US 7,219,370 B1 · Helmet mounting systems

Abstract

Pivoting helmet mounts for an optical device are provided. In one aspect, a breakaway connector which is selectively configurable between breakaway and nonbreakaway configurations is provided. In a further aspect, a strap mount system for securing the helmet mount to the helmet employs a rotating ratchet assembly to adjust tension in the strap. In another aspect, a helmet mount for an optical device comprises a track assembly attached to a helmet to allow stowing of the optical device in a further retracted position. The track mount system may further include electrical connectors for attaching a power supply and an electronic device. In another aspect, a mounting bracket allows helmet-mounted optics to be shared with a weapon accessory mount. In a further aspect, a optical sighting device for a weapon combines a reflex sight a night vision goggle to allow targeting at night or in other low-light conditions.

Claims8

Dependent claims

A helmet mount for an optical device, comprising:

a mounting plate for attaching the helmet mount to the front of a helmet;
a gear rack system connected to the mounting plate for adjusting a vertical position of the optical device relative to a user's eyes;
a first pivot arm coupled to the gear rack system;
a connector for securing the gear rack system to the first pivot arm, said connector selectively configurable between breakaway and nonbreakaway configurations;
a second pivot arm pivotally attached to the first pivot arm for supporting said optical device alternatively between a first, operational position in front of the user's eyes and a second, stowed position above the user's line of sight;
a pair of guide rails extending generally horizontally when the second pivot arm is in said first, operational position;
and
a carriage member slidable along said guide rails and adapted to carry said optical device, said carriage member for adjusting a horizontal position of the optical device in front of the user's eyes.

5 more elements

A helmet mount for an optical device, comprising:

a mounting plate for attaching the helmet mount to the front of a helmet;
a pivoting assembly for selectively positioning said optical device between a first, operational position in front of the user's eyes and a second, stowed position away from the user's eyes;
a rear bracket comprising at least one hook adapted to attach to a rear brim portion of the helmet;
a strap attached to the mounting plate for securing the helmet mount to the helmet;
and
a rotating ratchet assembly attached to said strap for adjusting tension in said strap.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Helmet mounting systems

Life of this patent

Helmet mounting systems

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims8