Inventors:
Thad M. Ide - Chicago IL, US
Nelson Kraemer - Mt. Prospect IL, US
Ralph J. Infusino - Bloomingdale IL, US
Assignee:
Riddell, Inc. - Rosemont IL
International Classification:
A42B 1/08
US Classification:
2422, 2 9, 403220, 403223, 403228, 403291, 403384, 4034081, 24458
Abstract:
The present invention provides a face guard connector assembly for a sports helmet, such as a football, hockey or lacrosse helmet. The face guard includes a plurality of elongated bar members that intersect to define a grid. The connector assembly removably connects the face guard to the helmet shell. The connector assembly includes a bracket having at least one channel configured to receive a portion of the face guard. The connector assembly further includes a shock absorber assembly that distributes an impact force at the face guard to the shell in an omni-directional manner. The shock absorber assembly includes an elastomeric grommet, a bushing, and a nut, each have an opening. When aligned, the openings collectively define a passageway configured to receive a fastener that secures the connector assembly to the sports helmet. The helmet shell has opposed side portions with each side portion having a mounting aperture that receives an extent of the shock absorber assembly.