Patent Description:
As is known, a particular type of protective helmets for car racing is the rally helmets type which - in addition to their normal protective function - have the need to guarantee communication between the navigator and the pilot. In fact, it is known that in the practice of car rallies the navigator has the fundamental task of communicating to the driver - especially during the special stages - the indications relating to the progress of the route to follow taken from the so-called "road book". This is to allow the driver to know in advance the difficulties of the route (curves, turns, road changes, characteristics of the road surface, possible obstacles and similar indications), in order to promptly optimize the driving conditions of the car (speed, gear shifts, and the like) and driving style according to the characteristics of the stretch of road ahead.

These fundamental indications are communicated verbally by the navigator to the pilot, usually through various intercom systems for communication between the navigator and the pilot. In general, known communication devices can be grouped into two categories: helmet independent systems (for example microphones and earphones worn by the user independently and separate from the helmet) and systems integrated in the helmet, the latter being largely long preferable.

However, the devices currently in use are not fully satisfactory as they present various drawbacks, linked to the dimensions and size of the devices themselves, transmission efficiency, safety problems in the event of accidents. In fact, the requirements that intercom communication devices must be able to satisfy are many.

The transmission of the indications from the navigator to the pilot must in fact be clear and capable of overcoming the noise of the car interior. The microphone must therefore be positioned near the navigator's mouth so that the voice of the navigator is not covered or made confused by the considerable background noises present in the car interior.

At the same time, the microphone must not constitute an hindrance for the navigator (for example, constitute a visual obstacle in consulting the road book) and must not be an obstacle in fitting and removing the helmet. Above all - from a safety point of view - in the event of accidents, the communication system must be able to be removed quickly and must not cause delays or impediments to any emergency interventions that may be necessary.

At present, known communication systems have a number of problems that make their use not always optimal. An example of a prior art helmet is given in <CIT>.

On the basis of these considerations, the main task of the present invention is to provide a communication system in automotive practice, and in particular in rallying practice, which overcomes the drawbacks and problems described above.

Within this aim, an object of the present invention is therefore to provide a protective helmet, in particular a helmet for automotive practice, in which the typical protection functions of a helmet are integrated with the communication functions between the helmet user and a third party.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a protective helmet, in particular a helmet for automotive practice, in which the quality of the voice transmission is optimal.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a protective helmet, in particular a helmet for automotive practice, which is provided with a reliable and efficient communication system. A further object of the present invention is to provide a protective helmet, in particular a helmet for the automotive practice, which is provided with a voice communication system, and wherein said voice communication system is not a hindrance for the user.

Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide a protective helmet, in particular a helmet for the automotive practice, which does not present safety problems.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a protective helmet, in particular a helmet for automotive practice, provided with a voice communication system which allows to use various technological communication solutions.

Not least object of the subject matter of the present invention is to provide a protective helmet, in particular a helmet for the automotive practice, which has high reliability, and is easy to manufacture and at competitive costs.

This task, as well as these and other purposes which will become better apparent hereinafter, are achieved through a protective helmet, particularly for automotive use, which comprises a cap adapted to wrap around a portion of a user's skull and provided with a front opening at at least a portion of a user's face and delimited by an upper edge and by a first and second lateral edge of said cap.

The protective helmet of the present invention comprises a detachable arm of partial protection and support for a microphone reversibly fixed to said cap at said first or second lateral edge, said detachable arm comprising a first element provided with first reversible coupling means adapted to rigidly couple with corresponding second reversible coupling means positioned in said cap at said first or second lateral edge, a second element flexibly coupled to said first element and which extends therefrom in the direction of the central and lower part of said front opening and adapted to support said microphone.

In fact, it has been seen that a protective helmet, particularly for automotive use, thus conceived has a set of characteristics and properties which allow to overcome the drawbacks and problems described above.

In particular, it has been found that the use of an arm which is detachable from the helmet cap as a support for a communication microphone allows to optimize both the effectiveness of the communication between the navigator and the pilot and the safety aspects.

In practice, in the protective helmet thus conceived, the microphone can be positioned at an optimal distance from the user's mouth thus allowing to obtain more than adequate clarity in communication. At the same time, the shape of the detachable arm itself, made with two elements joined together in a flexible manner (of which the first element is rigidly coupled to the cap and the second element - supporting the microphone - is movable with respect to said first element) allows to move the second element away from the first element, improving both the comfort of use and the safety aspects of devices of the known type.

Furthermore, another extremely important feature is given by the fact that the detachable arm can be quickly removed from the cap in the event of accidents or other problems, allowing immediate emergency interventions in case of need.

The shape and size of the emergency arm can also be chosen in order to ensure adequate protection for the lower part of the face (chin and mouth) of the user, in practice creating a protective chin guard for the user in the event of impacts that can occur on the front of the face, which chin guard can be detached and removed if necessary.

In the same way, the shape and size of the emergency arm can also be adapted to accommodate all or part of the electronics needed to manage communication within it, as well as the power systems (batteries or similar) of the same.

The electronics (in whole or in part) and the power supply system can also be housed in special seats made in or on the cap. In this case, the movable arm is conveniently provided with contact means, for example positioned on the first element and connectable to corresponding contact means positioned on the cap, which allow to transmit signals and / or power supply from / to the microphone.

A widely preferred embodiment of the protective helmet, according to the present invention, provides that said detachable arm comprises a third elastic element, operatively connected to said first and second elements of said detachable arm. In this case, in practice, the third elastic element can advantageously comprise a strip of flexible material which has a first and a second end respectively connected to said first and second elements of said detachable arm, allowing the movement of the second element with respect to the first element.

Alternatively, the first element of the movable arm can be made at least in part with a flexible material, so as to guarantee both rigid coupling with the shell and the mobility of the second element with respect to said first element and with respect to the helmet shell.

In a widely preferred embodiment of the protective helmet, according to the present invention, the second element of said detachable arm is advantageously pivoted on said first element and is free to rotate with respect to it.

In practice, in this embodiment, the first element acts as a support and constraint for the second element which has a degree of freedom in rotation with respect to the first element. Elastic means, for example spring means interposed between the first and second elements, or the strip of flexible material mentioned above, can be provided for controlling and modulating the movement and positioning of the second element with respect to the first element of the detachable arm.

A general and preferred embodiment of the protective helmet of the invention provides that said second element of said detachable arm is movable between a fixed operating position with respect to said first element of said detachable arm and with respect to said cap and non-operative positions in which it is spaced forward with respect to said cap. In other words, in this embodiment of the protective helmet of the invention, the second element of the arm that supports the microphone remains in a fixed and stable operating position during normal use. In case of need, as better illustrated below, the second element of the detachable arm can be moved away from the front of the helmet, freeing the area in front of the user's mouth and chin, for example to allow emergency interventions on the same.

In a practical embodiment of the protection helmet of the invention, which will be described in detail below, said first element of said detachable arm advantageously comprises a first body which has a first end on which there are positioned the first reversible coupling means with the second reversible coupling means on the cap and a second end on which the second element of said detachable arm is pivoted.

The detachable arm further comprises a third elastic element which is operatively connected to said first and second elements of said detachable arm and which maintains said second element of said detachable arm in a fixed operating position with respect to said first element of said detachable arm and with respect to said cap (optimal position for communication). The second element of said detachable arm is therefore movable between said fixed operating position and non-operative positions by manually acting on it and overcoming the resistance of said third elastic element to move the second element of the movable arm away from the front of the helmet.

Advantageously, in widely preferred embodiments, the detachable arm of the helmet also comprises means for adjusting said fixed operating position of said second element of said detachable arm. In practice, the detachable arm of the helmet can be conveniently provided with adjustment means, for example an adjustment screw, which limit the movement of the second element of the detachable arm with respect to the first element and the cap, determining a fixed operating point where the second element and the associated microphone are positioned at an optimal distance from the user's mouth.

Generally, the detachable arm can be positioned on the left or right side of the protective helmet. Consequently, the second reversible coupling means can be positioned on the left or right side of the cap according to the needs.

To ensure maximum flexibility of use, it is also possible to provide embodiments of the protective helmet of the invention, wherein said second reversible coupling means are positioned in said cap in correspondence with both said first and said second lateral edge of the opening front. In practice, in this embodiment, the positioning of the detachable arm is not predetermined and possible on only one side of the helmet (right or left). The coupling means are instead positioned on both sides of the helmet, leaving the end user the possibility of choosing whether to position and use the detachable arm on the right or left side of the helmet, depending on the comfort and operating needs.

From the practical implementation point of view, the coupling between the detachable arm and the cap, in particular between the first element of the detachable arm and the protective helmet cap, can be made with various measures (snap-on couplings, bayonet couplings, various forms of attachment of a known type) according to the operational needs and the aesthetic aspect of the helmet.

For example, the second reversible coupling means can comprise a fixing plate which is positioned on the helmet cap and which is provided with a seat for housing said first element of said detachable arm.

To guarantee the speed of removal of the detachable arm, typically the protection helmet of the invention advantageously comprises means for quick release of said detachable arm which are adapted to disengage said first reversible coupling means positioned thereon by the second reversible coupling means positioned on the helmet cap. Depending on the coupling mechanism, these quick release means of said detachable arm can for example consist of levers or buttons or similar means of manual actuation by the user.

Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become better apparent from the description of preferred - but not exclusive - embodiments of a protective helmet, in particular a helmet for automotive use, according to the present invention, which are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings, in which:.

With reference to the attached figures, a protective helmet, in particular a helmet for car races, more particularly a helmet for car rallies, according to the second invention, designated in the various figures with the reference number <NUM>, comprises, in its more general embodiment, a cap <NUM> which is adapted to wrap and protect the upper, rear and lateral parts of the skull of a user and which is provided with a front opening <NUM>.

The front opening <NUM> is adapted to be positioned at at least a portion of the face <NUM> of a user and is delimited by an upper edge <NUM> and by a first <NUM> and second <NUM> lateral edge of said cap <NUM>.

One of the distinguishing features of the protection helmet <NUM> of the invention is given by the fact that it comprises a detachable arm <NUM> for partial protection and for support for a microphone which is reversibly fixed to said cap <NUM> at the first lateral edge <NUM> or at the second lateral edge <NUM> of the front opening <NUM> of the cap <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiments of the helmet <NUM>, the detachable arm <NUM> is fixed at the left lateral edge <NUM> of the front opening <NUM>, but it is understood that it can also be fixed in correspondence of the right lateral edge <NUM> thereof.

For the present purposes, the terms "front", "top", "rear", "frontal", and "side", as well as the terms "right", "left", and "forward", as well as similar related terms, are to be understood as referring to the conditions of normal use of the helmet when worn by the user.

In the more general embodiment of the helmet <NUM> of the invention, said detachable arm <NUM> comprises a first element <NUM> which is provided with first reversible coupling means <NUM> which are adapted to rigidly couple with corresponding second reversible coupling means <NUM> positioned on the cap <NUM> (or in the cap <NUM>) at said first <NUM> and / or on the second side edge <NUM> of the front opening <NUM>. The detachable arm <NUM> further comprises a second element <NUM> which is flexibly coupled to said first element <NUM> and which protrudes from it in the direction of the central and lower part of said front opening <NUM>, substantially in the area of the mouth and chin of a user.

The second element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM> has the main function of supporting a microphone (not shown) for communication between the user of the helmet <NUM> and one or more third parties. The microphone can be supported by the second element <NUM> according to various operating modes, and the term supported must be understood as general, including various forms of fixing the microphone on the second element <NUM> or housing inside it.

In the embodiment of the protective helmet <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the detachable arm <NUM> comprises a third element <NUM> having flexible characteristics which is operatively connected to the first element <NUM> and to the second element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM>.

In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the third elastic element <NUM> comprises a strip of flexible material which has a first end <NUM> connected to the first element <NUM> of the detachable arm <NUM>, and a second end <NUM> respectively connected to the second element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM>. The term "elastic" generally refers to a flexible element capable of flexing under the action of a force applied to it and of returning to its original position once the action of that force ceases and it is released.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, the second element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM> is pivoted on said first element <NUM> and is free to rotate with respect to it. In particular, the second element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM> is movable between a fixed operating position with respect to said first element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM> and with respect to said cap <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, in which it is positioned at an optimal distance with respect to the face (and in particular with respect to the mouth of a user), and an inoperative position, illustrated in <FIG>, in which it is spaced in an anterior direction with respect to said cap <NUM>.

In practice, from the operating position of <FIG> in which the second element <NUM> and the microphone connected to it are at an optimal distance from the user's face and mouth, said second element <NUM> can be removed from the user's face by rotating it with respect to the first element <NUM> by manual action by the user, thus freeing, in case of emergency and for other reasons, the area in front of the user's mouth and chin (position of <FIG>). When the manual action on the second element <NUM> is interrupted, it returns to the operating position of <FIG> due to the action of the third elastic element <NUM> on it.

With particular reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, in an example of practical embodiment, the first element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM> comprises a first body <NUM> which has a first end <NUM> on which there are positioned said first reversible coupling means <NUM> with the corresponding second reversible coupling means <NUM> positioned on the cap.

The first body <NUM> also has a second end <NUM> on which said second element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM> is pivoted. The detachable arm <NUM> also includes a third elastic element <NUM> which is operatively connected to said first <NUM> and second element <NUM> of said arm detachable <NUM>.

Under normal operating conditions, shown in <FIG>, the elastic element <NUM> maintains the second element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM> in the fixed operating position with respect to said first element <NUM> of the detachable arm <NUM> and with respect to said cap <NUM>, until when an action is exerted on it to move it to the inoperative position of <FIG>.

The second element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM> is in fact movable between the fixed operating position of <FIG> and the non-operative position of <FIG>, rotating with respect to the first element <NUM> and overcoming the resistance of said third elastic element <NUM>.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, the second reversible coupling means <NUM> comprise a fixing plate <NUM> which is positioned on said cap <NUM> and is provided with a housing seat <NUM> of said first element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM>. Release means <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM> are also positioned in the fixing plate <NUM> which are adapted to disengage said first reversible coupling means <NUM> from said second reversible coupling means <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the release means comprise a release lever <NUM> pivoted on a pin <NUM> positioned on the fixing plate <NUM>, said lever cooperating with a spring <NUM>. A first end of the lever <NUM> cooperates with the first reversible coupling means , consisting in this case of a seat <NUM> made at the first end <NUM> of the first body <NUM> of the first element <NUM>. By acting on a second end of the lever <NUM> and overcoming the resistance of the retention spring <NUM>, the lever <NUM> rotates releasing its first end from the seat <NUM>, thus allowing the first body <NUM> to disengage from the second reversible coupling means <NUM>.

The detachable arm <NUM> can then be detached from the cap <NUM> by withdrawing the first body <NUM> of the first element <NUM> from the housing seat <NUM>, thus obtaining the configuration of <FIG> in which the detachable arm <NUM> is separated from the cap <NUM> of the protective helmet <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, in another embodiment of the protective helmet <NUM> of the present invention, the first element <NUM> of the movable arm <NUM> is made at least in part with a flexible material, so as to guarantee both the coupling rigid of it with the cap <NUM> and the mobility of the second element <NUM> with respect to said first element <NUM> and with respect to the cap <NUM> of the helmet <NUM>.

In practice, as illustrated in the attached <FIG>, the first element <NUM> is rigidly coupled to the cap <NUM> by means of the reversible coupling means <NUM>. In normal operating conditions, the second element <NUM> is in the fixed position illustrated by the solid lines of <FIG> and <FIG> and from the dotted line of <FIG>.

Since the first element <NUM> is at least partially made of flexible material, rotation (or in any case movement) of the second element <NUM> is allowed, for example by manual action by the user, so as to remove the second element <NUM> from the fixed operating position and allow access to the area in front of the user's mouth and chin. In practice therefore, in non-operating conditions, the second element (indicated in this case with the reference number <NUM>') is in the positions represented by the dotted lines of <FIG> and <FIG>, and by the solid lines of <FIG> and <FIG>.

The coupling between the first element <NUM> and the cap <NUM> can be achieved by using, for example, the same technical solutions relating to the first <NUM> and second <NUM> reversible coupling means, as well as relating to the release means <NUM>, previously illustrated for the embodiment shown in the <FIG>.

In widely preferred embodiments of the helmet <NUM> of the present invention, not shown in the figure, the presence of adjustment means is provided which allow to fix the fixed operating position of the second element <NUM> of said detachable arm <NUM>, according to the needs.

For example, an adjustment screw can be provided that allows to fix the point of maximum approach of the second element <NUM> of the detachable arm <NUM>, and consequently of the microphone associated with it, to the user's mouth. Alternative means of adjusting the position are however possible.

Furthermore, as previously mentioned, the movable arm <NUM> can be provided with contact means, according to the needs of electronic control, signal transmission and microphone power supply. Such contact means can for example be positioned on the first element <NUM> of the movable arm <NUM> to be coupled in operating conditions to corresponding contact means positioned on the cap <NUM> - for example at the second reversible coupling means <NUM> - so as to allow the transmission of signals and / or power supply to / from the microphone.

In the embodiments of the attached figures, the movable arm <NUM> is positioned on the left side of the cap <NUM>, in correspondence with the first lateral edge <NUM> of the front opening <NUM>. It is understood that it is however possible to position it in correspondence with the right side of the cap, in proximity of the second lateral edge <NUM> of the front opening <NUM>.

In order to maximize the flexibility of use of the protection helmet <NUM> of the invention it is also possible to provide that the second reversible coupling means <NUM> are positioned in said cap <NUM> in correspondence with both the first lateral edge <NUM> and the second lateral edge <NUM> of the front opening <NUM>. In this way the positioning side of the microphone with respect to the user's face is not predetermined but can be chosen according to needs and convenience of the user.

With reference to <FIG>, in embodiments of the present invention, the helmet <NUM> comprises a cap <NUM>, suitable for wrapping at least a portion of the user's skull, and a padding <NUM>.

The cap <NUM> is provided with a pair of lateral extensions 13a, 13b, in particular a left lateral extension 13a and a right lateral extension 13b, suitable to wrap at least partially the lateral parts of the face of a user, and which laterally delimit a front opening of the helmet. In embodiments, the lateral extensions 13a, 13b can either be made as separate pieces, fixed to the cap <NUM>, or made in a single piece with the cap <NUM>.

The cap <NUM> and the lateral extensions 13a, 13b can be made of materials suitable to provide protection to the user's head in the event of an accident, for example in polymeric materials, resins, carbon fiber, or combinations thereof.

In embodiments, the helmet <NUM> can also comprise a padding <NUM>, suitable for improving the fit comfort for the user and absorbing shocks and impacts associated with any accidents. The helmet <NUM> further comprises a half-chin guard <NUM>, provided on one of said lateral extensions 13a, 13b.

In the present description the expression "respective lateral extension 13a, 13b" will indicate the lateral extension 13a, 13b on which the half-chin guard <NUM> is mounted, thereby including the possibility that the half-chin guard <NUM> can indifferently be mounted on the extension. left lateral 13a or right 13b.

In embodiments, the half-chin guard <NUM> is cantilevered and protruding with respect to the cap <NUM>.

In embodiments, the chin guard <NUM> can comprise several components, such as a coating layer, for example made of polymeric material or carbon fiber, one or more plastic bodies, which can be shaped to give the chin guard <NUM> appropriate shapes and sizes.

In embodiments, the chin guard <NUM> may further comprise a microphone and / or bodies or assemblies configured to house and / or to enslave the microphone, providing additional functionality, such as for example a filter to reduce background noise during transmission, devices to improve the quality of the audio signal, power supply cables, digital processing devices.

In embodiments described by way of example in <FIG>, the helmet <NUM> comprises a coupling device <NUM>, configured to connect the half-chin guard <NUM> to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

According to one aspect, the coupling device <NUM> is configured to releasably connect the half-chin guard <NUM> to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

By way of non-limiting example, in <FIG> the half-chin guard <NUM> is shown unhooked, or released, from the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b, while in <FIG> the half-chin guard <NUM> is shown connected, or hooked, to the respective lateral extension is shown 13a, 13b.

In embodiments, the coupling device <NUM> comprises a support arm <NUM>, on which the half-chin guard <NUM> is fixed.

In embodiments schematically described by <FIG>, the support arm <NUM> can be slidingly movable with respect to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b, to selectively adjust a distance D between the half-chin guard <NUM> and the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

In particular, in <FIG>, the half-chin guard <NUM> is connected to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b at a distance D, which can be adjusted by moving the support arm <NUM> closer or further away from the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

In embodiments described by way of example in <FIG>, the support arm <NUM> can provide a coupling portion <NUM>, in which holes <NUM> are provided in which fixing means <NUM> are inserted to fix the chin guard <NUM>.

The support arm <NUM> can also have a connecting portion <NUM>, opposed to the coupling portion <NUM> and arranged to connect the support arm <NUM> to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b; for this purpose, in embodiments not shown in the figures, the connecting portion <NUM> can have holes <NUM> arranged for the insertion of special fixing means <NUM> to fix the half-chin guard <NUM> to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

In embodiments, the support arm <NUM> is made of material of suitable resistance to support the half-chin guard <NUM>, for example metallic material.

In embodiments, the support arm <NUM> can be made in a single piece, for example configured as a single elongated structure.

In alternative embodiments, illustrated by way of example in <FIG>, the support arm <NUM> can be made as an assembly, comprising several elements assembled together, possibly also made of different materials.

The coupling device <NUM> of the present invention can further comprise a housing assembly <NUM>, arranged on the lateral extension 13a, 13b to which the half-chin guard <NUM> is connected.

In embodiments exemplified by <FIG>, the housing assembly <NUM> stably houses the support arm <NUM> in a selectively removable manner.

In embodiments described by way of example in <FIG>, the housing assembly <NUM> stably houses the support arm <NUM> in a selectively adjustable manner.

In such embodiments, the support arm <NUM> can be configured to define, in cooperation with the housing assembly <NUM>, a plurality of stable positions of the chin guard <NUM>, each having different distance D from the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

By way of non-limiting example, <FIG> shows one of such plurality of stable positions, in which the chin guard <NUM> is arranged at a distance D from the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

As shown by way of example in <FIG>, <FIG>, the support arm <NUM> can be inserted, at least partially, in a chamber <NUM> present in the housing assembly <NUM>.

It is therefore possible to define an insertion axis X associated with the direction of insertion of the support arm <NUM> into the chamber <NUM>, and substantially corresponding with the longitudinal development of the support arm <NUM> and of the chamber <NUM>.

In such embodiments, the connecting portion <NUM> can comprise at least one engagement seat <NUM>, having a profile characterized by shapes, recesses, protrusions, teeth, concavities, convexities, or other forms, suitable to allow the engagement of the arm of support <NUM> in the housing assembly <NUM>.

In embodiments described by way of example in <FIG>, a plurality of engagement seats <NUM> are formed in the connecting portion <NUM> of the support arm <NUM>, arranged longitudinally aligned to define the plurality of stable positions of the half-chin guard <NUM>.

With reference to the embodiments described by <FIG> and <FIG>, each of said engagement seats <NUM> corresponds to a determined stable position of the chin guard <NUM>, defined by a distance D of the half-chin guard <NUM> with respect to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

In embodiments described by <FIG>, the support arm <NUM> also has a stop portion <NUM>, configured to come into contact with the housing assembly <NUM>, defining an end stop for inserting the support arm <NUM> into the housing assembly <NUM>.

This stop portion <NUM> can also be provided in the embodiments described by <FIG> and <FIG>. In these embodiments the stop portion <NUM> can be configured to define the limit stop of the support arm <NUM> in the housing assembly <NUM> in correspondence of the last engagement seat <NUM>, or the closest to the coupling portion <NUM>, to which corresponds the stable position of minimum distance D of the half-chin guard <NUM> from the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

In embodiments, the housing assembly <NUM> is applied to one of the lateral extensions 13a, 13b of the cap <NUM> by means of fixing means <NUM>, for example screws inserted in special holes <NUM>.

In embodiments, the housing assembly <NUM> comprises a housing plate <NUM> and a closing counterplate <NUM>, configured in such a way as to define, when fastened against each other, the chamber <NUM>.

In embodiments, at least the support arm <NUM> or a portion of it is housed selectively removable inside the chamber <NUM>.

In embodiments, at least the support arm <NUM> is slidably housed inside the chamber <NUM>.

In embodiments, the housing plate <NUM> can be fixed to the cap <NUM> by means of fixing means <NUM>, for example screws, whereby suitable through holes <NUM> can be present.

In embodiments, the closing counterplate <NUM> can be fixed to the housing plate <NUM> by means of fixing means <NUM>, for example screws, whereby suitable through holes <NUM> can be present.

In embodiments, the housing assembly <NUM> comprises a locking member <NUM>, which can be activated to selectively move from a first operating position to a second operating position.

The locking member <NUM> in the first operating position, illustrated by way of example in a continuous line in <FIG> and <FIG>, is adapted to engage at least one of the engagement seats <NUM> made on the connection portion <NUM> of the support arm <NUM>, constraining the support arm <NUM> in room <NUM>.

In the embodiments described in <FIG>, the locking member <NUM> in the first operating position is adapted to engage a selected of the engagement seats <NUM>, constraining said support arm <NUM> in the chamber <NUM>.

In such embodiments, the engagement seat <NUM> in which the locking member <NUM> is engaged therefore determines the distance D at which the half-chin guard <NUM> is adjusted. In such embodiments, the adjustment of the half-chin guard <NUM> with respect to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b is therefore a discreet adjustment, in which it is possible to assign the half-chin guard <NUM> one of a plurality of stable positions.

The locking member <NUM> in the second operating position, illustrated by way of example in dashed lines in <FIG>, is designed to allow the disengagement of the support arm <NUM> from the chamber <NUM>.

In embodiments illustrated by way of example in <FIG>, the locking member <NUM> can be configured as a rotatable lever 25a, which has a first arm 25b, suitable for being operated manually by a user, and a second arm 25c, suitable engaging the engagement seat <NUM> of the support arm <NUM>.

The rotatable lever 25a can also be pivoted to the housing plate <NUM>, or even to the closing counterplate <NUM>, by means of a special pin <NUM> located in a middle portion thereof.

The second arm 25c of the lever 25a can have a profile conjugated to the profile of the at least one engagement seat <NUM> present on the connection portion <NUM> of the support arm <NUM>.

The profiles of the second arm 25c and of the engagement seat <NUM> are also configured in such a way as to prevent the retrograde movement of the support arm <NUM> once engaged by the locking member <NUM>, as illustrated by way of example in <FIG>.

In embodiments described by <FIG>, the second arm 25c is adapted to engage a selected of the engagement seats <NUM> of the support arm <NUM>.

Furthermore, in the embodiments described by <FIG>, the engagement seats <NUM> each have a concave profile, and the second arm 25c has a protruding portion 25d with a convex profile and conjugated to the concave profile of the engagement seats <NUM>.

In embodiments illustrated by way of example in <FIG>, <FIG>, the housing assembly <NUM> further comprises an elastic element <NUM>, for example a spring or a curved metal tongue, cooperating with the locking member <NUM> to maintain it normally in the first operating position. In embodiments described by <FIG>, the elastic element <NUM> comprises a coupling section 30b, arranged to be hooked to the chamber <NUM>, and an operating section 30c, arranged to operate in contrast against a abutment surface of the second arm 25c of the lever 25a.

In embodiments, a terminal end of the elastic element <NUM>, opposed to the operating section 30b, can be configured as an appendix 30a. This appendix 30a can form an angle with respect to the coupling section 30b, in such a way as to improve the coupling of the elastic element <NUM> in the chamber <NUM>.

Other embodiments may provide that the locking member <NUM> and the elastic element <NUM> are made in a single body, for example by providing a single flexible metal tongue, of suitable shapes and dimensions, for example in the shape of a T, constrained in suitably on the walls of chamber <NUM>.

In embodiments, the housing plate <NUM> and / or the closing counterplate <NUM> have shaped portions <NUM>, which define in the chamber <NUM> a first seat <NUM>, to house the locking member <NUM> in the first operating position and in the second position operational, a second seat <NUM>, to house a portion of the support arm <NUM>, and a third seat <NUM>, to house at least the coupling portion 30b of the elastic element <NUM>.

Such shaped portions <NUM> can for example comprise protrusions, steps, grooves, edges, protrusions, protuberances, raised surfaces.

The walls of the chamber <NUM>, not necessarily regular, are therefore formed by the internal surface of the housing plate <NUM>, by the internal surface of the closing counterplate <NUM> and by the shaped portions <NUM>, as schematically illustrated in <FIG>.

The second seat <NUM> of the chamber <NUM> therefore develops substantially along the insertion axis X, and has dimensions consistent with the dimensions of the support arm <NUM>.

The second arm 25c of the rotatable lever 25a is further configured so that a portion thereof is in the second seat <NUM>.

The angular excursion of the rotary movement of the rotatable lever 25a with respect to the axis of the pin <NUM> is therefore limited by the contact between the arms 25b, 25c of the rotatable lever 25a and the walls of the chamber <NUM>, extending for a limited angular interval.

Furthermore, in embodiments schematically described by <FIG>, a limit switch pin <NUM> can be provided in the second seat <NUM> of the chamber <NUM>.

In such embodiments, the connecting portion <NUM> of the support arm <NUM> has a seat with a concave profile <NUM>, of a conjugate shape for engaging the end-of-travel pin <NUM> when the support arm <NUM> is at the end of the stroke in the housing assembly <NUM>.

In embodiments, a ring <NUM> is fitted on the limit stop pin <NUM>, configured to compensate or reduce the play between the support arm <NUM> and the housing assembly <NUM>, as shown by way of example in <FIG> and <FIG>.

In such embodiments, the ring <NUM> can be configured as an O-ring made of elastic material. In embodiments, described by means of <FIG>, the support arm <NUM> has a stop portion <NUM>, configured to come into contact with the housing assembly <NUM>, defining an end stop for inserting the arm of support <NUM> in the housing assembly <NUM>.

The limit stop of the support arm <NUM> in the housing assembly <NUM> can therefore be defined by the limit stop pin <NUM>, by the stop portion <NUM> or by both characteristics.

In embodiments, the chamber <NUM> has a first opening <NUM>, from which a portion of the first arm 25b of the rotatable lever 25a protrudes, as schematically illustrated in <FIG>, so that it is accessible to be moved from the outside, by a user.

In embodiments exemplified by means of <FIG> and <FIG>, the end part of the first arm 25b can have a knurled section 25d, which allows a better grip and movement by the user. In embodiments, the chamber <NUM> also has a second opening <NUM>, in which the connecting portion <NUM> of the support arm <NUM> is inserted.

The insertion of the support arm <NUM> into the housing assembly <NUM> therefore provides that the support arm <NUM> is inserted into the second opening <NUM> of the chamber <NUM> along the insertion axis X, until the connecting portion <NUM> comes into contact with the locking member <NUM>, for example the second arm 25c of the rotatable lever 25a, arranged in the first operating position. As schematically illustrated in <FIG>, a thrust of the support arm <NUM> along the insertion axis X will then cause the elastic element <NUM> to flex, moving the locking member <NUM> to the second operating position, and allowing the insertion of the support <NUM>.

The insertion stop of the support arm <NUM> will therefore be determined by the stop of the seat with a concave profile <NUM> against the limit stop pin <NUM> and / or by the stop of the stop portion <NUM> against the housing assembly <NUM>, and by the simultaneous return of the locking member <NUM> in the first operating position, as schematically illustrated in <FIG>.

In the event that the locking element <NUM> is the rotatable lever 25a, the second arm 25c is engaged in the engagement seat <NUM>, preventing retrograde movement of the support arm <NUM>, once inserted.

This feature therefore allows a firm and safe anchoring of the support arm <NUM> in the housing assembly <NUM>, and therefore the connection of the chin guard <NUM> to the cap <NUM>.

The disengagement of the support arm <NUM> from the housing assembly <NUM>, and therefore of the chin guard <NUM> from the cap <NUM>, can be carried out by manually disengaging the locking member <NUM> from the support arm <NUM>, for example by moving the first arm 25b of the rotatable lever 25a in the direction indicated by the arrow in <FIG>.

Once the locking member <NUM> is positioned in the second operating position, the support arm <NUM> can be easily disconnected from the housing assembly <NUM>.

The coupling device <NUM> thus configured allows therefore to releasably connect the half-chin guard <NUM> to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b, allowing its insertion and disconnection along the insertion axis X.

Advantageously, this feature allows, in the event of an accident, to quickly free the user's face from the half-chin guard <NUM>, also facilitating the removal of the helmet <NUM>, once deprived of the half-chin guard <NUM>, from the user's head.

This feature also requires less maneuvering space for the removal of the chin guard <NUM>, and therefore of the helmet <NUM>, compared to solutions that provide for the rotation of the half-chin guard <NUM>, for example outwards or upwards.

This feature has the further advantage that the removal of the half-chin guard <NUM> does not require rotation and / or twisting movements of the head of the user of the helmet <NUM>, which could cause or further aggravate any damage, injury, or vertebral trauma, for example at the user's neck, reported following an accident.

It is also obvious that the present invention provides embodiments described by the combination of <FIG> and <FIG>, in which it is possible to connect the half-chin guard <NUM> to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b both in a releasable and in a slidingly mobile manner, allowing both the disengagement of the support arm <NUM> from the housing assembly <NUM>, and the adjustment of the distance D.

In embodiments where the support arm <NUM> is made as an assembly, it can be configured as an articulated arm.

In such embodiments, the support arm <NUM> can rotate the half-chin guard <NUM> outwards. In these embodiments, for example described by <FIG>, the support arm <NUM> comprises a connection plate <NUM>, connected to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b, and an end plate <NUM>, on which the half-chin guard <NUM> is fixed.

The connection plate <NUM> and the end plate <NUM> are hinged to each other to rotate the end plate <NUM> about an axis of rotation R, illustrated by way of example in <FIG>.

In particular, in these embodiments a hinge <NUM>, or a hinge, or an articulation, or a pivot, or an articulated connection system can be provided, which allows the rotation of the end plate <NUM> with respect to the connection plate <NUM>.

In these embodiments, the connection portion <NUM> previously described can be made at the end of the connection plate <NUM> opposite the hinge <NUM>, as schematically illustrated in <FIG>.

Furthermore, the hooking portion <NUM> previously described can be made at the end of the end plate <NUM> opposed to the hinge <NUM>.

In embodiments described by <FIG>, the hinge <NUM> can be defined by a joint portion <NUM>, provided on the connection plate <NUM>, a complementary joint portion <NUM>, provided on the end plate <NUM>, and by a pivot element <NUM>, for example a pin, whose axis defines the rotation axis R.

In embodiments schematically described by <FIG>, the complementary joint portion <NUM> is of the female type and has two spaced eyelets 41a, in the center of which an eyelet 41a associated with the conjugated joint portion <NUM>, of the male type, is juxtaposed. between the eyelets 41a defining a pivot seat <NUM> for the pivot element <NUM>.

In other embodiments, the joint portion <NUM> can be of the male type while the complementary joint portion <NUM> can be of the female type.

Variants are also possible in which the articulation portions <NUM>, <NUM> provide an arbitrary number of eyelets 41a, of variable dimensions, arbitrarily spaced and complementary to each other to define the pivot seat <NUM>.

Furthermore, the eyelets 41a can be made as holes passing through the respective joint portions <NUM>, <NUM> or as open grooves, as shown in <FIG>.

It is therefore possible to rotate the end plate <NUM> between a stable condition of normal use and a temporary extra-rotated condition.

In particular, it is possible to associate a first lying plane P to the joint portion <NUM> of the connection plate <NUM>, and a second lying plane Q to the complementary joint portion <NUM> of the end plate <NUM>, defining a normal use angle α such as <NUM> angle between the two lying planes P, Q. In the stable condition of normal use, the respective joint portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the connection plate <NUM> and of the end plate <NUM> lie on respective lying planes P, Q, defining between them the angle of normal use α.

In the stable condition of normal use schematically described by <FIG>, the articulation portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the plates <NUM>, <NUM> are aligned with each other, the two lying planes P, Q are substantially coincident and the angle of normal use α assumes values substantially close to <NUM> °.

In the stable condition of normal use schematically described by <FIG> and <FIG>, the plates <NUM>, <NUM> are not aligned with each other and the angle of normal use α can take values substantially between <NUM> ° and <NUM> °.

n the temporary extra-rotated condition, the end plate <NUM> is rotated laterally outwards with respect to the angle of normal use α, and the lying planes P, Q define an extra-rotation angle β, different from the angle of normal use α, schematically illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>.

In the example described in <FIG>, the end plate <NUM> defines a normal use angle α substantially zero with respect to the connection plate <NUM>, and can be temporarily extra rotated by an extra-rotation angle β.

In the example described by <FIG>, the end plate <NUM> defines a normal use angle α other than zero with respect to the connection plate <NUM>, and can be temporarily extra rotated by an extra rotation angle β, greater than the angle of normal use α.

A rotation of the end plate <NUM> corresponds to a rotation of the half-chin guard <NUM> with respect to the lateral extension 13a, 13b on which it is mounted, as schematically illustrated in <FIG>.

In the extra-rotated condition the angular position of the half-chin guard <NUM> is therefore temporarily changed with respect to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

This feature allows, in the event of an accident, to prevent impulses and torsional movements of the helmet <NUM> due to an accidental attachment of the chin guard to elements present in the passenger compartment, such as for example steering spokes, seat belts, arms and / or also flying objects, thus improving the safety of the helmet <NUM>.

This feature also allows you to quickly clear the user's face in an emergency, for example if, following an accident, rescuers need to apply a respirator.

This feature allows, for example, to be able to apply an oxygen mask on the user's face, quickly and easily, without breaking the half-chin guard <NUM> and / or helmet <NUM>, thus avoiding the generation of splinters and / or free debris associated with rupture of the half-chin guard <NUM>.

In embodiments schematically described by means of <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, the support arm <NUM> further comprises an internal abutment portion <NUM>, configured to block an inward rotation of the end plate <NUM> with respect to the connection plate <NUM>, i.e. in the direction of the face of the user of the helmet <NUM>, opposite to the outward rotation.

In particular, the internal abutment portion <NUM> blocks the rotations of the end plate <NUM> associated with negative values of utilization angles α.

In embodiments described by way of example in <FIG>, the internal abutment portion <NUM> can be fixed on, or made in a single piece with, the connection plate <NUM>.

In alternative embodiments exemplified by means of <FIG>, the internal abutment portion <NUM> can be fixed on, or made in a single piece with, the end plate <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, this feature prevents the half-chin guard <NUM> from flexing towards the inside of the helmet <NUM>, interfering with the user's face.

In embodiments, the support arm <NUM> can also comprise elastic means, configured to normally maintain the end plate <NUM> in the stable condition of normal use, restoring the stable condition of normal use when the end plate <NUM> is rotated outwards.

For example, this situation can occur in the operations performed by the user to wear the helmet <NUM>.

In particular, the elastic means can be configured to restore the stable condition of normal use when the end plate <NUM> is rotated in the extra-rotated condition.

In embodiments described by <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, the elastic means are configured as an elastic tongue <NUM>, arranged externally astride the hinging regions of the joint portions <NUM>, <NUM>.

In embodiments, the elastic tongue <NUM> is made of polymeric material, in particular polycarbonate, and has a flexural elastic modulus comprised in a range between <NUM> and 1600N / mm<NUM>, preferably between <NUM> and 1550N / mm<NUM>.

In embodiments, the elastic tongue <NUM> can also have a flexural strength of between <NUM> and 110N / mm<NUM>, preferably between <NUM> and 100N / mm<NUM>.

For example, in embodiments, the elastic tongue <NUM> can have a flexural strength of 90N / mm<NUM>, and an elastic modulus of 1500N / mm<NUM>.

In embodiments, the elastic means are rigid enough to ensure solidity and robustness to the support arm <NUM> during normal use of the helmet <NUM>, but flexible enough to allow the extra rotation of the half-chin guard <NUM> outwards in case of necessity.

The elastic means are also configured in such a way that the extra-rotation of the half-chin guard <NUM> towards the outside requires imparting a biomechanically adequate force, according to the regulations in force, so as not to harm the user.

The presence of the elastic means therefore allows the semi-chin guard <NUM> to be kept in the stable condition of normal use also as a result of the stresses that may occur during various sports, motor and non-motor practices, such as car or rally racing, autocross, snow mobiles, skiing, cross, MTB, etc..

Furthermore, when such embodiments are used in combination with the previously described variants, wherein the support arm <NUM> can be releasably or slidingly movable connectable to the housing assembly <NUM>, an end portion of the elastic tongue <NUM> can perform the function of the stop portion <NUM>, and therefore the elastic tab <NUM> can also perform the function of defining the limit stop for inserting the support arm <NUM>.

In embodiments, the support arm <NUM> also includes adjustment means <NUM>, for adjusting the angular position of the end plate <NUM>, so as to permanently define the stable condition of normal use of the half-chin guard <NUM> with respect to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

In particular, the adjustment means <NUM> are designed to adjust the angle of normal use α.

In embodiments described by way of example in <FIG>, the adjustment means <NUM> can be arranged on the end plate <NUM>, and the internal abutment portion <NUM> can be fixed by means of fixing means <NUM>, for example a fixing screw 51a, to the connection <NUM> on the inside of the helmet <NUM>, i.e. on the side facing the user's face.

In alternative embodiments, not shown in the figures, the internal abutment portion <NUM> can also be made in a single piece with the connection plate <NUM>.

In these embodiments, the angular adjustment means <NUM> can comprise an adjustment dowel <NUM> which can be screwed into a threaded hole <NUM> made on the end plate <NUM>, adapted to be rotated to progressively strike against a contrasting portion <NUM> of the portion internal stop <NUM>, adjusting the angle of normal use α.

In embodiments illustrated by way of example in <FIG>, the adjustment means <NUM> can be arranged on the connection plate <NUM>, and the internal abutment portion <NUM> can be fixed to the end plate <NUM> by means of fixing means <NUM>, for example a fixing screw 51a, or even made in one piece with the end plate <NUM>.

In these embodiments, the angular adjustment means <NUM> can comprise the adjustment dowel <NUM> which can be screwed into a threaded hole <NUM> made on the connection plate <NUM>, adapted to be rotated to progressively strike against the contrast portion <NUM> of the internal stop portion <NUM>, adjusting the angle of normal use α.

In embodiments described by <FIG>, a hole is provided in the half-chin guard <NUM>, in a position coordinated with the position of the adjustment dowel <NUM>, which allows the user to operate the adjustment dowel <NUM> from the outside, for example by means of a screwdriver, thus adjusting the angular position of the half-chin guard <NUM>.

Furthermore, in cases where the half-chin guard includes a microphone, the previously described embodiments allow to adjust the distance of the microphone from the user's mouth. In particular, in the embodiments described by way of example in <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the adjustment of the microphone can take place thanks to the adjustment means <NUM>, which allow to adjust the angle of normal use α and therefore the angular position of the half-chin guard <NUM>. In particular, in the embodiments described by way of example in <FIG> and <FIG>, the adjustment of the microphone can take place thanks to the presence of the plurality of engagement seats <NUM> in the support arm <NUM>, which allows to adjust the distance D between the half-chin guard <NUM> and the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

The present invention also provides embodiments which are described by way of example in <FIG>, in which both the hinging, which allows the half-chin guard <NUM> to be rotated outwards, defining the extra-rotation angle β, that the means of adjustment <NUM>, which allow to adjust the angle of normal use α.

Furthermore, in embodiments described by the combination of <FIG> and <FIG> with <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, it is possible to connect the half-chin guard <NUM> to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b in a slidingly movable way, adjusting the distance D, and adjust the angle of normal use α of the half-chin guard <NUM> with respect to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

Furthermore, in embodiments described by means of the combination of <FIG> and <FIG> it is possible to connect the half-chin guard <NUM> to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b in a slidingly movable manner, and to provide for the hinging which allows to rotate the half-chin guard <NUM> outwards.

Furthermore, in exemplary embodiments described by <FIG>, it is possible both to connect the chin guard <NUM> to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b in a releasable way, and to provide for the hinging that allows the half-chin guard <NUM> to rotate outwards.

Furthermore, in embodiments described by way of example by means of <FIG> it is possible both to connect the chin guard <NUM> to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b in a releasable way, and to provide the adjustment means <NUM> which allow to adjust the angle of normal use α of the seed - cement mixer <NUM> with respect to the respective lateral extension 13a, 13b.

Claim 1:
Protective helmet (<NUM>), particularly for automotive use, comprising: a cap (<NUM>) suitable for wrapping a portion of a user's skull and provided with a front opening (<NUM>) in correspondence with at least a portion of a user's face and delimited by an upper edge (<NUM>) and by a first (<NUM>) and second (<NUM>) lateral edge of said cap (<NUM>), characterized in that it comprises a detachable arm (<NUM>) for partial protection and for support of a microphone reversibly fixed to said cap (<NUM>) at said first (<NUM>) and / or second (<NUM>) lateral edge, said detachable arm (<NUM>) comprising a first element (<NUM>) provided with first reversible coupling means (<NUM>) adapted to rigidly couple with corresponding second reversible coupling means (<NUM>) positioned in said cap (<NUM>) at said first (<NUM>) and / or second (<NUM>) lateral edge, a second element (<NUM>) flexibly coupled to said first element (<NUM>) and which extends from it in the direction of the central and lower part of said front opening (<NUM>) and adapted to support said microphone.