Patent Publication Number: US-2023157398-A1

Title: Hard Hat Accessory Bracket

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/US2022/080265, filed Nov. 21, 2022, which claims benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/295,065, filed Dec. 30, 2021, and to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/282,034, filed Nov. 22, 2021, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure is directed generally to the field of protective equipment. The present disclosure relates specifically to hard hats and brackets for attaching accessories to protective equipment, such as a hard hat. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     One embodiment of the invention relates to a hard hat system including a hard hat and a mounting bracket. The hard hat includes a mounting ridge extending outward from a surface of the hard hat. The mounting ridge includes opposing edges and a retention cleat positioned between the opposing edge. The mounting bracket securely and removably couples the mounting bracket to the mounting ridge of the hard hat. The mounting bracket includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first slot located at the first end, the first slot receives and encloses one of the opposing edges of the mounting ridge, and a second slot located at the second end, the second slot receives and encloses the other of the opposing edges of the mounting ridge. The mounting bracket further includes a tab positioned between first end and the second end and configured to engage the retention cleat of the hard hat, a first lever coupled to the first end and a second lever coupled to the second end. When the first lever and the second lever are rotated, the mounting bracket clamps onto the opposing edges of the mounting ridge to couple the mounting bracket to the mounting ridge. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to a mounting bracket configured to coupled to a hard hat mounting ridge. The mounting bracket includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first receiving slot that receives the mounting ridge and removably couples the mounting bracket to the hard hat, and a second receiving slot that receives the mounting ridge and removably couples the mounting bracket to the hard hat. The mounting bracket further includes a first rear clamp that at least partially defines the first receiving slot, a second rear clamp that at least partially defines the second receiving slot, a first cam lever, and a second cam lever, and a second cam lever. The first cam lever is positioned at the first end and is rotatably coupled to the mounting bracket. The second cam lever is positioned at the second end and is rotatably coupled to the mounting bracket. When a user actuates the first and second cam levers in a first direction, the first and second rear clamps are pulled toward the mounting bracket such that the mounting bracket compresses a portion of the mounting ridge. When the user actuates the first and second cam levers in a second direction, the first and second rear clamps are moved away from the mounting bracket such that the mounting bracket releases the portion of the mounting ridge. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to a hard hat accessory system including a hard hat and a mounting bracket. The hard hat includes a front mounting ridge on a front side surface, a rear mounting ridge on a rear side surface, and a detent positioned on at least one of the front mounting ridge and rear mounting ridge. The mounting bracket securely and removably mounts to either the front mounting ridge or the rear mounting ridge of the hard hat. The mounting bracket includes rear clamps, slots defining a distance between a rear surface of the mounting bracket and an inner surface of the rear clamps, the slots receive the mounting ridge and removably couple the mounting bracket to one of the front side surface of the rear side surface of the hard hat. The mounting bracket further includes cam levers rotatably coupled to the mounting bracket and a tab positioned between the cam levers and configured to engage the detent of the hard hat. When the cam levers are actuated, the distance between the rear surface of the mounting bracket and the inner surface of the rear clamps is changed. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to an accessory bracket for a hard hat. The hard hat includes a mounting ridge with opposing dovetail projections and a retention cleat. The accessory bracket securely and removably mounts on the mounting ridge of the hard hat. The accessory bracket includes a mounting bracket body coupled to an accessory at a front connection portion. The accessory bracket further includes a center tab, a pair of cam levers, and a pair of rear clamps. The center tab extends downward from the mounting bracket body and is positioned below the connection portion. The pair of cam levers are rotatably coupled to the mounting bracket and rotatable about an axial or minor axis of the cam levers. When an operator actuates the pair of cam levers in a first direction the rear clamps are pulled toward mounting bracket body such that the rear clamps and mounting bracket body together act to clamp or compress the dovetail projections of the hard hat. When an operator actuates the pair of cam levers in a second direction the rear clamps are moved away from the mounting bracket body such that the rear clamps and mounting bracket body release the dovetail projections of the hard hat. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to an accessory bracket for a hard hat. The hard hat includes a mounting ridge with opposing dovetail projections and a retention cleat. The accessory bracket securely and removably mounts on the mounting ridge of the hard hat. The accessory bracket includes a mounting bracket body coupled to an accessory at a front connection portion of mounting bracket body. The accessory bracket further includes a center tab, a pair of cam levers rotatably, and a pair of rear clamps. The center tab extends downward from the mounting bracket body and is positioned below the connection portion. The pair of cam levers are rotatably coupled to the mounting bracket and each cam lever is rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the respective cam lever. When an operator actuates the pair of cam levers in a first direction, the rear clamps are pulled toward mounting bracket body such that the rear clamps and mounting bracket body together act to clamp or compress the dovetail projections of the hard hat. When an operator actuates the pair of cam levers in a second direction, the rear clamps are moved away from the mounting bracket body such that the rear clamps and mounting bracket body release the dovetail projections of the hard hat. 
     Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and, in part, will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description or recognized by practicing the embodiments as described in the written description included, as well as the appended drawings. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary. 
     The accompanying drawings are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain principles and operation of the various embodiments. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       This application will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements in which: 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of a hard hat, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  2    is a perspective view of a hard hat connected to an accessory bracket at a rear mounting location of the hard hat, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  3    is a perspective view of a hard hat connected to the accessory bracket of  FIG.  2   , with the accessory bracket shown in a first, locked position, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  4    is a perspective view of a hard hat connected to the accessory bracket of  FIG.  2   , with the accessory bracket shown in a second, unlocked position, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  5    is a perspective view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  2   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  6    is an exploded view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  2   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  7    is a cross-sectional view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  2   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  8    is a detailed cross-sectional view of a locking portion of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  2   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  9    is a rear perspective view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  2   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  10    is a partially exploded view of the locking portion of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  2   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  11    is a perspective view of a hard hat connected to an accessory bracket at a rear mounting location of the hard hat, according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view of the hard hat connected to the accessory bracket of  FIG.  11   , with the accessory bracket shown in a first, locked position, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  13    is a perspective view of the hard hat connected to the accessory bracket of  FIG.  11   , with the accessory bracket shown in a second, unlocked position, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  11   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  15    is an exploded view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  11   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  16    is a cross-sectional view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  11   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  17    is a detailed cross-sectional view of a locking portion of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  11   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  18    is a rear perspective view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  11   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  19    is a perspective view a hard hat connected to an accessory bracket at a rear mounting location of the hard hat, according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  20    is a left-side perspective view of the hard hat connected to the accessory bracket of  FIG.  19   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  21    is a front side view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  19   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  22    is a top view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  19   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  23    is a cross-sectional view of an accessory bracket, according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  24    is a cross-sectional view of an accessory bracket, according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  25    is a cross-sectional view of a rear mounting location of the hard hat of  FIG.  1   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  26    is a cross-sectional view of a rear mounting location of a hard hat, according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  27    is a perspective view of a lamp mounting bracket and an accessory bracket according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  28    is a perspective view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  27   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  29    is a rear perspective view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  27   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  30    is an exploded view of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  27   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  31    is a partially exploded view of a locking portion of the accessory bracket of  FIG.  27   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  32    is a rear perspective view of a hard hat, according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  33    is a perspective view of a hard hat of  FIG.  32    connected to an accessory bracket at a rear mounting location of the hard hat, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  34    is a cross-sectional view of the hard hat and accessory bracket of  FIG.  33    in an unattached position, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  35    is a cross-sectional view of the hard hat and accessory bracket of  FIG.  33    in an attached position, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  36    is a rear perspective view of a hard hat, according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  37    is a perspective view of a hard hat of  FIG.  36    connected to an accessory bracket at a rear mounting location of the hard hat, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  38    is a cross-sectional view of the hard hat and accessory bracket of  FIG.  37    in an attached position, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  39    is a cross-sectional view of the hard hat and accessory bracket of  FIG.  37    in an unattached position, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring generally to the figures, various embodiments of accessory brackets are shown. Various embodiments of the accessory brackets discussed herein, are configured to attach to a mounting ridge or location (e.g., front, rear, side) on a hard hat and configured to provide for improved and secure coupling of an accessory. In contrast to the accessory brackets discussed herein, conventional accessory brackets may only be suitable for use with lighter weight accessories because the brackets rely on an interference fit between the mounting location and the bracket. In such typical bracket designs, when used to support a heavier accessory, Applicant has determined that the attachment between the mounting location and accessory bracket may allow the accessory bracket to fall off of the mounting location. 
     In particular the accessory brackets discussed herein are configured to provide secure attachment and retention to hard hats, especially for relatively heavy accessories (e.g., headlamps, batteries, safety sensors) even during an impact (e.g., forceful contact from falling objects, dropping of hard hat, etc.). In various embodiments, the accessory bracket may be configured to couple to accessories such as vital monitoring sensors that monitor the health and safety of the operator (e.g., temperature of operator, methane sensor, etc.). In various embodiments, the accessory brackets include a three-point locking system that is configured to provide the robust, high weight supporting connection discussed herein. The three-point locking system includes a center tab configured to grip onto a retention cleat positioned on the mounting location of the hard hat and a pair of locking features or cam levers that allow the accessory bracket to lock (e.g., clamp like a vise) onto dovetail projections positioned on each side of the mounting location. In a specific embodiment, the cam lever locking feature includes a horizontal disk cam lever. In another embodiment, the cam lever locking feature includes a vertical axis cam lever. 
     Referring to  FIG.  1   , a perspective view of a hard hat  10  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. A rear side surface  14  includes a mounting ridge  12 . Similarly, a front side surface  16  that opposes rear side surface  14  includes mounting ridge  12 . A bill or brim portion  18  extends outward from a lower circumference of hard hat  10  around at least part of hard hat  10 . An opposing pair of side accessory ridges  20  are positioned between the mounting ridge  12  on front side surface  16  and the mounting ridge  12  on rear side surface  14 . Each mounting ridge  12  includes a pair of dovetail projections or wings  22  extending outward from opposing planar surfaces  21  positioned on each side of mounting ridge  12 . Each mounting ridge  12  further includes a retention cleat or detent  24  positioned between dovetail projections  22 . In a specific embodiment, retention cleat  24  is centered on mounting ridge  12  between opposing dovetail projections  22 . Retention cleat  24  includes an outer surface  25 . Retention cleat  24  is positioned on at least one of the front mounting ridge  12  and rear mounting ridge  12 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  2   , a perspective view of a hard hat  100  connected to mounting bracket, shown as an accessory bracket  126  which is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Hard hat  100  is substantially the same as hard hat  10  except for the differences discussed herein. Accessory bracket  126  can be utilized with hard hat  10  or  100 . A rear side surface  114  includes a mounting ridge  112 . A front side surface  116  that opposes rear side surface  114  includes mounting ridge  112 . A bill or brim portion  118  extends outward from a lower circumference of hard hat  100 . Brim  118  is positioned at least partially below the mounting ridge  112  positioned on front side surface  116 . An opposing pair of side accessory ridges  120  are positioned between the mounting ridge  112  on front side surface  116  and the mounting ridge  112  on rear side surface  114 . Each mounting ridge  112  includes opposing edges shown as a pair of dovetail projections or wings  122  extending outward from opposing planar surfaces  121  positioned on each side of mounting ridge  112 . 
     As shown, accessory bracket  126  is coupled to hard hat  100  and specifically to dovetail projections  122  of mounting ridge  112  located on rear side surface  114  of hard hat  100 . Accessory bracket  126  can also be coupled to the mounting ridge  112  positioned on front side surface  116  of hard hat  100 . Accessory bracket  126  securely and removably mounts to either the front mounting ridge  112  or rear mounting ridge  12  of the hard hat  100 . Accessory bracket  126  includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end. 
     Referring to  FIG.  3   , a perspective view of a hard hat  200  connected to accessory bracket  126  which is in a first, locked position is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Hard hat  200  is substantially the same as hard hats  10  and  100  except for the differences discussed herein. A rear side surface  214  includes a mounting ridge  212 . A bill or brim portion  218  extends outward from a lower circumference of hard hat  200  around all of hard hat  200  (e.g., is a full brim hard hard). A portion of brim  218  is positioned below mounting ridge  212  positioned on rear side surface  214 . Accessory bracket  126  includes one or more cam levers  128  configured to lock or secure accessory bracket  126  onto mounting ridge  212  and specifically to the dovetail projections (see e.g.,  22  of  FIG.  1  and  122    of  FIG.  2   ) of hard hat  200 . 
     In a specific embodiment, accessory bracket  126  includes a pair of cam levers  128 . In such an embodiment, a first cam lever  128  is positioned at a first end of the accessory bracket  126  and rotatably coupled to accessory bracket  126 . Similarly, second cam lever  128  is positioned at the second end of the accessory bracket  126  and rotatably coupled to accessory bracket  126 . When cam levers  128  are in a locked position, each lever portion  131  (see e.g.,  131  in  FIG.  5   ) extends the opposing end projections  135  (i.e., in a generally parallel orientation to opposing planar surfaces  121  of mounting ridge  112 . The first cam lever  128  is rotatable about a first axis of rotation  127  and the second cam lever  128  is rotatable about a second axis of rotation  127 . The first and second axes of rotation  127  extend outward and forward from the accessory bracket  126  (see e.g., orientation in  FIG.  6   ). 
     When an operator actuates cam levers  128  in the first, locking direction shown by arrow  130 , cam levers  128  are rotated about an axis of rotation  127 . Axis of rotation  127  extends in a perpendicular orientation to a longitudinal axis of cam lever  128 . When cam levers  128  are in a locked position, accessory bracket  126  clamps or compresses onto the dovetail projections (see e.g.,  22  of  FIG.  1   ) of hard hat  200  to securely couple accessory bracket  126  to the mounting ridge  212  of the hard hat  200 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  4   , a perspective view of a hard hat  200  connected to accessory bracket  126  which is in a second, unlocked position is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. When the operator actuates cam levers  128  in the second, unlocking direction shown by arrow  132 , cam levers  128  are rotated about axis of rotation  127 . When cam levers  128  are in the unlocked position, accessory bracket  126  unclamps and no longer compresses the dovetail projections (see e.g.,  22  of  FIG.  1   ) of hard hat  200  to securely couple accessory bracket  126  to the mounting ridge  212  of the hard hat  200 . When cam levers  128  are in an unlocked position, each lever portion  131  (see e.g.,  131  in  FIG.  5   ) extends in a direction away from the opposing planar surfaces  121  positioned on each side of mounting ridge  112 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  5   , a perspective view of accessory bracket  126  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  126  includes a mounting bracket body  134  coupled to an accessory, shown as a battery pack  136  at a front connection portion  140  (see e.g.,  FIG.  6   ) of mounting bracket body  134 . In other words, battery pack  136  is coupled to connection portion  140  of accessory bracket  126 . When accessory bracket  126  is coupled to a hard hat, connection portion  140  faces away from the mounting ridge  112  and is positioned and/or extends between cam levers  128 . Accessory bracket  126  further includes a tab, shown as a center tab  138  extending downward from the mounting bracket body  134  toward the brim of a hard hat. Center tab  138  is configured to grip, hold and/or engage a retention cleat or detent (see e.g.,  24  of  FIG.  1   ) of the hard hat (e.g.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 ). The center tab  138  is positioned between cam levers  128 . 
     Accessory bracket  126  further includes opposing end projections  135  positioned at the first and second ends of accessory bracket  126 . Each end projection  135  extends backward (e.g., direction away from battery pack  136 ) from the mounting bracket body  134  on opposing sides of the front connection portion  140 . Each end projection  135  includes opposing generally vertical edges. A horizontal or width axis of accessory bracket  126  extends between the first and second ends and specifically between opposing end projections  135 . A height axis of accessory bracket  126  is perpendicular to the width axis. Axes of rotation  127  are perpendicular to both the height and width axis of accessory ridge  126 . 
     A cam lever  128  is positioned against each end projection  135 . Each cam lever  128  includes a body portion  129  and a lever portion  131 . Lever portion  131  extends away from body portion  129  along a longitudinal axis of cam levers  128 . In a specific embodiment, the body portion  129  has a partially cylindrical shape. Axis of rotation  127  extends through body portion  129  of cam lever  128 . In a specific embodiment, body portion  129  is centered about axis of rotation  127 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  6   , an exploded view of the accessory bracket  126  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Mounting bracket body  134  further includes a pair of locking portions  142  on opposing sides of the front connection portion  140  and below the opposing end projections  135 . Cam levers  128  are rotatably coupled to accessory bracket  126  and specifically to locking portions  142 . Locking portions  142  have a shape corresponding to cam levers  128 . Each locking portion  142  includes a bore  144  extending through the locking portion  142  along axis of rotation  127 . 
     Accessory bracket  126  includes a pair of rear clamps  146 . Each rear clamp  146  includes a clamping portion  148  and a clamp locking portion  149 . Each clamp locking portion  149  includes a bore  147  extending through the clamp locking portion  149  along axis of rotation  127 . A connector, shown as a screw  150  extends through bore  147  of each clamp locking portion  149  and bore  144  of the mounting bracket body  134  along axis of rotation  127  when accessory bracket  126  is assembled. 
     Referring to  FIG.  7   , a cross-sectional view of the accessory bracket  126  coupled to hard hat  100  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in  FIG.  7   , when accessory bracket  126  is connected to mounting ridge  112 , clamping portion  148  of rear clamp  146  and mounting bracket body  134  are positioned on opposing sides of dovetail projections  122  of hard hat  100 . Rear clamp  146  and mounting bracket body  134  together act as a vise to clamp onto hard hat  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   , a detailed a cross-sectional view of an end of accessory bracket  126  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  126  includes a washer  152  positioned at least partially within rear clamp  146  between a portion of screw  150  and body portion  129  of cam lever  128 . Clamping portion  148  of rear clamp  146  includes a bracket facing surface  154 . Bracket facing surface  154  faces a rear surface  156  of mounting bracket body  134 . A gap or space, shown as a slot  158  is defined between bracket facing surface  154  of rear clamp  146  and rear surface  156  of mounting bracket body  134 . Rear clamp  148  at least partially defines slot  158 . Slot  158  receives the mounting ridge  112  and removably coupled the accessory bracket  126  to the hard hat  100 . 
     A size of slot  158  defines a distance between rear surface  156  of accessory bracket  126  and inner or bracket facing surface  154  of rear clamp  146 . Slots  158  receive the mounting ridge (i.e.,  12 ,  112 ,  212 ) and removably coupled the accessory bracket  126  to one of the front side surface (i.e.,  16 ,  116 ) or rear side surface (i.e.,  14 ,  114 ,  214 ) of the hard hat (i.e.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 , etc.). in other words, slots  158  act as receiving slots. 
     Cam lever  128  is configured to receive a portion of screw  150 . When an operator actuates cam lever  128  in the first, locking direction (e.g., arrow  130  in  FIG.  3   ), rear clamp  146  is pulled toward accessory bracket  126  or mounting bracket body  134  (space  158  is reduced) such that the rear clamp  146  and mounting bracket body  134  together act to clamp or compress onto the dovetail projections  122  (see e.g.,  FIG.  7   ) of the hard hat (e.g.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 ). In other words, accessory bracket  126  compresses a portion of mounting ridge  112 . When an operator actuates cam lever  128  in the second, unlocking direction (see e.g., arrow  132  in  FIG.  4   ) rear clamp  146  is moved away from accessory bracket  126  or mounting bracket body  134  (a size of space  158  increases) such that rear clamp  146  and mounting bracket body  134  release the portion of mounting ridge  112  and no longer securely couple accessory bracket  126  to the hard hat. In a specific embodiment, the portion of the mounting ridge  112  is the pair or dovetail projections  122  extending outward from opposing sides of mounting ridge  112 . 
     In other words, when cam levers  128  are actuated to distance between rear surface  156  of accessory bracket  126  and the inner surface or bracket facing surface  154  of the rear clamps is changed. Specifically, a distance between rear surface  156  of accessory bracket  126  or mounting bracket body  134  and an inner surface  154  of rear clamp  146  when cam levers  128  are in a locked position is less than a distance between rear surface  156  and the inner surface  154  of rear clamp  146  when the cam levers  128  are in an unlocked position. When accessory bracket  126  is coupled to hard hat  100 , a first slot  158  at the first end of accessory bracket  126  receives and encloses one of the opposing edges or dovetail projections  122  of mounting ridge  112  and a second slot  158  located at the second end of accessory bracket  126  received and encloses one of the opposing edges  122  of mounting ridge  112 . The first and second slots  158  extend downward along mounting ridge  112  in a perpendicular orientation to the axes of rotation  127 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  9   , a rear perspective view of the accessory bracket  126  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Center tab  138  extends backwards (e.g., in direction of the mounting ridge) beyond rear surface  156  of mounting bracket body  134 . Center tab  138  includes a generally upward facing surface  160  that engages with the retention cleat of the hard hat when accessory bracket  126  is coupled to the hard as described above. Rear surface  156  further includes a recess  162  positioned above center tab  138 . Recess  162  is sized and/or configured to receive a retention cleat and further secure the accessory bracket  126  onto a hard hat (e.g.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 ). 
     Referring to  FIG.  10   , a partially exploded view of the locking portion  142  of accessory bracket  126  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Cam lever  128  and specifically body  129  includes an inward facing surface  166  (e.g., toward locking portion  142  and mounting bracket body  134 ). Two teeth  164  are coupled to inward facing surface  166  and extending toward locking portion  142  when accessory bracket  126  is assembled. Inward facing surface  166  further includes a central projection  168  positioned between the two teeth  164 . A bore  170  extends through at least a portion of central projection  168  along axis of rotation  127  when accessory bracket  126  is assembled. When assembled, central projection  168  is received within and coupled to mounting bracket body  134  and rear clamp  146  while bore  170  receives an end portion of screw  150  (see e.g.,  FIG.  8   ). 
     Locking portion  142  includes a pair of ramps  172  extending around bore  144 . When an operator actuates cam lever  128  in the locking direction, the two teeth  164  move or slide up the pair of ramps  172  creating a clamping force to pull rear clamp  146  toward mounting bracket body  134  such that rear clamp  146  and mounting bracket body  134  couple accessory bracket  126  to the hard hat (e.g.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 ). 
     Referring to  FIG.  11   , a perspective view of a hard hat  100  connected to an accessory bracket  226  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  226  can also be utilized with hard hats  10  or  100  and is substantially the same as accessory bracket  126  except for the differences discussed herein. Accessory bracket  226  is coupled or connected to hard hat  100  and specifically to dovetail projections  122  of mounting ridge  112  located on rear side surface  114  of hard hat  100 . Accessory bracket  226  can also be coupled to mounting ridge  112  positioned on front side surface  116  of hard hat  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  12   , a perspective view of a hard hat  100  connected to accessory bracket  226  which is in a first, locked position is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  226  includes a pair of cam levers  228  configured to lock accessory bracket  226  onto mounting ridge  112  and specifically to the dovetail projections (see e.g.,  122  of  FIG.  11   ) of hard hat  100 . When an operator actuates cam levers  228  in the first, locking direction shown by arrow  230 , cam levers  228  are rotated about a longitudinal or vertical axis of rotation  227 . When cam levers  228  are in a locked position, accessory bracket  226  clamps or compresses onto the dovetail projections of hard hat  100  to securely couple accessory bracket  226  to the mounting ridge  112  of the hard hat  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  13   , a perspective view of a hard hat  100  connected to accessory bracket  226  which is in a second, unlocked position is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. When the operator actuates cam levers  228  in the second, unlocking direction shown by arrow  232 , cam levers  228  are rotated about longitudinal axis of rotation  227 . When cam levers  228  are in the unlocked position, accessory bracket  226  unclamps and no longer compresses the dovetail projections (see e.g.,  122  of  FIG.  11   ) of hard hat  100  to securely couple accessory bracket  226  to the mounting ridge  112  of the hard hat  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  14   , a perspective view of accessory bracket  226  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  226  includes a mounting bracket body  234  coupled to an accessory, shown as a battery pack  236  at a front connection portion  240  (see e.g.,  FIG.  15   ) of mounting bracket body  234 . Accessory bracket  226  further includes a tab, shown as center tab  238  extending downward from the mounting bracket body  234  toward the brim of a hard hat. Center tab  238  is configured to grip and/or hold onto a retention cleat or detent (see e.g.,  24  of  FIG.  1   ) of the hard hat (e.g.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 ). Accessory bracket  226  further includes opposing end projections  235 . Each end projection  235  extends backward (e.g., direction away from battery pack  236 ) from the mounting bracket body  234  on opposing sides of the front connection portion  240 . Each cam lever  228  is positioned at least partially against a respective end projection  235 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  15   , an exploded view of the accessory bracket  226  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Mounting bracket body  234  further includes a pair of locking portions  242  on opposing sides of the front connection portion  240  below the opposing end projections  235 . Cam levers  228  are rotatably coupled to locking portions  242  and locking portions  242  have a shape corresponding to cam levers  228 . Each locking portion  242  includes a bore  244  extending through the locking portion  242  in an orientation generally perpendicular (e.g., 90 degrees±10 degrees) to longitudinal axis of rotation  227 . 
     Accessory bracket  226  includes a pair of rear clamps  246 . Each rear clamp  246  includes a clamping portion  248  and a clamp locking portion  249 . Each clamp locking portion  249  includes a bore  247  extending through the locking portion  249  and positioned behind bore  244  of locking portion  242 . A connector, shown as a bolt  250  extends through bore  247  of clamp locking portion  249  and bore  244  of the mounting bracket body  234  when accessory bracket  226  is assembled. Each cam lever  228  is configured to receive a barrel nut  251  and a portion of bolt  250 . Bolt  250  extends from within cam lever  228  and barrel nut  251  through at least partially through locking portion  242  and rear clamp  246 . 
     Each cam lever  228  includes a body portion  229  and a lever portion  231 . In a specific embodiment, the body portion  229  has a partially cylindrical shape extending along axis of rotation  227 . Body portion  229  of cam lever  228  includes extended portions  252  positioned along axis of rotation  227 . A gap or space  253  is defined between extended portions  252  and is configured to receive barrel nut  251  when accessory bracket  226  is assembled. 
     Referring to  FIG.  16   , a cross-sectional view of the accessory bracket  226  coupled to hard hat  100  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in  FIG.  16   , when accessory bracket  226  is connected to mounting ridge  112 , clamping portion  248  of rear clamp  246  and mounting bracket body  234  are positioned on opposing sides of dovetail projections  122  of hard hat  100 . Rear clamp  246  and mounting bracket body  234  together act as a vise to clamp onto hard hat  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  17   , a detailed a cross-sectional view of an end of accessory bracket  226  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Clamping portion  248  of rear clamp  246  includes a bracket facing surface  254 . Bracket facing surface  254  faces a rear surface  256  of mounting bracket body  234 . A gap or space, shown as a slot  258  is defined between bracket facing surface  254  of rear clamp  246  and rear surface  256  of mounting bracket body  234 . When an operator actuates cam levers  228  in the first, locking direction (e.g., arrow  230  in  FIG.  12   ), rear clamps  246  are pulled toward mounting bracket body  234  (space  258  is reduced) such that the rear clamps  246  and mounting bracket body  234  together act to clamp or compress onto the dovetail projections  122  (see e.g.,  FIG.  16   ) of the hard hat (e.g.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 ). When an operator actuates cam levers  228  in the second, unlocking direction (see e.g., arrow  232  in  FIG.  13   ) a size of space  258  increases such that rear clamps  246  and mounting bracket body  234  no longer securely couple accessory bracket  226  to the hard hat. 
     Referring to  FIG.  18   , a rear perspective view of the accessory bracket  226  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Center tab  238  extends backwards (e.g., in direction of the mounting ridge) beyond (e.g., closer to mounting ridge of the hard hat) rear surface  256  of mounting bracket body  234 . Center tab  238  includes a generally upward facing surface  266  that engages with the retention cleat of the hard hat when accessory bracket  226  is coupled to the hard as described above. Rear surface  256  further includes a recess  268  positioned above center tab  238 . Recess  268  is configured to receive a retention cleat and further secure the accessory bracket  226  onto a hard hat (e.g.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 ). 
     Referring to  FIGS.  19 - 22   , various aspects of a mounting bracket, shown as accessory bracket  326  are shown. Accessory bracket  326  can be utilized with hard hats  10 ,  100 , and  200 . Accessory bracket  326  is substantially the same as accessory brackets  126  and  226  except for the differences discussed herein. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  19 - 20   , perspective views of accessory bracket  326  connected or mounted to hard hat  200  and specifically to mounting ridge  212  are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  326  includes a mounting bracket body  334  coupled to an accessory, shown as a battery pack  336  at a front connection portion  340  of mounting bracket body  334 . Accessory bracket  326  further includes a center tab  338  extending downward from the mounting bracket body  334  toward the brim  218  of hard hat  200 . Center tab  338  is configured to grip and/or hold onto a retention cleat or detent (see e.g.,  24  of  FIG.  1   ) of hard hat  200 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  21 - 22   , accessory bracket  326  further includes opposing side connection portions  328 . Each side connection portion  328  extends outward from the mounting bracket body  334  on opposing sides of the front connection portion  340 . Each side connection portion  328  is coupled to a rear clamp  346  by one or more connectors, shown as screws  330 . In a specific embodiment each side connection portion  328  is coupled to the rear clamp  346  by two screws  330 . In other embodiments, the side connection portion  328  and rear clamp portion may be coupled by fewer or more screws  330  (e.g., 1, 3, etc.). The rear clamp  346  includes a clamping portion  348  with a bracket facing surface  354 . Bracket facing surface  354  of clamping portion  348  faces a rear surface  356  of mounting bracket body  334 . A gap or space, shown as a slot  358  is defined between bracket facing surface  354  of rear clamp  346  and rear surface  356  of mounting bracket body  334 . 
     When an operator tightens (e.g., turns in a clockwise direction) screws  330 , rear clamps  346  are pulled toward mounting bracket body  334  such that the rear clamps  346  and mounting bracket body  334  together act as a vice clamping or gripping onto the dovetail projections (see e.g.,  22  of  FIG.  1   ) to securely couple accessory bracket  326  to mounting ridge  212  of hard hat  200 . When an operator loosens (e.g., turns in a counterclockwise direction) screws  330 , rear clamps  346  move away from mounting bracket body  334  such that the rear clamps  346  and mounting bracket body  334  together release the dovetail projections (see e.g.,  22  of  FIG.  1   ) such that couple accessory bracket  326  is no longer securely coupled to mounting ridge  212  of hard hat  200 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  23   , a cross-sectional view of an accessory bracket  426  is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  426  can be utilized with hard hats  10 ,  100 , and  200 . Accessory bracket  426  is substantially the same as accessory brackets  126 ,  226 , and  326  except for the differences discussed herein. Accessory bracket  426  includes a mounting bracket body  434  coupled to an accessory, shown as a battery pack  436  at a front connection portion  440  of mounting bracket body  434 . 
     Accessory bracket  426  further includes opposing end portions  445 . Each end portion  445  extends outward from the mounting bracket body  434  on opposing sides of the front connection portion  440 . In a specific embodiment, end portions  445  are angled back (in orientation of  FIG.  24   ) away from battery pack  436 . Each end portion  445  is coupled to a rear clamp  446  by a connector, shown as a pin  444  at a hinge point  442 . The rear clamp  446  includes a clamping portion  448  with a bracket facing surface  454 . Bracket facing surface  454  of clamping portion  448  faces a rear surface  456  of mounting bracket body  434 . A gap or space, shown as a slot  458  is defined between bracket facing surface  454  of rear clamp  446  and rear surface  456  of mounting bracket body  434 . 
     Accessory bracket  426  further includes one or more cam levers  428  coupled to rear clamp  446  and/or end portion  445 . Cam lever  428  is configured to receive a barrel nut  451  and a connector, shown as a bolt  450 . Bolt  450  extends from within cam lever  428  and barrel nut  451  through at least a portion of rear clamp  446  and end portion  445 . When an operator actuates cam levers  428  in a first, locking direction shown by arrow  430 , bolts  450  and rear clamps  446  are pulled toward mounting bracket body  434  such that the rear clamps  446  and mounting bracket body  434  together act to clamp or compress onto the dovetail projections (see e.g.,  22  of  FIG.  1   ) of a hard hat to couple accessory bracket  426  to a mounting ridge (e.g.,  12 ,  112 ,  212 ) of the hard hat (e.g.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 ). When an operator actuates cam levers  428  in a second, unlocking direction shown by arrow  432 , a size of space  458  increases such that rear clamps  446  and mounting bracket body  434  no longer compress onto the dovetail projections of the hard hat. 
     Referring to  FIG.  24   , a cross-sectional view of an accessory bracket  526  is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  526  can be utilized with hard hats  10 ,  100 , and  200 . Accessory bracket  526  is substantially the same as accessory bracket  426  except for the differences discussed herein. Accessory bracket  526  includes a mounting bracket body  534  coupled to an accessory, shown as a battery pack  536  at a front connection portion  540  of mounting bracket body  534 . 
     Accessory bracket  526  further includes opposing end portions  545 . Each end portion  545  extends outward from the mounting bracket body  534  on opposing sides of the front connection portion  540 . In a specific embodiment, end portions  545  are angled back (in orientation of  FIG.  25   ) away from battery pack  536 . Each end portion  545  is coupled to a rear clamp  546  by a connector, shown as a pin  544  at a hinge point  542 . The rear clamp  546  includes a clamping portion  548  with a bracket facing surface  554 . Bracket facing surface  554  of clamping portion  548  faces a rear surface  556  of mounting bracket body  534 . A gap or space  558  is defined between bracket facing surface  554  of rear clamp  546  and rear surface  556  of mounting bracket body  534 . 
     Instead of actuating cam levers like with accessory bracket  426 , an operator tightens connectors, shown as screws  550  by turning them in first, locking direction shown by arrow  530 . When screws  550  are tightened, a pair of rear clamps  546  and mounting bracket body  534  together act as a vice clamping or gripping onto the dovetail projections (see e.g.,  22  of  FIG.  1   ) of a hard hat to couple accessory bracket  526  to the hard hat. To unclamp accessory bracket  526 , an operator loosens screws  550  by turning them in a second, unlocking direction shown by arrow  532 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  25   , a cross-sectional view of a rear mounting location of a hard hat  10  and specifically retention cleat  24  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. As previously discussed, retention cleat  24  extends outward from rear side surface  14  of mounting bracket  12  on hard hat  10 . Retention cleat  24  is configured to be grasped and/or held onto by an accessory bracket  626  central tab  628  and recess  662  positioned at least partially within central tab  628 . Retention cleat  24  includes a length, L 1  defined between rear side surface  14  of hard hat  100  and an outer surface  25  of retention cleat  24 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  26   , a cross-sectional view of a rear mounting location of a hard hat  600  and specifically retention cleat or detent  624  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Hard hat  600  includes a mounting bracket  612  on a rear side surface  614 . Retention cleat  624  is designed with an increased size relative to retention cleat  24 . The size of retention cleat  624  allows for the mounting of heavier accessories on a hard hat  600  relative to hard hat  10  because the larger size of retention cleat  624  makes it more difficult for the accessory bracket  626  to become loose or slide off retention cleat  624  (e.g., accessory is more likely to remain coupled to the hard hat because deformation caused by heavy accessory is overcome) if there is any impact or falling of the hard hat. 
     Retention cleat  624  includes a length, L 2  defined between rear side surface  614  of hard hat  600  and an outer surface  625  of retention cleat  624 . In a specific embodiment, L 2  is greater than L 1 . A bottom surface  630  of retention cleat  624  is planar. Applicant believes use of a planar bottom surface  630  for retention cleat  624  further increases the likelihood that accessory bracket  626  remains coupled to retention cleat  624  if there is any impact on hard hat  600  compared to a retention cleat with a curved bottom surface (see e.g.,  24  of  FIG.  26   ). 
     Referring to  FIG.  27   , an accessory mounting system shown as a lighted mounting system  710 , is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Headlamp mounting system  710  includes a rigid mounting bracket  712  and an accessory mounting bracket  726 . Rigid mounting bracket  712  securely and removably mounts to either a front mounting ridge and/or rear mounting ridge (i.e.,  12 ,  112 ,  212  etc.) of the hard hat (i.e.,  10 ,  100 ,  200  etc.). Headlamp mounting system  710  can be utilized with a hard hat (e.g.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 ) and/or coupled to a mounting ridge (e.g.,  12 ,  112 ,  212 ) of the hard hat (e.g.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 ). 
     In general, the lighted mounting system  710  discussed herein includes a lamp  714 . Lamp  714  is electronically coupled to a power source, such as a battery pack by a wire  716 . The battery pack can be coupled to the accessory mounting bracket  726  that can be mounted on an opposing mounting ridge of a hard hat (e.g., rigid mounting bracket  712  positioned on a front ridge and accessory mounting bracket  726  on a rear mounting ridge of a hard hat. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  28 - 29   , perspective views of the accessory bracket  726  are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  726  can also be utilized with hard hats  10 ,  100 ,  200  and is substantially the same as accessory brackets  126 ,  226  except for the differences discussed herein. 
     Referring to  FIG.  29   , a rear perspective view of the accessory bracket  726  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. A tab, shown as center tab  738  extends backwards (e.g., in direction of the mounting ridge) beyond (e.g., closer to mounting ridge of the hard hat) rear surface  756  of mounting bracket body  734 . Center tab  738  includes a generally upward facing surface  760  that engages with the retention cleat of the hard hat when accessory bracket  726  is coupled to the hard. Rear surface  756  further includes a projection extending backwards, the projection including a recessed portion  765 . The recessed portion  765  is configured to engage a retention cleat and further secure the accessory bracket  726  onto a hard hat (e.g.,  10 ,  100 ,  200 ). Specifically, the retention cleat is received within a space or gap  762  between recessed portion  765  and upward facing surface  760  of center tab  738 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  30   , an exploded view of the accessory bracket  726  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  726  includes a pair of rear clamps  746 . Each rear clamp  746  includes a clamping portion  748  and a clamp locking portion  749 . A spacer  751  interfaces against clamping portion  748  and is coupled to rear surface  756 . 
     Each clamp locking portion  749  includes a bore  747  extending through the locking portion  749  and positioned behind bore  744  of locking portion  742 . A connector or fastener, shown as a screw  750  extends through bore  747  of clamp locking portion  749  and bore  744  of the mounting bracket body  734  when accessory bracket  726  is assembled. Each cam lever  728  is configured to receive a threaded connector  753  that coupled to and receives a portion of a screw  750 . Screw  750  extends from within cam lever  728  and threaded connector  753  at least partially through locking portion  742  and rear clamp  746 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  31   , a partially exploded view of the locking portion  742  of accessory bracket  726  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Cam lever  728  and specifically body  729  includes an inward facing surface  766  (e.g., toward locking portion  742  and mounting bracket body  734 ). Two teeth  764  are coupled to inward facing surface  766  and extending toward locking portion  742  when accessory bracket  726  is assembled. 
     Inward facing surface  766  further includes a central projection  768  positioned between the two teeth  764 . A bore  770  extends through at least a portion of central projection  768  along axis of rotation  727  when accessory bracket  726  is assembled. Central projection  768  includes a plurality of projections or splines  774  extending outward (i.e., away from bore  770 ). The inner surface of bore  770  includes a plurality of projections or splines  776  configured to engage with threaded connector  753 . When assembled, central projection  768  is received within and coupled to mounting bracket body  734  and rear clamp  746  while bore  170  receives an end portion of threaded connector  753  and/or screw  750 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  33   , a rear mounting location of a hard hat  800  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Hard hat  800  includes a mounting ridge  812  on a rear side surface  814 . Mounting ridge  812  includes a pair of dovetail projections or wings  822  extending outward from opposing planar surfaces  821  positioned on each side of mounting ridge  812 . A plurality of bores, shown as mounting holes  824  are positioned on mounting ridge  812  and specifically on dovetail projections  822 . In a specific embodiment, four mounting holes  824  are on mounting ridge  812  with two mounting holes  824  on each dovetail projection  822 . In such an embodiment, one of the mounting holes  824  on a dovetail projection  822  is positioned above (i.e., closer ridge of hard hat) such that accessories can be stacked (i.e., positioned above and/or below) and still be secured to the hard hat  800 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  33   , a rear perspective view of hard hat  800  coupled to an accessory bracket  826  is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  826  is substantially the same as accessory brackets  126  and  226  except for the differences discussed herein. Battery pack  836  attaches vertically (i.e., downward along rear surface of hard hat  800 ) to accessory bracket  826 . Similarly, accessory bracket  826  attaches vertically (i.e., downward along rear surface of hard hat  800 ) to hard hat  800  (see e.g.,  FIGS.  34 - 35   ). Accessory bracket  826  includes a release handle  838 . In a specific embodiment, release handle  838  is a spring loaded release handle. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  34 - 35   , cross-sectional views of hard hat  800  and accessory bracket  826  in an attached (i.e., coupled position) and an unattached (i.e., uncoupled) position are shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Release handle  838  includes a spring  840 . When accessory bracket  826  is not attached to hard hat  800 , release handle  838  can be retracted in a direction away from hard hat  800  (see e.g., position in  FIG.  34   ). Once accessory bracket  826  has been lowered onto dovetail projections  822  of hard hat  800 , release handle  838  can be released. When released handle  838  is released, an end  842  of release handle is received within one of the mounting holes  824  locking accessory bracket  826  onto hard hat  800 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  36   , a rear mounting location of a hard hat  900  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Hard hat  900  includes a mounting ridge  912  on a rear side surface  914 . Mounting ridge  912  includes a pair of dovetail projections or wings  922  extending outward from opposing planar surfaces  921  positioned on each side of mounting ridge  912 . A retention structure  924  is coupled to mounting ridge  912 . Retention structure  924  includes a first or upper retention pocket  925  and a second or lower retention pocket  927 . Second retention pocket  927  is positioned below first retention pocket  925  or between upper retention pocket  925  and dovetail projections  922 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  37   , a rear perspective view of hard hat  900  coupled to an accessory bracket  926  is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Accessory bracket  926  is substantially the same as accessory brackets  126  and  226  except for the differences discussed herein. Accessory bracket  926  includes a spring finger with a release tab  938 . Release tab  938  allows for coupling of accessory bracket  926  to hard hat  900  and specifically to retention structure  924 . The spring finger allows release tab  938  to flex out (i.e., away from hard hat  900  and/or mounting ridge  912 ) and release accessory bracket  926  from a connection to hard hat  900 . In a specific embodiment, the spring finger with the release tab  938  is formed from molded plastic. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  38 - 39   , cross-sectional views of hard hat  900  and accessory bracket  926  in an attached (i.e., coupled position) and an unattached (i.e., uncoupled) position are shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. When accessory bracket  926  is not attached to hard hat  900 , release tab  938  is flexed in a direction away from hard hat  900  (see e.g., position in  FIG.  39   ). Once accessory bracket  926  has been positioned to engage dovetail projections  922  of hard hat  900 , release tab  938  can be released allowing a locking projection  940  to engage with and/or couple to retention structure  924 . Locking projection  940  extends toward hard hat  900  (i.e., in a direction away from accessory bracket  926 ). Accessory bracket  926  can be coupled to either upper retention pocket  925  or lower retention pocket  927 . When a user wants to attach more than one accessory to mounting ridge  912 , accessory bracket  926  can be positioned to engage upper retention pocket  927  such that accessory bracket  926  is positioned above or resting on the other accessory. 
     In various embodiments, the accessory brackets and specifically the accessory bracket connectors discussed herein are configured to securely support a relatively heavy hard hat accessory from mounting locations on the hard hat. In various embodiments, the accessory brackets are configured to support accessories having a weight. Further, the accessory brackets are configured to maintain attachment of such heavy accessory to the hard hat even under forceful impacts. In contrast to typical accessory brackets, the heavy accessory (e.g., the battery pack) does not fall off the mounting location of the hard hat upon impact (e.g., upon dropping hard hat, falling object etc.). 
     It should be understood that the figures illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, and it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology is for description purposes only and should not be regarded as limiting. 
     Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only. The construction and arrangements, shown in the various exemplary embodiments, are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Some elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm, or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is in no way intended that any particular order be inferred. In addition, as used herein, the article “a” is intended to include one or more component or element, and is not intended to be construed as meaning only one. As used herein, “rigidly coupled” refers to two components being coupled in a manner such that the components move together in a fixed positional relationship when acted upon by a force. 
     Various embodiments of the disclosure relate to any combination of any of the features, and any such combination of features may be claimed in this or future applications. Any of the features, elements or components of any of the exemplary embodiments discussed above may be utilized alone or in combination with any of the features, elements or components of any of the other embodiments discussed above. 
     For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” means the joining of two components directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional member being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature. 
     While the current application recites particular combinations of features in the claims appended hereto, various embodiments of the invention relate to any combination of any of the features described herein whether or not such combination is currently claimed, and any such combination of features may be claimed in this or future applications. Any of the features, elements, or components of any of the exemplary embodiments discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any of the features, elements, or components of any of the other embodiments discussed above. 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the relative dimensions, including angles, lengths and radii, as shown in the Figures are to scale. Actual measurements of the Figures will disclose relative dimensions, angles and proportions of the various exemplary embodiments. Various exemplary embodiments extend to various ranges around the absolute and relative dimensions, angles and proportions that may be determined from the Figures. Various exemplary embodiments include any combination of one or more relative dimensions or angles that may be determined from the Figures. Further, actual dimensions not expressly set out in this description can be determined by using the ratios of dimensions measured in the Figures in combination with the express dimensions set out in this description.