Concussion reduction shoulder pad vest article

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

	Current U.S.	A41D 13/0512 (2006.01) A63B
	Class: CPC	71/08 (2013.01)

	Current	A41D 13/00	(2006.01)
	International Class:	A41D 13/0012	(2006.01)
		A41D 13/0512	(2006.01)
		A41D 13/0518	(2006.01)
		A41D 13/0531	(2006.01)
		A63B 71/08	(2013.01)
		F41H 5/0457	(2006.01)

	U.S. CI.	2/459
	Field of	2/459; 2/468; 2/411; 2/455;
	Classification
	Search	2/462-465; 2/45; 2/44; 2/6.8

U.S. Patent Documents

	11,298,040 B2	April 2022	Huang
	9,241,528 B2	January 2016	Partlo
	2022/0176228 A1	June 2022	Jackson
	11,234,473 B2	February 2022	Jinkins
	11,272,751 B2	March 2022	Popejoy
	11,641,902 B2	May 2023	Zarreii
	11,382,369 B2	July 2022	Hampton
	2022/0015467	January 2022	Chambers et al.
	0011423 A1	January 2023	Connell, JR.
	8,997,267	April 2015	Skottheim, et al.
	4,872,216	May 1988	Wingo
	8,266,727B	September 2012	Lee
	4,094,015		Howard

OTHER REFERENCES

• • Primary Examiner:
  • Assistant Examiner:
  • Attorney, Agent or Firm: Loren G. Partlo

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable

PRIOR ART

The manufacturing and use of protective equipment in war and sports has become an ever-evolving science constantly seeking solutions to reduce and or eliminate injury. Currently, the problem of brain injuries, commonly referred to as concussions are the premier problem inventors are trying to solve. These injuries tend to be found in environments and sports such as American football, hockey, medieval combat, etc. where hard shelled helmets and shoulder pads or protective vests in the case of the military are worn. Although there are many inventions within the patent archives that would significantly improve safety in football, hockey, and the military when it comes to preventing brain injury they are not being used. Be this a problem of taking a product to market or one of culture resisting change the answer is unclear. The shoulder pad, vest or helmet are still thought of as a separate piece of equipment. Any past attempts to join the two items seem to not have been adopted. This is unfortunate because it is the method most inventors develop in patents to reduce concussions because of its obvious utility. It is the hope that the current invention might be able to change this trend by allowing the two pieces of equipment to be used separately until the user takes a unique protective posture by linking the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article.

The current invention is based on three innovative concepts. First, providing to the user the ability to take a protective posture. Second, changing how kinetic forces act on the head by providing a way to brace or connect the helmet to the torso or shoulder pad/vest article. Lastly, creating a novel friction/pressure/abutted connection between the shoulder pad/vest article and the helmet that reduces impact concussions, impulse concussions and cervical neck loading.

Additionally, it is important that all these innovative concepts take place simultaneously, meaning protection in one easy movement. This was done by creating a system that provides the user the ability to take a protective posture through bracing for the impact. Bracing is the single action that engages the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article via the friction/pressure/abutted connection. The friction/pressure/abutted connection is a link between the helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article where friction and pressure hold the two pieces together that are abutted against each other. The abutted portion is a socket designed to receive the lower edge of the helmet so there is no play in the connection. Additionally, the connection is crafted with the idea of directing and transferring energy which changes the physics of how kinetic energy effects the brain and skeletal system. Within the shoulder pad/vest article it was desirable to create a controllable clearance gap between the lower edge of the helmet and the top of the shoulder pad/vest article to provide the user limited freedom of movement in all axis and the ability to link the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article quickly, to take a protective posture.

By redesigning the shoulder pad and military vest into a shoulder pad/vest article and including a friction/pressure/abutted helmet link multiple embodiments can be created to address specific needs for specific sports or environments. There are three methods of creating the friction/pressure/abutted link. The three embodiments are similar but have unique subtle variations. The first link is best described as a socket. The socket has components that create a socket arrangement which the helmet joins with to create the friction/pressure/abutted link to the shoulder pad/vest article. The second embodiment of the friction/pressure/abutted link is best described as a pocket with contours which receive the helmet to link with it and create the friction/pressure/abutted link or connection. The third embodiment of the friction/pressure/abutted link is best described as a collar that receives the helmet and creates the friction/pressure/abutted connection in a way similar to a cork wedging in a bottle. In total there are six embodiments of the link: two socket type, two pocket type and two collar types. The helmet is joined to the shoulder pad/vest article by bracing the helmet within the socket/pocket/collar link or connection.

Bracing is taking a protective posture by pulling down with the chin/neck muscles while pushing up with the shoulders to create a pressure between the helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article within the friction/pressure/abutted connection. The pressure the user puts into the connection between the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article tenses the muscles of the torso and the connection allowing energy to transfer through the helmet and shoulder pads and not harm the brain. Also, the linking of the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article increases the effective mass of the head making it harder to move which also reduces concussion potential. This aligns the bones and muscles of the body and lets the user prepare themselves for the hit which has been found to reduce injury.

Another novel feature in redesigning the shoulder pad or vest into the shoulder pad/vest article is the addition of a unique socket, or pocket or collar arrangement designed to receive the lower edge and the lower portion of the helmet. The equipment being used today in and on the field have no connection between these two items. Linking these two pieces of protective gear improves safety by changing the physics of how kinetic force acts on the body in multiple ways.

The goal to increase the safety of the user has not changed. However, current understanding of the factors that cause injury and the types of injuries have improved as mankind strives to understand how injuries occur and how equipment may decrease or negate these injuries. Historically, as documented in the U.S. patent data base padding was the first innovation used then the addition of a hard shell around the skull was used to reduce concussions and skull fracturing. Next, was the transition to a flexible connection by using a third element to connect the shoulder pads to the helmet. This reduced impulse concussion potential still leaving impact concussions and neck loading as problems. Then impact concussions and neck loading were addressed by creating a fixed connection between the helmet and shoulder pads. Unfortunately, the aforementioned inventions although they would significantly reduce brain injuries are not used because they fail to provide free movement of the head which is desirable to maintain situational awareness and normal movement. Which brings about the current inventions novel design and approach of use; the shoulder pad/vest article with a socket/pocket/collar axial rotation control system. Which allows the traditional separation between the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article so there is freedom of movement with the ability to instantly take a protective posture and link the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article via the friction/pressure/abutted connection that reduces impulse concussions, impact concussions and neck loading.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The current invention is a shoulder pad/vest article which links with a commercial helmet to protect: the torso, head, shoulders and the area between against the application of a strong force. This shoulder pad/vest article also protects the portion of the body extending from the lower end of the neck and the collar bone but also includes the chest and back against the application of a strong force. The invention is a novel shoulder pad/vest article having a socket/pocket/collar axial rotation control bracing system that increases protection by linking with existing helmets to protect the upper torso to include the neck, head and brain.

The shoulder pad/vest article is designed to receive a military helmet or sports helmet for body contact sports such as a football, hockey or medieval sports. The current invention allows the wearer to take a defensive action to brace the helmet within the shoulder pad/vest article axial rotation control bracing system. This allows the user protection from their shoulders to the top of their head more effectively because the current invention incorporates a friction/pressure/abutted connection made to receive and link with the helmet. Additionally, because of its unique design the user has the ability to enhance or make the connection stronger by bracing and steeling themselves for the hit. Meaning, the user may create a connective pressure between the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article which changes how force effects the user, reducing concussion potential. Be it an impact between the user and another user or the user and a stationary object such as the ground, accidental or intentional the innovative design of the shoulder pad/vest article allows for absorption of and transfer of energy from the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article. When the helmet is in the braced position it provides a reduction in head acceleration, whiplash and neck compression. Because of the unique design of the shoulder pad/vest article it has utility with fielded soldiers who wear helmets and ballistic vests for protection. Because of the current inventions ability to absorb, transfer and direct impact mechanical energy imparted to the helmet it may significantly reduce Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) within combat zones and in environments having unusual conditions where blunt force trauma to the head, neck and shoulder areas are apt to occur.

STATE OF ART

Examples of inventions that have been created to remedy the concussion problem between shoulder pads and helmets fall into two different categories. First, inventions that create a flexible connection to join the shoulder pads and helmets by adding a third joining article such as a component, straps or flexible rod(s). The second method is creating a rigid connection such as bolting the helmet to the shoulder pads. We will explore both types of connections and why they are used. With both of these intervention types there is a great loss of freedom of movement of the head so even though these inventions would reduce concussions, unfortunately they are not used.

There are three issues to consider: impulse concussions, impact concussions and neck loading. An impulse concussion is caused by rotational energy being transferred to the head which transfers into brain inertia. When the skull stops the brain inertia slams the brain into the inside of the brain case. Impulse concussions are primarily caused by whiplash movement of the head. Many inventions try to use a third element to join the helmet to the shoulder pads. By doing so the room the head has to move is reduced which in turn reduces the whiplash movement which is known to cause impulse concussions.

The second issue, impact concussions is where the brain is bruised directly under the skull at the place of impact. If a person is punched violently in the head hard and fast enough the brain stays still and the force of the punch pushes the skull into the brain and the impact causes the injury. If you encase yourself in a suit of armor you will not get an impact concussion because the armor immediately starts transferring and dissipating force on contact. That's why one method to stop impact concussions is to bolt or link the helmet to the torso so they are one unit. Linking by bolting the helmet to the shoulder pads totally changes the physics into the users favor but there is a significant loss of normal mobility and this is why hard connections have not been adopted.

The third issue of consideration is neck loading to include vertical loading. The weak link between the helmet and the shoulder pads or vest is the neck. Neck loading in some instances is so violent the cervical vertebra break resulting in 2-5 paraplegic or quadriplegic injuries annually in American football. The number of neck sprains, injuries and neck issues are so common they are often not reported. Vertical loading of the cervical vertebra creates neck compression which causes soft tissue damage and at times bone damage. Neck loading is a significant problem the current invention uniquely addresses.

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The overarching problem is that in environments where shoulder-pads or vest and helmets are worn, concussions are a prevalent injury. Either TBI or mTBI occur because shoulder-pads and helmets have developed independently of each other covering specific areas but not taking into consideration the weak link area between the head and the shoulders. Independently each item absorbs the force for which it was made. Helmets stop skull fractures. Shoulder pads reduce shoulder, chest and back injuries. Each individual component addresses specific kinetic forces. However, neither the helmet nor the shoulder pads on their own have a mechanism to stop or reduce head acceleration, whiplash or the buildup of brain inertia which is exactly what the current invention accomplishes.

To address the concussion problem, it will be deconstructed into five associated sub problems inherent in the current helmet, shoulder pad configuration. The first sub-problem is the ability to consciously engage the vest/shoulder pad article to create a protective posture prior to a hit. The second sub-problem is whiplash which causes rotational or impulse concussions. The third sub-problem is head acceleration which causes impact concussions. The fourth sub-problem is neck loading which causes cervical or neck injuries and the fifth sub-problem is the lack of limited freedom of movement of the head in all axis. Each sub-problem will be briefly addressed. The objective of solving the problem will be briefly discussed. An example of an existing invention within the patent literature that solves the problem will be used and the novel solution of the current invention to solve this problem will be explained.

The first sub-problem is the ability of the user to consciously engage the shoulder pad/vest article to create a protective posture prior to a hit. This is important because professional research has shown if a person is able to prepare their body for a hit and able to take a protective posture before during and after a hit the body is less likely to be injured. Taking a prior protective posture allows the development of a method to control and channel force, the force can be managed, transferred, and absorbed to reduce concussion potential. Being able to link the shoulder pad/vest article via the friction/pressure/abutted connection to the helmet with one action allows this to happen.

OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION RELATED TO THE FIRST SUB-PROBLEM

One objective of the current invention is to provide a shoulder pad/vest article that functions with a commercially available helmet.

Another, objective of the current invention is to provide for the user the ability to consciously engage the shoulder pad/vest article to provide to the wearer the ability to quickly take a protective posture and maintain this protection throughout the hit. This not only allows the body of the user to prepare for strong force but also provides the ability to transfer and dissipate strong force from the head to the body. Professional research supports that force can transfer through the head to another object such as the torso or shoulder pad/vest article and leave the brain unharmed.

Another objective of the current invention is to provide to the user the ability to move their head without restriction within a protected limited range of motion. This limited free movement allows the user to move as they normally would and not inhibit their situational awareness.

Another objective of the current invention is to allow freedom of movement necessary to accomplish tasks yet restrict movement that leads to injury.

Another objective of the current invention is to limit the area of free movement (which increases the user's safety regarding rotational concussions) which normally promotes whiplash, a motion that violates the area of safe movement.

NOVEL ASPECTS AND ADVANTAGES COMPARED TO EXISTING SOLUTIONS

Existing inventions within the patent archive have delt with head acceleration and whiplash by either a flexible or fixed connection between the helmet and shoulder-pad which functions without user initiation. Meaning the user does not need to consciously take a protective action to gain those specific inventions protective abilities. Unfortunately, flexible and fixed inventions lose the desired free movement of the head in the process they use to defeat concussive forces, which may be the reason they are not used. Regarding shoulder pads none within the patent archive were found that are designed to reduce concussive forces. Regarding helmets only one was found intended to work with shoulder pads and military vests. Multiple helmet attachment (not helmets) configurations were found intended to work with sports shoulder pads to reduce concussion potential by energy transfer. Note: helmet attachments are a third object placed between the helmet and shoulder pads to reduce movement.

U.S. Pat. No. 9,241,528 B2 by Partlo is an example of a helmet invention designed to allow the wearer the ability to take a conscious protective action to “brace” prior to impact. It is unique because it is a helmet made to link the helmet to the torso. The sports headgear works on a friction/pressure bases to create a friction/pressure-based link between the helmet, shoulder pads, military vest or the user's torso. The invention is a lengthening of the lower edges of the helmet so the lower edge of the helmet are slightly above the shoulders, shoulder pad or vest. The sports helmet operates on a similar idea as the current invention but the helmet, not the shoulder pad/vest article is used to create the gap. This allows the user to brace the helmet on their shoulders, vest or shoulder pads to create a connective friction between the head and shoulders. This friction-based link helps reduce whiplash, head acceleration and promotes transfer of energy through the head to the shoulders, shoulder pads or vest. Unfortunately, the friction/pressure connection is not adequate for contact sports like football, hockey or medieval sports to stop concussions. It does a great job stopping concussion in combat sports like boxing, MMA and karate.

In U.S. Pat. No. 4,094,015 to Howard is a helmet neck roll attachment made of foam intended to assist in reducing cervical compression of the neck. Howard's invention is specifically “ . . . will not interfere with any of the head or body movements of the player or with other conventional protective equipment such as helmets and shoulder pads.” Meaning it provides a gap similar to Partlo's sports headguard that allows free unencumbered movement within the defined gap area. Howard's invention is a helmet attachment which extends the lower edge of the helmet by adding a foam role to the helmet. It has utility against neck compression to some degree and also reduces whiplash. However, this invention is a third element being added between the helmet and the shoulder pads which is significantly different than the current invention. Additionally, it lacks the rigidity needed to stop impact concussions.

The novel solution of the current invention compared to the existing inventions. Although Partlo's sports headgear and Howard's helmet attachment provide a “gap” approach to limit freedom of movement the components compared to the current invention are significantly different. Partlo's sports headgear operates on the same gap idea with the intent that the athlete can take a protective posture before during and after an impact but it is a helmet. Howard's invention does not allow for a protective posture. The current invention is a shoulder pad/vest article, not a helmet or third item made to link the helmet to the shoulder pads. Additionally, the current invention incorporates a connective socket made to receive the helmet to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection within the shoulder pad/vest article. This unique connection eliminates head acceleration and whiplash which is a significant improvement over the earlier friction/pressure connection.

In reference to Howard's helmet attachment the current invention is significantly different. The helmet attachment reduces the whiplash area which is the goal of all attachments between the helmet and shoulder pads and could allow for some bracing to take place although that was not the intent of the invention. Howard's helmet attachment is not a shoulder pad or vest article and falls into a different patent category although it does represent a number of inventions made to reduce concussions.

the novel solution of the current invention compared to the aforementioned existing inventions and the aforementioned problems is that the current invention is designed to work with commercially available helmets. The shoulder pad/vest article creates the gap which allows the user the ability to brace instantly to take a protective posture. The gap creates a free movement safe zone which allows the desired unrestricted movement of the helmet within a limited area. The gap also provides restriction of potentially harmful movement which allows the helmet to contact or bump the shoulder pad/vest article and starts transferring energy on contact when violating the safe movement area. This is a safeguard. This reduced free movement area takes a short time to adjust to however, it provides immediate transfer of energy when contact is made, even if it is accidental. Reducing the area of free movement reduces whiplash movement which increases the user's safety which satisfies the prior objectives.

Although the sports helmet allows for a protective action to take place before the hit and Howard's helmet attachment reduces whiplash area neither are in the shoulder pad or vest category. The current invention is unique because it is the first shoulder pad/vest article made to reduce concussion potential.

The Second sub-problem is whiplash which causes rotational or impulse concussions. Whiplash or coup-counter coup movement of the head happens because the neck provides a perfect pivot point for the whiplash movement of the head. When the head whiplashes, the head creates inertia which is transferred to the brain which causes the impulse concussion when the skull stops but the brain does not. Whiplash is the acceleration or deceleration of the head in a short amount of time which creates brain inertia causing brain movement within the skull. When the skull stops abruptly as the helmet hits the back of the shoulders, in a normal helmet shoulder pad situation, the brain continues to move due to the transferred energy which creates brain inertia. When the skull is stopped abruptly the inertia in the brain is accelerated by the inside curvature of the skull. This inside curvature of the skull increases the momentum of the brain and this is referred to as an impulse of additional energy. This happens because of the shape of the skull. The whiplash movement of the brain is accelerated by the curvature of the skull creating a circular motion within the whiplash circular movement of the head. This impulse of energy is the reason for the name of the impulse concussion. Rotational or impulse concussions depend upon two things, whiplash movement and a pivot point to foster head acceleration.

An objective of the current invention is to provide a method to reduce whiplash movement of the head which is responsible for impulse concussions.

An objective of the current invention is to shift the pivot point from the neck to the shoulder pad/vest article changing the physics of how the head moves when kinetic force is applied to the helmet.

An objective of the current invention is to create a situation where energy is transferred through the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article and not retained as brain inertia.

Existing inventions within the patent archive designed to address impulse concussions. There are two basic interventions used to stop concussions, inventions that affix the helmet to the shoulder pads, and flexible connection inventions. Neither are utilized in sports or the military where they need to be used. Unfortunately, we can count on millions of concussions and neck injuries each year in American football alone, as we have in past 50 plus years. These senseless injuries will continue until there is a change in the helmet and shoulder pad configurations that are fostering these injuries.

Inventions that connect (bolt) the helmet to the shoulder pads eliminate movement that cause impulse concussions. The focus is on eliminating the whiplash movement of the head that causes the impulse concussion. There are two methods used to do this, a flexible connection and a hard connection between the helmet and the shoulder pads. We will address the flexible connection first which is commonly achieved by connecting the helmet to the shoulder pads by a third element to create a flexible connection.

Within the prior art there are a number of inventions that provide a flexible connection between the helmet and the shoulder pads to reduce rotational movement of the head to reduce concussions. The flexible connection is made to allow limited freedom of movement of the helmet. More precisely they are allowing limited tethered movement of the helmet which is very different from limited free movement of the current invention. However, because the connection is flexible it allows head movement on impact which does not protect adequately to prevent impact concussions.

One example of a device with a flexible connection is U.S. Pat. No. 11,298,040 B2 by Huang which is a device to reduce traumatic brain injury. This device uses a “linkage element” to connect the helmet to the shoulder pads. It has a flexible connection to reduce whiplash as an intervention for impulse concussions. It then has a sensor which changes the flexible connection to a somewhat fixed connection to attempt to stop head acceleration associated with impact concussions. Huang's invention depends on a sensor to measure head acceleration and lock the linkage element within the first 30 milliseconds after the moment of impact in an effort to reduce impact concussions. Huang's invention “ . . . is able to switch between a first state in which it is relatively flexible and a second state in which it is relatively rigid . . . ” By controlling the stiffness of the controlling linkage elements Huang creates a link between the head and shoulder pads for purposes of “ . . . energy dissipation away from the head and toward the body or trunk of the user.”

U.S. Pat. No. US2022/0176228 A1 to Jackson uses a “body harness” with “three anchor assemblies” that affix the helmet which is modified with “ . . . grommets configured to receive the guide cords.” That are adjustable to allow for reduced head whiplash movement. This connection is meant to reduce head movement which addresses impulse concussions but does not address impact concussions caused by head acceleration taking place within the first 20 to 40 milliseconds of an abrupt head acceleration or deceleration. If the transfer of energy does not take place within this time an impulse concussion will result. That is why the current invention allows the user to take a protective posture so this 20-40 millisecond window is not missed.

U.S. Pat. No. 11,234,473 B2 by Jinkins patent is another example of a third element being used to connect the helmet to the shoulder pads to reduce whiplash. Jinkins design positions a flange cushion directly behind the helmet (to absorb and transfer force) and connects it to the shoulder pads and helmet with tensile straps. The invention focus is to “ . . . reduce, or even eliminate, the risk of whiplash and reduction of whiplash . . . ” However, it does not address impact concussions caused by head acceleration taking place within the first 20 to 40 milliseconds of an abrupt head acceleration or deceleration.

Whiplash is the primary cause of the majority of concussions. However, linear acceleration always turns into rotational acceleration so it is not unreasonable to assume that inventions like the aforementioned patents focus on methods of reducing, absorbing and transferring whiplash energy or rotational energy which cause impulse concussions. Unfortunately, impulse concussions only represent one type of concussion and these inventions fail to limit the forces associated with impact concussions effectively.

The currently found helmets and shoulder pads being used in contact sports actually create the whiplash scenario where the head is accelerated quickly in a short amount of time. The problem is the neck is the pivot point between the helmet and the shoulder pads. Then when the helmet stops abruptly by hitting the rear of the shoulder pads a concussion or neck injury results. Improvements to the helmet and helmet padding alone have not been able to nullify this problem.

The novel solution of the current invention compared to the aforementioned examples: The current invention allows the user the ability to have limited freedom of movement of the head because there is no connection between the helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article until the user creates the link by “bracing” and setting the helmet within the shoulder pad/vest article. The current invention allows the user to consciously take a protective posture prior to the hit by closing the gap and bracing the helmet within the socket/pocket/collar connection. The current invention does not use a third element to connect the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article. The current invention provides a hard connection through the friction/pressure/abutted socket. This connection creates a situation where energy is transferred through the helmet/head not retained as brain inertia. The friction/pressure/abutted connection found within the three nesting methods the socket, the pocket and the collar sockets provide a method of joining the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article reduces the whiplash movement responsible for impulse concussions which satisfies the first and third objective. The current invention because of the abutment aspect of the friction/pressure/abutted connection does not allow for movement between the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article similar to a hard connection which allows energy to transfer through the brain and leave it unharmed when the helmet is in the braced position. Also bracing the helmet within the socket connection shifts the pivot point from the neck to the shoulder pad/vest article. This changes the physics of how the head moves when kinetic force is applied to the helmet. The connection also reduces whiplash which satisfies the objectives needed to defeat impulse concussions.

The third sub-problem is head acceleration which causes impact concussions. Impact concussions are caused by a hard and fast blow to the head which causes the skull to move before the brain moves. The skull then impacts the brain causing brain injury at the point of impact and is therefore named an impact concussion. This fast acceleration takes place in a short amount of time. It is within the first 20 to 40 milliseconds of the hit where the skull moves but the brain does not that causes the impact concussion so an intervention that eliminates movement at the start of the hit is required.

One objective of the current invention is to allow the user the ability to create a hard connection between the helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article so on impact the energy is directly transferred from the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article. The objective of the friction/pressure/abutted connection is to remove the neck pivot point and whiplash movement of the head and create a direct connection between the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article so impact energy within the first 20 to 40 milliseconds is transferred through the hard exterior of the helmet where it connects to the shoulder pad/vest article eliminating the head acceleration which causes the impact concussions.

Existing inventions within the patent archive designed to address impact concussions: When the helmet and shoulder pads operate independently or are flexibly connected the arrangement does not absorb enough force or transfer it sufficiently within the first 20 to 40 milliseconds to get the amount of force received by the brain of the player below the threshold of harm. With linear force which causes an impact concussion the hit force on the helmet is so hard and fast that the force moves the skull before the brain can move and the result is an impact concussion. Inventions which flexibly connect the shoulder-pads and helmet fail to stop impact concussions even though they may effectively reduce whiplash or impulse concussions. When football helmets were first being invented, they changed from a soft helmet to a helmet with a hard shell. The intent of the hard shell was to stop skull fractures which were causing players deaths. When the hard shell was added the deaths caused by skull fractures stopped. The unplanned second benefit was that the hard shell provided for a reduction in head acceleration. Unfortunately, the hard shell didn't solve the problem altogether it did however reduce the impact concussions considerably because it allowed for better force distribution to take place to the interior helmet padding. Within the prior art there are a number of inventions that provide a rigid connection between the helmet and the shoulder pads. This rigid connection allows for direct and immediate force transfer of energy from the helmet to the shoulder pads without internal head acceleration. If there is no head movement the skull cannot be accelerated into the brain.

U.S. Pat. No. 11,272,751 B2 by Popejoy is an invention that connects the headpiece cage/helmet to the thoracic framework or shoulder pad like article with “ . . . a plurality of rigid bars . . . ” effectively encasing the shoulders and head in a single unit similar to a diving suit or suit of armor. Within the headpiece cage the user wears a padded cap to keep the user from injuring their head on the interior of the headpiece. The only area for head acceleration is the area between the user's soft hat or internal padding and the headpiece cage/helmet. The only way head acceleration can take place is secondarily as if during a violent hit where the user's head is bounces off the interior of the cage/helmet. This energy is insufficient area of movement to cause an impact concussion.

U.S. Pat. No. 11,641,902 B2 by Zarreii which is a concussion reducing/energy transferring helmet and shoulder system works off the same diving suit or suit of armor concept. Because of some of the possible perceived similarities in operation between the current invention and Zarreii's I will point out some salient differences in design.

Zarreii's invention uses a “head protection assembly” specially made to work in conjunction with the “head cradle portion” and “energy absorbing collar portion.” Within this design there is a third component being used to join the helmet to the shoulder pads. Opposed to the current invention where a standard helmet is used and received by the socket made within the shoulder pad/vest article. Zarreii's patent is as it states a helmet and shoulder pad system not just a shoulder pad or vest.

Zarreii states in the background of the invention that: “This system does not replace current equipment and is meant to be used when possible with existing equipment, such as being combined with current helmet and shoulder pad designs . . . ” This is not practical. Zarreii's invention as described and shown in the drawings requires a very special helmet with a flange arrangement designed to fit into a very specific “head cradle” which then fits into an “energy absorbing collar” made to receive the head cradle. An existing football or military helmet would not couple with the head cradle or energy absorbing collar as shown in the drawing or as explained in the claims because they do not have the flange required to do so. Zarreii's invention is a helmet and shoulder pad system not just a shoulder pad article.

Zarreii's invention is of an inner locking flange system between the helmet and the shoulder pad contrivance. This is undoubtedly done to reduce whiplash although that point was not addressed. FIG. 6 clearly shows “The Flange 320 flares outwardly from the upper portion 312 and includes a flange rib 322 extending radially inwardly. A collar portion 350 includes a sleeve 360 that has an outer sleeve 370 fixedly connected to a seat 354 and an inner sleeve 372 having a lip 374 wrapped around a top portion of the outer sleeve.” The current inventions gap between the shoulder pad/vest article and helmet is very different from the gap in Zarreii's invention. The current invention's gap has restriction of movement and distance between helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article and taking a protective posture is controlled by the athlete. Zarreii's invention protects without taking action and its gap is because of freedom within the coupling flange linkage. The helmet in the current invention does not require a flange or any modification and in order to get a protective posture the user has to take action. Although Zarreii's invention does provide limited movement it does so based on an interlocking flange arrangement which is significantly different than the current invention's gap approach where the base of the helmet fits into a socket/pocket/collar type socket. The current invention's restriction of movement is done by the athlete controlling the gap between the helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article which are independent of one another which is significantly different than Zarreii's interlocking flange feature that does not depend on the athlete taking a protective posture to link. Zarreii's invention loses the athletes free movement of the head which is desirable in sports. Zarreii's invention is a helmet and shoulder pad system the current invention is simply a shoulder pad/vest article.

U.S. Pat. No. 11,382,369 B2 by Hampton addresses head acceleration by rigidly affixing the helmet to the shoulder pads by a “chest plate” and “back plate”. The back plate having a hinge that allows the helmet to pivot. Although the invention is developed for sports it appears that a specialized helmet is required or significant modification to both the helmet and shoulder pads. This is significantly different than the current invention which does not rigidly connect the helmet to the shoulder pads with a rigid third article such as a hinge. The current invention is a shoulder pad/vest article with a unique socket/pocket/collar socket connection that receives a commercially available helmet that needs no modification or attachment.

the novel solution of the current invention compared to the aforementioned patents: The current invention allows the user the ability to have limited freedom of movement of the head because there is no connection between the helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article until the user creates it. For the current invention to be effective it requires the athlete to consciously take a protective posture prior to the hit and seat the helmet into the friction/pressure/abutted connective socket. This is very different than the aforementioned inventions that affix or have a lose fitting or a flexibly linked connection. The current invention creates a connection by the helmet fitting into a socket made to receive it. The shoulder pad/vest article has a socket or pocket or collar like socket which allows the helmet to snugly fit into the axial rotation control system. By the athlete taking a protective posture of bracing this friction/pressure/abutted socket connection is enhanced by the pressure the athlete creates as they pull down with their chin and neck muscles and push up with their shoulders. This friction and pressure connection is enhanced by the funnel like socket fit that provides an abutted quality to the socket connection allowing the force of the blow to directly transmit to the shoulder pad/vest article by the helmet because they are abutted, pressing against each other, linked to one another. There is no movement within the socket, the helmet is nested within, as it is braced and this connection is improved by the pressure the user puts in to it. This connection allows the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article to act as a single unit so the initial impact is transferred directly from the outside of the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article which eliminates the head acceleration found in the first 20-40 milliseconds that cause impact concussions. This meets the objectives of this section. It is a drawback that the current invention's protection requires the user to take a protective posture but this process also allows for unencumbered free, untethered movement. It is hoped that the current invention friction/pressure/abutted connection will provide a new way to reduce concussion potential besides making ridged or flexible connections.

The fourth sub-problem is neck loading which causes cervical or neck injuries. Neck loading is more force than the neck can withstand. There are two types of injuries that result depending on how the force acts on the neck. Neck loading can cause soft tissue injuries. Whiplash is known to causes muscle strains, sprains and neurological damage. Neck loading is also known to cause bone damage. For example, when the helmet is hit from the crown and the neck is compressed between the head and torso (vertical loading) the result is often bone damage as well as neurological damage. Unfortunately, each year between two to five athletes playing American football each year will become quadriplegics because of this vertical neck loading problem which is an injury created because of the design of the safety equipment.

One objective of the current invention is to eliminate neck loading in all axis and allow the user the ability to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection between the helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article so lateral impact energy is directly transferred through the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article to eliminate soft tissue injuries such as muscle strains, sprains and neurological damage.

One objective of the current invention is to eliminate compression of the neck between the helmet and the shoulders.

Existing inventions within the patent archive designed to reduce neck loading: Inventions that focus on reducing neck loading often insert or use a third element between the helmet and shoulder pads. Inventions that focus on reducing neck loading normally use a collar approach to support the neck and allow for a transfer of energy to the shoulder pads. Unfortunately, because these designs do not create a rigid connection between the helmet and the shoulder pads the skull of the user is still allowed to move within the first 20 to 40 milliseconds which can results in an impact concussion. Additionally, collars often have a flexible quality which permits soft tissue damage before the neck receives adequate support from the collar. There are many third article collars designed to go between the helmet and the shoulder pads to reduce neck loading. Unfortunately, their use is minimal.

U.S. Pat. No. US 2022/0015467 A1 by Chambers et al. titled “Athletic Collar” is one such invention. The invention connects a collar having a “ . . . lower shoulder flange having a back pad; an upper flange coupled to the shoulder flange . . . having “a plurality of bumpers . . . ” Furthermore the “plurality of bumpers” which are “removably coupled” and “includes one of an inflatable bladder or foam filled bladder. Chambers et al., invention is a collar to be used in addition to or without shoulder pads. It is not a shoulder pad, a vest article or a helmet. “[0052] The shoulder flange can be held in position on the user by a tight-fitting garment, strap, or harness. For example, a football player may wear the collar under the protective shoulder pads or under a tight-fitting shirt. [0053] One example of the present subject matter is configured to attach to the user in a manner independent of shoulder pads or allow movement independent of the shoulder pads.” Although Chambers et al., invention reduces neck loading the method of doing so is significantly different than the current invention and it is a third article, a neck brace, not a shoulder pad or vest article.

U.S. Pat. No. 0,011,423 A1 to Connell is a “self-inflatable football collar” designed to fit in the “ . . . large gap between the lower edge of the helmet and the shoulders . . . ” It is filled with air. It is a third component added between the helmet and shoulder pads which is significantly different from the current invention.

In U.S. Pat. No. 4,094,015 to Howard is a helmet neck roll attachment made of foam intended to assist in reducing cervical compression of the neck. Howard's invention is again a third article being added between the helmet and the shoulder pads. It is a helmet attachment not a shoulder pad/vest article so it is in a different category. Additionally, it lacks the rigidity needed to stop impact concussions.

The novel solution of the current invention compared to the existing patents: The current invention allows the user the ability to have limited freedom of movement of the head because there is no connection between the helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article. The current invention does not use a third article between the helmet and shoulder pads. The current invention allows the user to consciously take a protective posture prior to the hit. When the current invention is braced the friction/pressure/abutted connection between the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article shifts the vertical support (pivot point) from the spine to the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article which limits vertical compression of the spine. Bracing and creating the friction/pressure/abutted connection stops/reduces head acceleration movement that cause soft tissue strains and damage. The friction/pressure/abutted connection meets the lateral and vertical neck loading objectives of the fourth sub-problem.

The fifth sub-problem is limited freedom of movement of the head in all axis. Freedom of movement of the head is desirable because it is the normal condition. In reality there is a limited area of head movement required for a given activity, moving your head left or right, up and down to view things. There is a normal routine of head movement that is within a defined area. Unfortunately, any limitation of movement of the head is perceived as an impediment to situational awareness as if eye movement cannot be used. The connection between too much movement of the head and injury is not normally perceived. However, it is the movement outside of the normal area required for movement which causes all injuries, to include neck strains and neurological damage. Whiplash is a movement that forces the head out of its normal area of movement and causes most concussions. Unbridled freedom of movement in all axis provides not only the opportunity for injury it is the reason for injury. The key to reducing injury is limited movement but only to the point which allows the individual to perform necessary tasks without degrading situational awareness. Limited free movement of the head is a safeguard and should be incorporated within environments where helmets and shoulder pads or protective vest are worn and it is unfortunate that this key fact is overlooked.

One objective of the current invention is to create a gap between the helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article which provides an area of unencumbered but limited free movement between the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article necessary to accomplish tasks yet restricts movement that leads to injury.

One objective of the current invention is to provide a gap between the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article so the user may quickly close the gap to achieve a protective posture and link the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article.

One objective of the current invention is to provide a gap between the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article so that even if the user receives strong force to the head the helmet will automatically enter the socket/pocket/collar of the shoulder pad/vest article to reduce injury potential.

Existing inventions within the patent archives intended to reduce concussions reduce head movement. This pertains to every example previously discussed and every invention within the patent archives. It is through limiting of motion that safety is attained, be it impulse concussions, impact concussions or neck loading. The key is how it is done. Almost without exception the two methods used is to either affix the helmet to the shoulder pads with a hard connection or use a third element to provide intervention between to regulate movement between the helmet and shoulder pads. U.S. Pat. No. 9,241,528 B2 by Partlo uses the same gap approach providing limited free movement with the athlete in control of bracing for a hit. However, there are three significant differences between the sports headgear invention and the current shoulder pad/vest article.

The novel solution of the current invention compared to the existing patents: The first difference is that the current invention is not a modification to the helmet it's a shoulder pad/vest article. The current invention uses helmets that are already on the market being used within the environment where helmets, shoulder pads and vest are being used. The shoulder pad/vest article creates a gap that allows for limited free movement necessary to accomplish required movement but restricts harmful movement. The second difference is that the gap is created by the shoulder pad/vest article not the helmet or a helmet attachment, although the activation method is the same. The gap created by the shoulder pad/vest article allows the user to quickly close the gap and assume a protective posture. This is easily done by the user moving their shoulders up while lowering their chin. This is a natural protective action and desirable feature. The most salient difference between the safety helmet concept and the shoulder pad/vest article is that the current invention uses a friction/pressure/abutted socket within the shoulder pad/vest article, to create a robust connection that addresses the issues of, impulse concussions, impact concussions and neck compression injuries.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The intent of the current invention to provide a shoulder pad/vest article that uses existing helmets to improve safety within multiple contact sports such as American football, hockey and medieval combat sports as well as provide utility within the military. The current invention creates a gap which allows for free limited movement of the head in all axes while restricting harmful movement. The safety gap between the shoulder pad/vest article allows the user to close the gap by pushing up with their shoulders and pulling down or lowering their chin to seat the lower edge of the helmet into a novel friction/pressure/abutted socket placed within the shoulder pad/vest article. The connection between the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article changes the physics of how kinetic forces act on the helmet providing a protective posture against concussive forces. The connection can be improved by the user as they steel themselves against the hit. The friction/pressure/abutted connection between the helmet and shoulder pad/vest article increases rigidity and changes the rotational point from the neck to the helmet which reduces/eliminates whiplash movement and how rotational concussive forces act on the brain. The friction/pressure/abutted socket is designed to receive the helmet so the helmet is seated within the socket. This connection is abuttedly fixed meaning one piece is against another held via pressure and friction allowing direct transfer of energy from the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article which is necessary to prevent an impact concussion. The friction/pressure/abutted socket is spaced such that when the helmet is joined to the shoulder pad/vest article it eliminates head acceleration and whiplash concussions and the space and ability for neck compression along the Y axis is eliminated. Through creating a shoulder pad/vest article with a friction/pressure/abutted socket made to receive commercially available helmets already being used in the field can be significantly reduce concussions and neck injuries by use of the shoulder pad/vest article without the requirement to purchase another helmet. Most helmets meet specific safety requirements and certification requirements and meeting these individual requirements for a multitude of helmets is not feasible. Whereas shoulder pads and vest seldom have certification requirements so changing the shoulder pad or vest is more feasible because of the lack of regulation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is shown in the drawings forms which are presently preferred; it being understood however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. These embodiments represent the best method to explain the principle and function, application and practical use of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a shoulder pad/vest article with an elevated axial control bracing system, a shoulder pad/vest article manufactured or constructed of a single material with chest guard component;

FIG. 1a is an elevated transverse view of a two-piece front/back split design shoulder pad/vest article with a level segmented axial rotation control bracing system, a shoulder pad/vest article constructed of a single material with adjustable latch closure showing the clearance gap;

FIG. 2 is an elevated transverse view of the detachable axial rotation control bracing system with floor component, rear, left and right lateral funnel stops, with left, right and rear shoulder support;

FIG. 3 is an elevated right rear transverse view of the detachable axial rotation control bracing system showing the helmet platform, floor component, right and rear shoulder support area and adjustable pin alignment;

FIG. 4 is an elevated side transvers view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article with elevated helmet platform, axial rotation control funnel bracing system showing the helmet platform, floor component, left and rear lateral funnel stops and chest guard component;

FIG. 5 is an elevated transverse view of the insertable shoulder strike area height adjustment pad;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional representation showing the fit of the helmet into the friction/pressure/abutted socket highlighting the rear funnel stop rotational limiting bracing surface on the rear funnel stop, and how the helmet posterior edge fits onto the helmet platform seating into the floor component;

FIG. 7 is a rear elevated transverse view showing the left and rear shoulder support areas with the helmet platform and highlighting the left lateral funnel stop rotational limiting bracing surface;

FIG. 8 is an elevated transverse view of a detachable level axial rotation control bracing system showing the helmet platform, floor component and a wraparound collar where the left, right and rear funnel stops are one piece;

FIG. 9 is an elevated transverse view of a detachable axial rotation control socket bracing system showing the helmet platform highlighting the wrap around collar where the left, right and rear funnel stops are one piece;

FIG. 10 is a side view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article with vertically extended helmet platform axial rotation control bracing system highlighting the elongated helmet platform helmet support article with the helmet in the braced position;

FIG. 11 is a side view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article with vertically extended helmet platform axial rotation control bracing system with right lateral funnel stop and right shoulder support area highlighting the stand-alone front helmet support article with the helmet in the braced position;

FIG. 12 is a side view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article with a detachable vertically extended helmet platform axial rotation control bracing system and the internal locking sleave with a front helmet support article on the chest guard component with the helmet in the braced position;

FIG. 13 is a transvers 45 degree left side view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article with vertically extended helmet platform axial rotation control bracing system with interior body pad with a hard exterior showing the left funnel stop and chest guard component with head in the neutral position showing the gap for limited free movement of the head in all axes;

FIG. 14 is an elevated transvers right side view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article with detachable vertically extended helmet platform axial rotation control bracing system with internal locking sleave, with one-piece shoulder pad/vest article constructed of a single material with chest guard and rear funnel stop;

FIG. 15 is a side view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article with detachable elevated helmet platform axial rotation control bracing system, internal locking sleave and a shoulder pad/vest article made of made of a single material with the head in the neutral position showing the gap for limited free movement of the head in all axes;

FIG. 16 is an elevated transverse right side view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article constructed of interior body pad with a hard exterior with vertically extended helmet platform axial rotation control bracing system showing the helmet in the braced position with right lateral funnel stop;

FIG. 17 is a transverse side view of a detachable contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system with helmet in the braced position highlighting the height adjustable pin alignment holes;

FIG. 18 is a rear view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article with an embedded contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system with the head in the neutral position showing gap for limited free movement of the head in all axes and the rear attachment point for the tightening belt;

FIG. 19 is a rear view showing a two-piece front/back split design shoulder pad/vest article constructed with interior body pad with a hard exterior an embedded contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system with the head in the neutral position showing the gap for limited free movement of the head in all axes highlighting the left, right and rear helmet stabilization articles with left shoulder guard and left cup;

FIG. 20 is a rear view showing a bilateral split shoulder pad/vest article with adjustable latch closure constructed with an interior and exterior padding with a hard interior core with an embedded contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system with the helmet in the braced position;

FIG. 21 is a rear view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article of composite design made of a single material with an embedded contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system with the helmet in the braced position showing the left, right and rear helmet stabilization articles and venting;

FIG. 22 is a rear view showing a two-piece front/back split design shoulder pad/vest article with adjustable latch on the left and right shoulders a shoulder pad/vest article constructed of a single material with an embedded contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system with the player's head in the braced position wearing a football helmet, note the figure also shows the area of padding between the players body and the shoulder pad/vest article exterior;

FIG. 23 is an elevated transverse top/front view of a contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system showing the rear contoured connective sidewall, left pocket floor component and the contoured connective sidewall;

FIG. 24 is an elevated transverse top/front view of a contoured pocket axial rotation control funnel bracing system showing the rear contoured connective sidewall, and right contoured connective sidewall;

FIG. 25 is an elevated left side transvers view of a contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system highlighting the pocket floor component rear contoured connective sidewall and rear contoured connective sidewall rotational limiting bracing surface;

FIG. 26 is an elevated transvers view of a right side bilateral split contoured pocket showing the pocket floor and right side contoured connective sidewall with elongated portion of the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system;

FIG. 27 is an elevated transvers view of a right side bilateral split contoured pocket showing the pocket floor, and right contoured connective sidewall and right side with right side contoured connective sidewall rotational limiting bracing surface(s) with elongated portion of the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system;

FIG. 28 is an elevated transverse left side view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article made of a single material with elevated contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system showing the pocket floor component and rear contoured connective sidewall;

FIG. 29 is an elevated transverse left side view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article with contoured pocket axial rotation control funnel bracing system with rear contoured connective sidewall and open venting area below because there is no pocket floor component, showing the rear contoured connective sidewall with left and right contoured connective sidewalls (not shown) to create a socket that receives the sides of the helmet to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection within the pocket;

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional side view of a bilateral split contoured pocket right side showing how the helmet is supported by the pocket floor component and how the rear of the helmet contacts the rear contoured connective sidewall and is supported by the rear helmet stabilization article and meets the helmet with the rear helmet stabilization article contoured joining surface to create the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system friction/pressure/abutted socket;

FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional side view of a bilateral split contoured pocket right side showing how the helmet is supported by the pocket floor component highlighting how the contoured connective sidewall connective ridge supports the contours on the bottom outside of a commercially available helmet with a lip or connective ridge feature;

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional side view of the rear contact between the helmet just prior to the braced position and the contoured pocket axial rotation control funnel bracing system rear contoured connective sidewall and rear helmet stabilization article highlighting the rear helmet stabilization article contoured joining surface to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection within the pocket when the helmet is braced;

FIG. 33 is a side view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest shoulder pad/vest article with an elevated contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system with a shoulder pad/vest article manufactured or constructed with an interior and exterior padding with a hard interior core with chest guard component, belt tightening component, right cup, right side shoulder guard with head in the neutral position so the gap is visible;

FIG. 34 is a side view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest shoulder pad/vest article with an elevated contour pocket axial rotation control bracing system constructed with an interior and exterior padding with a hard interior core with chest guard component, with rear helmet stabilization article and right helmet stabilization article with the helmet in the braced position;

FIG. 35 is a transverse side view showing a ballistic two-piece front/back split design shoulder pad/vest article with elevated contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system with right shoulder pad, and adjustable latch closure with shoulder pad/vest article manufactured or constructed of a single material with a military helmet and the head in the neutral position;

FIG. 36 is a transverse elevated view showing a ballistic slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article with interior body pad with a hard exterior with detachable vertically extended helmet platform axial rotation control bracing system with internal locking sleave, rear and right lateral funnel stops with military helmet and the head in the neutral position;

FIG. 37 is a transvers elevated 45 degree view showing a two-piece front back split shoulder pad/vest article with a sectional axial rotation control collar bracing system constructed of a single material with adjustable latch closure, showing the head in the neutral position showing the clearance gap with chest guard component, rear and left collar support articles;

FIG. 38 is an elevated transverse 45 view of a two-piece front/back split design shoulder pad/vest article with a continuous collar axial rotation control bracing system, a shoulder pad/vest article constructed with an interior and exterior padding with a hard interior core between the padding with adjustable latch closure showing the clearance gap with the head in the neutral position and stand-alone front helmet support article;

FIG. 39 is an elevated transverse 45 view of a two-piece front/back split design shoulder pad/vest article with a continuous collar axial rotation control bracing system, a shoulder pad/vest article constructed with an interior body pad with a hard exterior with adjustable latch closure showing the helmet in the braced position and the face guard supported by the stand-alone front helmet support article;

FIG. 40 is a rear view showing a slip over the head one-piece shoulder pad/vest article of composite design with the head in the braced position made of a single material with an adjustable collar floor component and a segmented collar bracing system showing the left, right and rear collar support article;

FIG. 41 is a side view of the adjustable collar floor component showing the venting and multiple mounting brackets; and,

FIG. 42 is a top view of the adjustable collar floor component showing the venting and multiple mounting brackets.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The description is not intended to be limiting, it is made solely for the purpose of illustrating the principles of the invention. Please note, reference to an “embodiment” denotes that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic can be associated with at least one variation or embodiment of the invention but is not necessarily mutually exclusive for that embodiment.

This patent presents a new type of shoulder pad/vest article that is capable of linking with commercially available helmets. Helmets generally have to meet impact or other regulatory requirements and are generally quite good so there is no need to reinvent them or to require a new helmet. The idea is to offer the needed shoulder pad/vest article that is able to be tailored for a specific environment. Because there are a number of different sports and a wide area of use to include the military where this shoulder pad/vest article could reduce concussions there are multiple embodiments of the shoulder pad/vest article with variation of the axial rotation control bracing system to meet individual needs.

The novel idea is that the shoulder pad/vest article has the ability to link with the helmet via a friction/pressure/abutted connection created by the axial rotation control bracing system. It is novel because no previous shoulder pads or vest were found that offered a connective link with existing commercial helmets as the current invention does. There are multiple problems this connection solves while providing the user limited free movement of the head in all axis and the ability to take a protective posture while changing how kinetic force of a hit acts on the brain to reduce impact concussions, impulse concussions and neck loading/compression injuries.

The shoulder pad/vest article has three different construction types with four variations of manufacture. The three different construction types of the shoulder pad/vest article pertain to how the shoulder pad/vest article attaches to the user and are as follows. First, a one-piece slip over the head article. Second, a two-piece front/back split design meaning the split is down the centerline and the two halves come from the sides and are connected on the center line. The third construction type is a split on the sides so the front and back come together and are connected on the sides. The methods of connecting the haves make a difference in how the shoulder pad/vest article connects to the user and how force transfers through the article.

The four variations of manufacture have to do with what the shoulder pad/vest article are made of: first, a shoulder pad/vest article with an interior body pad with a hard exterior. Second, is an interior and exterior padding with a hard interior core. Third is a shoulder pad/vest article constructed of a single material. The fourth variation of manufacture of the shoulder pad/vest article is any combination of the aforementioned manufacturing configurations also having a built-in pocket(s) to receive: ballistic plates, cooling or heating elements, radio equipment or provide an area for storage. Each variation of manufacture is made of a type of padding such as foam, plastic, epoxy composites, ballistic material or any combination thereof. The idea is to accommodate multiple environments by offering a variety of manufacturing embodiments. Each construction type and variation of manufacture have a friction/pressure/abutted connection that can be matched with any construction type or method of construction.

There are three embodiments of the friction/pressure/abutted connection broken into three categories based off physical characteristics of a socket, a pocket and a collar. The socket type friction/pressure/abutted connection has two variations of construction: the Axial Rotation Control Bracing System and the Axial Rotation Control Socket Bracing System. The second pocket type friction/pressure/abutted connection has two variations of construction: the Contoured Pocket Axial Rotation Control Bracing System and Contoured Pocket Axial Rotation Control Funnel Bracing System. The last embodiment, the collar type friction/pressure/abutted connection has two variations of construction: the Axial Rotation Control Collar Bracing System and Axial Rotation Control Collar Bracing System with adjustable collar floor component.

The friction/pressure/abutted connection describes the qualities of the connection the socket, pocket and collar describe what the connection looks like. The socket is made of component parts which are made to receive the helmet. Think of the socket like a ring setting made to receive a helmet. The pocket and collar present two other methods of joining the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article with a friction/pressure/abutted connection. Combining a friction/pressure/abutted connection with a joining concept like the socket, pocket or collar creates an axial rotation control bracing system.

The difference between the axial rotation control bracing system and its variation the axial rotation control socket bracing system is the later lacks a floor component. The difference between the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system and the contoured pocket axial rotation funnel bracing system is that the later lacks a floor component. The difference between the Axial Rotation Control Collar Bracing System and Axial Rotation Control Collar Bracing System with adjustable collar floor component is one has a floor component and one does not. Three of the friction/pressure/abutted connections have a floor component and three of the friction/pressure/abutted connections do not. The socket and pocket embodiments may either be built into the shoulder pad/vest article or be a detachable component. The collar axial rotation control bracing system is manufactured directly within the shoulder pad/vest article and neither collar embodiment is detachable.

Furthermore, the socket and pocket embodiments depending upon the construction of the shoulder pad/vest article body may be embedded within, level or elevated relative the top of the shoulder strike area.

By providing three embodiments of the friction/pressure/abutted connection and four types of shoulder pad/vest article construction types a variety of shoulder pad/vest articles with a friction/pressure/abutted connection can be created for a specific sport or environment.

Number 1 FIG. 1 shows a protective shoulder pad/vest article with an elevated axial rotation control bracing system designed to reduce linear and axial rotation and head acceleration about the X, Y and Z axes and reduce neck hyperextension and cervical compression while maximizing energy transfer to minimize the mechanical force effects on the head and neck when the helmet is in the braced position. The axial rotation control bracing system has three embodiments of height. The first embodiment number 4 is the elevated axial rotation control bracing system seen in FIGS. 1, 4, 10 and 11 which is elevated from the XY transverse plane of the shoulder pad/vest article wrapping about the sides and back of the neck. The second axial rotation control bracing system number 3 embodiment shown in FIG. 1a is level with the XY transverse plane of the shoulder pad/vest article and wrapping about the sides and back of the neck. The third embodiment is the embedded axial rotation control bracing system, which is embedded within the shoulder pad/vest article wrapping about the sides and back of the neck and is not shown.

Depending on the use and preference of the user making an elevated bracing system changes the physical characteristics of the shoulder pad/vest article. The thicker the shoulder pad/vest article is the less elevation is required for the bracing system. In some instances, it would be an advantage to have a thicker heavier shoulder pad/vest article which would require a level or embedded axial rotation control bracing system where in other situations a thinner shoulder pad/vest article may be more desirable that would require the socket to be elevated.

The management of the gap is determined by adjusting the height of the axial rotation control bracing system or increasing the thickness of the shoulder pad/vest article. The clearance gap number 5, seen in FIGS. 1a, 13, 15, 18, 19, 33 and 37 is the area between the lower edge of the helmet and the top of the axial rotation control bracing system. The clearance gap can be controlled by the user who may consciously close the clearance gap to brace the lower portion of the helmet against the axial rotation control bracing system to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection between the helmet and the axial rotation control bracing system.

The axial rotation control bracing system is a socket connection made of component parts to guide/funnel the helmet into the socket. An example of the axial rotation control bracing system is represented by number 34 which may also be detachable. The axial rotation control bracing system, 34 can be seen in FIGS. 2, 3, 8, 12, 14, 15 and 36 with component parts made to receive and join with the bottom and sides of the helmet when in the braced position allowing the user to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection between the helmet and axial rotation control bracing system to stop and limit helmet acceleration and movement of the helmet in all axes and allow energy transfer to the shoulder pad/vest article when the helmet is in the braced position.

The axial rotation control bracing system is comprised of at least three component parts depending upon the embodiment or variation of construction, that can be engaged singly or in combination. The axial rotation control bracing system has a variation in construction creating a second embodiment of the axial rotation control bracing system not having a floor component, which is called an axial rotation control socket bracing system represented by the number 6 and can be seen in FIG. 9. Although the two embodiments are the same in design, the socket, not having the floor component has possible benefits, such as ventilation and the ability to receive a wider variety of helmets. The axial rotation control bracing system components are the same component parts as the axial rotation control socket bracing system with the latter not having a floor component. This difference is significant because it changes how the helmet is supported.

The axial rotation control bracing system comprises of: a helmet platform, 7 shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 6-10 and 15 which provides a base of attachment for the bracing component parts. To create an elevated helmet platform, it is necessary to support the helmet platform with three component parts, a left shoulder support area represented by number 8 shown in FIGS. 2 and 7. A rear shoulder support area represented by number 9 shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 7 and a right shoulder support area represented by number 10, shown in FIGS. 2, 11 and 16.

A floor component represented by number 11 shown in FIGS. 2-4, 6 and 8 are made to receive the bottom edge of the helmet so the floor component perpendicularly abuts the bottom edge of the helmet. This contact area is where the helmet base seats against the axial rotation control bracing system. This floor provides the user the ability to create a pressure between the helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article. It also reduces potential compression of the cervical vertebra on the Y axis and reduce linear and rotational movement of the helmet about the X, Y, and Z axis when the helmet is in bracing position. Historically, in amateur American football annually between 2-5 athletes each year become paraplegics or quadriplegics because of cervical compression. By bracing the helmet on the shoulder pad/vest article the equipment (floor component) becomes the load bearing structure instead of the athlete's neck bones. This component will hopefully reduce future neck compression injuries.

The rear funnel stop represented by number 12 shown in FIGS. 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 14 and 36 extending vertically from the helmet platform sits behind the helmet. It is made with sufficient height to limit linear movement on the XZ sagittal plane to stop/reduce whiplash. This position also reduces the free range of motion and its position and design assist the seating of the lower edged of the helmet to align with the floor component.

The rear funnel stop has upon it a rotational limiting bracing surface represented by number 13 shown in FIG. 6 created on the front of the rear funnel stop, 12 such that the posterior edge of the helmet shown as number 18 in FIG. 6 meets perpendicularly with the rear funnel stop rotational limiting bracing surface. The rotational limiting bracing surface follows the contours of the helmet to improve the friction/pressure/abutted connection to reduce and stop head acceleration movement on the XZ sagittal plane.

The lateral funnel stops having sufficient height to limit side or lateral movement on the YZ axis coronal plane, may also join with the rear funnel stop to form a collar appearance as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 and protect the neck against application of strong force. The left lateral funnel stop is represented by number 14 on FIGS. 2, 4, 8, 9 and 13 and right lateral funnel stop is represented by number 15 on FIGS. 2, 8, 9, 11, 16 and 36 extend vertically from the helmet platform angled to assist in funneling or directing the lower side edged(s) of the helmet to align and seat with the floor component made to abut each side of the helmet respectively to assist in creating a friction/pressure/abutted connection between the outside lower edge of the seated helmet and the inside lower edge(s) of the lateral funnel stop(s).

Each lateral funnel stop has a rotational limiting bracing surface. The left lateral funnel stop rotational limiting bracing surface is contoured to the helmet and is represented by number 16 and can be seen in FIG. 7. The right lateral funnel stop rotational limiting bracing surface is not shown. The lateral funnel stops are also specifically designed to meet the lower outside surface(s) of the helmet perpendicularly to increase surface area contact to improve the friction/pressure/abutted connection thereby limiting linear and rotational movement and head acceleration on the YZ coronal plane and improve transfer of force from the helmet to the helmet platform, shoulder pad/vest article and the wearers torso when the helmet is in the braced position.

The chest guard component represented by number 19 can be seen in FIGS. 1, 4, 12-14, 33, 34 and 37 is a guard that extends away from the chest of the user angled to protect the neck and chin against the application of strong force. It allows adequate space to not interfere with movement of a helmet facemask, or lower chin guard. It allows free rotational movement of the helmet about the Y axis and provides an additional protective feature for the neck and chin when the helmet is in the braced position.

The floor component on the helmet platform supports the sides and back of the helmet. It is desirable to have a full 360 degrees of support for the helmet in the braced position. To support the front of the helmet a front helmet support article is used to support the front lower edge of the chin guard or face mask. It is important that the front helmet support allows adequate space to not interfere with movement of a helmet facemask or lower chin guard. The front helmet support does not touch the face mask of the user with rotational movement of the helmet about the Y axis and allows the user free but limited movement to look left and right, up and down and is only engaged when the user braces the helmet. There are three types of front helmet supports.

First, is the front helmet support article represented by number 20 and shown in FIG. 12 which shows how the front helmet support article attaches to the inside of the chest guard component providing support to the face guard when the helmet is in the braced position.

Second, is the stand-alone front helmet support article represented by number 21 and shown in FIG. 11 is attached to the outer chest area of the shoulder pad/vest article between the throat and the chest guard component and provides support to the face guard when the helmet is in the braced position.

The elongated helmet platform helmet support article represented by number 22 and shown in FIG. 10 which is a modification to the helmet platform 7 by extending a portion of it to support each side of the face guard respectfully and provide forward support to the facemask when the helmet is in the braced position.

Lastly, regarding front helmet supports. The front helmet support article and the stand-alone front helmet support articles may be made with a locking component so the lower bar of the face mask can be locked by the user putting pressure on the support article. The lock may be opened by pressing a release on the helmet support article, not shown.

Because the shoulder pad/vest article with axial rotation control bracing system will be used in various sports and environments it has three embodiments of design to provide options that may be more beneficial for various environment.

The first shoulder pad/vest article embodiment is a one-piece slip over the head shoulders pad/vest article with axial rotation control bracing system having a one-piece construction represented by number 23 and shown in FIGS. 4, 13.

The second embodiment is a two-piece front/back split design shoulder pad/vest article represented by number 24 with axial rotation control bracing system where the shoulder pad/vest article is made of two haves split along the YZ coronal plane with closure(s) along YZ plane as shown in FIGS. 1a, 19, 22.

The third embodiment is a bilateral split shoulder pad/vest article represented by number 25 with axial rotation control bracing system that is made of two haves a left and right split along the XZ sagittal plane with closure(s) along the XZ plane shown in FIG. 20.

The goal is not to reinvent how the shoulder pads or vest connect to the user. The invention is the addition of the socket/pocket/collar connection to the shoulder pad/vest article which is designed for specific environments. Therefore, traditional closure methods are applied. Multiple closure and attachment methods such as a tightening belt, strap and buckle, adjustable latch, hook and loop closure, zipper, snaps, lacing or any combination thereof such that the shoulder pad/vest article can be securely fastened and tightened to the user's torso are permittable. For illustration purposes a tightening belt is represented by number 26 and can be seen in FIGS. 1, 18 and 33. An adjustable latch closure represented by number 27 can be seen in FIGS. 1a, 19, 20, 22, 35 and 37.

As mentioned earlier one method to adjust the gap between the lower edge of the helmet and the axial rotation control bracing system is to vary the height of the socket. The other method is to change the thickness of the shoulder pad/vest article. The transfer of energy from axial rotation control bracing system to the torso depends on the quality and type of shoulder pad/vest article. Because of the various sports and environments where this invention would be beneficial there are four embodiments of shoulder pad/vest article construction.

The first shoulder pad/vest article embodiment with axial rotation control bracing system manufactured or constructed with an interior body pad with a hard exterior is represented by number 28 and can be seen in FIGS. 16, 18, 19 and 36. The second shoulder pad/vest article embodiment with axial rotation control bracing system is manufactured or constructed with an interior and exterior padding with a hard interior core between the padding and is represented by number 29 and can be seen in FIGS. 13, 20, 33 and 34. The third shoulder pad/vest article embodiment with axial rotation control bracing system is manufactured or constructed of a single material as represented by number 30 and can be seen in FIGS. 1, 1a, 14, 15, 21, 22, 35 and 37. The fourth variation of manufacture of the shoulder pad/vest article is any combination of the aforementioned manufacturing configurations also having a built-in pocket(s) to receive: ballistic plates, cooling or heating elements, radio equipment or provide an area for storage, not shown.

To improve comfort and manage the gap height an insertable shoulder strike area height adjustment pad was created which is made in different thicknesses. This allows the gap height to be tailored to the individual. The insertable shoulder strike area height adjustment pad is shown as number 31 in FIG. 5. This allows the shoulder strike area height represented by number 32 shown in FIGS. 1 and 22 to be managed.

It is important that the shoulder pad/vest article has venting. Venting is anyplace purposefully made through the article to permit and increase or regulate air movement from the interior to the exterior of the shoulder pad/vest article. Some examples of venting represented by number 33 can be seen in FIGS. 19-21 and 29.

The second embodiment of the friction/pressure/abutted connection is the axial rotation control socket bracing system represented by number 6 and can be seen in FIG. 9. The components are the same as the axial rotation control bracing system-except there is no floor component in the socket bracing system. Not having a floor component creates a new type of socket. The absence of a floor article creates a funnel like socket connection that is contoured to fit or receive the lower edges of the helmet like a cork wedging into a bottle. This limits helmet travel in all axis and stops neck compression creating a novel variation of the friction/pressure/abutted connection. The axial rotation control socket bracing system comprises of at least two of the following component parts: a helmet platform, a rear funnel stop, a lateral funnel stop, and or a front helmet support article used to create a friction/pressure/abutted socket connection allowing the helmet to fit within the socket created by the axial rotation control funnel bracing system components. This funnel approach may allow for a wider variety of helmet to be used because the floor component will not need to be manufactured to receive the lower edge of the helmet.

The shoulder pad/vest article may have the axial rotation control bracing system or the axial rotation control socket bracing system built into the shoulder pad/vest article. Another option is to have a detachable axial rotation control bracing system represented by number 34 and can be seen in FIGS. 2, 3, 8, 12, 14, 15 and 36. A detachable axial rotation control socket bracing system is represented by number 35 can be seen in FIG. 9.

For a detachable axial rotation control bracing system or socket bracing system to work effectively it must have an internal locking sleave represented by the number 37 and can be seen in FIGS. 12, 14, 15 and 36 made to receive the detachable component. The detachable component and the internal locking sleave have height adjustment through pin alignment holes represented by number 36 and can be seen in FIGS. 3 and 17.

The second embodiment of the friction/pressure/abutted connection is the protective shoulder pad/vest article having a contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system represented by number 38 and illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 25 which is designed to reduce linear and axial rotation and head acceleration about the X, Y and Z axes and reduce neck hyperextension and cervical compression to minimize the mechanical force effect on the head and neck when the helmet is in the braced position.

The contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system represented by number 38 and shown in FIGS. 23 and 25 has two methods of implementation within the shoulder pad/vest article. The first being an elevated contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system represented by number 39 and shown in FIGS. 28 and 33-35 where the contoured pocket is either on top of or elevated from the XY transverse plane of the shoulder pad/vest article wrapping about the sides and back of the neck. The second is an embedded contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system represented by number 40 and shown in FIGS. 18-20 and 22 that is level with or embedded within the XY transverse plane of the shoulder pad/vest article wrapping about the sides and back of the neck.

The contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system because of its position either elevated or embedded creates a clearance gap 5 shown in FIGS. 13, 15, 18, 19 and 33 restricts movement of the helmet in all axis allowing the user unencumbered limited free movement of the helmet within the gap between the lower edge of the helmet and the top of the contoured pocket. The clearance gap is controlled by the user who may consciously close the gap to brace the lower portion of the helmet within the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection between the helmet and the contoured pocket when the helmet is in the braced position.

The contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system has component parts within the contoured pocket which create a socket made to receive and join with the bottom and sides of the helmet allowing the user to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection between the helmet and contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system to stop and limit helmet acceleration and movement of the helmet in all axes and allow energy transfer to the shoulder pad/vest article when the helmet is in the braced position.

The first pocket embodiment of the friction/pressure/abutted connection is called the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system, and the second pocket type embodiment lacks a pocket floor component and is called the contoured pocket axial rotation control funnel bracing system represented by number 41 and shown in FIGS. 29 and 32.

The first embodiment called the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system comprises of at least three of the following components.

A pocket floor component represented by number 42 and shown in FIGS. 23, 25-28, 30 and 31 made to receive the bottom edge of the helmet to provide a bracing surface to reduce cervical compression of the cervical vertebra on the Y axis and reduce linear and rotational movement of the helmet about the X, Y, and Z axis when the helmet is in braced position.

A rear contoured connective sidewall represented by number 43 and shown in FIGS. 23-30 and 32 extending distally along the XZ sagittal plane or vertically in a downward direction from the top of the shoulder pad/vest component offset dorsally from the YZ coronal plane such that when the head moves backwards along the Y axis the back lower edge of the helmet will contact the rear contoured connective sidewall which meets the outside distal edge of the helmet perpendicularly and assist in guiding and seating the lower edged of the helmet with the pocket floor component 42 made to create a contoured socket fit to abut and support the helmet made with sufficient height to limit linear movement on the XZ sagittal plane to enhance the user's ability to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection between the helmet and the rear contoured slope to stop helmet acceleration on the XZ sagittal plane when the helmet is in the braced position.

A rear contoured connective sidewall having a rotational limiting bracing surface sidewall represented by number 44 and shown in FIG. 25 created on the front of the rear contoured connective sidewall such that the lower outside area of the helmet meets the rear contoured connective sidewall rotational limiting bracing surface perpendicularly increasing surface area contact to improve the ability of the user to create the friction/pressure/abutted connection to reduce and stop head acceleration movement on the XZ sagittal plane also providing connection to limit rotational range of movement reducing whiplash movement of the helmet on the XZ sagittal plane while improving the surface area for transfer of force from the helmet to the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system, shoulder pad/vest article and the wearers torso when the helmet is in the braced position.

A left and right contoured connective sidewall having bi-lateral symmetry. The left contoured connective sidewall is represented by number 45 and can be seen in FIG. 23. The right contoured connective sidewall is represented by number 46 and can be seen in FIGS. 24, 26 and 27. They extend vertically within the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system angled to assist in funneling the lower sides and edges of the helmet to align and seat with the floor component. They are made to abut each side of the helmet respectively to assist the user in creating a friction/pressure/abutted connection between the outside lower edge of the seated helmet and the inside lower edges of the contoured connective sidewalls. They are made with sufficient height to limit side or lateral movement on the YZ axis coronal plane which may be elongated and may join the rear contoured connective sidewall 43.

There are left and right contoured connective sidewall rotational limiting bracing surfaces. The right contoured connective sidewall rotational limiting bracing surfaces are shown as number 47 and can be seen in FIG. 27 on the contoured connective sidewall. The rotational limiting bracing surfaces contact the lower outside surface(s) of the helmet perpendicularly to increase surface area contact to improve the user's ability to create the friction/pressure/abutted connection thereby limiting linear and rotational movement and head acceleration on the YZ coronal plane and improves transfer of force from the helmet to the rotational limiting bracing surface to the contoured connective sidewall to the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system to the shoulder pad/vest article and the wearers torso when the helmet is in the braced position.

It is important to note that there is an embodiment of the contoured connective sidewall that has a connective ridge represented by number 53 shown in FIG. 31. This connective ridge is made for helmets that have ridges that would interfere with seating the helmet into the pocket if the contoured connective sidewalls were not made to fit the helmet.

A rear helmet stabilization article represented by number 48 is shown in FIGS. 19, 21, 30, 32 and 34 extend vertically from the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system dorsally positioned and angled to funnel and assist the helmet going into the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system. A rear helmet stabilization article protects the rear of the helmet and neck from the application of strong force and extends vertically to support the back of the helmet and further reduces whiplash movement on the Y axis and limits linear movement on the XZ sagittal plane when the helmet is in the braced position. A rear helmet stabilization article extending vertically from the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system may join with the left and right helmet stabilization article(s) to form a connective band to protect the neck from the application of strong force and limit helmet movement while allowing limited free movement within a defined area. A rear helmet stabilization article with contoured joining surface represented as number 49 and shown in FIGS. 30 and 32 which contact the lower outside surface of the helmet perpendicularly to increase surface area contact to improve joining and the friction/pressure/abutted connection thereby limiting linear and rotational movement and head acceleration on the XZ sagittal plane and improve transfer of force from the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article when the helmet is in the braced position.

A left and right helmet stabilization article(s) having bi-lateral symmetry. The left stabilization article is represented by number 50 and can be seen in FIGS. 19 and 21. The right stabilization article is represented by number 51 and can be seen in FIGS. 19, 21 and 34. The stabilization articles extend vertically from the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system and are angled to assist in guiding the helmet into the contoured pocket. They have sufficient height to limit side or lateral movement of the helmet on the YZ axis coronal plane and they protect the neck against application of strong force.

Left and right helmet stabilization article(s) having bi-lateral symmetry (left and right) which extend vertically from the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system with contoured joining surface adding support by being close to and in contact with the lower outside surface(s) of the helmet. The contoured joining surface meet the helmet perpendicularly to increase surface area contact to improve the friction/pressure/abutted connection. This limits linear and rotational movement and head acceleration on the YZ coronal plane and improves transfer of force from the helmet to the contoured pocket, shoulder pad/vest article and the wearers torso when the helmet is in the braced position.

The chest guard component is the same as discussed under the axial rotation control bracing system represented by the number 19 and can be seen in FIGS. 1, 4, 12-14, 33 and 34 which extend from the chest of the user forward and away from the user's chest toward the head. A chest guard having adequate height to protect the chin and neck of the user against the application of strong force allowing adequate space to not interfere with movement of a helmet facemask or lower chin guard in that it does not touch the face mask of the user with rotational movement of the helmet about the Y axis. This allows the user free limited movement to look left and right, up and down while providing additional protection for the lower edge of the face mask, upper chest, lower neck and chin area when the helmet is in the braced position.

The front helmet support articles perform the same function and are the same as discussed under the axial rotation control bracing system which is supporting the chin guard or lower portion of the face mask when the helmet is in the braced position. There are three embodiments of front helmet supports.

First, is the front helmet support article represented by number 20 and shown in FIG. 12 which shows how the front helmet support article attaches to the inside of the chest guard component providing support to the face guard when the helmet is in the braced position.

Second, is the stand-alone front helmet support article represented by number 21 and shown in FIG. 11 is attached to the outer chest area of the shoulder pad/vest article between the throat and the chest guard component and provides support to the face guard when the helmet is in the braced position.

Regarding the front helmet support article and the stand-alone front helmet support articles may be made with a locking component so the lower bar of the face mask can be locked by the user putting pressure on the support article. The lock may be opened by pressing a release on the helmet support article, not shown.

The last front helmet support however is different. The elongated portion of the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system represented by number 52 can be seen in FIGS. 26 and 27 is similar to the elongated helmet platform helmet support article 22 shown in FIG. 10 and supports the back lower edges of the helmet in the same way when the helmet is in the braced position. This can be easily seen in the bilateral split contoured pocket right side numbered 52 shown in FIGS. 26, 27 and 30. However, the elongated portion of the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system is indeed a separate component providing the same type of support to provide to the user the ability to support the lower front edge of the facemask/guard when the helmet is in the braced position.

It is important to mention that the front helmet support articles allow adequate space to not interfere with movement of a helmet facemask or lower chin guard in that it does not touch the face mask of the user with rotational movement of the helmet about the Y axis allowing the user free limited movement to look left and right, up and down and is only engaged when the user braces the helmet.

The first embodiment of the contoured pocket called the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system 38 shown in FIGS. 23 and 25 has another embodiment called the contoured pocket axial rotation control funnel bracing system 41 shown in FIGS. 29 and 32 which does not have a pocket floor component. The difference between the contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system having a pocket floor component 42 and the contoured pocket axial rotation control funnel bracing system 41 can easily be seen when comparing FIG. 28 to FIG. 29 where FIG. 28 has a pocket floor component to support the lower edge of the helmet during bracing 42 where venting 33 is shown in FIG. 29. FIG. 32 also shows a perspective side cross sectional view of the funnel bracing system without the pocket floor component. The contoured pocket axial rotation control funnel bracing system comprises of at least two of the six following component parts: a rear contoured connective sidewall, a left and right lateral contoured connective sidewall, a rear helmet stabilization article, a left and right helmet stabilization article, a front helmet support article or chest guard.

A contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system 38 shown in FIGS. 23 and 25 and a contoured pocket axial rotation control funnel bracing system 41 are shown in FIGS. 29 and 32 configured such that the user may close the gap between the bottom edge of the helmet to seat the bottom edged and/or sides of the helmet to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection to protect themselves from a single direction or multiple direction simultaneous impacts. Meaning, the player may hunch their shoulders up or move their chin/neck down or both to engage the bottom edge of the helmet into the contoured pocket to create a friction/pressure/abutted link between the helmet and the shoulder pad/vest article. This reduces helmet acceleration, linear and rotational acceleration in all axes and eliminates and or reduces neck compression and strain while allowing for a direct transfer of energy of a blow through the helmet to the shoulder pad/vest article and to the torso of the player when the helmet is in the braced position.

A shoulder pad/vest article with contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system and contoured pocket axial rotation control funnel bracing system having three embodiments of design, a one-piece construction shown as number 23 in FIGS. 18 and 21 that is slipped over the head, a two-piece shown as number 24 in FIG. 35 which is a front/back split design where the haves are created along the YZ coronal plane with closure(s) along YZ plane. Lastly, a bilateral split design shown as number 25 shown in FIG. 20 creating two halves, a left and right along the XZ sagittal plane with closure(s) along the XZ plane.

The contoured pocket bracing systems use the same shoulder pad/vest article embodiments described previously with the axial rotation control bracing system 1 shown in FIG. 1 and socket bracing system 35 shown in FIG. 9. The closure methods are also the same as previously discussed. There are four embodiments of shoulder pad/vest embodiments of construction: first an interior body pad with a hard exterior shown as number 28 shown in FIG. 19. A second design with an interior and exterior padding with a hard interior core represented as number 29 in FIGS. 33 and 34 between the padding. A third design with a composite design made of a single material shown as number 30 represented in FIG. 35. A fourth variation of manufacture of the shoulder pad/vest article is any combination of the aforementioned manufacturing configurations also having a built-in pocket(s) to receive: ballistic plates, cooling or heating elements, radio equipment or provide an area for storage, not shown. Each variation of manufacture is made of a type of padding such as foam, plastic, epoxy composites, ballistic material or any combination thereof. The idea is to accommodate multiple environments by offering a variety of manufacturing embodiments. Each construction type and variation of manufacture have a friction/pressure/abutted connection that can be matched with any construction type or method of construction.

A insertable shoulder strike area height adjustment pad is shown as number 31 in FIG. 5 previously described is also maintained for this embodiment. The contoured pocket axial rotation control bracing system is also detachable shown by number 54 represented in FIGS. 17 and 23. The contoured pocket axial rotation funnel bracing system is also detachable represented by number 55 and shown in FIG. 24.

The shoulder pad/vest article has a third and final friction/pressure/abutted connection called the axial rotation control collar bracing system 65 shown in FIGS. 38 and 39. designed to reduce linear and axial rotation and head acceleration about the X, Y and Z axes and reduce neck hyperextension and cervical compression while maximizing energy transfer to minimize the mechanical force effects on the head and neck when the helmet is in the braced position.

The axial rotation control collar bracing system is integrally part of and is not detachable from the protective shoulder pad/vest article. The collar bracing system 65 extends vertically from the shoulders and behind the head having the appearance of a turned-up collar easily seen in FIGS. 38 and 39 made to receive the helmet and support it from the back and both sides having two embodiments.

The first embodiment of the shoulder pad/vest article axial rotation control collar bracing system is the sectional collar axial rotation control collar bracing system shown in FIG. 37 having a rear collar support article represented by number 67 and a left lateral collar support article represented by number 66 and a right lateral collar support article represented by number 69 which can be seen in FIG. 40 each being a part of the shoulder pad/vest article. The sectional collar axial rotation control collar bracing system support articles also have collar contoured connective sidewall(s) not shown.

The second embodiment of the shoulder pad/vest article axial rotation control collar bracing system is a continuous collar axial rotation control collar bracing system which raps about the sides and back of the neck shown in FIGS. 38 and 39 represented by number 65. A collar bracing system where the side of the collar be it a segmented or continuous collar bracing system are made to receive the helmet. Having a preferred contact area(s) which are manufactured into the shoulder pad/vest article to enhance the connection to the helmet. These preferred contact points are called the collar contoured connective sidewall(s) and are represented by number 68 and can be seen in FIG. 38.

The collar bracing system may have an attachable cover with or without padding that can be removed for cleaning, not shown. A collar bracing system which creates a clearance gap, number 5 between the helmet and the axial rotation control collar bracing system shown in FIGS. 37 and 38. A clearance gap controlled by the user who may consciously close the clearance gap by bracing the lower portion of the helmet within the axial rotation control collar bracing system to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection between the helmet and the collar bracing system. FIG. 38 shows the helmet in the neutral position and FIG. 39 shows the helmet in the braced position.

Another benefit of the axial rotation control collar bracing system is that it restricts movement of the helmet to a defined area and protects the user's neck while allowing the user unencumbered limited free movement of the helmet in all axes within the clearance gap.

An axial rotation control collar bracing system made to receive and join with the bottom and sides of the helmet when in the braced position allowing the user to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection between the helmet and collar bracing system to stop and limit helmet acceleration and movement of the helmet in all axes and allow energy transfer to the shoulder pad/vest article when the helmet is in the braced position. A axial rotation control collar bracing system that allows the user to protect themselves from a single direction or multiple direction simultaneous impacts. Meaning the player may push or hunch their shoulders up or pull down with their chin/neck, or both to engage the lower edge and lower portion of the helmet into the collar bracing system and engage the collar connective side wall to create a friction/pressure/abutted connection between the two the articles and enhance the connection, through exerting pressure between the helmet and the axial rotation control collar bracing system of the shoulder pad/vest article thereby reducing helmet acceleration, linear and rotational acceleration in all axes and eliminate and or reduce neck compression and strain. This allows for a direct transfer of energy of a blow to transmit through the helmet to the collar bracing system to the shoulder pad/vest article to the torso of the player, when the helmet is in the braced position.

There are two embodiments of the collar friction/pressure/abutted connection for both the sectional collar axial rotation control collar bracing system and the continuous collar axial rotation control collar bracing system seen in FIGS. 37-39. The first embodiment is the axial rotation control collar bracing system which supports the helmet by use of the collar connective sidewall number 68 shown in FIG. 38. This connection is similar to a cork fitting into a bottle. It does not matter if the collar is segmented or continuous if the helmet is supported by the collar connective sidewall on the collar bracing system as a method of restricting neck compression or helmet movement on the Y axis, then the system is described as the axial rotation control collar bracing system.

The second embodiment called the axial rotation control collar adjustable floor bracing system uses an adjustable collar floor component shown as number 70 and can be seen in FIGS. 40-42 made to abut the lower edge of the helmet to stop all movement of the helmet on the Y axis. In this embodiment the contoured connective sidewall on the collar bracing system is angled to assist the helmet in seating with the adjustable collar floor component. The angled connective sidewall 68 can be seen in FIG. 40.

The adjustable collar floor component may have holes for venting shown as number 71 seen in FIGS. 41 and 42.

The adjustable collar floor component is attached on the inside of the shoulder pad/vest article above the user's shoulder line so proper individual height adjustment can be made. Meaning that from the interior there will be a method to securely attach the adjustable collar floor through bolting and/or fasteners used with a mounting bracket shown as number 72 on FIGS. 41 and 42 to affix the adjustable collar floor component to the inside neck area of the shoulder pad/vest article.

The adjustable collar floor component may have an added cushion made to improve seating of the helmet to the floor component (not shown).

The shoulder pad/vest article with axial rotation control collar bracing system has three embodiments of design. The first is a one-piece slip over the head shoulder pad/vest article with axial rotation control collar bracing system having a one-piece construction shown as number 23 as shown in FIG. 40. The second is a two-piece front/back split design shoulder pad/vest article with axial rotation control bracing system where the shoulder pad/vest article is made of two haves split along the YZ coronal plane with closure(s) along YZ plane represented by number 24 shown in FIGS. 37, 38 and 39. The third embodiment is a bilateral split shoulder pad/vest article with axial rotation control bracing system that is made of two haves a left and right split along the XZ sagittal plane with closure(s) along the XZ plane not shown.

The shoulder pad/vest article with axial rotation control bracing system has multiple embodiments of closure such as: a tightening belt, strap and buckle, adjustable latch, hook and loop closure, zipper, snaps, lacing or any combination thereof such that the shoulder pad/vest article can be securely fastened and tightened to the user's torso. For illustration purposes a tightening belt is represented by number 26 and can be seen in FIGS. 1, 18 and 33. An adjustable latch closure represented by number 27 can be seen in FIGS. 1a, 19, 20, 22, 35 and 37.

The chest guard component is the same as discussed under the axial rotation control bracing system represented by the number 19 and can be seen in FIG. 37 which extend from the chest of the user forward and away from the user's chest toward the head. A chest guard having adequate height to protect the chin and neck of the user against the application of strong force allowing adequate space to not interfere with movement of a helmet facemask or lower chin guard in that it does not touch the face mask of the user with rotational movement of the helmet about the Y axis. This allows the user free limited movement to look left and right, up and down while providing additional protection for the lower edge of the face mask, upper chest, lower neck and chin area when the helmet is in the braced position.

The front helmet support articles perform the same function and are the same as discussed in the previous embodiments which supports the chin guard or lower portion of the face mask when the helmet is in the braced position. There are three embodiments of front helmet supports.

First, is the front helmet support article represented by number 20 and shown in FIG. 12 is the same for the collar embodiments but not shown. The front helmet support article attaches to the inside of the chest guard component providing support to the face guard when the helmet is in the braced position.

Second, is the stand-alone front helmet support article represented by number 21 and shown in FIG. 38 is attached to the outer chest area of the shoulder pad/vest article between the throat and the chest guard component and provides support to the face guard when the helmet is in the braced position.

Regarding the front helmet support article and the stand-alone front helmet support articles may be made with a locking component so the lower bar of the face mask can be locked by the user putting pressure on the support article. The lock may be opened by pressing a release on the helmet support article, not shown.

The shoulder pad/vest article with collar bracing system has four shoulder pad/vest article variations of manufacture of the shoulder pad/vest article. The collar bracing system can be placed on any of the four shoulder pad/vest article embodiments. The first shoulder pad/vest article embodiment with axial rotation control collar bracing system manufactured or constructed with an interior body pad with a hard exterior is represented by number 28 and can be seen in FIG. 39. The second shoulder pad/vest article embodiment with axial rotation control collar bracing system is manufactured or constructed with an interior and exterior padding with a hard interior core between the padding and is represented by number 29 and can be seen in FIG. 38. The third shoulder pad/vest article embodiment with axial rotation control collar bracing system is manufactured or constructed of a single material as represented by number 30 and can be seen in FIG. 37. The fourth variation of manufacture of the shoulder pad/vest article is any combination of the aforementioned manufacturing configurations also having a built-in pocket(s) to receive: ballistic plates, cooling or heating elements, radio equipment or provide an area for storage, not shown.

An insertable shoulder strike area height adjustment pad number 31, shown in FIG. 5 was created to improve fit. It is a separate pad which is affixed to the interior of the shoulder pad/vest article and would sit between the shoulder pad/vest article and the shoulders of the wearer to allow the shoulder pad/vest article height to be increased or decreased to adjust for neck length. The thickness of the insertable shoulder strike area height adjustment pad allows the gap of limited free movement to be adjusted to fit the user so the user can brace the helmet properly.

Although there are no improvements on some of the traditional aspects of the shoulder pads there were identified within the drawings traditional shoulder pad/vest parts. Such as: the right-side shoulder guard represented by number 57 shown in FIGS. 1, 33 and 35. The Right cup number 58 shown in FIGS. 1 and 33. The right shoulder pad number 59 shown in FIG. 1. The left shoulder guard number 60 shown in FIG. 19 or the left cup number 61 shown in FIG. 19.