Patent Description:
Protective helmets are widely used in a variety of environments. A protective helmet typically includes a hard shell for protecting the head of the user. One or more accessories may be removably or non-removably attached to the outer surface of the hard shell of the protective helmet. In some examples, the one or more accessories may be configured to provide additional protection to the user, such as hearing or face protection. In other examples, the one or more accessories may provide additional capability, such as providing additional visibility. In several known protective helmets, the one or more accessories may be movable between a first, active position and a second, inactive position. For example, in the first position, the one or more accessories may provide the desired additional protection by, for example, extending in front of the user's face or over the user's ears. In the second, inactive position, the one or more accessories can be moved away from the user's face or ears when the circumstances do not require the additional protection or when the user desires to remove the protective helmet.

In several known protective helmets, the system for attaching the one more accessories has several disadvantages and requires improvement. In some examples, the protective helmet has a slot that is formed on its outer surface such that each accessory that is added to the helmet must be installed in the same slot. In other examples, the protective helmet has a through hole extending through the material of the hard shell, with each accessory being secured to the protective helmet by a fastener extending through the hole. In both of these arrangements, installation and removal of accessories are complicated because they require removing the protective helmet, thereby compromising the user's safety if such installation or removal is done in the field. In addition, existing arrangements for attaching accessories to the protective helmet generally include many different pieces that can be easily lost during installation and removal, which complicates the assembly process and increases the risk of incorrect assembly. Another disadvantage of existing attachment designs is that they can compromise electrical protection of the helmet depending on the location of the attachment mechanism.

Further protective helmets are known from <CIT> and <CIT> as well as <CIT> and <CIT>.

<CIT> discloses a device for removably fixing an illuminating lamp to a protective helmet. It is proposed that the lamp comprises a hooking pin forming a shoe intended to slide between two slide guides integral with a support of the helmet. The support comprises at least one abutment arranged at an end of the slide and intended to block the shoe in an extreme hook position.

<CIT> discloses a helmet assembly. The assembly is attached to the helmet and includes a light, a clip and a bracket. The light includes at least one engaging member configured to engage at least one engaging member on the clip and the clip is configured to attach to the bracket with a fastener.

A safety helmet attachment and method for shielding eyes is known from <CIT>. An eye shield attachment has right and left structures adapted to be suspended below a rim of the helmet. At least one tongue of the eye shield attachment is adapted to be removably and dependently attached to rim slots in the helmet for supporting a side frame.

The disclosure of <CIT> is directed to a mounting rail assembly. The assembly comprises a rail to be configured to be coupled to a helmet wherein the rail has a mounting groove extending along a length along a front surface. The mounting groove is configured to be coupled to a first accessory device at two or more positions along a length of a rail.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved protective helmet that addresses certain drawbacks and deficiencies associated with existing protective helmets. For example, there is a need for an improved protective helmet that can be easily and effectively worn by the user in a variety of environments while allowing for easy attachment, use, and removal of a variety of accessories to the protective helmet at the same time without the need to remove the protective helmet from the user's head.

Generally, provided is a protective helmet with an accessory attachment rail that addresses and/or overcomes some or all of the drawbacks associated with existing protective helmets configured for attaching one or more accessories to the protective helmet. Preferably, provided is an improved protective helmet that can be easily and effectively worn by the user in a variety of environments while allowing for easy attachment, use, and removal of a variety of accessories to the protective helmet without the need to remove the protective helmet from the user's head.

A protective helmet according to claim <NUM> is provided.

Advantageous embodiments of the protective helmet are described in claims <NUM> to <NUM>.

According to the invention, an accessory attachment rail has a body having a front end, a rear end, and two or more slots between the front end and the rear end. Each of the two or more slots are configured for removably receiving at least one helmet accessory. The accessory attachment rail further has a locking mechanism associated with each of the two or more slots for automatically locking the at least one helmet accessory in the two or more slots upon insertion of the at least one helmet accessory within the two or more slots and for preventing removal of the at least one helmet accessory from the two or more slots until the locking mechanism is unlocked. The accessory attachment rail further has at least one connection element for connecting the accessory attachment rail to an outer shell of the helmet.

The locking mechanism of the accessory attachment rail may have a locking beam having a first end connected to at least a portion of the slot and a second free end movable relative to the first end in a direction toward an outer surface of the helmet when deflected by the at least one helmet accessory during insertion of the at least one helmet accessory into the one or more slots. The second free end of the locking beam may have a locking tab configured for engaging a corresponding locking slot on the at least one helmet accessory when the at least one helmet accessory is fully inserted into the two or more slots. The locking tab may have a tapered leading surface that is angled toward an open end of the two or more slots.

The at least one connection element of the accessory attachment rail may be a plurality of deflectable tabs spaced around an inner surface of the accessory attachment rail facing an outer surface of the outer shell. Each of the plurality of deflectable tabs may be configured for insertion into an opening formed on the outer shell. Each of the plurality of deflectable tabs may have a first end connected to the body of the accessory attachment rail and a second end protruding relative to the first end in a direction away from the inner surface and toward an outer surface of the outer shell. Each deflectable tab may have a lip for engaging a corresponding ledge on the outer shell.

These and other features and characteristics of the present disclosure, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structures and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures.

As used herein, the singular form of "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Spatial or directional terms, such as "left", "right", "inner", "outer", "above", "below", and the like, relate to the invention as shown in the drawing figures and are not to be considered as limiting as the invention can assume various alternative orientations.

All numbers and ranges used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". By "about" is meant plus or minus twenty-five percent of the stated value, such as plus or minus ten percent of the stated value. However, this should not be considered as limiting to any analysis of the values under the doctrine of equivalents.

Unless otherwise indicated, all ranges or ratios disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass the beginning and ending values and any and all subranges or subratios subsumed therein. For example, a stated range or ratio of "<NUM> to <NUM>" should be considered to include any and all subranges or subratios between (and inclusive of) the minimum value of <NUM> and the maximum value of <NUM>; that is, all subranges or subratios beginning with a minimum value of <NUM> or more and ending with a maximum value of <NUM> or less. The ranges and/or ratios disclosed herein represent the average values over the specified range and/or ratio.

The terms "first", "second", and the like are not intended to refer to any particular order or chronology, but refer to different conditions, properties, or elements.

The term "at least" is synonymous with "greater than or equal to".

The term "not greater than" is synonymous with "less than or equal to".

As used herein, "at least one of" is synonymous with "one or more of". For example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" means any one of A, B, or C, or any combination of any two or more of A, B, or C. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" includes A alone; or B alone; or C alone; or A and B; or A and C; or B and C; or all of A, B, and C.

The term "adjacent" means proximate to but not in direct contact with.

As used herein, the terms "parallel" or "substantially parallel" mean a relative angle as between two objects (if extended to theoretical intersection), such as elongated objects and including reference lines, that is from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, inclusive of the recited values.

As used herein, the terms "perpendicular" or "substantially perpendicular" mean a relative angle as between two objects at their real or theoretical intersection is from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, or from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, inclusive of the recited values.

With reference to <FIG>, provided is a protective helmet <NUM> (hereinafter referred to as "helmet <NUM>") having a rigid outer shell <NUM> configured to surround the head of a user. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the rigid outer shell <NUM> may be constructed from a composite material. The shell <NUM> has a generally hemi-spherical form and has a facial opening <NUM> at a front end for accommodating the user's face. The shell <NUM> includes a front portion <NUM> situated above the facial opening <NUM>, an upper portion <NUM>, and a rear portion <NUM> extending from the upper portion <NUM> to the nape of the user's neck. A pair of lateral portions <NUM> extend from the upper portion <NUM> on each side of the facial opening <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the helmet <NUM> has an accessory attachment rail <NUM> attached to each lateral portion <NUM>, such as at a connection area <NUM> of each lateral portion <NUM>. The accessory attachment rail <NUM> is configured for removably receiving at least one helmet accessory <NUM>, such as a face shield <NUM> or half-face goggles, earmuffs <NUM>, a headlamp, or any other accessory. The at least one helmet accessory <NUM> is configured to increase the functionality of the helmet <NUM>, such as by providing additional protection to the user or providing additional capability to the helmet <NUM>.

As described herein, the face shield <NUM> and the earmuffs <NUM> are removably attachable to the helmet <NUM> by way of the accessory attachment rail <NUM>. While <FIG>1B illustrate a pair of helmet accessories <NUM> attached to the helmet <NUM> by way of the accessory attachment rail <NUM>, other embodiments or aspects of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> may be configured for attaching more than two helmet accessories <NUM> to the helmet <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, at least one helmet accessory <NUM> may be movable between a first or active position, and a second or inactive position. As shown in <FIG>, the face shield <NUM> is configured to extend over the facial opening <NUM> of the helmet <NUM> in order to protect the user's face. The face shield <NUM> is desirably constructed from a transparent material such that the user's vision is not impaired by the presence of the face shield <NUM> in front of the user's face. The face shield <NUM> is movable from the first or active position (<FIG>) to a second or inactive position (<FIG>), such as by a pivoting movement about a first pivot point <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the face shield <NUM> is movable by grasping at least a portion of the face shield <NUM> and pivoting the face shield <NUM> relative to the helmet <NUM> such that the face shield <NUM> is moved away from covering the facial opening <NUM>. In the second or inactive position, the face shield <NUM> may extend over at least a part of the front portion <NUM> and the upper portion <NUM> of the helmet <NUM>. The face shield <NUM> has a pivoting connection with the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to allow movement of the face shield <NUM> from the first or active position to the second or inactive position via a pivoting or rotating movement about the first pivot point <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, each of the earmuffs <NUM> is configured to extend over the user's ears from the lateral portions <NUM> of the helmet <NUM> in order to protect the user's ears from ambient noise. The earmuffs <NUM> desirably have noise suppressing or cancelling properties to reduce or eliminate ambient noise from harming the user's hearing. Each of the earmuffs <NUM> is movable from the first or active position (<FIG>) to a second or inactive position (<FIG>), such as a pivoting movement about a second pivot point <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each of the earmuffs <NUM> is movable by grasping at least a portion of the earmuff <NUM> and pivoting the earmuffs <NUM> relative to the helmet <NUM> such that the earmuffs <NUM> are moved away from covering the user's ears. In the second or inactive position, the earmuffs <NUM> may extend over at least a part of the lateral portions <NUM> and the rear portion <NUM> of the helmet <NUM>. The earmuffs <NUM> have a frame <NUM> having a pivoting connection with the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to allow movement of the earmuffs <NUM> from the first or active position to the second or inactive position via a pivoting or rotating movement about the second pivot point <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the helmet <NUM> is illustrated without the helmet accessories <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The accessory attachment rail <NUM> remains attached to the helmet <NUM> after removal of the helmet accessories <NUM> to allow a subsequent reattachment of the helmet accessories <NUM>. In some embodiments or aspects not covered by the claimed subject matter, the accessory attachment rail <NUM> may be non-removably attached to the helmet <NUM>, such as by way of one or more attachment mechanisms discussed herein. In other embodiments or aspects not covered by the claimed subject matter, the accessory attachment rail <NUM> may be monolithically formed with the helmet <NUM>, such as by molding or co-molding with the helmet <NUM>. In further non-limiting embodiments or aspects covered by the claimed subject matter, the accessory attachment rail <NUM> may be removably attachable to the helmet <NUM>, such as by way of one or more connection elements discussed herein.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the accessory attachment rail <NUM> has a body <NUM> having a front end <NUM>, a rear end <NUM>, and two or more slots <NUM> between the front end <NUM> and the rear end <NUM>. Each of the two or more slots <NUM> has an open end <NUM> configured for removably receiving one helmet accessory <NUM>, such as the face shield <NUM> or the earmuffs <NUM>, and a closed end <NUM> opposite the open end <NUM>. The closed end <NUM> defines a stop surface for preventing further insertion of the helmet accessory <NUM> into the slot <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the accessory attachment rail <NUM> has a pair of slots <NUM> configured for receiving a pair of helmet accessories <NUM>. In this manner, a first helmet accessory <NUM>, such as the face shield <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), can be attached to the first slot 208a independently of a second helmet accessory <NUM>, such as the earmuffs <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), which may be attached to the second slot 208b of the accessory attachment rail <NUM>.

The open end <NUM> of at least one slot <NUM> may be arranged such that it faces the front portion <NUM> or the upper portion <NUM> of the helmet <NUM>. In this manner, the slot <NUM> allows for attachment of the helmet accessory <NUM> by movement in a direction from the front portion <NUM> of the helmet to the rear portion <NUM> of the helmet <NUM> (front opening slot <NUM>), or by movement in a direction from the upper portion <NUM> toward a bottom end of the helmet <NUM> (upward opening slot <NUM>). In other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the open end <NUM> of at least one slot <NUM> may be arranged such that it faces the rear portion <NUM> of the helmet <NUM> or the bottom end of the helmet <NUM> to allow for attachment of the helmet accessory <NUM> by movement in a direction from the rear portion <NUM> of the helmet to the front portion <NUM> of the helmet <NUM> (rear opening slot <NUM>) or by movement in a direction toward the upper portion <NUM> of the helmet <NUM> (bottom opening slot <NUM>).

With reference to <FIG>, each slot <NUM> has a receiving area <NUM> configured for receiving a corresponding connector on the helmet accessory <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The receiving area <NUM> is defined by a channel <NUM> having a perimeter sidewall <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a width of the channel <NUM> may narrow in a direction from the open end <NUM> toward the closed end <NUM> of the slot <NUM>. In other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the width of the channel <NUM> may be substantially uniform throughout its length in a direction from the open end <NUM> toward the closed end <NUM> of the slot <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the channel <NUM> may have a closed wall <NUM> on a side immediately adjacent to the helmet <NUM> and an open side <NUM> on a side opposite the closed wall <NUM>. The closed wall <NUM> is offset from the open side <NUM> by a width of the perimeter sidewall <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the channel <NUM> may be substantially U-shaped.

With continued reference to <FIG>, each slot <NUM> has a locking mechanism for automatically locking the helmet accessory <NUM> within the slot <NUM> upon insertion of the helmet accessory <NUM> within the slot <NUM> and for preventing removal of the helmet accessory <NUM> from the slot <NUM> until the locking mechanism is unlocked. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the locking mechanism may be a locking beam <NUM> having a locking tab <NUM> configured for engaging a corresponding locking slot <NUM> on the helmet accessory <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The locking beam <NUM> may have a cantilevered arrangement with a first end <NUM> connected to the closed wall <NUM> of the slot <NUM> and a free second end <NUM> opposite the first end <NUM>. The second end <NUM> of the locking beam <NUM> is deflectable relative to the first end <NUM> in a direction toward the closed wall <NUM> when urged by at least a portion of the helmet accessory <NUM> during insertion of the helmet accessory <NUM> into the slot <NUM>. In this manner, the locking beam <NUM> is deflectable from a first or initial position toward a second or deflected position to provide a clearance space for the helmet accessory <NUM> to be inserted into the slot <NUM>. A recess <NUM> may be provided in the closed wall <NUM> of the slot <NUM> to allow deflection of the locking beam <NUM> toward the second or deflected position. After insertion of the helmet accessory <NUM> into the slot <NUM>, the locking beam <NUM> deflects back from the second or deflected position toward the first or initial position such that the locking beam <NUM> is captured within the locking slot <NUM> on the helmet accessory <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the locking beam <NUM> may be deflected from the second or deflected position toward an intermediate position when fully engaged with the helmet accessory <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the locking beam <NUM> may be formed on the helmet accessory <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the locking tab <NUM> of the locking beam <NUM> has a tapered leading surface <NUM> that is angled toward the open end <NUM> of the slot <NUM>. The tapered leading surface <NUM> is the initial contact surface of the locking beam <NUM> that is engaged by the helmet accessory <NUM> as the helmet accessory <NUM> is inserted into the slot <NUM>. The tapered leading surface <NUM> is configured to facilitate deflection of the second end <NUM> of the locking beam <NUM> during insertion of the helmet accessory <NUM>. A release button <NUM> on the helmet accessory <NUM> is configured for contacting the locking tab <NUM> and deflecting the locking tab <NUM> with the pressing of the release button <NUM> in a direction toward the helmet <NUM>. Such movement of the release button <NUM> deflects the second end <NUM> of the locking beam <NUM> such that the locking tab <NUM> disengages from the locking slot <NUM> to allow the helmet accessory <NUM> to be removed from the slot <NUM> by pulling the helmet accessory <NUM> through the open end <NUM> of the slot <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the accessory attachment rail <NUM> has one or more connection elements <NUM> configured for connecting the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to the helmet <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the one or more connection elements <NUM> may be configured for non-removably connecting the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to the helmet <NUM>, such as during manufacture of the helmet <NUM>. In other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the one or more connection elements <NUM> may be configured for removably connecting the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to the helmet <NUM> to allow free installation and removal of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to and from the helmet <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, in some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the one or more connection elements <NUM> may be a plurality of deflectable tabs spaced around an inner surface <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> facing the outer surface of the helmet <NUM>. Each connection element <NUM> may have a first end <NUM> connected to the body <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> and a second end <NUM> protruding relative to the first end <NUM> in a direction away from the inner surface <NUM> and toward the outer surface of the helmet. Each connection element <NUM> may have a locking lip <NUM> at the second end <NUM> configured for engaging a corresponding ledge on the helmet <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the helmet <NUM> may have one or more openings <NUM> extending through the outer shell <NUM> in the area of the lateral portion <NUM> where the accessory attachment rail <NUM> is to be attached. The one or more openings <NUM> are configured to receive the one or more connection elements <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM>. The second end <NUM> of each connection element <NUM> is deflectable relative to the first end <NUM> during contact with an outer surface of the helmet <NUM> when during installation of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> on the helmet <NUM>. In this manner, the connection element <NUM> is deflectable from a first or initial position toward a second or deflected position to provide a clearance space for the connection element <NUM> to be inserted into the opening <NUM> on the helmet <NUM>. After insertion of the connection element <NUM> into the opening <NUM>, the second end <NUM> of the connection element <NUM> deflects back from the second or deflected position toward the first or initial position to lock the connection element <NUM> with the lip <NUM> of the opening <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the accessory attachment rail <NUM> may be connected to the helmet <NUM> by inserting a first portion of the one or more connection elements <NUM> on an upper portion of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> into the corresponding openings <NUM> on the helmet <NUM> and rotating a lower portion of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> in a direction toward the helmet <NUM> to connect a second portion of the one or more connection elements <NUM> on the lower portion of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> with the corresponding openings <NUM> on the helmet <NUM>. As described herein, the one or more connection elements <NUM> may be configured for non-removably connecting the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to the helmet <NUM> to prevent removal of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> from the helmet <NUM>. In other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the one or more connection elements <NUM> may be configured for removably connecting the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to the helmet <NUM> to allow free installation and removal of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to and from the helmet <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, frames <NUM>, <NUM> of various helmet accessories <NUM> are shown prior to connection with the slot <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, each frame <NUM>, <NUM> is shaped such that it corresponds to the shape of the slot <NUM>. An inner side of each frame <NUM>, <NUM> facing the outer surface of the helmet <NUM> has a lip (not shown) configured for engaging the locking tab <NUM> of the locking beam <NUM> when the frame <NUM>, <NUM> is fully inserted into the corresponding slot <NUM>. A release button <NUM> on each frame <NUM>, <NUM> is configured for contacting the locking tab <NUM> and deflecting the locking tab <NUM> with the pressing of the release button <NUM> in a direction toward the helmet <NUM>. Such movement of the release button <NUM> deflects the second end <NUM> of the locking beam <NUM> such that the locking tab <NUM> disengages from the lip on the frame <NUM>, <NUM> to allow the frame <NUM>, <NUM> to be removed from the slot <NUM> by pulling the frame <NUM>, <NUM> through the open end <NUM> of the slot <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, one or more connection elements 234a is shown in accordance with another embodiment or aspect. Instead of being a deflectable cantilever beam arrangement, such as shown in <FIG>, the connection elements 234a are configured as annular snaps having a post <NUM> defined by a pair of beams <NUM> separated from one another by a space <NUM>. A first end <NUM> of each beam <NUM> is connected to the inner surface <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> while a second end <NUM> of the beam <NUM> protrudes from the first end <NUM> in a direction toward the helmet <NUM>. The second end <NUM> has a bulbous head <NUM>. The second ends <NUM> of each of the beams <NUM> are configured to deflect toward each other when the bulbous head <NUM> is inserted through the corresponding opening <NUM> on the helmet <NUM>. After the bulbous head <NUM> clears the opening <NUM>, the second ends <NUM> of each of the beams <NUM> are configured to deflect away from each other to prevent removal of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> from the helmet <NUM>. The one or more connection elements <NUM> may be configured for removably or non-removably connecting the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to the helmet <NUM>, as described herein.

With reference to <FIG>, one or more connection elements 234b is shown in accordance with another embodiment or aspect. The one or more connection elements 234b may be formed as a projection <NUM> that protrudes from the inner surface <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM>. The projection <NUM> may be configured for being received within a receiving slot <NUM> on the helmet <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the receiving slot <NUM> may be defined as a space between a pair of spaced apart arms <NUM> having a first end <NUM> connected to an outer surface <NUM> of the helmet <NUM> and a second end <NUM> protruding relative to the first end <NUM> in a direction away from the outer surface <NUM> of the helmet <NUM>. The arms <NUM> are spaced apart from each other such that the projection <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> can be inserted therebetween to connect the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to the helmet <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a recess <NUM> is recessed into the outer surface <NUM> of the helmet <NUM> and is configured to receive a key <NUM> on the projection <NUM> to prevent removal of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> from the receiving slot <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the projection <NUM> and the receiving slot <NUM> may be reversed such that the projection <NUM> is formed on the helmet <NUM>, while the receiving slot <NUM> is formed on the accessory attachment rail <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, one or more connection elements 234c is shown in accordance with another embodiment or aspect. The one or more connection elements 234c may be formed as a pair of tabs <NUM>, with one tab <NUM> protruding away from the front end <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> and the other tab <NUM> protruding away from the rear end <NUM>. The tabs <NUM> may be co-planar with the body <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the body <NUM> and the tabs <NUM> may be made from a flexible material that allows bending of the accessory attachment rail about its longitudinal plane when a compressive force is applied in the direction of arrows A in <FIG>. By compressing the tabs <NUM> toward each other, the body <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> can be bent to allow insertion of the tabs <NUM> into the corresponding openings <NUM> on the helmet <NUM>. After releasing the compressive force on the tabs <NUM>, the accessory attachment rail <NUM> can revert to its initial shape, which prevents removal of the tabs <NUM> from the openings <NUM> on the helmet <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, one or more connection elements 234d is shown in accordance with another embodiment or aspect. The one or more connection elements 234d may be formed as one or more through holes <NUM> that extend through the body <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM>. The spacing of the one or more through holes <NUM> may correspond to the spacing of one or more openings <NUM> on the helmet <NUM>. In this manner, by aligning the through holes <NUM> on the accessory attachment rail <NUM> with the openings <NUM> on the helmet <NUM>, the accessory attachment rail <NUM> can be connected to the helmet <NUM> by inserting a fastener <NUM> through each through hole <NUM>/opening <NUM> pair. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the fastener <NUM> may be a screw, push pin, rivet, or a similar mechanical connection element. The fastener <NUM> may be configured for non-removably connecting the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to the helmet <NUM> to prevent removal of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> from the helmet <NUM>. In other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the fastener <NUM> may be configured for removably connecting the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to the helmet <NUM> to allow free installation and removal of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> to and from the helmet <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, one or more connection elements 234e is shown in accordance with another embodiment or aspect. The one or more connection elements 234e may be formed as a tapered flange <NUM> that protrudes from the inner surface <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> in a direction toward the outer surface of the helmet <NUM>. A width of the tapered flange <NUM> may increase in a direction from the inner surface <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> toward the outer surface of the helmet <NUM>. The tapered flange <NUM> is configured for being received within a cutout <NUM> on the helmet <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the tapered flange <NUM> may be configured for a press fit or an interference fit with the cutout <NUM> to prevent removal of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> from the helmet <NUM> after the tapered flange <NUM> is inserted into the cutout <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, one or more connection elements 234f is shown in accordance with another embodiment or aspect. The one or more connection elements 234f may be formed as a knob <NUM> that protrudes from the inner surface <NUM> of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> in a direction toward the outer surface of the helmet <NUM>. The knob <NUM> is configured for being received within a slot <NUM> on the helmet <NUM>. The slot <NUM> may be shaped such that the knob <NUM> may be inserted at a first end of the slot <NUM>. The knob <NUM> may be movable within the slot <NUM> toward a second end to allow for locking of the knob <NUM> within the slot <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more ramps <NUM> may be provided on a guiding surface <NUM> of the slot <NUM> to prevent removal of the accessory attachment rail <NUM> from the helmet <NUM> after the knob <NUM> is inserted into the slot <NUM> and over the one or more ramps <NUM>. The knob <NUM> and the slot <NUM> define a keyed connection arrangement with a "slide-to-lock" feature.

With reference to <FIG>, a release button 140a for use with the frame <NUM>, <NUM> of the helmet accessory <NUM> is shown in accordance with another embodiment or aspect. Instead of being formed as a distinct component that is separate from the frame <NUM>, <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), the release button 140a is formed directly on the frame <NUM>, <NUM> as an integral, monolithic component of the frame <NUM>, <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the release button 140a may be configured as a cantilever having a first end <NUM> connected to the frame <NUM>, <NUM> and a second, free end <NUM> deflectable relative to the first end <NUM>. The second end <NUM> has a catch <NUM> that interacts with the locking tab <NUM> on the accessory attachment rail <NUM>. The catch <NUM> is configured for contacting the locking tab <NUM> and deflecting the locking tab <NUM> with the pressing of the release button 140a in a direction toward the helmet <NUM>. Such movement of the release button <NUM> deflects the second end <NUM> of the locking beam <NUM> such that the locking tab <NUM> disengages from the lip on the frame <NUM>, <NUM> to allow the frame <NUM>, <NUM> to be removed from the slot <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a release button 140b on the frame <NUM>, <NUM> of the helmet accessory <NUM> is shown in accordance with another embodiment or aspect. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the release button 140b may be configured as a slider button that is configured for a sliding movement relative to the frame <NUM>, <NUM> in a direction substantially parallel with a longitudinal axis of the frame <NUM>, <NUM>. The release button 140b is movable relative to the frame <NUM>, <NUM> in a direction of arrow B from an initial position toward a release position. A biasing mechanism, such as a spring, may be provided for biasing the release button 140b to the initial position. In this manner, after moving the release button 140b to the release position, the biasing mechanism may urge the release button 140b back toward the initial position in a direction of arrow C. The release button 140b may have a release tab <NUM> that is slidable relative to the frame <NUM>, <NUM> between the initial position and the release position. With movement of the release button 140b toward the release position, the release tab <NUM> contacts the tapered leading surface <NUM> of the locking beam <NUM> on the accessory attachment rail <NUM>, thereby causing the locking beam <NUM> to deflect and allowing the frame <NUM>, <NUM> to be removed from the slot <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, an accessory attachment rail 200a is shown in accordance with another embodiment or aspect. The accessory attachment rail 200a has a locking mechanism for attaching a corresponding helmet accessory <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the locking mechanism may be formed as a receptacle <NUM> having an opening <NUM> configured for receiving a flexible snap <NUM> formed on the helmet accessory <NUM>. The flexible snap <NUM> is configured to deflect from its initial state during insertion of the snap <NUM> into a first end of the opening <NUM> of the receptacle <NUM>. Once the snap <NUM> exits through a second end of the opening <NUM>, the flexible snap <NUM> may "snap" back to its initial state, thereby preventing removal of the helmet accessory <NUM> from the accessory attachment rail 200a without flexing or deflecting the snap <NUM> to a release state.

With reference to <FIG>, an accessory attachment rail 200b is shown in accordance with another embodiment or aspect. The accessory attachment rail 200b has a locking mechanism for attaching a corresponding helmet accessory <NUM>. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the locking mechanism may be formed as an aperture <NUM> configured for receiving flexible legs <NUM> formed on the helmet accessory <NUM>. The flexible legs <NUM> are configured to deflect from their initial state during insertion of the legs <NUM> into a first end of the aperture <NUM>. Once the legs <NUM> exit through a second end of the aperture <NUM>, the flexible legs <NUM> may "snap" back to their initial state, thereby preventing removal of the helmet accessory <NUM> from the accessory attachment rail 200b without flexing or deflecting the flexible legs <NUM> to a release state. In some embodiments or aspects, a release member <NUM> is provided to urge the flexible legs <NUM> toward a flexed or release state. The release member <NUM> is configured to translate along a longitudinal length of the flexible legs <NUM>, thereby urging the legs <NUM> toward each other with continued movement of the release member <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A protective helmet (<NUM>) comprising:
an outer shell (<NUM>) configured for surrounding a head of a user;
at least one accessory attachment rail (<NUM>) connected to the outer shell (<NUM>), the accessory attachment rail (<NUM>) comprising:
a body (<NUM>) having a front end (<NUM>), a rear end (<NUM>), and two or more slots (<NUM>, 208a, 208b) between the front end (<NUM>) and the rear end (<NUM>), each of the two or more slots (<NUM>, 208a, 208b) configured for removably receiving at least one helmet accessory (<NUM>);
a locking mechanism (<NUM>) associated with each of the two or more slots (<NUM>, 208a, 208b) for automatically locking the at least one helmet accessory (<NUM>) in at least one of the two or more slots (<NUM>, 208a, 208b) upon insertion of the at least one helmet accessory (<NUM>) within at least one of the two or more slots (<NUM>, 208a, 208b) and for preventing removal of the at least one helmet accessory (<NUM>) from within the at least one of the two or more slots (<NUM>, 208a, 208b) until the locking mechanism (<NUM>) is unlocked; and
at least one connection element (<NUM>) for connecting the accessory attachment rail (<NUM>) to the outer shell (<NUM>);
wherein each of the two or more slots (<NUM>, 208a, 208b) has an open end (<NUM>) configured for removably receiving the at least one helmet accessory (<NUM>), a closed end (<NUM>) opposite the open end (<NUM>), and a channel (<NUM>) having a perimeter wall (<NUM>) between the open end (<NUM>) and the closed end (<NUM>).