Wearable protective device

Abstract

The invention relates to a wearable protection device (10) comprising at least one inflatable member (20) designed to move between a deflated state and an inflated state and to be held within a housing (30) of the wearable protection device (10). According to the invention, in the deflated state, the at least one inflatable member (20) has an outer dimension corresponding to the dimension of the available space within the housing (30). Moreover, in the deflated state, the at least one inflatable member (20) has at least one portion (22) folded in an accordion shape, whereby said accordion-shaped portion (22) expands when the at least one inflatable member (20) moves from the deflated state to the inflated state and contracts when the at least one inflatable member (20) moves from the inflated state to the deflated state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a wearable protective device. Specifically, this invention relates to a wearable protective device comprising an inflatable component.

[0002] More specifically, the present invention relates to a wearable protective device with an inflatable component, applicable to all areas where effective protection against impacts and / or falls is required. For example, the wearable protective device is suitable for use by motorcyclists, cyclists, or skiers to provide them with additional protection. Background Technology

[0003] For clarity, reference in this manual will be made in a non-limiting manner to wearable protective devices suitable for motorcyclists.

[0004] Wearable protective devices having one or more inflatable components (also known as "airbags") are well known in the art.

[0005] Typically, during normal use, the inflatable component is arranged in a deflated state or in a stationary configuration within the wearable protective device.

[0006] The wearable protective device may include protective clothing made of abrasion-resistant materials such as leather.

[0007] Alternatively, wearable protective devices may include underwear suitable for use in conjunction with external protective clothing.

[0008] The inflatable component is designed to be activated in an emergency. Typically, the inflatable component is in fluid communication with an inflation device adapted to introduce a predetermined amount of inflation fluid (e.g., compressed gas) into the inflatable component so as to inflate and thus expand the inflatable component.

[0009] The release of the inflatable gas can be controlled by a mechanical or electronic system.

[0010] Typically, inflatable components are made of woven fabrics or membranes with low elasticity so that they can withstand the pressure exerted by the inflation fluid during inflation. Due to their low elasticity, inflatable components have a shape in their static form that is very similar to the body parts that must be covered / protected once inflated.

[0011] Known wearable protective devices with inflatable components have some drawbacks, mainly related to the inflatable components.

[0012] In fact, as mentioned above, inflatable components are made of low-elasticity fabrics or membranes, thus forcing them to have a shape that covers the entire body part that needs to be protected. Therefore, the addition of inflatable components makes the garment more rigid and heavier.

[0013] This drawback also stems from the fact that once inflatable components are inflated, they undergo lateral contraction, which reduces the area protected by the inflatable components. To avoid this, inflatable components are extra-large so that complete protection for the user can be guaranteed even in the event of lateral contraction.

[0014] However, due to their size, inflatable components may restrict a user's freedom of movement, especially in areas where the user's joints are connected. Therefore, inflatable components may hinder some movements, such as bending the back or raising the arms.

[0015] Moreover, even if wearable protective devices are made of breathable fabric, the inflatable components inevitably act as barriers and do not allow air to pass through, resulting in reduced perspiration and potential overheating for the user.

[0016] Protective garments with inflatable components are known, which fold in the stationary state to save space inside the garment. Such garments are disclosed, for example, in EP3498117.

[0017] The garment disclosed in EP3498117 includes an area constructed to include an inflatable member that folds itself in the deflated state and easily protects the user's chest area. When the inflatable member is deflated, the aforementioned area is not completely occupied by the inflatable member. In fact, when the inflatable member is inflated, it completely occupies the area.

[0018] However, the inflatable components are completely folded or rolled up when at rest. As a result, the inflatable airbag takes on a thick tubular or wrapped shape when folded, which may affect the wearer's comfort.

[0019] Furthermore, during normal use of the garment, the surfaces of the areas where the inflatable components are inserted may become stuck together, preventing the inflatable components from expanding quickly and fully, thus affecting the protection provided to the user.

[0020] Furthermore, in some situations, it is necessary to ensure that the clothing returns to its initial configuration so that the airbags can be deployed a second time if needed. This need arises, for example, during a race when a professional rider, in the event of a fall but without injury, is using the clothing to restart the race.

[0021] The clothing disclosed in EP3498117 prevents this possibility because the inflatable components cannot return to their initial structure on their own.

[0022] US2004 / 0003449 discloses a different solution involving a vest with air chambers arranged in a V-shape along the front and rear of the vest. The air chambers are housed within inflatable portions secured to the garment by means of releasable fasteners. Pressure applied by inflatable fluid introduced into the air chambers causes the release of these inflatable portions, which cover the user's chest and back, to protect the rider's entire body.

[0023] Even with improvements in the breathability of the garment when deflated, the solution in US2004 / 0003449 still makes the garment bulkier due to the presence of expandable parts.

[0024] Furthermore, clothing conforming to US2004 / 003449 cannot be used as underwear underneath other protective clothing because such an arrangement would prevent the release of the expandable portion.

[0025] Finally, similar to EP3498117, once activated, the inflatable portion disclosed in US2004 / 003449 cannot autonomously return to its initial configuration. In fact, the rider needs to manually tighten the fasteners to restore the garment to its initial configuration. Moreover, the inflatable portion floats freely after activation, and it may impede the rider's movement. Summary of the Invention

[0026] Therefore, the main objective of this invention is to provide a wearable protective device configured to overcome or at least reduce the disadvantages mentioned above with reference to known wearable airbag devices.

[0027] More specifically, the main objective of this invention is to provide a wearable protective device that is provided with an inflatable component and is configured to allow airflow, thereby improving breathability and comfort without compromising the level of safety provided to the wearer.

[0028] Another object of the present invention is to provide a wearable protective device provided with an inflatable component that has a reduced weight.

[0029] Another object of the present invention is to provide a wearable protective device provided with an inflatable component that is suitable for providing the user with a greater degree of freedom of movement.

[0030] Another object of the present invention is to provide a wearable protective device provided with an inflatable component that is suitable for use more than once, providing the same level of comfort and the same level of safety in any subsequent activation.

[0031] Finally, the object of the present invention is to provide a wearable protective device with an inflatable component that requires minimal intervention from the user or customer service after inflation.

[0032] The above-mentioned objectives are achieved by the wearable protective device according to claim 1, as well as other objectives that will be better shown in the following parts of this specification. Attached Figure Description

[0033] The advantages and features of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of a preferred, but not exclusive, embodiment of the wearable protective device with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 A partial rear view of a first embodiment of the wearable protective device according to the present invention is shown in schematic form, wherein the inflatable component is in a deflated state.

[0035] Figure 2 It is similar to Figure 1 The view shows the inflatable component in an inflatable state;

[0036] Figure 3 The letter A is shown schematically. Figure 1 Enlarged view of the details;

[0037] Figure 4 The letter B is shown schematically. Figure 2 Enlarged view of the details;

[0038] Figure 5 A front view of a second embodiment of the wearable protective device according to the present invention is shown in schematic form, wherein the inflatable component is in a deflated state;

[0039] Figure 6 It shows something similar to Figure 5 The view shows the inflatable component in an inflatable state;

[0040] Figure 7 A front view of another embodiment of the wearable protective device according to the invention is shown in schematic form, wherein the inflatable component is in a deflated state;

[0041] Figure 8 It shows something similar to Figure 7 The view shows the inflatable component in an inflatable state;

[0042] Figure 9 It is shown in schematic form. Figure 7 Rear view of a wearable protective device, in which the inflatable component is in a deflated state;

[0043] Figure 10It shows something similar to Figure 9 The view shows the inflatable component in an inflatable state;

[0044] Figure 11 It shows Figure 7 and Figure 9 Details of the arrangement between the outer shell and the inflatable components in a wearable protective device;

[0045] Figure 12 It shows something similar to Figure 11 The view shows the inflatable component in an inflatable state;

[0046] Figure 13 and Figure 14 They respectively showed the same as Figure 11 and Figure 12 Similar views, but involving different implementations;

[0047] Figure 15 It shows Figure 13 and Figure 14 A perspective view of the outer casing shown;

[0048] Figure 16 and Figure 17 They respectively showed the same as Figure 11 and Figure 12 A similar view, but involving a different implementation;

[0049] Figure 18 It shows the relationship with Figure 15 Similar view, but involving Figure 16 and Figure 17 Implementation methods;

[0050] Figure 19 and Figure 20 They respectively showed the same as Figure 11 and Figure 12 Similar views, but involving different implementations; and

[0051] Figure 21 It shows something similar to Figure 19 The view is provided, but it involves different implementations. Detailed Implementation

[0052] In the following description of the wearable protective device according to the invention, the portions of the different components of the wearable protective device that are relatively closer to the user's body during normal use are indicated as "inner", and the portions of the different components that are relatively farther away are indicated as "outer".

[0053] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the wearable protective device according to the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral 10.

[0054] The wearable protective device 10 may be clothing (such as a vest, jacket, or suit) or alternatively, underwear suitable for use in conjunction with external protective clothing.

[0055] In another embodiment, the wearable protective device 10 may be a strap designed to be worn on top of or under another garment.

[0056] Preferably, the wearable protective device 10 is designed to protect the user's body from impact and / or falls during sports and / or work activities.

[0057] Furthermore, the wearable protective device 10 can be designed to protect the elderly from injuries caused by accidental falls.

[0058] Advantageously, the wearable protective device 10 can be used by users who participate in dynamic activities such as motorsports, cycling, skiing or horseback riding.

[0059] Preferably, the wearable protective device 10 is clothing for motorcyclists.

[0060] The wearable protective device 10 includes an inflatable member 20 that is designed to move between a deflated state and an inflated state and remain within the housing 30 of the wearable protective device 10.

[0061] According to the present invention, in the deflated state, the inflatable member 20 has external dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the available space within the housing 30.

[0062] Furthermore, in the deflated state, the inflatable member 20 has at least one portion 22 that is folded into an accordion shape, such that when at least one inflatable member 20 moves from the deflated state to the inflated state, this accordion-shaped portion 22 expands, and when at least one inflatable member 20 moves from the inflated state to the deflated state, this accordion-shaped portion 22 contracts (see...). Figure 5 and Figure 6 ).

[0063] In the context of this specification, the first dimension corresponds to the second dimension when the first dimension and the second dimension have substantially the same extension. Specifically, the fact that the inflatable member 20 in the deflated state has an external dimension corresponding to the size of the available space within the housing 30 means that the inflatable member 20 in the deflated state substantially occupies the entire cavity surrounded by the housing 30. In other words, the inflatable member 20 occupies all the available volume within the housing 30.

[0064] Furthermore, in the context of this specification, a portion of an element (particularly an inflatable component and / or housing) will be referred to as an "accordion-shaped portion" which is formed by a series of alternating peaks and valleys that are parallel to each other and define multiple folds suitable for expansion and contraction.

[0065] First refer to Figure 6 The inflatable member 20 preferably includes a first side 27 and a second side 28, which are connected to each other along the periphery 31 of the inflatable member 20 to define an inflatable chamber 29.

[0066] As is known in the art, the first side 27 and the second side 28 of the inflatable member 20 can be sewn together along its periphery 31. Alternatively, the first side 27 and the second side 28 can be sealed at their periphery 31 by means of an adhesive film or layer.

[0067] In another embodiment, the inflatable member 20 can be made, for example, using a jacquard loom by means of a single weaving operation to obtain a so-called one-piece woven (OPW) airbag, which is formed by two fabric layers 27, 28 connected along the periphery by a connecting portion.

[0068] In another embodiment, the inflatable member 20 can be made by means of a single knitting operation in order to obtain a knitted closed structure.

[0069] The inflatable member 20 may include one or more internal tethers (not shown in the figures) that connect the first side 27 and the second side 28 to limit the distance between the sides 27, 28 of the inflatable member 20 once it is inflated.

[0070] In different embodiments, the inflatable member 20 may be provided with an internal seam (not shown in the drawings) that connects a first side 27 and a second side 28 of the inflatable member 20 to create a non-inflatable area inside the inflatable member 20.

[0071] like Figures 1 to 2 , Figures 5 to 10 As shown, preferably, the inflatable member 20 is positioned at a portion of the wearable protective device 10 designed to protect the user's shoulders and / or chest and / or back.

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, the inflatable component 20 may be positioned at a portion of the wearable protective device 10 designed to protect the user's hips and / or legs.

[0073] The wearable protective device 10 may have a single inflatable component or multiple inflatable components, each designed to protect a different part of the user's body. In the case of multiple inflatable components 20, the inflatable components may be separate or fluidly connected to each other.

[0074] The wearable protective device 10 also includes at least one inflation device 40, which is designed to be coupled to the inflatable member 20 so as to inflate the latter when the inflation device 40 is triggered. If the wearable protective device 10 is provided with separate inflatable members 20, a plurality of inflation devices 40 may be arranged on the wearable protective device 10.

[0075] As is known in the art, preferably, the inflation device 40 is selected from the group consisting of a pyrotechnic inflation device, a compressed gas inflation device, and a hybrid inflation device.

[0076] The inflation device 40 may include multiple inflation fillers to inflate the inflatable member 20 more than once, such that the inflation of the inflatable member 20 occurs at different times (i.e., in chronological order).

[0077] The inflator 40 can be electrically controlled by a control unit 42 that continuously monitors the user’s movement and / or other parameters that could cause the user wearing the protective device to fall.

[0078] Advantageously, such as Figures 9 to 10 As shown, the inflation device 40 and the control unit 42 can be housed in the back protector 44, which is directly or indirectly fastened to the wearable protective device 10.

[0079] Alternatively, the inflation device 40 can be mechanically controlled, for example, by a start cable.

[0080] Once inflated, the inflatable member 20 is designed to remain inside the housing 30, i.e., the inflatable member 20 is in the deflated state (see...). Figure 1 Move to the inflation state (see...) Figure 2 The wearable protective device 10 is not exposed to the outside of the enclosure defined by the housing 30.

[0081] The outer shell 30 can be defined between the inner and outer surfaces of the wearable protective device 10, wherein the surface closer to the user's body is designated as the inner surface. For example, the outer shell 30 can be defined between the outer surface of a jacket and its lining.

[0082] In another embodiment, the outer casing 30 may be composed of a pocket disposed on the outer or inner surface of the wearable protective device.

[0083] Alternatively, the housing 30 may be composed of a separate housing disposed inside or outside the wearable protective device 10; such housing is preferably removably fastened to the wearable protective device.

[0084] Advantageously, the outer casing 30 can be disposed on the support layer 50 of the wearable protective device 10 (see...). Figures 7 to 9 Preferably, the outer casing 30 is removably fastened to the support layer 50 by means of a fastening device 52 (see [link]). Figures 8 to 10 ).

[0085] The back protector 44 can also be fastened to the support layer 50.

[0086] As shown in the attached figure (e.g.) Figures 1 to 4 As shown in the diagram, similar to the inflatable component 20, the outer shell 30 preferably includes at least one accordion-shaped portion 32.

[0087] Advantageously, such as Figures 1 to 2 As shown, the accordion-shaped portion 32 of the outer shell 30 is arranged in the shoulder area of ​​the wearable protective device 10.

[0088] In another embodiment, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the accordion-shaped portion 32 of the outer shell 30 can be arranged in the shoulder and chest areas of the wearable protective device 10.

[0089] In addition, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As can be clearly seen, the accordion-shaped portion 32 of the outer casing 30 can be positioned on the back area of ​​the wearable protective device 10.

[0090] However, different arrangements of the accordion-shaped portion 32 are possible to meet other specific needs.

[0091] Preferably, such as Figure 5 , Figure 11 , Figure 13 and Figure 16 As schematically shown, the shapes and dimensions of the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20 and the accordion-shaped portion 32 of the outer shell 30 are designed such that the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20 is accommodated within the accordion-shaped portion 32 of the outer shell 30. In other words, the peaks 24 and valleys 26 of the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20 are positioned to correspond to the peaks 34 and valleys 36 of the accordion-shaped portion 32 of the outer shell 30.

[0092] In different implementations, see, for example, see Figure 19 Only the outer layer 30a or inner layer 30b of the outer shell 30 is at least partially composed of an accordion-shaped portion 32 adapted to match the facing accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20.

[0093] Alternatively, see, for example, [see...] Figure 21 The outer shell 30 has an accordion-shaped portion 32 near the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable component 20.

[0094] Advantageously, the outer casing 30 can be made of a breathable material. Furthermore, the outer casing 30 can be at least partially made of an elastic material. Alternatively, the outer casing 30 may be provided with an elastic insert or portion. Additionally, the outer casing 30 can be at least partially made of a stretchable material, for example, it can be made of a fabric with a mesh structure.

[0095] As will be clear from the following description, the housing 30 and the inflatable member 20 are manufactured to retain a partial accordion shape during normal use of the wearable protective device 10 when the inflatable member 20 is in a deflated state.

[0096] Advantageously, the inflation of the inflatable component 20 causes its accordion-shaped portion 22 to expand, and thus causes the corresponding accordion-shaped portion 32 of the outer shell 30 to expand, so that a larger area of ​​the user's body is covered.

[0097] When the accordion-shaped portions 22, 32 of the inflatable component 20 and the outer shell 30 are positioned in the shoulder area and / or chest area of ​​the wearable protective device 10, the expansion of the accordion-shaped portions 22, 32 can extend from the central area of ​​the wearable protective device 10 to the outer portion. Figure 8 and Figure 10 This expansion is symbolically indicated by the letter F.

[0098] When the accordion-shaped portions 22 and 32 of the inflatable component 20 and the outer shell 30 are positioned at the back region of the wearable protective device 10, the expansion of the accordion-shaped portions 22 and 32 can extend from the top region of the wearable protective device 10 to the bottom region. Figure 10 This expansion is symbolically indicated by the letter T.

[0099] Advantageously, such as Figures 11 to 14 , Figures 16 to 17 and Figures 19 to 21 As schematically shown, at least one end of the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20 can be secured to the corresponding end of the outer casing 30 by means of a securing device 54. Preferably, the side end of the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20 is secured to the corresponding end of the accordion-shaped portion 32 of the outer casing 30 (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 11 ).

[0100] The fastening device 54 can removably or permanently secure the end of the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20 to the corresponding end of the housing 30. For a removable connection, the hook and loop fastening device 54 can be used, while for a permanent connection, stitching or adhesive can be used.

[0101] Advantageously, a retaining device 54 is provided between the inflatable member 20 and the outer shell 30 at the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20, allowing the outer shell 30 to expand together with the inflatable member 20 when the inflatable member 20 is moved to its inflated state. Similarly, when the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20 contracts after the inflatable member 20 is deflated, the inflatable member 20 and the outer shell 30 can return to their initial configuration together due to the retaining device 54.

[0102] In this way, the wearable protective device 10 as a whole can return to its original structure, and if the inflation device 40 contains more than one inflation filler, it can be reused without any maintenance.

[0103] According to the invention, the inflatable component 20 and / or the outer shell 30 can be folded at least partially into an accordion shape in different ways.

[0104] First refer to Figures 11 to 12 The accordion-shaped portions 22, 32 of the inflatable component 20 and / or housing 30 can be obtained by means of a thermoforming process of at least a portion of the inflatable component 20 and / or housing 30. In particular, the thermoforming process can be carried out on the inflatable component 20 and / or housing 30 using a mold of appropriate shape, wherein the base and cover of the mold define a cavity having a V-shaped or sinusoidal portion.

[0105] Thermoforming processes must be performed at temperatures that do not damage the mechanical properties of the inflatable components and shell. Furthermore, it is important to ensure that the thermoforming process does not affect the airtightness of the inflatable components.

[0106] When the inflatable component is made of polyester or polyamide fabric, the thermoforming process is preferably carried out at a temperature between 60°C and 220°C.

[0107] If the sides 27 and 28 of the inflatable component 20 are coated with a protective layer suitable for resisting higher temperatures, such as a silicon layer, then higher thermoforming temperatures can be used. In this case, the thermoforming process can be carried out at temperatures reaching 300°C.

[0108] The thermoforming process can be applied only to the inflatable component 20. In this case, by inserting the inflatable component 20 into the housing 30, the portion of the housing 30 corresponding to the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable component 20 will be forced to take on the corresponding accordion shape.

[0109] Alternatively, the thermoforming process can be applied only to the housing 30. In this case, by inserting the inflatable member 20 into the housing 30, the portion of the inflatable member 20 corresponding to the accordion-shaped portion 32 of the housing 30 will be forced to take on the corresponding accordion shape.

[0110] Another possibility is that both the inflatable component 20 and the outer shell 30 undergo at least a portion of the thermoforming process.

[0111] In this case, inserting the inflatable member 20 into the housing 30 will be performed so that the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20 matches the corresponding accordion-shaped portion of the housing 30.

[0112] refer to Figures 13 to 15 The accordion-shaped portion 32 of the housing 30 can be obtained by connecting a resilient insert 56 at a selected point on the housing 30 (preferably on the outer surface 30a of the housing 30). In other words, the housing 30 includes a resilient insert 56 connected at a selected point on the outer surface 30a of the housing 30 to create the accordion-shaped portion 32 on the underlying outer surface 30a of the housing 30.

[0113] Preferably, the end of the resilient insert 56 is fastened to a selected point on the housing 30.

[0114] The resilient insert 56 can be attached to the housing 30 by means of stitching, glue, or by removable fasteners (such as snaps or buttons).

[0115] The resilient insert 56 is subjected to tangential stretching before being fastened to the housing 30, and then applied to the housing 30. Once the fastening operation is complete, the resilient insert 56 is able to return to its original shape, thereby providing an accordion shape in the lower portion of the housing 30.

[0116] As described above, in the same case, by inserting the inflatable member 20 into the housing 30, the portion of the inflatable member 20 corresponding to the accordion-shaped portion 32 of the housing 30 generated by means of the elastic insert 56 will be forced to take on the corresponding accordion shape.

[0117] At the same time, when the inflatable member 20 begins to deflate after being inflated, the resilient insert 56 will be able to shrink the surface of the outer shell 30 to which it is applied by allowing the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20 to recover.

[0118] like Figure 15 As shown, more than one resilient insert 56 can be applied to the housing 30 to create an accordion-shaped portion 32.

[0119] like Figures 16 to 18As shown, the accordion-shaped portion in the inflatable member 20 and the housing 30 can also be created by means of an elastic insert 58 passing through a hole at a selected point in one side of the inflatable member 20 and the overlying surface of the housing 30. In other words, the wearable protective device includes at least one elastic insert 58 passing through a hole at a selected point in one side of the inflatable member 20 and the overlying surface of the housing 30.

[0120] The resilient insert 58 can be applied to the inflatable member 20 and the housing 30 in a manner similar to the previously disclosed resilient insert 56.

[0121] After the inflatable member 20 is inserted into the housing 30, the resilient insert 58 is subjected to tangential stretching and then applied to the housing 30 and the inflatable member 20 by passing through holes provided in the housing and the inflatable member. The holes can also be created during the same tightening operation. Once the tightening operation is complete, the resilient insert 58 is released so that it can return to its original shape by creating an accordion shape in the portions of the inflatable member 20 and the housing 30 through which the resilient insert 58 passed.

[0122] The resilient insert 58 thus connects the housing 30 and the inflatable member 20 together. Therefore, when the inflatable member 20 moves between a deflated state and an inflated state, the housing 30 will be able to expand and contract together with the inflatable member.

[0123] In the same case, multiple resilient inserts 58 can pass through the surface of the housing 30 and the underside of the inflatable member 20.

[0124] The hole provided in the inflatable member 20 to allow the fastening of the resilient insert 58 has dimensions that do not impair the inflation of the inflatable member 20 and therefore do not impair the impact protection provided by the wearable protective device 10.

[0125] Figures 19 to 21 Another embodiment of the wearable protective device 10 according to the present invention is shown in the figure.

[0126] In this embodiment, the accordion-shaped portion 22 of the inflatable member 20 is obtained by connecting an elastic insert 60 at a selected point on one side of the inflatable member 20. In other words, the inflatable member 20 includes an elastic insert 60 connected to a selected point disposed on a first side 27 or a second side 28 of the inflatable member 20. Preferably, the end of the elastic insert 60 is fixed to the selected point disposed on the first side 27 of the inflatable member 20.

[0127] The resilient insert 60 can be attached to the inflatable member 20 by means of stitching, glue, or removable fasteners (such as snaps or buttons). In this case, the connection of the resilient insert 60 to the inflatable member 20 is made in a way that does not affect the air-holding characteristics of the inflatable member 20.

[0128] The elastic insert 60 is subjected to tangential tension before being fixed to the inflatable member 20, and then applied to the inflatable member 20. Meanwhile, the outer ends of the outer shell 30 and the outer ends of the inflatable member 20 are fastened to each other by the fastening device 54.

[0129] Once the fastening operation is complete, the resilient insert 60 can return to its original shape by forming an accordion shape on the lower portion of the inflatable member 20. At the same time, since the outer shell is fastened to the inflatable member 20 around its perimeter, the outer shell will also be able to at least partially present an accordion shape.

[0130] Preferably, in this case, the outer casing 30 is at least partially made of an elastic material or provided with elastic inserts so that it can expand when the accordion-shaped portion 32 of the inflatable member 20 expands due to inflation. In this way, there is no risk of tearing in the outer casing.

[0131] At the same time, when the inflatable member 20 begins to deflate after being inflated, the elastic insert 60 will be able to shrink the surface of the inflatable member 20 to which it is applied.

[0132] Similarly, due to the peripheral fixing device 54, and optionally due to its elastic properties, the housing 30 is allowed to return to its initial configuration.

[0133] In the same case, the inflatable member 20 may include a plurality of resilient inserts 60.

[0134] In this respect, it is clear how a predefined purpose can be achieved using the wearable protective device 10 according to the invention.

[0135] The provision of corresponding accordion-shaped portions in the housing 30 and the inflatable member 20 allows for a reduction in the area of ​​the user's body covered by the inflatable member 20 during normal use of the wearable protective device 10, thereby providing greater ventilation to the user's body.

[0136] At the same time, when the inflatable component 20 is inflated, the mutual arrangement between the outer shell 30 and the inflatable component 20 does not hinder the deployment of the inflatable component 20, thereby allowing a larger area of ​​the user's body to be protected after the inflatable component 20 is deployed, so as to provide improved protection for the user.

[0137] Furthermore, the accordion-shaped portion in the inflatable component 20 and / or the housing 30 allows for a reduction in the area of ​​the user's body covered by the wearable protective device 10 when the wearable protective device is not activated, so as not to impede the user's freedom of movement. For example, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As clearly shown, this allows the shoulder area to be exposed to facilitate arm movement. Meanwhile, as... Figure 9 and Figure 10 As can be seen, it allows the user's back to be partially exposed so as not to hinder the bending of the back.

[0138] Furthermore, the specific arrangement of the shell and the inflatable component allows for a reduction in the weight of the wearable protective device. In fact, the dimensions of the shell can be designed to correspond to the inflatable component without requiring additional material within the shell.

[0139] Furthermore, the size and shape of the shell can be designed to easily adhere to the user's body, thereby improving the aerodynamic characteristics provided by the wearable protective device. Moreover, the aerodynamic characteristics of the wearable protective device are further improved by incorporating accordion-shaped sections on the shell. In fact, when a motorcyclist bends into their riding position on the motorcycle, air resistance is reduced because airflow can pass through the peaks and valleys of the accordion-shaped sections of the shell.

[0140] Finally, when the inflation device 40 is provided with more than one inflatable filler, the accordion-shaped portion in the housing and inflatable component allows the wearable protective device 10 to return to its initial configuration once the inflatable component deflates, so that it can be reused in dangerous situations. In this case, the wearable protective device 10 will be able to provide the same level of safety to the user.

[0141] Regarding the embodiments of the wearable protective device 10 described above, in order to meet specific requirements, those skilled in the art may modify the described elements and / or replace the described elements with equivalent elements without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A wearable protective device (10) comprising at least one inflatable member (20) retained within a housing (30) of the wearable protective device (10), the inflatable member being designed to move between a deflated state and an inflated state. in, In the deflated state, the at least one inflatable member (20) has: i) External dimensions corresponding to the size of the available space within the housing (30); and ii) at least one portion (22) is folded into an accordion shape, whereby the accordion-shaped portion (22) expands when the at least one inflatable member (20) moves from the deflated state to the inflated state, and contracts when the at least one inflatable member (20) moves from the inflated state to the deflated state. Its features are: The at least one inflatable member (20) includes at least one resilient insert (60) connected to a selected point on a first side (27) or a second side (28) of the inflatable member (20) to create the accordion-shaped portion (22) in the inflatable member (20).

2. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer casing (30) includes at least one accordion-shaped portion (32).

3. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The shape and size of the accordion-shaped portion (22) of the at least one inflatable member (20) and the accordion-shaped portion (32) of the outer shell (30) are designed such that the accordion-shaped portion (22) of the at least one inflatable member (20) is accommodated in the accordion-shaped portion (32) of the outer shell (30).

4. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer layer (30a) and / or inner layer (30b) of the outer shell (30) are at least partially composed of an accordion-shaped portion (32) adapted to match the facing accordion-shaped portion (22) of the at least one inflatable member (20).

5. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell (30) has an accordion-shaped portion (32) near the accordion-shaped portion (22) of the inflatable member (20).

6. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell (30) is defined between the inner and outer surfaces of the wearable protective device (10), or the outer shell (30) is composed of a separate housing disposed inside or outside the wearable protective device (10), or the outer shell (30) is composed of a pocket disposed on the inner or outer surface of the wearable protective device (10).

7. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell (30) is disposed on the support layer (50) of the wearable protective device (10).

8. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The accordion-shaped portion (32) of the outer shell (30) is arranged in the shoulder area and / or chest area and / or back area of ​​the wearable protective device (10).

9. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one end of the accordion-shaped portion (22) of the at least one inflatable member (20) is secured to the corresponding end of the outer shell (30) by means of a fixing device (54).

10. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 2 or 9, characterized in that, The side end of the accordion-shaped portion (22) of the at least one inflatable member (20) is fixed to the corresponding end of the accordion-shaped portion (32) of the outer shell (30).

11. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The accordion-shaped portion (32) of the outer casing (30) is obtained by means of a thermoforming process of at least a portion of the outer casing (30).

12. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell (30) is at least partially made of an elastic material.

13. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell (30) is at least partially made of a stretchable material.

14. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes at least one inflation device (40) designed to be connected to the at least one inflatable member (20) for inflating the at least one inflatable member (20); the inflation device (40) includes more than one inflatable filler.

15. The wearable protective device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one elastic insert (60) is applied to the at least one inflatable member (20) in a tangentially stretched state, wherein the outer end of the outer shell (30) and the outer end of the inflatable member (20) are fastened to each other by a fastening device (54).

16. A wearable protective device (10) comprising at least one inflatable member (20) retained within a housing (30) of the wearable protective device (10), the inflatable member being designed to move between a deflated state and an inflated state. in, In the deflated state, the at least one inflatable member (20) has: i) External dimensions corresponding to the size of the available space within the housing (30); and ii) at least one portion (22) is folded into an accordion shape, whereby the accordion-shaped portion (22) expands when the at least one inflatable member (20) moves from the deflated state to the inflated state, and contracts when the at least one inflatable member (20) moves from the inflated state to the deflated state. Its features are: The housing (30) includes one or more resilient inserts (56) connected to selected points on the outer layer (30a) of the housing (30) to create an accordion-shaped portion (32) in the lower outer layer (30a) of the housing (30).

17. A wearable protective device (10) comprising at least one inflatable member (20) retained within a housing (30) of the wearable protective device (10), the inflatable member being designed to move between a deflated state and an inflated state. in, In the deflated state, the at least one inflatable member (20) has: i) External dimensions corresponding to the size of the available space within the housing (30); and ii) at least one portion (22) is folded into an accordion shape, whereby the accordion-shaped portion (22) expands when the at least one inflatable member (20) moves from the deflated state to the inflated state, and contracts when the at least one inflatable member (20) moves from the inflated state to the deflated state. Its features are: The wearable protective device also includes one or more elastic inserts (58) that pass through holes at selected points on one side of the inflatable member (20) and on the overlying surface of the housing (30) to create an accordion-shaped portion (22) of the inflatable member (20) and an accordion-shaped portion (32) of the housing (30) in the portions of the inflatable member (20) and the housing (30) through which the one or more elastic inserts (58) pass.

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