Patent Publication Number: US-2017347736-A1

Title: Helmet comprising integrated rotational impact attenuation and fit system

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application 62/347,053, filed Jun. 7, 2016 titled “Integrated Rotational Impact Attenuation and Fit System,” the entirety of the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by this reference. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This disclosure relates to a protective helmet comprising an integrated rotational impact attenuation and fit system and method of forming the same. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Protective headgear and helmets have been used in a wide variety of applications and across a number of industries including sports, athletics, construction, mining, military defense, and others, to prevent damage to a user&#39;s head and brain. Damage and injury to a user can be prevented or reduced by helmets that prevent hard objects or sharp objects from directly contacting the user&#39;s head. Damage and injury to a user can also be prevented or reduced by helmets that absorb, distribute, or otherwise manage energy of an impact. 
     SUMMARY 
     A need exists for an improved helmet. Accordingly, in an aspect, a helmet can comprise an energy absorbing shell comprising an outer surface and an inner surface opposite the outer surface. A fit system member can be coupled to a rear of the energy absorbing shell and adjustable to fit the helmet for a user. A sliding layer can comprise an outer sliding layer surface oriented towards the inner surface of the energy absorbing shell and an inner sliding layer surface opposite the outer sliding layer surface. The sliding layer can comprise at least one attachment member and at least one integrated fit system arm. The at least one integrated fit system arm can be coupled to the fit system member. An elastomeric member can comprise a first end coupled to the energy absorbing shell and a second end coupled to the at least one attachment member of the sliding layer. Comfort padding coupled to the inner surface of the sliding layer. 
     The helmet can further comprise the comfort padding being disposed over the second end of the elastomeric member and the at least one attachment member of the sliding layer. The at least one attachment member of the sliding layer can be formed as an opening in the sliding layer, the second end of the elastomeric member can be disposed within the opening in the sliding layer, and the first end of the elastomeric member can be coupled to the energy absorbing shell with a pin. Helmet straps can be coupled to the energy absorbing shell and threaded through the fit system member. A second sliding layer can be disposed between the outer surface of the sliding layer and the outer surface of the energy absorbing shell. The sliding layer can be injection molded. The fit system member can be formed as a fit system cradle comprising a pinion, and the at least one integrated fit system arm can comprise a first fit system arm and a second fit system arm, the first fit system arm comprising teeth contacting a first side of the pinion and a the second fit system arm comprising teeth contacting a second side of the pinion. 
     In another aspect, a helmet can comprise an energy absorbing shell comprising an outer surface and an inner surface opposite the outer surface. A fit system member can be disposed inward of the energy absorbing shell and adjustable to adjust a fit of the helmet. A sliding layer can comprise an outer sliding layer surface oriented towards the inner surface of the energy absorbing shell and an inner sliding layer surface opposite the outer surface. The sliding layer can comprise an attachment member and at least one fit system arm. The at least one fit system arm can be coupled to the fit system member. An elastomeric member can comprise a first end coupled to the energy absorbing shell and a second end coupled to the attachment member of the sliding layer. 
     The helmet can further comprise the attachment member of the sliding layer being formed as an opening in the sliding layer, the second end of the elastomeric member being disposed within the opening in the sliding layer, and the first end of the elastomeric member being coupled to the energy absorbing shell. Helmet straps can be coupled to the energy absorbing shell and threaded through the fit system member. A second sliding layer can be disposed between the outer surface of the sliding layer and the outer surface of the energy absorbing shell. The sliding layer can be injection molded. The fit system member can be formed as a fit system cradle comprising a pinion, and the at least one integrated fit system arm can comprise a first fit system arm and a second fit system arm, the first fit system arm comprising teeth contacting a first side of the pinion and a the second fit system arm comprising teeth contacting a second side of the pinion. The fit system cradle can be coupled to the energy absorbing shell with a pin. 
     In another aspect, the helmet can further comprise an energy absorbing shell comprising an outer surface and an inner surface opposite the outer surface. A fit system member can be disposed inward of the energy absorbing shell. A sliding layer comprising at least one fit system arm can be coupled to the fit system member. An elastomeric member can be coupled to the energy absorbing shell and the sliding layer. 
     The helmet can further comprise the comfort padding being disposed over where the elastomeric member is coupled to the sliding layer. The sliding layer can comprise an opening disposed in the sliding layer, the elastomeric member can comprise a second end disposed within the opening in the sliding layer, and the elastomeric member can comprise a first end coupled to the energy absorbing shell with a pin. A second sliding layer can be disposed between the outer surface of the sliding layer and the outer surface of the energy absorbing shell. The fit system member can be formed as a fit system cradle comprising a pinion, and the at least one integrated fit system arm can comprise a first fit system arm and a second fit system arm, the first fit system arm comprising teeth contacting a first side of the pinion and a the second fit system arm comprising teeth contacting a second side of the pinion. The sliding layer can be formed with injection molding. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  shows an embodiment of a helmet comprising an integrated rotational impact attenuation and fit system. 
         FIG. 2  shows a rotational sliding layer for an integrated rotational impact attenuation and fit system. 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  show a fit system member for the integrated fit system. 
         FIGS. 4A-4C  show various views of a fit system member being coupled to a rotational sliding layer. 
         FIGS. 5A-5C  show various views of a rotational sliding layer fit system. 
         FIGS. 6A-6D  show elastomeric members coupled to a rotational sliding layer fit system. 
         FIGS. 7A and 7B  show straps coupled to a helmet comprising an integrated rotational impact attenuation and fit system. 
         FIGS. 8A and 8B  show detail at an interior of a helmet comprising an integrated rotational impact attenuation and fit system. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     This disclosure, its aspects and implementations, are not limited to the specific helmet or material types, or other system component examples, or methods disclosed herein. Many additional components, manufacturing and assembly procedures known in the art consistent with helmet manufacture are contemplated for use with particular implementations from this disclosure. Accordingly, for example, although particular protective helmets are disclosed, such protective helmets and implementing components may comprise any shape, size, style, type, model, version, measurement, concentration, material, quantity, and/or the like as is known in the art for such protective helmets and implementing components, consistent with the intended operation of a protective helmet. 
     The word “exemplary,” “example,” or various forms thereof are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” or as an “example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Furthermore, examples are provided solely for purposes of clarity and understanding and are not meant to limit or restrict the disclosed subject matter or relevant portions of this disclosure in any manner. It is to be appreciated that a myriad of additional or alternate examples of varying scope could have been presented, but have been omitted for purposes of brevity. 
     While this disclosure includes a number of embodiments in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail, particular embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the disclosed methods and systems, and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the disclosed concepts to the embodiments illustrated. 
     The disclosure presents a device, apparatus, system, and method for providing a protective helmet  30  comprising an integrated rotational impact attenuation and fit system  70 , as will be discussed with respect to the figures. The helmet  30  can comprise vents or openings  32  in the helmet  30  and an energy absorbing shell  40 .  FIG. 1  shows a side profile view of the helmet  30  with a front  50  of the energy absorbing shell  40  disposed at the left of the figure, the rear or back  52  of the energy absorbing shell at the right of the figure, and a left side  54  of the energy absorbing shell being shown or presented in the FIG. 
     The vents  32  can be formed in, and extend through, a portion or entirety of the helmet  30 , including the energy absorbing shell  40 . The vents  32  can allow for airflow and circulation of air from outside the helmet  30  into the helmet  30  and adjacent the head of the user to cool the user and provide ventilation. 
     The energy absorbing shell  40  can optionally comprise an outer shell  42  and can be formed of energy management or energy-absorbing layers or materials  44 , such as foam, which are discussed in greater detail below. The protective helmet  30  can be a bike helmet used for mountain biking or road cycling, or a helmet that can be used for other applications and in other industries that also use protective headwear. In any event, the protective helmet  30  can function to provide protection while minimizing interference with an activity. 
     The outer shell  42  can, without limitation, be formed of a plastic, resin, fiber, or other suitable material including polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), vinyl nitrile (VN), fiberglass, carbon fiber, or other similar material. The outer shell  42  can be stamped, in-molded, injection molded, vacuum formed, or formed by another suitable process. The outer shell  42  can provide a shell into which the energy management layer  44  can be disposed, whether the helmet  30  be a hard shell helmet or a soft shell helmet, as known in the art. The outer shell  42  can also provide a smooth aerodynamic finish, a decorative finish, or both, for improved performance, improved aesthetics, or both. As a non-limiting example, the outer shell  42  can comprise PC shell that is in-molded in the form of a vacuum formed sheet, or is attached to the energy management layer  44  with, e.g., an adhesive. The outer shell  42  can also be permanently or releasably coupled to the energy management layer  44 , using any suitable chemical or mechanical fastener or attachment device or substance including without limitation, an adhesive, permanent adhesive, pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), foam-core adhesive, tape, two-sided tape, mounting foam adhesive, fastener, clip, cleat, cutout, tab, snap, rivet, hog ring, or hook and loop fasteners. 
     The energy absorbing shell  40  can comprise an outer surface  48  of the energy absorbing shell  40  (which can also be an outer surface of the outer shell  42 , when the outer shell  42  is present) that can be oriented away from the user. The energy absorbing shell  40  can further comprise and an inner surface  46  opposite the outer surface  48 , which can be oriented towards a head of the user. The energy management layer  44  can be made or formed of plastic, polymer, foam, or other suitable energy-absorbing material or impact liner to absorb, deflect, attenuate or otherwise manage energy and to contribute to energy management for protecting a wearer during impacts. The energy management layer  44  can include, without limitation, expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polyurethane (EPU), expanded polyolefin (EPO), or other suitable material. An in-molded helmet  30  can be formed with the outer shell  42  of the helmet being bonded directly to the energy management layer  44 , and by expanding foam or the energy management layer  44  into the outer shell  42 . As such, the energy management layer  44  can, in some embodiments, be in-molded into outer shell  42 , as single monolithic body of energy management material  44 . Alternatively, in other embodiments the energy management layer  44  can be formed of multiple, or a plurality, of portions or layers. In any event, the energy management layers  44  can absorb or manage energy from an impact by bending, flexing, crushing, or cracking. 
     The energy absorbing shell  40  (including the outer shell  42  and the energy management material  44 ) can comprise a thickness measured in a radial direction extending from a center of the helmet  30  to the outer surface  48  of the energy absorbing shell  40 , the thickness being measured from an inner surface  46  to the outer surface  48 . The distance of the thickness can be in a range of 5-50 mm, 5-25 mm, or 8-15 mm. 
     The helmet  30  can also comprise straps or webbing  60  that can be attached to the helmet  30  and can be used to couple or releasably attach the helmet  30  to the head of the user. The straps  60  can comprise a rear portion or strap  62 , a front portion or strap  64 , a left portion or strap  66 , and a right portion or strap  68 . While the various portions  62 ,  64 ,  66 , and  68  of strap  62  can be portions of one or more single continuous straps, the portions  62 ,  64 ,  66 , and  68  of the strap  60  can also be separate, distinct, or discrete segments of strap. In either event, the portions  62 ,  64 ,  66 , and  68  of the strap  60  can be coupled or joined together mechanically or chemically, including by sewing, by being threaded through strap adjustors or clips, or by any other suitable method.  FIG. 1  shows an embodiment in which a clip, fastener, or attachment device  69  for releasably coupling portions of the straps  60  together, can be coupled at a position that will be below the chin or at a neck of the user when the helmet is worn. The clip  69  can comprise a left portion  69   a  and a right portion  69   b  that can be coupled by friction, magnetism, or both, as well as by any other desirable way. The helmet  30  can also comprise masks, visors, optional comfort liners, and other features known in the art to be associated with, or coupled to, helmets. 
       FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of a rotational sliding layer or sliding layer  100  separate, apart, or without the energy absorbing shell  40 . An inner or bottom surface  104  of the sliding layer  100  is shown oriented towards the viewer of the figure, with an outer sliding layer surface  102 , opposite the inner surface  104 , that can be oriented towards the inner surface  46  of the energy absorbing shell  40  when the sliding layer  100  is disposed within, and coupled to, the energy absorbing shell  40 . The Sliding layer  100  is shown with the front  112  of the Sliding layer shown at the bottom of  FIG. 2 , the rear  113  of the sliding layer  100  shown at the top of the figure, the left side  114  of the sliding layer shown at the left of the figure and the right side  115  of the sliding layer shown at the right of the figure. The sliding layer  100 , can also comprise a plurality of openings, vents, channels, cutouts, or voids  116  formed completely through the sliding layer  100 , extending from the outer surface  102  to the inner surface  104 . In some instances, an area of the openings  116  will be greater than a solid portion or area of the sliding layer  100 , such that more than half of the sliding layer comprises the openings  116 . The sliding layer  100  in some instances can be completely solid or filed, while in other instances the sliding layer  100  can be open or opening-filled sliding layer  100  with more than half its area formed of holes or openings, and as much as 95% or more of its area filled, occupied, or defined by holes or openings. 
     The sliding layer  100  can comprise at least one attachment member, attachment anchor, or attachment opening  106  for being coupled to an elastomeric member  120 , as shown and discussed in greater detail, e.g., with respect to  FIGS. 6A-6D .  FIG. 2  shows four attachment members  106  formed as keyhole or reentrant openings comprising an inlet for receiving and then locking into place the elastomeric members  120 . However, the attachment members can be formed of openings of any desirable shape and size, and can also comprise pins, knobs, buttons, tabs, or attachment members. The four openings  106  are shown with two of the openings  106  formed at the front  112  of the sliding layer  100 , and the other two openings  106  formed at the rear  113  of the sliding layer  100 . Additionally, one of the front openings  106  and one of the rear openings  106  can be formed on the left side  114  of the sliding layer  100 , while one of the front openings  106  and one of the rear openings  106  can be formed on the right side  115  of the sliding layer  100 . However, in other embodiments, one, two, three, five, six, or any other suitable number of attachment members or openings  106  can be formed in the sliding layer  100  according to the configuration, design, and function of the sliding layer  100  and its desired movement with elastomeric members  120 . 
     The sliding layer  100  can also comprise at least one integrated fit system arm 108 , such as a first or left integrated fit system arm  108   a  and a second or right integrated fit system arm  108   b . The at least one integrated fit system arm  108  can be coupled to a fit system member or cradle  80 , as shown an described in greater detail in  FIGS. 4A-4C , or any suitable device for adjusting a size, shape, or both of the sliding layer  100  to better accommodate the head of the user. 
     The sliding layer  100  can be formed of a plastic, resin, fiber, metal, or other suitable low friction material or low friction coated material including nylon, polypropylene (PP), Polyoxymethylene (POM), PC, PET, ABS, PE, PVC, VN, fiberglass, carbon fiber, steel, aluminum, or other similar material or material suitable for injection molding. The outer shell  42  can be stamped, in-molded, injection molded, vacuum formed, or formed by another suitable process. In some instances a single step process like injection molding can be used, and in others a multistep process, such as vacuum forming a shape followed by cutting a feature, such as a gear rack. When the sliding layer  100  is formed by an injection molding process, the sliding layer  100  will be made of a suitable plastic for injection molding an such as nylon, or other suitable materials. The material selected for sliding layer  100  can also be selected based on its performance and suitability in the sizing or adjusting the size of the sliding layer  100  to match a size, shape, or both of the user. For example, nylon can work well not only with an injection molding process, but can also work well for forming integrated fit system arms  108  that can serve as rear racks used as part of a rack and pinion design for an sliding layer fit system  70  used to adjust to fit a size of the user&#39;s head. When selecting a size of the sliding layer  100 , a general size of the sliding layer  100  should correspond to a specific size range of a size of the helmet  30  and a size of the user head, whether, e.g., small, medium, or large, so that only small adjustments are needed with the fit system  70  to provide final sizing or fine tuning of sizing to the user&#39;s head. Small differences in sizing of the fit system  70  can be understood to be sizes or adjustments that vary by percent difference of 0-20%, 0-10%, or 0-5% from a size of the user&#39;s head. 
     In addition to forming the sliding layers  100  in an injection molding process, vacuum molding or other suitable molding or forming process can also be used to form the sliding layer  100  as part of the fit system  70 , whether or not the sliding layer  100  is formed as an integral or unitary piece of the fit system  70 . As such, the sliding layer  100  can comprise arms  108  or other features or portions that are separately formed and added to the sliding layer  100  so that when the sliding layer  100  is assembled as part of the fit system  70 , the composite sliding layer  100  can then acts as both an energy management feature, such as for rotation management, and a sizing feature, such as adjusting a size of the sliding layer  100  to match or correspond to a size of the head of the user. In some instances, a diameter of the sliding layer  100 , as well as a height or effective height adjustment for the helmet wearer can also controlled by adjusting the sliding layer  100  as part of the fit system  70 , such that all size adjustment of the helmet, including all height adjustment could be completely integrated or combined with adjustments to a size and shape of the sliding layer  100 , which is further described below. 
       FIGS. 3A and 3B  show a fit system member or fit system cradle  80  that can optionally be coupled to a rear  52  of the energy absorbing shell  40 , as shown in  FIG. 1 , or could also be coupled directly to the sliding layer  100 . The fit system cradle  80  can be disposed inward of the energy absorbing layer  40  such that an inner surface of the energy absorbing layer  40  is oriented towards the fit system  80 , and the fit system  80  can be at least partially disposed within an area or space defined by the energy absorbing layer to receive the head of the user. In any event, the fit system cradle  80  can be used to adjust a fit of the helmet  30  for a user wearing the helmet  30 .  FIG. 3A  shows the fit system cradle  80  separate or apart from the energy absorbing shell  40 . Additionally,  FIG. 3A  shows a non-limiting example of the fit system cradle  80  formed of plastic, metal, resin, fiber, or other suitable material comprising a cradle  82 , cradle pads  84 , a dial  86 , a front badge  88 , a pinion  90 , a fastener or screw  92 , a rear badge  94 , a base  96 , and a cover  98 . In moving from  FIG. 3A to 3B , assembly of the fit system member  80  can comprise assembling the rear badge  94  to the cradle  82 , assembling the base  96  to the rear badge  94 , assembling the sliding layer  100  to the base part  96  as shown in  FIGS. 4A-4C , assembling the pinion  90  to the base  96  and fit system arms  108  as shown in  FIGS. 4A-4C , assembling the dial  86  to the pinion  90  and the base  96 , assembling the cover  98  to the base  96  and the dial  86 , testing the dial  86  for moving the pinion  90  to reel in and pay out the fit system arms  108 , assembling the screw  92  to the base post or opening  93  as shown in  FIG. 4C , and assembling the cradle pads  84  to the cradle wings  82   c.    
       FIG. 3B , similar to  FIG. 3A , shows the assembled fit system member  80  ready to be coupled to the low friction layer  100 , such as with integrated fit system arms  108 , which is shown and described in greater detail in  FIGS. 4A-4C . 
       FIGS. 4A-4C  show portions of the integrated sliding layer fit system  70  comprising the fit system member  80  coupled to the Sliding layer  100  with the fit system member  80  being formed as a fit system cradle comprising a pinion  90 , and coupled to the at least one integrated fit system arm  108  comprising a first or left fit system arm  108   a  and a second or right fit system arm  108   b.    
       FIG. 4A  shows the second or right side fit system arm  108   b  can be disposed in a slot  83 , such as a right side slot  83   b  formed in the cradle body  82 , and passing under, or being held in place by, one or more slot covers or arches  85 , such as a right side cover or arch  85   b . The right side fit system arm  108   b  can comprise teeth or ridges  110  that are aligned with, and contact, a second side  90   b  of the pinion  90  as the right side fit system arm  108   b  is disposed within the right slot  83   b .  FIG. 4B  shows the right side fit system arm  108   b  being disposed further along, or more completely within, the right slot  83   b , until the arm  108   b  contacts a stop or arm stop  89 , such as the right arm stop  89   b.    
       FIG. 4C  shows two fit system arms  108  with the first or left side fit system arm  108   a  being disposed in a slot  83 , such as a left side slot  83   a  formed in the cradle body  82 , and passing under, or being held in place by, one or more slot covers or arches  85 , such as a left side cover or arch  85   a . The left side fit system arm  108   a  can comprise teeth or ridges  110  that are aligned with, and contact, a first side  90   a  of the pinion  90  as the left side fit system arm  108   a  is disposed within the left slot  83   a . The left side fit system arm  108   a  can be disposed within, the left slot  83   s , until the arm  108   a  contacts a stop or arm stop  89 , such as the left arm stop  89   a.    
     While  FIGS. 4A-4C  show a non-limiting example of the integrated fit system arms  108  with teeth  110 , the integrated fit system arms  108  could also be formed without teeth and other suitable attachment mechanisms, other than rack and pinion style mechanisms, can also be used. For example, rather than the fit system arms  108  comprising teeth  110 , or even the sliding layer  100  comprising arms  108 , the sliding layer  100  could comprise, or could be coupled to, a different size adjusting mechanism or feature such as elastic cords, bungees, or slidelocks that cold tighten or loosen, like a drawstring, to adjust a size of the sliding layer  100 . 
       FIGS. 5A-5C  show the fit system member  80  and sliding layer  100  coupled together as the sliding layer fit system  70 .  FIG. 5A  shows a perspective view of the fit system  80  and the inner sliding layer surface  104 , with the front  112  of the sliding layer disposed at the bottom of the figure, and the rear  114  of the sliding layer at the top of the figure.  FIG. 5A  also shows that the sliding layer  100  can comprise one or more attachment members, attachment anchors, or attachment openings  106  in the sliding layer  100 .  FIG. 5A  shows a non-limiting example in which the sliding layer  100  comprises four openings  106 , two of which are formed at the front  112  of the sliding layer  100 , and the other two of the four openings  106  formed at the rear  113  of the sliding layer  100 . Additionally, one of the front openings  106  and one of the rear openings  106  can be formed on the left  114  of the sliding layer  100 , while one of the front openings  106  and one of the rear openings  106  can be formed on the right  115  of the sliding layer  100 . In other embodiments, one, two, three, five, six, or any suitable number of attachment members or openings  106  can be formed in the sliding layer  100 . 
       FIG. 5B  shows a close up perspective view of the fit system  70  including the inner sliding layer surface  104  of sliding layer  100 , similar to the view shown in  FIG. 5A .  FIG. 5B  provides an enlarged view of the fit system  80 , and the integrated fit system arm  108  being fed into the fit system  80 , as well as showing a non-limiting example of the cradle pin  82   b  disposed at the top of the fit system  80 . In some instances, the fit system member  80  can be only indirectly coupled or attached to the energy absorbing shell  40 , rather than being directly coupled to the energy absorbing shell  40  with the cradle pin  82   b . For example, the fit system member  80  can directly contact one or more portions of sliding layer  100 , such as the arms  108 , or can also be coupled to the sliding layer  100 , rather than the energy absorbing shell  40 , such as with one or more elastomeric members  120  that are coupled to the fit system member  80  in place of the cradle pin  82   b.    
       FIG. 5C  shows a rear perspective view of the fit system  70 , with the fit system  80  comprising a cradle pin, knob, button, tab, or attachment member  82   b . The pin  82   b  shown in  FIG. 5C  can be coupled to the energy absorbing shell  40  by being directly or indirectly attached to the energy absorbing shell  40 . The pin  82   b  can be directly attached to the energy absorbing shell  40  such as by having the pin  82   b  disposed within an opening or receiving aperture in the energy absorbing shell  40 . Alternatively, the pin  82   b  can be indirectly attached to the energy absorbing shell  40  such as by having an intermediate member or hanger coupled to the pin  82   b , and then having a pin or portion of the intermediate member or hanger coupled to, or disposed within, an opening or receiving aperture in the energy absorbing shell  40 . 
       FIGS. 5B-5C  also show additional detail of the openings  106 , which can be configured or adapted to receive a corresponding number of elastomeric members  120 . The elastomeric members  120  can be mateably coupled to the openings  106  as shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 6A-6D . Interaction among the various features or elements of the fit system  70  can with the relative movement of the energy absorbing shell  40  and the sliding layer  100  facilitated by the elastomeric members  120 , can aid in retention and fit of the helmet  30  to a head of the helmet wearer. 
     Adjustment and performance of the sliding layer fit system  70  can be facilitated or advanced by forming the sliding layer  100  of nylon with injection molding, allowing for the fit system arms  108  to be formed at a same time as, and as part of, the sliding layer  100 , which can interact with the pinion  90  of the fit system  80 . Forming the sliding layer  100  of nylon with injection molding differs from conventional or normal vacuum molded sliding layer parts or layers that have been formed and used as for rotational energy management independent of the fitting process and a fit system. By forming fit system arms  108  as part of the sliding layer  100 , an integrated sliding layer fit system  70  can be achieved, which improves helmet fit, user comfort, and can improve helmet performance with respect to energy management, while simplifying construction and decreasing cost. Performance of the helmet  30  can be improved by combining the Sliding layer and the fit system, the two components being joined or integrated to provide a more stable fit for the helmet wearer as the wearer puts on the helmet, adjusts helmet straps, takes the helmet off, or wears or conveys the helmet. To the contrary, previous systems have not used a sliding layer for actual fitting, but have instead relied on two separate systems or components, an sliding layer component and a separate and distinct fit system. In the present case, the foam or main body of the helmet, which can be embodied in energy absorbing shell  40 , can float outside of the sliding layer fit system  70 , suspended by deformable elastomer connections  120  or other suitable connections. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the fit system  70 , including the fit member  80  and sliding layer  100 , can be disposed within the energy absorbing shell  40  with the outer surface  102  of the sliding layer oriented towards the inner surface  46  of the energy absorbing shell  40 . In some instances, an interface between the outer surface  102  of the sliding layer oriented towards the inner surface  46  of the energy absorbing shell  40  can be spherical or substantially spherical in shape so as to facilitate the relative movement, or rotation of the energy absorbing shell  40  with respect to the sliding layer  100  and the head of the user. Additionally, although the term “spherical” is used with respect to the interface between the energy absorbing shell  40  and the sliding layer  100 , it will be clear to one of ordinary skill in the art that the surfaces involved at the interface, including surfaces  46 ,  104  need not be full, complete spheres and that a portion of a spherical surface can be used to the extent the portion is needed. Thus, where “spherical” is used herein, the term can mean that the surface has a substantially consistent radius of curvature throughout the surface and in some embodiments to wherever the surface and layer extends, but at least for a majority of the extent of the surface. A substantially consistent radius of curvature means that the radius of curvature is between 70%-100% of a constant radius of curvature throughout the spherical surface, or within 30% of a radius of curvature of a majority of the spherical surface. In particular embodiments, the spherical surface can be a completely consistent radius of curvature, or within 5% of a constant radius of curvature. In other particular embodiments, the spherical surface can have portions similar in shape to a typical headform and other portions that have a substantially consistent radius of curvature throughout the portions of the spherical surface. The spherical surfaces, where used, may also be discontinuous and include gaps between sections of a spherical surface within a common spherical plane, or may be on different spherical planes. 
       FIGS. 6A-6D  show various views of an elastomeric member or elastically deformable component  120  that can comprise a first end  122  configured or adapted to be coupled to the energy absorbing shell  40  and a second end  124  configured or adapted to be coupled to the sliding layer fit system  70 , such as the attachment member  106  of the sliding layer  100 . More specifically,  FIG. 6A  shows one elastomeric member  120  that can comprise or be formed of rubber, silicon, or other stretchable or elastically deformable material that is biased to return back to its original shape after being stretched. The elastomeric member  120  can comprise a first end  122  that can be coupled to the energy absorbing shell  40  with a pin  126 , such as by having an opening or cut-out in the first end  122 , into which the pin  126  can be disposed. 
     The pin  126  can be formed of plastic, metal, wood, fiber, or any other suitably strong and inexpensive material. The pin  126  can comprise any suitable or advantageous shape for remaining coupled, or directly attached, to the energy absorbing shell  40  and to the elastomeric member  120  during impacts of the helmet  30 . As such, the pin  126  can remain coupled to the energy absorbing shell  40  while the elastomeric member  120  stretches and deforms, thereby allowing the sliding layer  100  to slip, slide, or move relative to the energy absorbing shell  40 . As a non-limiting example, the pin  126  can comprise a shape that is elongate with a flat first end, and a rounded or ball shaped end on a second end opposite the first end. 
     The second end  124  of the elastomeric member  120  can be opposite the first end  122 . The second end  124  can be shaped or formed to be mateably coupled, or directly attached, to one or more of the openings  106  in the sliding layer  100 . The second end  124  can optionally comprise a hooked or bent end  124  that can be disposed within the opening  106  in the sliding layer  100 . In other instances, the attachment member  106  of the sliding layer  100  can be a slot, clip, flange, hook, knob, protrusion, or other suitable physical structure to which the second end  124  of the elastomeric member  120  can be coupled. In other instances, the second end  124  can be chemically, thermally, or otherwise joined to the sliding layer  100 , such as with another pin  126  or other intermediate structure or substance. 
       FIG. 6B  shows a close-up view of a portion of the sliding layer  100 , with the second end  124  of the elastomeric member  120  being inserted through one of the openings  106  in the sliding layer  100 . 
       FIG. 6C  shows a view of the sliding layer  100  and the elastomeric member  120  similar to that shown in  FIG. 6B , but with the second end  124  of the elastomeric member  120  rotated and securely couple to the sliding layer  100 , being seated within the re-entrant opening  106 . By being securely seated, the elastomeric member  120  can can be pulled and placed in tension, elastically deform, and permit or facilitate rotational energy management by movement of the sliding layer  100  relative to the energy absorbing shell  40 , the head of the user, or both, while still remaining securely attached to the sliding layer  100 . Additionally, the second end  124  of the elastomeric member  120  can also be unseated or removed from the openings  106  in the sliding layer  100  by a user or individual, such as to remove or replace the elastomeric member  120 . 
       FIG. 6D  shows a larger perspective view showing all of the sliding layer fit system  70  from above the fit system  70 . The sliding layer fit system  70  is shown with four elastomeric members  120  coupled to four corresponding openings  106  in the sliding layer  100 , with second ends  124  of the elastomeric members  120  coupled to, or containing, pins  126  to be coupled to, or inserted within openings of, a portion of the helmet  30 , such as openings in the energy absorbing shell  40 . 
       FIG. 7A  shows an elevational or side view of a rear or backside of the fit system member  80  coupled to the fit system arms  108   a  and  108   b  of the sliding layer  100 .  FIG. 7A  additionally shows the helmet straps  60  coupled to, and threaded through, the fit system member  80  to be coupled to the energy absorbing shell  40 . A rear portion  62  and a left portion  66  of the straps  60  is shown as a single piece of webbing being threaded through the left cradle wing  82   c . Similarly, a rear portion  62  and a right portion  68  of the straps  60  is shown as a single piece of webbing being threaded through the right cradle wing  82   c . The ends of the straps  60 , both the front portions  64  and the rear portion  62 , shown at the upper or top part of  FIG. 7 a    can be coupled to the helmet  30 . 
       FIG. 7B  shows a side perspective view of an interior portion of the sliding layer fit system  70  disposed within the energy absorbing shell  40 , with the straps  60  coupled to the helmet  30 .  FIG. 7B  also shows comfort padding  130  coupled to the inner surface  104  of the sliding layer  100 , and the comfort padding  130  also being disposed over the second ends  124  of the elastomeric members  120  and the attachment members  106  of the sliding layer  100 . As such, the wearer or user of the helmet  30  can enjoy a comfortably fitting helmet  30  with the benefits of rotational impact energy management through the integrated sliding layer fit system  70  without any discomfort from the hidden or covered components of the system  70 . Additionally, improved fit is also provided by having the sliding layer  100  and the sizing provided by the fit system member  80  integrated through the fit system arms  108 .  FIG. 7B  also shows the rear  62  left  66  portion of the strap  60  threaded through the fit system member  80  at the rear or the helmet  40 . Similarly, the front  64  left  66  portion of the strap  60  is shown attached to the helmet  30 , such as by being coupled to the energy absorbing shell  40 , by passing behind the sliding layer  100 , such as between the outer surface  102  of the sliding layer  100  and the inner surface  46  of the energy absorbing shell  40 . 
       FIGS. 8A and 8B  show additional detail by providing views of the inside of the helmet  30 , where the user&#39;s head will be disposed within the helmet  30  when the helmet  30  is worn by the user.  FIG. 8  shows the comfort liner or fit liner  130  can optionally be disposed within, and coupled to the inner surface  104  of the Sliding layer  100 , as well as to the inner surface  46  of the energy absorbing shell  40 . The comfort liner  130  can be made of textiles, plastic, foam, polyester, nylon, or other suitable materials. The comfort liner  130  can be formed of one or more pads of material that can be joined together, or formed as discrete components, that can be coupled to the helmet  30 , such as to the energy absorbing shell  40 , the sliding layer  100 , or both. The comfort liner  130  can be releasably or permanently attached to the helmet  30 , with an attachment member, connector, or hook and loop fasteners  132 . The attachment members  132  can also optionally comprise an adhesive, permanent adhesive, PSA, foam-core adhesive, tape, two-sided tape, mounting foam adhesive, fastener, clip, cleat, cutout, tab, snap, rivet, hog ring, or other interlocking surfaces, features, or portions. As such, the comfort liner  130  can provide a cushion and improved fit for the wearer of the helmet  30 . When installed within the helmet  30 , the comfort padding  130  can be disposed over the second ends  124  of the elastomeric member  120  and the attachment members  106  of the sliding layer  100  to prevent the head of the user from contacting the structures, which might create uncomfortable areas due to contact with the user&#39;s head. 
       FIG. 8B  shows the helmet  30  can further comprise pad application zones  140  within the helmet  30 , such as at an inner surface  46  of the energy absorbing shell  40 . In some instances, the pad application zones  140  are locations at which the attachment members  134  can be positioned within the helmet, such as on the inner surface  46  of the energy absorbing shell  40 , or on the inner surface  104  of the sliding layer  100 . In other instances, the pad application zones  140  can comprise a location where a second sliding layer  100  is disposed between the outer surface  102  of the first sliding layer  100  and the inner surface  46  of the energy absorbing shell  40 . When the second sliding layer  100  is present, the second sliding layer  100  can be coupled to the energy absorbing shell  40  with elastomeric members  120 , or can be in-molded or integrally formed with the energy absorbing shell  40 . In some instances, the second sliding layer  100  cold be formed as a coating applied to a portion of the helmet, such as energy absorbing shell  40 , to help reduce friction between the sliding layer  100 , and whatever it is in contact with. Additionally, the sliding layer  100  may itself have a low enough coefficient of friction together with whatever surface or surfaces it contacts that no additional layer, cover, or treatment is needed or desirable. 
     Conventional helmet systems with sliding layers have been limited to separate, discrete, or independent fit systems and sliding layers, such as to one or more of vacuum molded and trimmed sliding layers. The integrated sliding layer  100  and fit system  80  or integrated sliding layer fit system  70  described herein allows for the sliding layer  100  to be part of, and work seamlessly with, the fit system assembly  80 . The integrated sliding layer and fit system  70  can provide improved comfort to the user through a better fit, as well as by simplifying a design of the helmet  30 —by reducing a number of parts included within the helmet  30 . In some instances, a better fit of the sliding layer  100  can also improve energy management performance by increasing rotation between the sliding layer  100  and the outer portion of the main helmet  30 , such as energy absorbing layer  40 , and decreasing rotation between the user&#39;s head and the sliding layer  100 . 
     Thus, the integrated rotational impact attenuation and fit system  70  can comprise one or more sliding layers  100  that can be directly connected to, and interact with, a fit system member or fit system cradle  80  for sizing the helmet  30  to a head of the helmet wearer. In other words, the sliding layer  100  or portions thereof, such as the fit system arms  108 , can be coupled to, or part of, the sizing of the helmet  30 . Use of sliding layers  100  within a helmet  30  to assist in energy management, such as during collisions, can be achieved by facilitating rotational movement, and providing energy management through rotational movement within the helmet  30  and relative to the user&#39;s head. In addition to the rotational movement and energy management provided by the sliding layers  100 , the helmet  30  can also facilitate other types of movement and energy management, such as translational movement, and as such, rotational energy management is included by way of example and not by limitation. 
     Where the above examples, embodiments and implementations reference examples, it should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that other helmet and manufacturing devices and examples could be intermixed or substituted with those provided. In places where the description above refers to particular embodiments of helmets and customization methods, it should be readily apparent that such components may be comprised of any shape, size, style, type, model, version, class, grade, measurement, concentration, material, weight, quantity, and/or the like consistent with the intended purpose, method and/or system of implementation and a number of modifications may be made without departing from the spirit thereof and that these embodiments and implementations may be applied to other to helmet customization technologies as well. Accordingly, the disclosed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the disclosure and the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art, together with all changes that come within the meaning of, and range of equivalency of, the claims. The presently disclosed embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.