate the calotte by means of through holes shared with retaining elements (not shown).

It is disadvantageous, however, if fastening elements such as rails are fastened to the spherical cap by means of screws, bolts or in a similar manner and completely or partially penetrate the latter. One finding on which the present invention is based is that such bolts or screws engaging in the helmet shell reduce the protective effect of the helmet. For example, a bolt or screw can develop into a secondary projectile when fired on, which can seriously injure the head. It is also disadvantageous if accessories are attached to the fasteners by means of screws or bolts for the same reasons. Furthermore, the material of a projectile, although a solid, behaves like a liquid at high velocities and under the high pressures encountered on impact. In the event of an impact, the projectile can therefore "run through" even small gaps between the bolt/screw and the bore or thread in the calotte and thus directly injure the wearer's head. A hit with a heavy object can also cause bolts or screws to penetrate the calotte and severely injure the head.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve the protective effect of a protective helmet.

Furthermore, replacing the accessories in the prior art is often time-consuming due to the fact that the accessories themselves are screwed together. Especially when accessories have to be exchanged during an operation, the speed of the exchange can be of vital importance.

It is therefore a further object of the present invention to improve the interchangeability of accessories and, in particular, to enable accessories to be exchanged quickly.

3. Summary of the Invention

These objects are solved by the subject matter of the independent claims.

1. (a) eine erste seitliche Schiene,
2. (b) eine zweite seitliche Schiene, die der ersten seitlichen Schiene gegenüberliegend angeordnet ist,
3. (c) wobei die erste und die zweite seitliche Schiene jeweils mindestens zwei Haken aufweisen,
4. (d) ein zentrales Element, das zwischen der ersten und der zweiten seitlichen Schiene angeordnet ist, und
5. (e) zumindest ein erstes und zweites Querverbindungselement, wobei das erste Querverbindungselement die erste seitliche Schiene mit dem zentralen Element lösbar verbindet und das zweite Querverbindungselement die zweite seitliche Schiene mit dem zentralen Element lösbar verbindet.

One aspect of the invention relates to an external system for a protective helmet, comprising:

1. (a) a first side rail,
2. (b) a second side rail located opposite the first side rail,
3. (c) the first and second side rails each having at least two hooks,
4. (d) a central member positioned between the first and second side rails, and
5. (e) at least first and second cross-connection members, wherein the first cross-connection member releasably connects the first side rail to the central member and the second cross-connection member releasably connects the second side rail to the central member.

The protective helmet can be, for example, a ballistic protective helmet or an impact protective helmet. The described advantages of the invention have a particularly great effect for ballistic protective helmets and impact protective helmets. In particular, with ballistic protective helmets and impact protection helmets, however, there are also completely different problems than is the case, for example, with lighter helmets such as bicycle helmets or helmets such as are usually worn on construction sites. With these helmets, the problem of secondary projectiles does not exist. Concepts that are known from bicycle helmets or "construction site helmets" cannot therefore be readily transferred to ballistic protective helmets and impact protection helmets.

The external system has the advantage that it is possible to attach accessories to a helmet shell without elements such as screws or bolts engaging in the cap, while nevertheless ensuring that accessories are securely fastened. In particular, the external system according to the invention enables multi-hit-capable protection, ie even if a protective helmet is hit by several projectiles, the external system basically continues to hold on to the helmet shell, as a result of the attachment having a certain redundancy.

The outer system therefore improves the protective effect of a protective helmet compared to the prior art.

The exterior system may further include: at least third and fifth cross-connection members releasably connecting the first side rail to the center member; and
fourth and sixth cross-connecting members releasably connecting the second side rail to the central member.

This further increases the stability of the external system. This allows for heavier accessories to be accommodated and further improves the multi-hit capability of the external system.

1. (a) das erste Querverbindungselement lösbar an einem vorderen Ende der ersten seitlichen Schiene befestigt ist,
2. (b) das fünfte Querverbindungselement lösbar an einem hinteren Ende der ersten seitlichen Schiene befestigt ist; und
3. (c) das zweite Querverbindungselement lösbar an einem vorderen Ende der zweiten seitlichen Schiene befestigt ist,
4. (d) das sechste Querverbindungselement lösbar an einem hinteren Ende der zweiten seitlichen Schiene befestigt ist.

It is also possible that in the external system,

1. (a) the first cross-connection member is releasably attached to a front end of the first side rail,
2. (b) the fifth cross-link member is releasably attached to a rearward end of the first side rail; and
3. (c) the second cross-connection member is releasably attached to a front end of the second lateral rail,
4. (d) the sixth cross-link member is releasably attached to a rearward end of the second side rail.

This arrangement ensures that the outer system is held particularly securely in a spherical cap.

It is further possible that in the exterior system, a first of the at least two first side rail hooks protrudes from the front end of the first side rail and a second of the at least two first side rail hooks protrudes from the rear end of the first side rail; wherein a first of the at least two second side rail hooks protrudes from the front end of the second side rail and a second of the at least two second side rail hooks protrudes from the rear end of the second side rail.

This arrangement ensures that there is as much installation space as possible for attaching accessories to the rail, without their hold on a spherical cap suffering as a result. In particular, relatively heavy accessories can be mounted in any position.

The exterior system may further include one or more rail segments. These can be snapped into the first or second rail and thus enable modular attachment of accessories from different manufacturers.

The outer system may further comprise an adhesive element, wherein the central element is releasably adhered to the adhesive element. This arrangement improves the hold of the outer system and prevents it from slipping without having to be attached to a calotte using screws, bolts or similar.

The central element can be detachably adhered to the adhesive element via a Velcro fastener. This type of connection is particularly durable and allows for a low profile. A flat profile has a positive effect on wearing comfort, especially during fast movements and turns.

At least one of the hooks can be designed in such a way that it encompasses an edge of a cap of the protective helmet. In this way, the outer system can be attached to the cap in a simple manner without an element reaching into or through the cap.

At least one of the hooks can have a U-shaped profile. Such a profile enables the hook to be held firmly on a calotte even during rapid movements.

Each of the cross-connecting elements can be tensile. This has the advantage that the rails cannot move undesirably. For example, the cross-connection element can have a tensile strength of at least 1000 MPa, preferably at least 2000 MPa, most preferably at least 2500 MPa (measured using a method customary in the art).

The cross-connection element may comprise aramid. Aramid is very strong and non-flammable, making it a particularly preferred material. For example, an aramid can have a tensile strength of about 3000 MPa.

At least one of the cross-connection elements can comprise a tension cable. A tether may have a substantially elliptical cross-section. In particular, the tensioning cable can have a substantially circular cross section. Essentially means within the usual deviations from a mathematical circular shape or ellipse. These are at least 20%, but can be up to 50%, since the material of the tensioning cable is deformable. This shape slides particularly well and is therefore particularly practical to assemble.

A cross-connection element, on the other hand, can have a flat cross-section, similar to the shape of a flat ribbon. This means that the cross-connection element can have a thickness which is less than half as large, preferably less than one-third as large as a width of the cross-connection element.

The outer system may further include one or more guides, such as one or more cross-connector guides or one or more cable guides. These may include a polymer. A polymer offers good sliding properties.

The guide can be arranged at one or more points of engagement of the rail, for example a rear and a front point of engagement. This has the advantage that the strap can slide through the opening in the rails when it is tied down.

The cross-connection element or the tensioning cable can, for example, have an elongation at break of at least 30%, preferably at least 50%. Elongation at break is the elongation value of the cross-connection element or stay cable before a stress drop to less than or equal to 10% of the strength value occurs. This elongation at break ensures a good longevity of the cross-connection element or tension cable, even if the first or second side rail is regularly replaced or reassembled regularly, e.g. for maintenance and cleaning purposes.

It is possible that one, several or all of the tethers are attached to the central element with two arms each (per tether). This distributes loads better and improves the grip of the outer system.

The first lateral rail and/or the second lateral rail and/or the central element can comprise a metal. This improves the stability and especially the multi-hit ability of the outside system. Even if the outer system is hit by one or more projectiles, this accessory can still reliably lock in place.

The first side rail and/or the second side rail and/or the center member may comprise titanium. Titanium has the advantage that it is particularly light and resistant.

It is also possible that the first lateral rail and/or the second lateral rail and/or the central element comprises a polymer. This has the advantage that the first lateral rail and/or the second lateral rail and/or the central element can be manufactured inexpensively using the injection molding process. Advantageously, the polymer may be non-flammable.

It is possible for the first lateral rail and/or the second lateral rail and/or the central element to comprise an organo sheet. An organo sheet can include carbon fibers embedded in a polymer matrix. The polymer matrix may comprise a thermoplastic polymer. The polymer matrix can comprise a polyamide or polyetheretherketone.

Organo-Sheet has the advantage of also being multi-hit capable, in particular due to the carbon fibers. Furthermore, this makes it possible to be able to injection mold all of the holder receptacles. The carbon fibers can be woven. This has the advantage of further improving resilience.

The first side rail and/or the second side rail and/or the central element can comprise a holder for an appliqué. The bracket allows attachment of accessories (appliques) such as (but not limited to) a lamp, a camera, a visor, an additional protective shield or a night vision device.

The outer system may further include a front bracket, the front bracket being releasably attachable to the central member and having a hook. The front mount can be a shroud.

The front mount or shroud may have two hooks. This has the advantage that the tipping stability and security against twisting to the side is improved. The at least two hooks may be spaced apart by a distance that is relatively large compared to the width of the shroud or front bracket. For example, the at least two hooks can be spaced apart by at least 20%, preferably at least 50%, most preferably at least 75% of the width of the shroud or front mount.

It is also possible to use only one hook. Preferably, this one hook has a width of at least 20%, preferably at least 50%, most preferably at least 75% of the width of the shroud or front bracket. This is advantageous in that it prevents the shroud or front mount from tipping to the side.

The position of a front face is particularly important for particularly demanding applications. For example, in combat situations, most of the fire comes from the front. The shroud can be used to attach another protective shield to significantly increase the bullet resistance of a protective helmet. For example, a night vision device, a lamp and/or a camera can also advantageously be attached to the front of the outdoor system.

It is to be understood that the external system of the present invention is fundamentally interchangeable. In particular, the external system can be used on different domes. This makes it possible to combine the advantages of the external system with the advantages of certain calottes. For example, the external system according to the invention with a lighter calotte could be used when the risk level is low, while the external system according to the invention with a heavy calotte could be used in situations with a particularly high level of risk.

1. (a) eine Kalotte,
2. (b) ein Außensystem wie beschrieben, und
3. (c) wobei die Haken der ersten und zweiten seitlichen Schienen des Außensystems einen Rand der Kalotte umgreifen.

The invention also relates to a protective helmet comprising:

1. (a) a calotte,
2. (b) an outdoor system as described, and
3. (c) the hooks of the first and second side rails of the outer system gripping an edge of the dome.

The protective helmet according to the invention combines all the advantages of the outer system described above with a calotte, which therefore provides improved protection and greater comfort for the wearer.

The cap can include titanium, titanium-PE, titanium-aramid, PE-aramid, PE, and/or a PE-carbon-aramid material. PE stands for polyethylene. These materials are light and durable.

The adhesive element can be attached to the cap via an adhesive connection. This enables secure attachment and prevents the outer system from slipping.

The outer system can be fastened to the cap without an element reaching into or through the cap. An engaging or penetrating element can be a screw or a bolt, for example. This can evolve into a secondary projectile under fire and severely injure the wearer's head. Even under the influence of an impact, an element that penetrates or penetrates can injure the head. Furthermore, the material of a projectile, although a solid, behaves like a liquid at high velocities and under the high pressures encountered on impact. In the event of an impact, the projectile can therefore "run through" even small gaps between the bolt/screw and the bore or thread in the calotte and thus directly injure the wearer's head.

The invention therefore significantly improves the protective effect of the protective helmet.

The invention also relates to a visor adapter for an external system for a protective helmet, the visor adapter having a substantially circular shape in a first cross-sectional plane.

The visor adapter may include an inner visor coupling portion and an outer visor coupling portion.

The outer visor coupling area may present a recess opposite an edge of the visor adapter.

The inner visor coupling area can represent a (further) recess compared to the outer visor coupling area.

The inner visor coupling portion may include a substantially rectangular outline, with an inner end of the inner visor coupling portion including angled edges.

The visor adapter may include a top, a right side, a bottom, and a left side. This information relates to the installation situation.

The outer visor coupling portion may have a generally U-shape including a first apex and a second apex. This U-shaped form resembles a dovetail guide and has the advantage that a visor is particularly well secured against slipping out on three sides, namely a right side, a bottom side and a left side. The outer visor coupling area may be open to a top of the visor adapter so that a visor can be inserted.

The inner visor coupling portion may have an upper edge. This upper edge can secure a visor against slipping out of the visor adapter.

An apex distance from an inner end of the outer visor coupling portion to an outer end of the outer visor coupling portion may continuously increase.

The visor adapter enables a visor to be securely but detachably attached to the first and/or second rail of the external system according to the invention.

The sight adapter may include three bores for attachment to a first or second rail. This is a particularly modular design.

However, the visor adapter can also be welded directly onto the first or second rail. Then the drilling is not necessary. This configuration is particularly resistant.

The visor adapter may further include a first oval opening and a second oval opening. The first and second oval openings may be located on opposite sides of the inner visor coupling area and the outer visor coupling area.

The visor adapter can have a coupling direction along which a visor part can be inserted. The outer visor coupling area can be arranged mirror-symmetrically about a central axis, which can be arranged parallel to the coupling direction. The inner visor coupling area can be arranged mirror-symmetrically about the central axis.

4. Short description of the figures

• 1a to 1r (there is no Fig. 1o) show exemplary embodiments of various components of an external system according to the invention and a protective helmet:
  • Fig. 1a shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention,
  • Fig. 1b shows a side view of the protective helmet according to the invention,
  • 1c shows a view from above of the protective helmet according to the invention,
  • Fig. 1d shows a rear view of the protective helmet according to the invention,
  • Fig. 1e shows an example shroud,
  • 1f shows an example rail, here: A rail with a visor mount,
  • 1g shows an example rail, here: a rail with a rail mount,
  • Fig. 1h shows an example rail, here: A rail with a visor and rail mount,
  • Figure 1i shows exemplary rail segments according to a first variant,
  • Fig. 1j shows exemplary rail segments according to a second variant,
  • Figure 1k shows the locking mechanism of the rail segments,
  • Fig. 1l Figure 12 shows a front view of an exemplary central element and exemplary cross-connection elements.
  • 1m Figure 12 shows a side view of an exemplary central element and exemplary cross-connection elements.
  • Fig. 1n Figure 12 shows a rear view of an example center member and example cross-connection members.
  • Fig. 1p (there is no Fig. 1o) shows a view from above of an exemplary central element and exemplary cross-connection elements,
  • Fig. 1q shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention before mounting the rails, and
  • Fig. 1r shows a side view of the protective helmet according to the invention during assembly of a rail;
• Figures 2a to 2h show an exemplary protective helmet according to the present invention:
  • Figure 2a shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention,
  • Figure 2b shows a side view of the protective helmet according to the invention,
  • Figure 2c shows a view from above of the protective helmet according to the invention,
  • Fig. 2d shows a view from above of the protective helmet according to the invention before the assembly of some cross-connection elements,
  • Figure 2e shows a view from above of the protective helmet according to the invention during the assembly of a cross-connection element,
  • Fig. 2f shows a view from below of the protective helmet according to the invention, in particular two hooks per rail are visible,
  • 2g shows a close-up view of a first hook, and
  • Fig. 2h shows a close-up view of a second hook;
• 3a to 3l show exemplary embodiments of various components of an external system according to the invention and a protective helmet according to a further variant:
  • Figure 3a shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention,
  • Figure 3b shows a side view of the protective helmet according to the invention,
  • 3c shows a view from above of the protective helmet according to the invention,
  • 3d shows a rear view of the protective helmet according to the invention,
  • Figure 3e shows an example rail, here: A rail with a visor and rail mount,
  • Fig. 3f shows an example rail, here: a dummy module,
  • 3g Figure 12 shows a front view of an exemplary central element and exemplary cross-connection elements.
  • Fig. 3h Figure 12 shows a side view of an exemplary central element and exemplary cross-connection elements.
  • Figure 3i Figure 12 shows a rear view of an example center member and example cross-connection members.
  • Fig. 3j Figure 12 shows a top view of an exemplary central element and exemplary cross-connection elements,
  • 3k shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention before the assembly of the rails and during the assembly of the shroud, and
  • Fig. 3l shows a side view of the protective helmet according to the invention during assembly of a rail (without shroud); and
• Figures 4a to 4d show a visor adapter according to an aspect of the present invention.

5. Detailed description of the figures

The figures show exemplary protective helmets, external systems and their components. Some figures only show certain parts of the outer system or the protective helmet.

1a to 1r (there are no Fig. 1o) show exemplary embodiments of various components of an outer system according to the invention and a protective helmet.

Fig. 1a shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention, Fig. 1b shows a side view of the protective helmet according to the invention, 1c shows a view from above of the protective helmet according to the invention and Fig. 1d shows a rear view of the protective helmet according to the invention.

1. (a) eine Kalotte 16,
2. (b) ein Außensystem 11, und
3. (c) wobei die Haken 38, 39 der ersten und zweiten seitlichen Schienen des Außensystems einen Rand der Kalotte 16 umgreifen. Der Schutzhelm weist einen Stirnbereich 2 und einen Hinterkopfbereich 3 auf.

The protective helmet 1 includes:

1. (a) a calotte 16,
2. (b) an outdoor system 11, and
3. (c) the hooks 38, 39 of the first and second side rails of the outer system gripping an edge of the dome 16. The protective helmet has a forehead area 2 and a back area 3 .

The cap 16 includes an ear protection 4, which is designed to be particularly deep in order to ensure excellent protection of the ears.

1. (a) eine erste seitliche Schiene 21,
2. (b) eine zweite seitliche Schiene 22, die der ersten seitlichen Schiene gegenüberliegend angeordnet ist,
3. (c) wobei die erste und die zweite seitliche Schiene 22 jeweils mindestens zwei Haken 38, 39 aufweisen,
4. (d) ein zentrales Element 37, das zwischen der ersten und der zweiten seitlichen Schiene angeordnet ist, und
5. (e) zumindest ein erstes 31 und zweites 32 Querverbindungselement, wobei das erste Querverbindungselement 31 die erste seitliche Schiene 21 mit dem zentralen Element lösbar verbindet und das zweite Querverbindungselement die zweite seitliche Schiene mit dem zentralen Element lösbar verbindet.

The exemplary external system 11 for a protective helmet 1 includes:

1. (a) a first side rail 21,
2. (b) a second side rail 22 located opposite the first side rail,
3. (c) the first and second side rails 22 each having at least two hooks 38, 39,
4. (d) a central member 37 positioned between the first and second side rails, and
5. (e) at least a first 31 and second 32 cross-connection member, wherein the first cross-connection member 31 releasably connects the first side rail 21 to the central member and the second cross-connection member releasably connects the second side rail to the central member.

In this embodiment, the outer system 11 further includes at least a third 33 and fifth 35 cross-connection member releasably connecting the first side rail 21 to the central member; and fourth 34 and sixth 36 cross-connecting members releasably connecting the second side rail 22 to the central member.

In this example, the cross-connecting elements 31-36 are designed as flat strips, the width of which is at least three times the thickness. The cross-ties 31-36 comprise a non-combustible aramid material and a tensile strength of about 3000 MPa.

1. (a) das erste Querverbindungselement 31 lösbar an einem vorderen Ende der ersten seitlichen Schiene 21 befestigt,
2. (b) das fünfte Querverbindungselement 35 lösbar an einem hinteren Ende der ersten seitlichen Schiene 21 befestigt; und
3. (c) das zweite Querverbindungselement 32 lösbar an einem vorderen Ende der zweiten seitlichen Schiene 22 befestigt,
4. (d) das sechste Querverbindungselement 36 lösbar an einem hinteren Ende der zweiten seitlichen Schiene 22 befestigt.

In this embodiment:

1. (a) the first cross-link member 31 is removably attached to a front end of the first side rail 21,
2. (b) the fifth cross-link member 35 is releasably attached to a rear end of the first side rail 21; and
3. (c) the second cross-link member 32 is releasably attached to a front end of the second side rail 22,
4. (d) the sixth cross-link member 36 is releasably attached to a rearward end of the second side rail 22 .

The outer system 11 includes a front bracket, in this example a shroud 40, the front bracket 40 being releasably attachable to the central member and having a hook (see Fig Fig. 1e ). The external system 11 thus enables the shroud 40 to be fastened in a forehead area 2 of the protective helmet. An example shroud 40 is in Fig. 1e shown. The shroud 40 has, in this example, a hook in the form of a U-shaped profile 48, which is used to attach the shroud 40 to the cap 16 (to the rear of the shroud 40 shown in FIG Fig. 1e is shown). The hook 48 has a width that is approximately 80% of the width of the shroud. The Dome does not require any special configuration. It is only necessary that the dimension of the profile is adapted to the thickness of the calotte. It is possible that the profile is slightly bent during assembly, for example with the help of pliers, in order to enable an exact fit. For this purpose, the hook 48, in particular the U-shaped profile 48, can be bent. However, it is possible to further improve the hold of the shroud 40 in that the spherical cap has a (specially) designed profile for engaging the hook 48 in the form of a notch or indentation into which the hook 48 can engage.

It is also possible for the shroud to include more than one hook, for example two hooks. These could, for example, be arranged at a distance of at least 50% of the width of the shroud.

In this example, the first lateral rail 21 and the second lateral rail 22 and the central element 37 comprise a holder for an appliqué, e.g., an accessory.

1f shows an exemplary second rail, here: a rail with a visor mount 23, 1g shows an exemplary rail comprising a rail mount 24 and Fig. 1h shows an exemplary rail comprising a combined sight and rail mount. The visor holder 23 serves to hold a visor. The rail holder 24 is used to attach rail segments 25 (see Figures 1i to 1k ) and can thus accommodate various accessories from different manufacturers. The combined visor/rail mount enables both and is therefore particularly versatile.

In this example, a first of the at least two hooks 38, 39 of the second side rail 22 projects from the front end of the second side rail 22 and a second of the at least two hooks 38, 39 of the second side rail 22 projects from the rear end of the second lateral rail 22 (see Figures 1f to 1h ). In this example, the second side rail 22 is a left rail as shown in the figures.

Also in this embodiment, a first of the at least two hooks of the first side rail 21 protrudes from the front end of the first side rail 21 and a second of the at least two hooks of the first side rail 21 protrudes from the rear end of the first side rail (not shown). The rails shown Figures 1f to 1h are example so pronounced that they can be arranged on a left side of a protective helmet. In this example, the right rail is the first side rail, so an example right rail is not shown. However, corresponding right-hand rails are similarly pronounced.

In this example both first hooks 38 and both second hooks 39 have a U-shaped profile.

In this example, the cap 16 has an L-shaped outer shape 18 in the area of the first hook 38, with the first hook 38 sitting in the L-shaped outer shape 18 so that it is particularly securely held on the cap. In the area of the second hook 39, the spherical cap has an edge 19, which the second hook 38 engages behind, so that this too sits securely. In principle, however, no special configuration of the spherical cap is required. Numerous possible structures are contemplated. Only the first 38 and second 39 hooks have to be designed in such a way that they can grip an edge of the spherical cap. This already ensures a secure hold. It is possible that the first 38 and second 39 hooks are bendable and can thus be adapted even better to the cap, for example using pliers.

Figure 1i shows exemplary rail segments according to a first variant and Fig. 1j shows exemplary rail segments according to a second variant. Figure 1k 12 shows the latching mechanism of the rail segments 25. The rail segments 25 allow various accessories to be attached to the first lateral rail and the second lateral rail in a modular manner. The rail segments 25 have a rail latching portion 26 and an accessory latching portion 27 on an opposite side of the rail segment. According to the first variant, the accessory latching portion 27 has a plurality of notches. According to the second variant, the accessory latching portion 27 has a plurality of projections.

Fig. 1l 14 shows a front view of an example center member 37 and an example first cross-connection member 31 and an example second cross-connection member. The central element 37 has a tensioning strap 42 for a shroud (the shroud 40 is described in Fig. 1e shown). Furthermore, the central element 37 has a securing system 43, in this case an eyelet, which is attached to a strap. This is used for additional security, for example the shroud 40. The security system 43, which is purely an example here is pronounced, secures a night vision device mounted on the Shroud 40. Should it come to the case that the night vision device unintentionally detaches itself from the shroud 40, it would fall to the ground and break without a safety system 43, which can have the form of a band, strap, or bungee cord, and can also be referred to as a bungee go. The security system 43 prevents the night vision device from being damaged. It is possible for a safety system 43 to be fitted on the left and right in order to further improve protection.

The securing system 43 is attached to a strap 53 as shown by the arrow. The band 53 can be elastic. The central element 37 includes a front flap 52. The security system 43 can be stowed under the front flap 52, so that the security system 43 does not hook it undesirably.

Fig. 11 shows a side view of an exemplary central member 37 and exemplary cross-connecting members 31-36. The central element 37 includes a securing flap 44 with hook tape and a surface with loop tape 45. These can be folded on top of each other (indicated by the arrow) and fastened so that a tension strap with Velcro tape 46 can be securely fastened in between. The tensioning strap then serves as a cross-connection element. The tensioning belt can be tensile.

FIG. 14 shows a rear view of exemplary central member 37 and exemplary cross-connecting members 31-36. The central element 37 has a notch 47 which advantageously serves as a positioning aid. The notch 47 is arranged symmetrically and centrally along a longitudinal axis of the central element 37 .

Fig. 1p (there is no Fig. 1o) shows a view from above of an exemplary central element 37 and exemplary cross-connecting elements 31-36. The Fig. 1p shows the securing of the tensioning straps that form the cross-connecting elements 31-36 by means of a securing flap 44. It is also possible to fasten the cross-connecting elements firmly to the central element. In this case, the flap 44 serves to cover the transition and thus protect it from wear.

Furthermore, the securing flap 44 has the advantage of improving the securing of the cross-connection elements. The safety flap 44 causes advantageously that the cross-connecting elements 31-36 cannot be opened inadvertently.

The safety flap 44 may comprise non-combustible aramid. This will protect the underlying cross-connectors against fire. In the event of snow and/or sand, mud or morass, the safety flap 44 protects the cross-connection elements located underneath from icing or dirt. The safety flap 44 therefore preferably covers the cross-connection elements and preferably has the size and shape required for this. The safety flap 44 can also have a much larger area that it can create adhesion to other adhesion elements laterally around the cross-connection elements.

Fig. 1q shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention before mounting the rails. In particular, the assembly process of the shroud 40 is shown. The shroud 40 is clamped with the U-shaped profile behind the cap 16 and lashed with the tensioning belt for the shroud 40.

Fig. 1r 12 shows a side view of the protective helmet of the present invention during assembly of the exemplary second lateral rail.

In this example, the first side rail 21 and the second side rail 22 comprise a metal, in this case titanium. It is also possible for the central element 37 to comprise a metal, in particular titanium.

Figures 2a to 2h show another exemplary protective helmet 1 according to the present invention:
Figure 2a shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention, Figure 2b shows a side view of the protective helmet according to the invention, Figure 2c shows a view from above of the protective helmet according to the invention, Fig. 2d shows a view from above of the protective helmet according to the invention before the assembly of some cross-connection elements and Figure 2e shows a view from above of the protective helmet according to the invention during the assembly of a transverse connection element.

The protective helmet 1 and the external system 11 of Figures 2a to 2h are basically similar to the safety helmet 1 and external system 11 of 1a to 1r . Therefore, on the description of 1a to 1r referenced to avoid repetition. The outdoor system 11 of Figures 2a to 2h has a first adhesive element 41a, the central element 37 releasably adhering to the first adhesive element 41a. In this case, the central element 37 detachably adheres to the first adhesive element 41a via a Velcro fastener. This is especially good in the Fig. 2d and 2e recognizable.

In Figure 2b the visor adapter 61, which is included in a visor holder, is also clearly visible. The exemplary visor adapter 61 is shown in FIGS Figures 4a to 4d further described.

Furthermore, the outer system 11 has a second adhesive element 41b. In this example, the first adhesive element 41a and the second adhesive element 41b are spatially separated from one another. However, it is possible for these to be formed integrally. The adhesive elements 41a and 41b are glued to the cap 16. However, it is also possible to weld these to the spherical cap.

In this case, the central element 37 also detachably adheres to the second adhesive element 41b via a Velcro fastener. Incidentally, in this example, the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth cross-connection element are also releasably attached to the first adhesive element 41a via a Velcro fastener. This improves the grip of the outer system, but is optional.

The first adhesive element 41a and the second adhesive element 41b are attached to the cap 16 via an adhesive connection. In this case it is an adhesive connection.

The outer system 11 is therefore fastened to the cap 16 without an element reaching into or through the cap 16 .

Fig. 2f shows a view from below of the protective helmet according to the invention, in particular two hooks per rail are visible. 2g shows a close-up view of a first hook and Fig. 2h shows a close-up of a second hook. It is particularly evident here that the first and second hooks have a U-shaped profile.

The protective helmet 1 also has an innovative interior system 10 . This is the subject of another application.

3a to 3l show exemplary embodiments of various components of an external system according to the invention and a protective helmet according to a further variant. The protective helmet 1 according to this variant is similar to the protective helmet 1 of 1a to 1r . It is therefore on the description of 1a to 1r as well as the 2a to 2f referenced to avoid repetition.

A difference from the protective helmet 1 and external system 11 of 1a to 1r is that the cross-connecting elements of the 3a to 3l include a tether. Another difference lies in the design of the rails.

The protective helmet 1 comprises: (a) a calotte 16, (b) an outer system 11, and (c) wherein the hooks of the first and second side rails of the outer system enclose an edge of the calotte 16.

1. (a) eine erste seitliche Schiene 21,
2. (b) eine zweite seitliche Schiene 22, die der ersten seitlichen Schiene gegenüberliegend angeordnet ist,
3. (c) wobei die erste und die zweite seitliche Schiene 22 jeweils mindestens zwei Haken aufweisen,
4. (d) ein zentrales Element 37, das zwischen der ersten und der zweiten seitlichen Schiene angeordnet ist, und
5. (e) zumindest ein erstes und zweites Querverbindungselement, wobei das erste Querverbindungselement die erste seitliche Schiene mit dem zentralen Element lösbar verbindet und das zweite Querverbindungselement die zweite seitliche Schiene mit dem zentralen Element lösbar verbindet.

The external system 11 for the protective helmet 1 includes:

1. (a) a first side rail 21,
2. (b) a second side rail 22 located opposite the first side rail,
3. (c) the first and second side rails 22 each having at least two hooks,
4. (d) a central member 37 positioned between the first and second side rails, and
5. (e) at least first and second cross-connection members, wherein the first cross-connection member releasably connects the first side rail to the central member and the second cross-connection member releasably connects the second side rail to the central member.

Figure 3a shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention, Figure 3b shows a side view of the protective helmet according to the invention, 3c shows a view from above of the protective helmet according to the invention, 3d shows a rear view of the protective helmet according to the invention. It is shown that in this example each of the tethers, ie each of the cross-connecting elements, is attached to the central element with two arms each (per tether). The structure of the tension cables is in the Fig. 3h shown in more detail. The

Guy lines in this example comprise aramid and are tensile and non-combustible.

Figure 3e shows an exemplary rail comprising a combined sight and rail mount. A hook element is clamped behind the visor mount 23 . A cable guide 28 in the form of a clip is clamped behind the rail. The clip improves the guidance of the tensioning cables. The clip includes a polymer. This reduces friction and prevents damage to the tension cable.

Fig. 3f shows an exemplary rail 22, comprising a dummy module 29 and a rail mount. The dummy module 29 is used to prevent snagging of the rail 22 in use, e.g. on a bush, undergrowth or the like, or on clothing when a visor is not required and therefore part of the rail 22 is exposed. In addition, the dummy module 29 also serves to protect a visor adapter against damage in the event of an impact on or with a hard object such as a rock, stone, metal object or the like.

3g 12 shows a front view of an exemplary central member 37 and exemplary cross-connection members. The structure is similar to Fig. 1l as described above. Reference is made to the above description.

Fig. 3h 14 shows a side view of an exemplary center member 37 and exemplary cross-connection members. In the upper area of the Fig. 3h an enlargement section is shown.

Each tensioning cable, e.g. the tensioning cable 32, has an end 49 fixed under one safety flap and an end 50 clamped under another safety flap. At the end 50 clamped under the safety flap, a Velcro flag 51 is clamped under the safety flap. The safety flap includes a hook strap. The central element 37 also includes a fleece surface for further fixation.

In order to compensate for the length tolerance on the helmet shell, in this example the end 50 and the securing flap with the hook strip 44 are slightly longer to give the Velcro flag 51 enough room for adhesion.

Figure 3i 14 shows a rear view of an example center member 37 and example cross-connection members. The structure is similar to that in FIG. 1 as described above. Reference is made to the above description.

Fig. 3j 12 shows a top view of an exemplary central member 37 and exemplary cross-connection members.

3k shows a front view of the protective helmet according to the invention before the assembly of the rails and during the assembly of the Shroud 40.

Fig. 3l shows a side view of the protective helmet according to the invention during the assembly of a rail (without shroud 40).

Figures 4a to 4d show a visor adapter 61 for a protective helmet according to the present invention.

In a first cross-sectional plane (shown in Figure 4a ) has a substantially circular shape.

Figure 4a shows a rear view of the visor adapter 61.

Figure 4b shows a front view of the visor adapter 61.

In this example, the sight adapter 61 comprises three bores 62a, 62b, 62c for attachment to a first or second rail (cf Figure 3e ). The adapter is also connected to the rail 1f compatible (there a cover covers the three holes that are in Figure 3e are visible). However, the visor adapter can also be welded directly onto the first or second rail. Then the bores 62a, 62b, 62c are not required.

The visor adapter 61 includes a top 81, a right side 82, a bottom 83 and a left side 84. This information relates to the installation situation (see Figure 2b ).

The visor adapter 61 includes an inner visor coupling portion 63 and an outer visor coupling portion 64. The inner visor coupling portion 63 includes a generally rectangular outline with an inner end 65 including angled edges.

The outer visor coupling area 64 represents a depression opposite the edge 69. The inner visor coupling area 63 represents a (further) depression compared to the outer visor coupling region 64.

The outer visor coupling portion 64 has a generally U-shaped shape including a first apex 71 and a second apex 72 with an apex distance 68 continuously increasing from an inner end 66 of the outer visor coupling portion 64 to an outer end 67 of the outer visor coupling portion 64 . This U-shaped form is similar to a dovetail guide and has the advantage that a visor (not shown) is secured particularly well against slipping out on three sides, namely a right side 82, a bottom 83 and a left side 84. The outer visor coupling portion 64 is open to a top 81 of the visor adapter 61 so that a visor can be inserted.

The inner visor coupling portion 63 has an upper edge 77 (see FIG Figure 4b and 4c ). This upper edge 77 secures the visor (not shown) against sliding up out of the visor adapter 61. It is possible that the mating part of the visor is spring-loaded and therefore can only be released by overcoming the spring force on a visor release lever and therefore the undercut behind the upper edge 77 becomes free.

The visor adapter 61 also has a first oval opening 73 and a second oval opening 74 . The first 73 and second 74 oval openings are located on opposite sides of the inner visor coupling portion 63 and the outer visor coupling portion 64 .

The visor adapter 61 has a coupling direction 75 along which a visor part can be inserted. The outer visor coupling area 64 is arranged mirror-symmetrically about a central axis 76 which is arranged parallel to the coupling direction 75 . The inner visor coupling area 63 is arranged mirror-symmetrically about a central axis 76 which is arranged parallel to the coupling direction 75 .

Figure 4c shows three different perspective views of the visor adapter according to the invention.

Figure 4d shows two further views of the visor adapter according to the invention. The right side of the Figure 4d shows a cross-section along section EE as indicated on the left.

The visor adapter shown enables a visor to be securely attached to the first or second rail of the external system according to the invention. Only a few possible embodiments of the invention have been described above by way of example. It should be understood that these example embodiments may be modified and combined in many ways where compatible, and that certain features may be omitted where unnecessary.

The scope of protection is determined by the patent claims and is not limited by the exemplary embodiments.

References:

1

hard hat

2

forehead area

3

occipital area

4

ear protection

10

indoor system

11

outdoor system

16

cap

18

L-shaped outer shape

19

edge

21

First side rail

22

Second side rail

23

visor mount

23a

hook element

24

rail mount

25

rail segment

26

Snap section for rail

27

Snap-in section for accessories

28

cable guide

29

dummy module

31

first cross-connection element

32

second cross-connection element

33

third cross-connection element

34

fourth cross-connection element

35

fifth cross-connection element

36

sixth cross-connection element

37

Central element

38

First catch

39

Second hook

40

shroud

41a

First adhesive element

41b

Second adhesive element

42

Tension straps for Shroud

43

security system

44

Safety flap with hook strap

45

Velcro surface

46

Tension straps with Velcro

47

notch

48

U-shaped profile

49

End fixed under flap

50

End trapped under safety flap

51

Velcro flag

52

Front flap

53

Elastic band

61

visor adapter

62a,b,c

drilling

63

Inner visor coupling area

64

Outer visor coupling area

65

Inner end of the inner visor coupling area

66

Inner end of the outer visor coupling area

67

Outer end of the outer visor coupling area

68

crest distance

69

edge

71

First vertex

72

second vertex

73

First oval opening

74

Second oval opening

75

coupling direction

76

central axis

77

Upper edge of the inner visor coupling area

81

top of the visor adapter

82

Right side of the visor adapter

83

underside of the visor adapter

84

Left side of the visor adapter

Claims (15)

External system (11) for a protective helmet (1), comprising: (a) a first side rail, (b) a second side rail located opposite the first side rail (21), (c) the first (21) and second (22) side rails each having at least two hooks (38, 39), (d) a central member (37) disposed between the first (21) and second (22) rails, and (e) at least first and second cross-connection members, the first cross-connection member (31) releasably connecting the first side rail (21) to the central member (37) and the second cross-connection member (32) releasably connecting the second side rail (22) to the central one Element (37) releasably connects. The outdoor system (11) of claim 1 further comprising
at least a third (33) and fifth (35) cross-connection member releasably connecting the first side rail to the central member (37); and fourth (34) and sixth (36) cross-connecting members releasably connecting the second side rail (22) to the central member (37). External system (11) according to the preceding claim, (a) the first cross-link member (31) being releasably attached to a front end of the first side rail (21), (b) the fifth cross-link member (35) being releasably attached to a rear end of the first side rail (21); and (c) the second cross-link member (32) being releasably attached to a front end of the second side rail (22), (d) the sixth cross-link member (36) being releasably attached to a rearward end of the second side rail (22). External system (11) according to any one of the preceding claims,
a first (38) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the first side rail (21) protruding from the front end of the first side rail (21) and a second (39) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the first rail protrudes from the rear end of the first side rail (21); a first (38) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the second side rail (22) protruding from the front end of the second side rail (22) and a second (39) of the at least two hooks (38, 39) of the second side rail (22) protrudes from the rear end of the second side rail (22). An exterior system (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an adhesive element (41a, 41b), the central element being releasably adhered to the adhesive element (41a, 41b). External system (11) according to the preceding claim, wherein the central element is releasably adhered to the adhesive element (41a, 41b) via a Velcro fastener. An exterior system (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the hooks (38, 39) has a U-shaped profile. An outdoor system (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the cross-connection elements (31-36) comprises a tether. An exterior system (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first lateral rail and/or the second lateral rail and/or the central element (37) comprises a metal. Outer system (11) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first lateral rail (21) and/or the second lateral rail (22) and/or the central element (37) comprises titanium. External system (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first lateral rail (21) and/or the second lateral rail (22) and/or the central element (37) comprises a holder for an applique. An outdoor system (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a front bracket (40), the front bracket (40) being releasably attachable to the central member (37) and having a hook (48). Protective helmet (1) comprising: (a) a cap (16), (b) an outdoor system (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, and (c) the hooks of the first and second side rails (22)n of the outer system (11)s gripping an edge of the dome (16). Protective helmet (1) according to the preceding claim and one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the adhesive element (41a, 41b) is attached to the cap (16) via an adhesive connection. Visor adapter (61) for an external system (11) for a protective helmet (1), wherein the visor adapter has a substantially circular shape in a first cross-sectional plane, wherein the visor adapter (61) comprises an inner visor coupling area (63) and an outer visor coupling area (64), wherein the inner visor coupling portion (63) includes a substantially rectangular contour, an inner end (65) of the inner visor coupling portion including angled edges, the outer visor coupling portion (64) having a substantially U-shape comprising a first crest (71) and a second crest (72), a crest distance (68) increasing from an inner end (66) to an outer end (67), the outer visor coupling portion (64) being a recess opposite a rim (69) of the visor adapter (61), and the inner visor coupling area (63) being a recess relative to the outer visor coupling area (64).

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