Impact-dissipating, fluid-containing helmet liners and helmet liner retainers

Abstract

Impact-dissipating liners, helmets having an impact-dissipating liner, helmet liner retainers, and methods of protecting the head from impact are provided. The liners include a fluid impermeable enclosure having internal cavities, and a fluid contained in the enclosure. The enclosures are in fluid communication via passages comprising a restriction between the internal cavities of the enclosures that may restrict flow of the fluid between the enclosures. The helmet liner retainers include a head strap and at least one projection extending from the head strap sized to engage at least one recess in a headgear liner. The engagement of the at least one projection with the at least one recess in the headgear liner at least partially retains the headgear liner. Though applicable to a broad range of protective headgear, the liners and liner retainers disclosed are uniquely adapted for use in construction helmets, that is, “hard hats.”

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.