Patent application title:

HELMET ATTACHMENT SYSTEM AND ACCESSORIES

Publication number:

US20260165406A1

Publication date:
Application number:

19/417,899

Filed date:

2025-12-12

Smart Summary: A helmet attachment system is designed to securely hold different objects on helmets of various sizes. It has three adjustable arms that connect to the helmet in specific ways. Each arm can be easily adjusted for length, allowing a perfect fit. The system includes features like spring-loaded bumpers to prevent snagging and special brackets for adding accessories. It also has electrical connections for powering devices and sharing data. 🚀 TL;DR

Abstract:

A helmet attachment system configured to securely mount objects to helmets and accommodate various helmet sizes and configurations. The system includes three adjustable arms, a first side arm, a second side arm, and a bottom arm, that connect to respective helmet interfaces, such as rail and rim interfaces. Each arm incorporates a worm gear adjustment system including a worm rotator, threaded members, retention mechanisms, and adjustment plates with grooves for discrete positioning. This configuration allows for length adjustments of each arm, ensuring a customizable and stable fit. The system also integrates features like spring-loaded bumpers to minimize snagging, modular battery brackets (HBB) for accessory integration, and electrical interfaces for power and data transmission.

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Assignee:

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Classification:

A42B3/0406 »  CPC main

Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings; Parts, details or accessories of helmets Accessories for helmets

A42B3/04 IPC

Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings Parts, details or accessories of helmets

Description

2 CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/734,465 filed on Dec. 16, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

3 COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document may contain material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. The following notice shall apply to this document: Copyright © 2024-2025, GALVION, Ltd.

4 BACKGROUND

Conventional mounting solutions for helmet-mounted components are often designed for a single helmet size or rail configuration, limiting their ability to accommodate the wide variety of helmets used in various environments. As a result, users may encounter fit issues, instability, or shifting of mounted components during dynamic movement.

Existing systems also tend to offer limited or minimally tunable connections that do not allow users to precisely position an attached component relative to the unique geometry of a given helmet. These limitations can lead to poor load distribution, reduced comfort, and an increased likelihood of detachment.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved helmet attachment system that provides multi-point, independently adjustable connections and enhanced stability across varying helmet configurations.

5 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In some aspects an accessory such as a battery pack may be attached to the object or the helmet. The battery pack can feature a release lever for engagement and disengagement, and an integrated battery level indicator that may be activated upon compression of the release lever, displaying battery status via LED lights.

In some aspects, the battery level indicator may include a reed switch activated by a magnet in the release lever, illuminating the LED lights only when the battery pack is detached from the object.

In some aspects, an accessory such as a HBB (Helmet Battery Bracket) attachment interface may be attached to the object or to the helmet. This interface can comprise a latch interface with torsion springs for securing accessories, a catch interface with locating pads and catch feet for precise alignment, a sealing interface for environmental protection, and electrical contact points for power or data transmission between the object and attached accessories.

In some aspects, an accessory such as a snag guard may be attached to the object or to the helmet. The snag guard may be positioned between the object and the helmet, incorporating spring-loaded bumpers that can conform to various helmet sizes and curvatures, thereby minimizing the risk of external objects becoming lodged between the object and the helmet.

In some aspects, an accessory such as tie-down straps may be attached to the object or to the helmet. The tie-down straps may each be anchored at one end to a helmet rail and at the other end to the object. These straps can be adjustable in length to accommodate different helmet sizes and ensure a secure fit.

In some aspects, the tie-down straps may be configured to interface with helmets regardless of the presence of hook and loop fabric attachments.

The worm gear adjustment system may allow for independent adjustment of the first side arm relative to the first helmet rail interface, the second side arm relative to the second helmet rail interface, and the bottom arm relative to the helmet rim interface.

The grooves in the adjustment plate may be equidistantly spaced, providing consistent discrete rotational intervals for the worm gear. The spring plunger may apply a load to securely engage the grooves of the adjustment plate, preventing unintended movement of the worm gear during normal use.

The anti-rotation mechanism can ensure positional stability of the object by resisting rotation of the worm gear once adjusted.

The above and other features of the invention including various novel details of construction and combinations of parts, and other advantages, will now be more particularly described with reference to the accompanying drawings and pointed out in the claims. It will be understood that the particular method and device embodying the invention are shown by way of illustration and not as a limitation of the invention. The principles and features of this invention may be employed in various and numerous embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.

6 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings, reference characters refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale; emphasis has instead been placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. The features of the present invention will best be understood from a detailed description of the invention and example embodiments thereof selected for the purposes of illustration and shown in the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary illustration of an attachment system attached to an object and to a helmet according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 2 depicts another illustration of the attachment system attached to the object and to the helmet according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary illustration of the attachment system attached to the object and detached from the helmet according to technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary rear view illustration of the attachment system attached to the object according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary rear partial exploded view of the attachment system detached from the object according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary partial exploded perspective view of the attachment system detached from the object according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 7A depicts an exemplary front view of a worm gear assembly illustrating its actuator interface, retention groove and retention boss according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 7B depicts an exemplary side perspective view of the worm gear assembly illustrating its actuator interface and retention boss according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 8 depicts an exemplary enlarged partial cutaway view of a portion of the object which interfaces with the attachment system according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 9 depicts an exemplary front view of the attachment system, illustrating its attachment to the object according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 10A depicts an exemplary enlarged cross-sectional cutaway view of a portion of a side arm of the attachment system, illustrating its attachment to a portion of the object according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 10B depicts an exemplary enlarged cross-sectional cutaway view of a portion of a helmet rim interface of the attachment system, illustrating its attachment to both a portion of the helmet and a portion of the object according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 11 depicts an exemplary enlarged view of a side arm of the attachment system, illustrating its attachment to a portion of the object and showing a portion of a rail according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 12A depicts an exemplary enlarged view of a portion of the object which attaches to a side arm of the attachment system, illustrating the worm gear anti-rotation mechanism according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 12B depicts another side perspective view of the worm gear assembly, illustrating its adjustment plate and adjustment plate grooves according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 13 depicts an exemplary enlarged view of a portion of the object which attaches to a helmet rim interface of the attachment system, illustrating another worm gear anti-rotation mechanism according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 14 depicts an exemplary enlarged view of a portion of the object, illustrating its HBB attachment interface according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 15 depicts an exemplary illustration of a HBB Assembly accessory component according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 16A depicts an exemplary illustration of the HBB assembly coupled to the HBB attachment interface according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 16B depicts another exemplary illustration of the HBB assembly coupled to the HBB attachment interface according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 17A depicts an exemplary enlarged view of the object, illustrating bungees attached thereto according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 17B depicts an exemplary enlarged partial cutaway view of a portion of the object, illustrating its attachment to the bungee according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 18 depicts another exemplary enlarged partial cutaway view of a portion of the object, illustrating its attachment to the bungee according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 19A depicts an exemplary illustration of the attachment system attached to the helmet and to an object, illustrating bungee cord attachments according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 19B depicts another exemplary illustration of the attachment system attached to the helmet and to an object, illustrating bungee cord attachments according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 19C depicts another exemplary illustration of the attachment system attached to the helmet and to an object, illustrating bungee cord attachments according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 20 depicts an exemplary illustration of a battery module (HBB) accessory attached to the shell of a helmet, illustrating the snap guard mechanism according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 21 depicts an exemplary enlarged section view of a portion of the battery module (HBB) accessory attached to the shell of a helmet, illustrating a bumper component of the snap guard mechanism according to the technology disclosed herein;

FIG. 22A depicts an exemplary illustration of a battery level indicator component of the HBB accessory according to the technology disclosed herein

FIG. 22B depicts another exemplary illustration of the battery level indicator component of the HBB accessory according to the technology disclosed herein; and

FIG. 22C depicts another exemplary illustration of the battery level indicator component of the HBB accessory according to the technology disclosed herein.

7 DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

7.1 Detailed Description of the Invention

As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Further, the singular forms of the articles “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms: includes, comprises, including and/or comprising, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence of additional one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. Further, it will be understood that when an element, including component or subsystem, is referred to and/or shown as being connected or coupled to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present.

The disclosure describes a helmet attachment system (“HAS”) and various accessories. The HAS is configured to removably attach an object, such as, for example, a rear compute module, to a helmet. The HAS may be configured as an adjustable arm system that mounts to a helmet at three points. A first side arm may connect to the helmet's first rail interface, which is located along one side of the helmet. A second side arm may connect to the helmet's second rail interface, situated on the opposite side of the helmet. A third bottom arm may connect to the helmet's rim interface, which is located along the lower edge or rim of the helmet. This attachment point is strategically positioned to ensure stability by providing a third point of contact, complementing the connections made by the side arms to the rail interfaces. These mounting configurations create a three-point attachment system, which distributes the load evenly across the helmet, enhances stability, and reduces the likelihood of slippage or imbalance during use.

Integrated within the HAS is a worm gear adjustment system that facilitates independent adjustment of the arms. The worm gear adjustment system may include threaded members located in each arm and corresponding worm rotators, cavities and housings positioned within the rear compute module. The integration of these components enables secure length adjustments of the arms, ensuring a customizable and stable connection between the rear compute module and the helmet.

Conventionally, attachment systems are tailored to specific helmet sizes, requiring different systems for each size. The HAS addresses this limitation by incorporating adjustable arms that adapt to various helmet sizes. This innovation allows a single attachment system (HAS) to accommodate multiple helmet sizes and multiple helmet designs and shapes, providing a versatile and universal solution.

Various accessories such as, for example, a battery module (HBB) including a battery level indicator, a snag guard and bungee cords are also described. These components may work together to provide a comprehensive solution for attaching and securing objects to helmets, potentially offering functionality and protection in various environments.

Turning to FIGS. 1-13, the helmet attachment system (“HAS”) 101 may include a first side arm (“first arm”) 107, a second side arm (“second arm”) 109, and a third bottom arm (“third arm”) 121, each extending between the object (e.g., rear compute module (“RCM”)) 103 and corresponding helmet interfaces (first rail interface 111, second rail interface 113, and helmet rim interface 123, respectively). Helmet 105 may include first rail 120 and second rail 130, which are fixedly attached to the helmet. In some embodiments, one or more of the first rail 120 and second rail 130 include an electrical interface (e.g., 335 as shown in FIG. 3). First rail 120 may interface with first rail interface 111 of first arm 107 via first rail arm receptacle 274 and second rail 130 may interface with second rail interface 113 of second arm 109 via second rail arm receptacle 276. First arm 107, second arm 109, and third arm 121 may each interface with a respective length adjuster 115, 117 and 119. In some embodiments, each length adjuster 115, 117, and 119 includes a worm gear adjustment system. However, the technology disclosed herein is not so limited and one or more of the length adjusters 115, 117, and 119 may include any suitable means for adjusting a length of a corresponding arm. Further helmet rim interface 123 attaches to helmet rim 125.

In some embodiments, the first and second side arms 107, 109 and third arm 121 are each configured with a main body having an elongated structure including a thread (e.g., 231, 233 and 275) for interfacing with a respective worm gear assembly (i.e., 350, 253, and 255). First side arm includes first rail interface 111 and second side arm includes second rail interface 113. In some aspects, the first and second rail interfaces each include an arm catch interface (e.g., 1111) which connects to an arm catch (e.g., 1115) component of the first and second rails positioned at a rail engagement opening (e.g., 1120). The arm catch interface secures the side arm to the corresponding rail interface via the rail engagement opening which aligns the rail for proper mounting.

Third bottom arm 121 includes a helmet rim interface 123 and a hook 261. The helmet rim interface 123 is positioned at the distal end of the third arm 121 and ensures a secure connection to the helmet's rim. This interface is designed to conform to the rim's curvature and provide stability during operation. The hook 261 is integrated into or attached to the third arm near the helmet rim interface and is configured to engage the helmet rim as a backup securing mechanism to enhance the attachment's reliability. The hook is particularly useful for securing the system during high-impact or dynamic conditions.

The lengths of the first, second and third arms (e.g., 107, 109, 121) are each adjustable with first, second and third worm gear assemblies (e.g., 350, 253, 255), which are each disposed in a corresponding first, second or third worm rotator housing (e.g., 263, 265, 267). The double ended arrows shown in the figures (e.g., FIG. 2) represent adjustable lengths. Worm rotator housings 263 and 265 are each disposed on a protrusion (e.g., 291, 292) extending from the RCM 103 and fixedly attached to the RCM. Each worm gear assembly is configured to interface and interact with a thread (e.g., 231, 233, 275) of a corresponding side or bottom arm to move the corresponding side or bottom arm closer to or further away from the RCM to tighten or loosen the fit of the object (i.e., RCM) 103 on the helmet 105.

The first side arm 107 and second side arm 109 may extend from the object 103 to the first and second helmet rail interfaces 111 and 113, respectively, while the third arm 121 may extend from the object 103 to the helmet rim interface 123. In some embodiments, each arm (e.g., 107, 109, 123) is integrated with a worm gear adjustment system (i.e., length adjusters 115, 117 and 119), which allows independent adjustment of the respective arm's length relative to the object 103. As may best be seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, the worm gear adjustment system may include one or more worm gear assemblies (e.g., 350, 253, and 255), one or more worm gear cavities (e.g., 511, 521, 531), one or more worm gear housings (e.g., 263, 265, 267), and one or more threads (e.g., 231, 233, 275). Each worm gear cavity is integrated into its respective worm gear housing, providing a secure and enclosed structure for the worm gear. This integration ensures proper alignment, stability, and protection of the worm gear while facilitating its engagement with the threaded member of the corresponding arm. The housing also incorporates features such as actuator interfaces and retention mechanisms to enhance functionality and prevent unintended movement.

The arm adjustments may be facilitated by a worm gear assembly (e.g., 350, 253, 255) housed within a respective cavity (e.g., 511, 521 and 531) in the object (103) which interfaces with threads (e.g., 231, 233, 275) on the corresponding arm (e.g., 107, 109 and 121). Each worm gear assembly, as illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 12B, includes a worm gear actuator interface 711, a worm gear 700, a retention groove 771, and a retention boss 772. In some aspects, the retention boss 772 incorporates a worm gear adjustment plate 1201 with a plurality of grooves 1203. Rotation of the worm gear assembly, achieved by turning the worm gear actuator interface, adjusts the length of the arm, enabling precise positioning of the object on the helmet. Each worm gear actuator interface may connect to an external actuator (e.g., a dial, knob or driver), which provides the rotational force needed to turn the worm gear, causing it to engage with the threads on the respective arm.

The worm gear actuator interface may also align with the worm gear housing (e.g., 263, 265, 267) to ensure stability and prevent misalignment during adjustment. This ensures that the rotation is effectively transmitted to the worm gear without slippage or unintended movement.

Each worm gear cavity (e.g., 521) includes a retention boss cavity 813, a retention groove interface 815, a worm drive cavity 825 for enclosing worm gear 700, and a worm gear cavity opening (e.g., 523). Further, each worm gear housing (e.g., 265) may include a worm gear cavity (e.g., 1010) and a worm gear cavity opening (e.g., 1020). The worm dial cavity 825 is an internal recess within the worm gear housing that securely houses the worm gear assembly and related components, ensuring alignment and protection during operation. The worm dial cavity opening is an external aperture that provides access to the actuator interface 711 of the worm gear assembly. This opening allows a user or tool to apply rotational input to the worm gear, enabling precise length adjustments of the respective side arm.

An anti-rotation mechanism, illustrated in FIGS. 12A and 13, may stabilize the worm gear's position, preventing unintended movement. In one aspect, the anti-rotation mechanism may include a spring plunger (1205) engaging grooves (1203) in an adjustment plate (1201), as shown in FIG. 12A. The spring plunger engages the equidistantly spaced grooves 1203 in the adjustment plate 1201 providing discrete rotational intervals for the worm gear 700 and resisting rotation once adjusted. The spring plunger applies a load to securely engage the grooves, ensuring positional stability of the object (e.g., RCM) by resisting rotation of the worm gear once adjusted. The anti-rotation feature of the worm gear 700 is created by the fixed spring plunger 1205 engaging the groove 1203 in the worm gear adjustment plate 1201 under spring load. The other three grooves in the adjustment plate 1201 can be engaged by applying a breakaway torque to the worm gear to move from each rotational position established by engagement with the adjustment plate grooves.

In another aspect, the anti-rotation mechanism may include a hook worm gear 1300 and a compliant member 1355, for example a rubber O-ring, as illustrated in FIG. 13. The anti-rotation feature of the hook worm gear 1300 is created by friction between the worm gear 1300, the attached rubber O-ring 1355, and the inner wall 1352 of the worm gear cavity (e.g., 531) when compressed upon installation. The hook worm gear can be adjusted by applying a breakaway torque to the worm gear and rotating to the desired position.

Turning to FIGS. 22A-22C, a battery pack power level indicator system 1551 may serve to provide power and indicate a status of a battery within a battery pack 1550. This component may include a battery, a release lever 1552, a battery level indicator 1554, and a reed switch 1556. The battery pack 1550 may be attachable to the object 103 (the RCM has a battery interface 283 for receiving a battery pack), allowing for engagement and disengagement through the release lever 1552. This mechanism may facilitate the secure attachment and detachment of the battery pack 1550, ensuring that power can be supplied efficiently to the system.

The release lever 1552 may also activate the integrated battery level indicator 1554, which may display the battery status via one or more LED lights 1555. In some embodiments, the LED lights 1555 include a plurality of different colored lights, each associated with a particular remaining power level, e.g., a particular state of charge, associated with the battery. When the release lever 1552 is depressed, as shown in FIG. 22C, a LED light corresponding to an instantaneous SoC of the battery may be illuminated. In one example, a green LED light is associated with a high SoC, a red LED light is associated with a low SoC, and a yellow LED light is associated with a SoC between low and high. The battery pack power level indicator system 1551 may be particularly useful in providing real-time feedback on the battery's charge level, thereby aiding in the management of power resources. The reed switch 1556, which may be activated by a magnet 1558 in the release lever, may illuminate the LED lights 1555 only when the battery pack 1550 is detached from the object. This design may prevent unnecessary power consumption when the battery pack is not in use. The battery pack power level indicator system 1551 may thus play a role in maintaining the operational readiness of the system by ensuring that power is available, and its status is clearly communicated to the user.

The battery pack further includes a battery level indicator 1554 comprising one or more LED lights 1555. A control mechanism is disposed within the housing and comprises a magnetic switch, such as a reed switch 1556, and a magnet 1558 positioned within or on the release lever 1552. The release lever is mechanically coupled to the latch and also functions as an actuator for the control mechanism. The magnetic switch is configured to close an electrical circuit for the battery level indicator when the magnet is moved into proximity with the magnetic switch.

The control mechanism is configured to operate differently depending on whether the battery pack is attached to or detached from the mount interface. When the battery pack 1550 is attached to the mount interface 1400, the positioning of the latch and release lever prevents the magnet 1558 from being moved into activating proximity with the magnetic switch 1556. As a result, actuation of the release lever to disengage the latch causes the latch to release without activating the magnetic switch, thereby preventing illumination of the battery level indicator.

Conversely, when the battery pack 1550 is not attached to the mount interface, actuation of the release lever positions the magnet 1558 adjacent the magnetic switch 1556. In this detached-state configuration, actuation of the release lever closes the magnetic switch and activates the battery level indicator 1554, causing one or more LEDs 1555 to illuminate to display a battery state of charge. In one example, the battery level indicator may output different colors to indicate different charge levels, including green for high state of charge, yellow for medium state of charge, and red for low state of charge.

This dual-function operation of the release lever 1552, serving both as a latch-release actuator when the battery pack is mounted and as a battery-indicator actuator when the battery pack is detached, prevents unnecessary power consumption while providing the user access to battery status when the battery pack is handled independently of the mount interface.

Turning to FIGS. 14-15 and 16A-16B, a helmet battery bracket (HBB) (or battery module) 1500 is an interface and structural module designed to secure and connect a battery pack to the object 103 and/or the helmet 105. The HBB 1500 may act as a mounting interface for attaching a separate battery pack to the helmet 105 or to the object 103 (e.g., to an HBB interface 1400 of the rear compute module). It provides mechanical support through its latch and catch mechanisms, ensuring the battery is securely fastened to the helmet or the object (e.g., the rear compute module). The HBB may include several sub-components, as illustrated in FIG. 15, such as a latch (e.g., 1502), catch hook (e.g., 1507, 1509), face seal (e.g., 1504), electrical contact points (e.g., 1505), inner and outer locating pads (e.g., 1510, 1512), each potentially playing a distinct role in the attachment process.

The object (e.g., the rear compute module) may include an HBB interface 1400, as shown in FIG. 14, for interfacing with the HBB 1500. The HBB interface 1400 may include a first sealing interface 1401, a second sealing interface 1403, an electrical contact interface 1405, a first catch hook interface 1407, and a second catch hook interface 1409. The first sealing interface 1401 is a protective feature designed to create an environmental seal between the HBB 1500 and the rear compute module. The second sealing interface 1403 complements the first sealing interface 1504 of the HBB 1500 by providing an additional layer of environmental protection. The electrical contact interface 1405 facilitates power and data transmission between the HBB 1500 and the object 103 (e.g., the rear compute module). The first catch hook interface 1407 is a mechanical feature configured to secure one side of the HBB 1500 to the HBB interface 1400. The second catch hook interface 1409 mirrors the functionality of the first catch hook interface 1407.

The latch 1502 of the HBB 1500 may be configured to secure the battery pack 1550 to the object 103 and may include one or more torsion springs 1603 to provide a firm and reliable engagement. The catch hook interfaces 1407 and 1409 may facilitate precise alignment of the battery pack 1550 through the use of locating pads and catch feet, enabling accurate positioning during attachment. The sealing interfaces 1401 and 1403 may provide environmental protection by limiting the ingress of dust, moisture, or other external contaminants, thereby safeguarding internal components. Additionally, the electrical contact points 1505 may establish power and/or data transmission between the object 103 and the attached battery pack 1550, supporting the operation of electronic devices integrated within the system. The integration of these subcomponents may allow the HBB 1500 to securely retain the battery pack on the helmet and maintain system stability during use.

FIG. 16A provides an internal view of the connection between the HBB attachment interface and the HBB 1500, focusing on the latch 1502, latch hook 1602, electrical contact interface 1505, anti-rotation member 1355, worm gear 1399, worm gear cavity 1010, torsion springs 1603, and a sealing interface of the HBB, such as the face seal 1504. A battery module is not shown in FIG. 16A to facilitate a clear depiction of the internal components and their interactions during operation.

FIG. 16B illustrates the HBB attachment interface with the battery module 1609 connected, emphasizing the secure engagement provided by the battery catch hook (e.g., 1507), and catch hook interface (e.g., 1407).

Turning to FIGS. 17A-17B, 18 and 19A-19C, bungee cord accessories may be used with the helmet attachment system (HAS) to reinforce a stable attachment of object 103. FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 18 illustrate the integration of bungee retention cavities, e.g. 1701, on the rear compute module. These cavities are designed to securely anchor bungee cords (e.g., 1703), ensuring stable attachment to the helmet system. The figure highlights the protrusions 1798 within the cavities, which interface with attachment parts 1828 on the bungee ends, preventing unintended detachment. This configuration provides additional stabilization, particularly useful for dynamic movements.

FIG. 17B illustrates the design features that secure the bungee cords. The figure shows how the cavities include one or more bends (e.g. 1799) to redirect tension forces and protrusions 1798 to lock the bungee ends 1826 in place. This ensures that the bungees (e.g. 1703) remain securely attached under load, enhancing the system's adaptability to different helmet sizes and curvatures.

FIG. 18 illustrates a bungee cavity interface part 1828 which is attached to the end of the bungee cord (e.g., 1703) to retain the bungee in the cavity (e.g., 1701).

FIG. 19A shows the helmet attachment system (HAS) secured at three points, the two helmet rails (120, 130) and the helmet rim 125. Bungee cords (e.g., 1903, 1905) are connected to the object 103 (as shown in FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 18). The bungee cords may be extended over portions to the HBB and hooked onto the rim 125 of the helmet shell 105 to provide additional securing support to the HBB 1500, ensuring stability and preventing the system from shifting during use.

FIG. 19B shows how the bungee cords (e.g., 1903, 1905) may be connected between the object 103 and each of first rail 120 and second rail 130 to provide additional securing support to the HBB 1500. This configuration enhances the stability and security of the HAS under dynamic conditions, such as rapid head movements.

FIG. 19C shows how the hook 261 securely holds a single bungee 1919, each end of which is secured in a retention groove (e.g. 1701) of the object 103, in place. The hook 261 includes one or more tabs 1961 for preventing slippage or detachment of the bungee 1919 from the hook 261. This ensures consistent tension in the bungee system to provide securing support to the HBB 1500, enhancing the overall stability and adaptability of the helmet mounted system.

Turning now to FIGS. 20-21, a snag guard mechanism is illustrated. The snag guard mechanism is configured with spring-loaded bumpers (e.g., 2001/2005 and 2003/2007) that conform to various helmet sizes and curvatures, to ensure a snug fit across a range of helmet sizes and to reduce snag hazards. A pair of snag guards may each be positioned between an outer surface (e.g., 2000) of the helmet 105 and an object (e.g., a battery module/HBB 1500). The spring-loaded bumpers may be strategically positioned to absorb and distribute any external forces, which may help in maintaining the stability of the attachment system. This may be particularly beneficial in environments where the helmet is exposed to potential snagging hazards, as it may prevent unintended entanglements. The snag guard may work in conjunction with other components, such as the tie-down straps (e.g., bungee cords), to ensure a secure fit of the object on the helmet. The integration of the snag guard with the overall attachment system may enhance the durability and reliability of the helmet-mounted object, potentially reducing maintenance needs and extending the lifespan of the equipment.

In some aspects, tie-down strap accessories may be used with the helmet 105. The tie-down straps may be anchored between the helmet rail and SIM base. The tie-down straps allow the SIM to be fixed in place and may work with helmet shells with and without hook and loop fabric. The straps are adjustable in length which can accommodate different helmet sizes.

It is also contemplated that implementations and components of embodiments can be done with any newly arising technology that may replace any of the above implementation technologies.

While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any invention or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular embodiments of particular inventions. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination.

Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

In the preceding description, we refer to ‘some embodiments.’ Note that ‘some embodiments’ describes a subset of all of the possible embodiments but does not always specify the same subset of embodiments. Moreover, note that numerical values in the preceding embodiments are illustrative examples of some embodiments. In other embodiments of the communication technique, different numerical values may be used.

The foregoing description is intended to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the disclosure and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Moreover, the foregoing descriptions of embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration and description only. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the forms disclosed. Accordingly, many modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, the discussion of the preceding embodiments is not intended to limit the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown but is to be accorded with the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

Having described the invention in detail, it will be understood that such detail need not be strictly adhered to, but that additional changes and modifications may suggest themselves to one skilled in the art

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A system for attaching an object to a helmet, comprising:

a first side arm extending from the object to a first helmet rail interface;

a second side arm extending from the object to a second helmet rail interface;

a bottom arm extending from the object to a helmet rim interface;

a worm gear adjustment system integrated with each arm, each system including:

a worm gear housed within a cavity in the object, configured to interface with threads on the corresponding arm to adjust its length relative to the object; and

an anti-rotation mechanism configured to resist rotation of the worm gear to maintain a selected adjustment position.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein the anti-rotation mechanism comprises a spring plunger engaging grooves in an adjustment plate to stabilize the worm gear's position.

3. The system of claim 1 wherein the anti-rotation mechanism comprises a hook worm gear and a compliant member disposed between the hook worm gear and an interior wall of a worm gear cavity, the compliant member configured to generate frictional resistance to rotation of the hook worm gear.

4. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a battery pack attachable to the object, featuring:

a release lever for engagement and disengagement;

an integrated battery level indicator activated upon compression of the release lever, displaying battery status via LED lights.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the battery level indicator includes a reed switch activated by a magnet in the release lever, illuminating the LED lights only when the battery pack is detached from the object.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

an HBB (Helmet Battery Bracket) attachment interface, comprising:

a latch interface with torsion springs for securing an accessory to the object or to the helmet;

a catch interface with locating pads and catch feet for precise alignment;

a sealing interface to ensure environmental protection; and

electrical contact points facilitating power or data transmission between the object and attached accessories.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the catch interface further comprises inner and outer locating pads configured to align the battery module with the HBB interface prior to engagement of the latch interface.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a snag guard positioned between the object and the helmet, incorporating spring-loaded bumpers that conform to various helmet sizes and curvatures, thereby minimizing the risk of external objects becoming lodged between the object and the helmet.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the spring-loaded bumpers comprise opposing paired bumpers positioned to distribute external forces applied between the object and the helmet.

10. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

tie-down straps, each anchored at one end to a helmet rail and at the other end to the object, adjustable in length to accommodate different helmet sizes and ensure a secure fit.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the tie-down straps are anchored between the helmet rail and a SIM base of the object to secure the attachment system to helmets with or without hook and loop fabric.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the tie-down straps are configured to interface with helmets regardless of the presence of hook and loop fabric attachments.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the worm gear adjustment system allows for independent adjustment of:

the first side arm relative to the first helmet rail interface;

the second side arm relative to the second helmet rail interface;

the bottom arm relative to the helmet rim interface.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the grooves in the adjustment plate are equidistantly spaced, providing consistent discrete rotational intervals for the worm gear.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the spring plunger applies a load to securely engage the grooves of the adjustment plate, preventing unintended movement of the worm gear during normal use.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the bottom arm further comprises a hook configured to engage the helmet rim as a backup securing mechanism and to retain a bungee cord.

17. A battery pack configured to attach to a mount interface for attachment to a helmet, the battery pack comprising:

a housing;

a latch configured to engage a catch interface of the mount interface;

a battery level indicator comprising one or more LEDs; and

a control mechanism comprising a magnetic switch disposed within the housing and a release lever operatively coupled to the latch, the control mechanism configured such that:

(i) when the battery pack is attached to the mount interface, actuation of the release lever disengages the latch from the catch interface while the magnetic switch remains inactive, thereby preventing illumination of the battery level indicator; and

(ii) when the battery pack is not attached to the mount interface, actuation of the release lever positions a magnet adjacent the magnetic switch to activate the battery level indicator.

18. The battery pack of claim 16, wherein the magnetic switch comprises a reed switch configured to close an electrical circuit for the battery level indicator when the magnet is moved into proximity with the reed switch.

19. The battery pack of claim 16, wherein the release lever includes the magnet, the magnet being positioned such that the magnetic switch is activated only when the battery pack is not attached to the mount interface.

20. The system of claim 19, further comprising bungee retention cavities formed on the object and configured to receive bungee interface parts attached to ends of a bungee cord.

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