Thermal insulation structure for a garment

Abstract

A garment (600), in particular a jacket or vest, comprising a thermal insulation structure (200; 300a-d; 400; 500) with a. a first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610); and b. a second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620), wherein the second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) has a different initial shape than the first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610); c. wherein the first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) is connected to the second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620); d. wherein the second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) is deformed when the garment (600) is worn by pressure on an inside of the thermal insulation structure (200; 300a-d; 400; 500) such that a contact area (250) in which the first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) touches the second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) is enlarged; and e. wherein the first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) and the second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) are arranged in a V-shape in the garment (600).

Description

1. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a thermal insulation structure, in particular for outdoor clothing. 2. Background

[0002] A primary function of clothing, especially in outdoor settings, is to thermally insulate the wearer from the environment and minimize heat loss. This is typically achieved through a construction where a highly insulating material is sandwiched between an outer and inner layer. Both natural insulating materials, particularly down, and synthetic materials are used for this purpose.

[0003] To prevent unintentional shifting or redistribution of the insulation material, it is typically distributed across individual chambers or compartments, as described, for example, in US 2,464,380 A, US 5,408,700 A, US 8,578,516 B2, and WO 98 / 11,795 A1. Two fundamental designs are known from the prior art: One option is a chamber construction (hereinafter referred to as the "H-construction" due to the shape of the chambers), as in Fig. Figure 1a illustrates a method in which partition walls are sewn between the outer and inner layers, defining the individual chambers. A further modification of this construction known from the prior art is a trapezoidal structure, as shown in Fig. Figure 1b shows this. Such an H- or trapezoidal structure has the advantage that a consistent thickness of the insulating material can be ensured across large areas of the garment. This can lead to consistently good thermal insulation. However, these designs have the disadvantage of requiring considerable manufacturing effort.

[0004] Secondly, the state of the art includes the following: Fig. 1c illustrated construction method is known in which the outer and inner layers of the garment are directly sewn or quilted together, thereby creating individual chambers filled with insulating material. This construction method can be produced with considerably less manufacturing effort than the H-construction described above. The seam construction, which is shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1c, this design can allow heat to escape through the seam, or alternatively, it can allow cold air to penetrate the garment. However, a further disadvantage of this construction is that there is no insulating material in the seam areas where the outer and inner layers are in direct contact. This results in significant heat loss in the seam area, as shown in the thermal image of a conventional outdoor jacket of this type in Figure 1c. Fig. 1d is clearly recognizable.

[0005] To address this problem, US Patent 2,960,702 A, for example, proposes layering two or more such manufactured layers with staggered seams to reduce heat loss at the seams. However, this increases manufacturing costs and can also lead to an undesirable increase in the garment's thickness. Another construction, which incorporates an additional outer layer, such as a water-repellent one, is described in US Patent 2013 / 0177,731 A1. This, too, involves increased manufacturing and material costs.

[0006] Document WO 91 / 18 542 A1 concerns a blanket comprising a quilt consisting of two outer layers of material sewn together to form a multitude of pockets, characterized by the fact that at least some of the pockets contain filling material and that the tog value of the quilt varies across its surface depending on the presence of filling material in the pockets and the tog value of the filling material in each pocket.

[0007] Document CH 343 086 A discloses a quilt characterized by being composed of two outer layers of wool and an inner layer of feathers or down.

[0008] Document EP 0 947 153 A1 discloses a padding layer made of an air-laid, thermo-bonded wool fleece, horsehair fleece, silk fleece, or polyester fleece, which is connected by quilting seams to a carrier layer stretched by approximately 20%, made of a woven or knitted fabric with 20-25% elastic stretch, and to a cover layer made of a woven or knitted fabric with 5-10% elastic stretch, both with high resilience. Finally, GB 2 159 050 A describes a duvet that offers increased or decreased thermal insulation depending on which side of the duvet is on top and which is on the bottom. However, the concept described there requires the chambers to be oriented longitudinally along the body.

[0009] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a thermal insulation structure which is as easy to manufacture as possible and minimizes or reduces heat loss in the area of ​​possible seams. 3. Summary of the invention

[0010] This problem is at least partially solved by a thermal insulation structure according to the invention for a garment, in particular an outdoor garment. The thermal insulation structure comprises a first insulation element and a second insulation element, wherein the second insulation element has a different initial shape than the first insulation element, wherein the first insulation element is connected to the second insulation element, and wherein, when the garment is worn, the second insulation element is deformed by pressure on an inner surface of the thermal insulation structure such that a contact area in which the first insulation element touches the second insulation element is enlarged.

[0011] The initial shape preferably refers to a shape of the first and second insulating elements when no pressure is exerted on the inside of the thermal insulation structure. Furthermore, the shape preferably refers to a cross-sectional shape of the first and second insulating elements. The term "other initial shape" can also refer to the orientation of the first and second insulating elements. That is, the first and second insulating elements can both have the same or a similar (cross-sectional) shape, e.g., both can have an oval shape, but they can be oriented differently. For example, the first insulating element can have an oblate cross-section and the second insulating element can have a prolate cross-section. Such embodiments with the same shape but different orientations of the first and second insulating elements are also covered by the term "other initial shape".

[0012] Preferably, the thermal insulation structure comprises a plurality of first insulation elements and a plurality of second insulation elements, wherein the second insulation elements each have a different initial shape than the first insulation elements, wherein each first insulation element is connected to at least one second insulation element, and wherein, when the garment is worn, the second insulation elements are deformed by pressure on the inside of the thermal insulation structure in such a way that contact areas in which the first insulation elements touch the second insulation elements are enlarged.

[0013] Preferably, the contact area between each first insulating element and the respective second insulating element(s) to which it is connected is increased when the garment is worn. However, it is also possible that contact areas are increased only between some of the first and second insulating elements.

[0014] It is further explicitly mentioned here that the thermal insulation structure and / or the garment may also have additional insulation elements or other elements that differ from the first and second insulation elements.

[0015] The thermal insulation structure according to the invention combines the advantages of the simplest possible manufacturing process with good thermal insulation. When the clothing is worn, the second insulation elements are deformed in such a way that they conform to the respective first insulation elements, thus at least partially sealing any seams or gaps through which heat could escape.

[0016] Preferably, at least one first insulating element and at least one second insulating element are connected at a corresponding seam, and the enlarged contact area is adjacent to the seam, so that the at least one second insulating element substantially overlaps the seam when the garment is worn.

[0017] Preferably, all first and second insulation elements are connected by appropriate seams, and there are enlarged contact areas adjacent to all such seams, so that the second insulation elements substantially overlap all seams when the garment is worn.

[0018] Generally, when this description refers to multiple first and second insulation elements, specifically "at least one first insulation element" or "at least one second insulation element," this preferably means all first and second insulation elements. However, it is also possible that it means one or more, but not all, of the first and / or second insulation elements.

[0019] To produce such a thermal insulation structure according to the invention, layers of material can be joined together in such a way that cavities are formed between the layers, as described in more detail below. Seams can be used to join the fabric layers that make up the garment. In some embodiments, the seams can be designed to reduce and / or prevent movement of the insulating material in the garment. A thermal insulation structure can be constructed from two or more discrete insulating elements, which are defined by layers of material.

[0020] For example, the thermal insulation structure can be constructed from first insulation elements positioned adjacent to second insulation elements, and these elements can be joined together by seams. The second insulation element can be designed so that, during use, it essentially overlaps adjacent seams. By overlapping the seam, the second insulation element provides insulation material in an area of ​​the seam, thereby reducing and / or preventing heat loss at these points.

[0021] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the second insulating element can be designed such that during use the second insulating element covers at least part of the adjacent seam or seams.

[0022] The enlarged contact area, in which at least one of the first insulating elements touches at least one of the second insulating elements, preferably reduces the escape of body heat. Particularly preferred, as already mentioned, are enlarged contact areas between all first and second insulating elements when the garment is worn, so that the loss of body heat through the thermal insulation structure according to the invention is effectively reduced.

[0023] As previously mentioned, the reduction of body heat loss is achieved by at least partially sealing any seams or gaps between the various elements of the thermal insulation structure. Furthermore, the increased contact area(s) can also prevent moisture, such as fog or rain, from reaching the wearer's / user's body. This can further promote comfort and help protect against hypothermia.

[0024] Preferably, in a cross-section of the thermal insulation structure, a first arc along an inner surface of at least one second insulation element has a greater length than a length of a second arc in the cross-section along an outer surface of the at least one second insulation element.

[0025] The ratio of the length of the first arc to the length of the second arc can be in the range of 1.2 : 1 - 3 : 1, preferably in the range of 1.4 : 1 - 2 : 1, and particularly preferably in the range of 1.45 : 1 - 1.55 : 1.

[0026] Furthermore, the ratio of the length of the aforementioned first arc to the height of the at least one second insulating element in the cross-section can be in the range of 1.2 : 1 - 3 : 1, preferably in the range of 1.3 : 1 - 2.5 : 1, and particularly preferably in the range of 1.4 : 1 - 2.1 : 1.

[0027] These ratios of the length of the first arch to the height can preferably be used in combination with the aforementioned ratios of the length of the first arch to the length of the second arch. However, the ratios of the length of the first arch to the height can also be used independently of the ratios of the lengths of the first and second arches, and vice versa.

[0028] In this context, the height of the second insulation element in the cross-section can, for example, denote a height in the cross-section of the worn thermal insulation structure / the worn garment.

[0029] By positioning the second insulating element in such a way that the length of an arc along the inner surface is greater than the length of an arc along the outer surface in a cross-section of the thermal insulation structure, the second insulating element "protrudes" from the inside of the thermal insulation structure and is thus compressed by the wearer's body when the garment is worn, resulting in the "sealing" effect discussed above. It has been found that the aforementioned ratios of inner and outer arc lengths, and of the inner arc length and height of the second insulating element, provide effective sealing of heat leaks and thus a significant reduction in body heat loss.

[0030] Again, in the case of multiple second insulation elements, these conditions may preferentially apply to all second insulation elements. Or they may only apply to a subset of the second insulation elements.

[0031] Preferably, at least one first insulating element and / or at least one second insulating element comprises a filling material. In particular, all first and second insulating elements can comprise a filling material.

[0032] The filling material can significantly increase the thermal insulation of the insulating structure. Natural fibers or feathers, especially down, or synthetic fibers, which, unlike down, retain good insulating properties even when damp, are conceivable filling materials. In a dry state, down exhibits very good thermal insulation properties while being extremely lightweight. Air, gels, foams, liquids, gases, or solids such as granules are also conceivable filling materials. Evacuated cavities to reduce heat convection are also a possibility in principle.

[0033] The ratio of the weight of filling material in at least a second insulating element to the weight of filling material in at least a first insulating element can be in the range of 1.3 : 1 - 4 : 1, preferably in the range of 1.4 : 1 - 3 : 1, and particularly preferably in the range of 1.45 : 1 - 2 : 1.

[0034] The weight of the filling material can be measured, for example, while the garment is being assembled. The weight ratios can apply to a pair of first and second insulation elements that have essentially the same dimensions, e.g., similar length (e.g., for elongated insulation elements) and height. The ratios can also apply to every pair of first and second insulation elements. Or the ratios can apply only to a subset of the first and second insulation elements.

[0035] These values ​​have also proven advantageous in providing “protruding” second insulating elements which, as described above, provide the “sealing” effect according to the invention when the garment is worn.

[0036] Instead of considering the ratio of the weight of the filling material in the at least one first insulating element to the weight of the filling material in the at least one second insulating element, one can also consider the ratio of the volume of the filling material in the at least one first insulating element to the volume of the filling material in the at least one second insulating element. For this ratio of filling volume, for example, the same preferred ratios mentioned above with reference to the filling weight may apply.

[0037] A person skilled in the art recognizes that, for a constant filling density with the same filling material in both the at least one first insulation element and the at least one second insulation element, a direct 1:1 relationship between the volume and weight of the filling material can exist, given, for example, by the density of the filling material. However, if different materials or different filling densities are used in the first and second insulation elements, a more complex relationship between filling volume and filling weight may also exist.

[0038] Preferably, at least one first insulating element and at least one second insulating element each have an inner layer and an outer layer that define a cavity, wherein a surface area of ​​the inner layer of the at least one first insulating element is smaller than a surface area of ​​the inner layer of the at least one second insulating element.

[0039] This can again contribute to providing a shape for the second insulation element compared to the shape of the first insulation element, which "protrudes" towards the body of a support, thus leading to the deformation of the second insulation element described above and to enlarged contact surfaces for sealing heat holes.

[0040] Particularly preferably, at least a first insulating element and at least a second insulating element each have an inner layer and an outer layer defining a cavity, wherein a surface area of ​​the inner layer of the at least one first insulating element is substantially the same as a surface area of ​​the outer layer of the at least one first insulating element, and wherein a surface area of ​​the inner layer of the at least one second insulating element is larger than a surface area of ​​the outer layer of the at least one second insulating element.

[0041] Due to the equally sized surface areas of the outer and inner layers, the first insulation elements will form a cavity with an approximately symmetrical cross-sectional shape. However, due to the larger surface area of ​​the inner layer of the second insulation elements compared to the surface area of ​​the outer layer, the second insulation elements will form cavities with an asymmetrical shape, exhibiting greater thickness towards the inside. This will lead to the previously described sealing of gaps or seams, etc., caused by deformation during use.

[0042] Preferably, the inner layer of at least one first insulating element and the inner layer of at least one second insulating element are formed together in one piece.

[0043] Furthermore, preferably the outer layer of the at least one first insulating element and the outer layer of the at least one second insulating element are formed together in one piece.

[0044] This eliminates the need for seams or similar features in the inner or outer layer. This can contribute to better thermal insulation or prevent the penetration of liquids, mist, dirt, etc. Furthermore, this allows for particularly simple automated manufacturing, especially when both the inner and outer layers are formed in one piece. For example, the inner and outer layers can be unwound from separate rolls and sewn together to create the respective cavities. If the inner and outer layers are fed into the sewing machine at the same speed between the stitching of two adjacent seams, the first symmetrical insulation elements are created. If, however, the inner layer is fed in faster, this automatically creates a larger "pocket" and is therefore, for example,After being filled with a filling material, it will have a greater thickness in a direction perpendicular to the inside of the thermal insulation structure.

[0045] This can further enable the efficient production of the first and second insulation elements without modifications or the need for subsequent joining, e.g., by sewing or similar methods. This can lead to a significant reduction in manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the production of the garment can be fully or partially automated.

[0046] Preferably, at least one first insulating element and / or at least one second insulating element are elongated.

[0047] Such elongated insulation elements are particularly easy to manufacture and can offer a particularly large insulation volume compared to their surface area. This allows for material savings. Furthermore, elongated insulation elements are especially comfortable for the wearer / user, as they have no bothersome corners or edges and lie flat against the body surface without pronounced bumps or points.

[0048] In general, insulation elements can have cross-sections including, but not limited to, curved elements such as circles, ovals, ellipses or parts thereof, rectangles, triangles, irregular shapes, tubes, freehand geometries and / or combinations thereof.

[0049] Preferably, at least one first insulating element and at least one second insulating element are arranged essentially horizontally when the garment is worn.

[0050] This arrangement can, particularly when used in garments, prevent the potential downward slippage of the filling material (see below) due to gravity, which can lead to an uneven distribution of the filling material within the insulation elements of the thermal insulation structure and thus to insufficient insulation in areas located higher up.

[0051] A first insulating element and at least a second insulating element are arranged in a V-shape in the garment.

[0052] This allows for a more consistent distribution of, for example, a filling material in the first and / or second insulation elements, as such V-shaped insulation elements can also ensure a certain degree of fixation in a direction perpendicular to the body axis. The "V" can still be chosen to be shallow enough to largely avoid any negative influence, such as that caused by gravity.

[0053] Particularly preferred is the arrangement of at least one first insulation element and at least one second insulation element alternately next to each other. In particular, all first insulation elements and second insulation elements can be arranged alternately next to each other. However, it is emphasized again that this can also apply to only a subset of the first and / or second insulation elements.

[0054] This arrangement ensures that the connection area, e.g., the seam, is sealed on each side of a first insulation element by the corresponding, adjacent second insulation element(s), thus providing particularly good thermal insulation. The symmetrical arrangement of the first and second insulation elements can also be especially advantageous for wearing comfort, as no pronounced indentations or protrusions occur.

[0055] It is also conceivable that the thermal insulation structure may have at least one outer layer, which is arranged on the inside and / or an outside of the thermal insulation structure.

[0056] Such an outer layer can serve a number of additional functions, for example, increasing wearing comfort, perhaps through a fleece or wool layer on the inside. An outer layer can, for instance, prevent the penetration of water, dirt, fog, or wind and further improve thermal insulation. These are just a few of the advantageous ways such an additional layer can be used. Further variations are readily apparent to the expert based on their specialist knowledge.

[0057] Another aspect of the invention comprises a garment, including but not limited to an outdoor jacket, a vest, insulating trousers, hats, mittens, gloves and the like, with an embodiment of a thermal insulation structure according to the invention.

[0058] Such a garment is easy to manufacture due to the thermal insulation structure according to the invention and yet offers excellent thermal insulation without unduly compromising wearing comfort, volume, weight or other properties particularly relevant in the outdoor sector.

[0059] It should be explicitly noted here that the invention also includes embodiments of thermal insulation structures and garments in which several of the features and options described herein are combined to use the thermal insulation structures in such a way as to meet the requirements. Individual aspects may also be omitted if they do not appear necessary to achieve a given purpose, without this resulting in such an embodiment no longer being considered part of the invention. 4. Brief description of the characters

[0060] The following detailed description presents currently preferred embodiments and configurations of the invention with reference to the following figures: Fig. 1a-d: Conventional designs for thermal insulation, as well as a thermal image of an outdoor jacket based on a known design; Fig. 2a-c: Embodiment of a thermal insulation structure according to the invention with insulating elements; Fig. 3a-d: Further embodiments of thermal insulation structures according to the invention; Fig. 4: Embodiments of a thermal insulation structure according to the invention; Fig. 5a-b: Embodiment of a thermal insulation structure according to the invention with an outer layer and an inner layer, as well as a sketch of a possible manufacturing method; Fig. 6a-e: Embodiment of an outdoor jacket according to the invention with an embodiment of a thermal insulation structure according to the invention; Fig. 7: Thermal imaging of the area in the Fig. 6a-e embodiment of an outdoor jacket shown; Fig. 8a-b: Further embodiment of an outdoor jacket according to the invention with an embodiment of a thermal insulation structure according to the invention; Fig. 9a-b: Embodiments of the thermal insulation structures according to the invention, wherein the first and second insulation elements have different initial orientations. 5. Detailed description

[0061] Fig. Figure 1a shows a prior art example 100 of a thermal insulation structure in an "H-shape". Intermediate walls 103 are sewn between two material layers 101 and 102. The cuboid cavities or chambers 105 formed by the two material layers 101 and 102 and the intermediate walls 103 are usually filled with an insulating material such as down to increase the thermal insulation of the thermal insulation structure 100.

[0062] Fig. Figure 1b shows an alternative 120 known from the prior art to the one in Fig. Example 100 shown in 1a. Alternative 120 differs from example 100 in that the partition walls 123 are not attached at right angles to the material layers 101 and 102, compared to the partition walls 103. Therefore, the cross-sections of the cavities 125 are trapezoidal or trapezoidal in shape.

[0063] Fig. Figure 1c shows another example 140 of a thermal insulation structure known from the prior art. Here, two material layers 141 and 142 are directly connected to each other by parallel seams 143 at specific intervals. This creates cavities or chambers 145, which are usually filled with an insulating material such as down. As indicated by the arrows 150, areas adjacent to the seams 143 are created where heat is lost. This heat loss is partly caused by the fact that there is little or no insulating material in these areas.

[0064] This is achieved through Fig. 1d further clearly shows a thermal image of a jacket 160 with a thermal insulation structure, which, according to the in Fig. The principle shown in 1c is used. As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1d, the thermal image shows low temperatures of up to approximately 10.5°C in areas where chambers 145 are filled with insulating material. In contrast, the thermal image shows significantly higher temperatures of up to 15.5°C in the areas of the seams 143. This illustrates the heat loss of the Fig. 1c shown construction method in the area of ​​the seams 143.

[0065] The Fig. Figures 2a-c show an embodiment of a thermal insulation structure 200 according to the invention. The thermal insulation structure 200 can be used, for example, in clothing. The thermal insulation structure 200 has a first insulation element 210 and a second insulation element 220. The second insulation element 220 has a different initial shape than the first insulation element 210, and the first insulation element 210 is connected to the second insulation element 220. When a garment with the thermal insulation structure 200 is worn, the second insulation element 220 is deformed by pressure on an inner surface of the thermal insulation structure 200, thus increasing the contact area 250 where the first insulation element 210 contacts the second insulation element 220.

[0066] In the embodiment shown here, the thermal insulation structure 200 has a plurality of first insulation elements 210 and a plurality of second insulation elements 220. The second insulation elements 220 each have a different initial shape than the first insulation elements 210. Each first insulation element 210 is connected to at least one second insulation element 220. When a garment with a thermal insulation structure 200 is worn, the second insulation elements 220 are deformed by pressure on the inside of the thermal insulation structure 200, thus enlarging the contact areas 250 where the first insulation elements 210 touch the second insulation elements 220. In the advantageous case shown here, there are enlarged contact areas 250 between all insulation elements 210, 220 of the thermal insulation structure 200 when pressure is applied, so that connections 230, e.g.Seams 230 are sealed by the enlarged contact surfaces 250. However, it is also possible that contact surfaces are only enlarged between some of the first and second insulating elements 210, 220.

[0067] The enlarged contact surfaces 250, in which the first insulating elements 210 touch the second insulating elements 220, can in particular reduce the escape of body heat when a garment with a thermal insulation structure 200 is worn, cf. Fig. 2b.

[0068] The insulating elements 210, 220 can be formed, for example, by layers 212, 214 which are joined at seams 230 and form cavities 215, 225 between them.

[0069] Layers 212 and 214 can be constructed from a single material or, in some embodiments, from several materials. Useful materials for the construction of such layers 212 and 214 include, but are not limited to, down-proof materials such as micro-lightweights, lightweight fabrics, ultralight fabrics, lightweight fabrics, breathable fabrics, polyesters such as woven polyester and brushed polyester, nylon, cloth, cotton, wool, fleece, silk, flannel, tightly knitted or woven fabrics, or combinations thereof.

[0070] Furthermore, layers 212, 214 can be treated, for example, with a down sealing agent or chemical agents such as a durable water repellent or the like.

[0071] Preferably, the first and second insulation elements 210, 220 are connected to each other by a corresponding seam 230. Preferably, the enlarged contact surfaces 250, which are generated by the pressure on the inside of the thermal insulation structure 200 when wearing a garment with it, are located adjacent to the seams 230, so that the second insulation elements 220 substantially overlap or cover the seams 230, as shown in Fig. 2b shows when the garment is worn.

[0072] The seams 230 can, for example, be quilted seams. The seams 230 can also be formed by other known construction methods, including but not limited to chemical joining, mechanical joining, thermal joining, adhesives, joining tape, fusible threads and / or materials, welding such as ultrasonic welding, radio frequency welding, etc., topstitching with, for example, blanket stitch, chain stitch, cross stitch, decorative stitch, garter stitch, running stitch, embroidery stitch, zigzag stitch, stretch stitch, overcast stitch, coverstitch, topstitch, etc., riveting, heat treatment, or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the seams or parts of the seams can include a seal that makes it difficult for heat, air, liquid, dirt, etc., to penetrate the seams 230, especially from the outside. In some embodiments, other types of connections 230 are also conceivable.The respective first and second insulation elements 210 and 220 can, for example, also be connected to each other via beams or differently designed connection areas.

[0073] Two first and two second insulation elements 210 and 220 are shown here, but in principle any number of first and / or second insulation elements 210, 220 greater than two is conceivable. It is also possible that only one first insulation element 210 and one second insulation element 220 are present. For the sake of simplicity, however, the plural is used in the following description of embodiment 200.

[0074] The first insulation elements 210 have a different initial shape than the second insulation elements 220. As shown in the Fig. Figures 2a and 2c show that the initial shape of the insulation elements refers to the shape of the insulation elements 210 and 220 in an unloaded state, i.e., in a state in which no pressure - for example by a wearer of a jacket - is exerted on the thermal insulation structure 200.

[0075] Furthermore, a first insulating element 210 is connected to a second insulating element 220. Particularly preferably, the first insulating elements 210 and the second insulating elements 220 are arranged alternately next to each other, as shown in the Fig. 2a-c shown. It can be advantageous if all insulation elements 210, 220 are alternately connected to each other, e.g. to provide a continuous thermal insulation structure 200, as shown here.

[0076] The second insulating elements 220 can be deformed during use, so that contact surfaces 250, in which the first insulating elements 210 touch the second insulating elements 220, are deformed by pressure on an inner side (cf. Fig. 2c) the thermal insulation structure 200 which is generated while wearing the garment, will be enlarged. Fig. Figure 2b shows the insulating elements during use, for example, when they are used in a jacket or vest and when a person is wearing the jacket or vest. The first and second insulating elements 210 and 220 can come into direct contact, as shown in Figure 2b. Fig. 2b shown. However, if the jacket has, for example, another inner layer (not shown) which is arranged on the inside of the thermal insulation structure 200, the contact between the first and second insulation elements 210 and 220 can also be indirect, for example by contact with such an inner layer in the respective areas.

[0077] As mentioned previously, the insulation elements 210, 220 are deformable. A given second insulation element 220 can be deformed during use such that part of the second insulation element 220 covers an adjacent seam 230 or part of the seam 230. In particular, the second insulation elements 220 can be designed to substantially overlap adjacent seams 230 during use, thus reducing heat loss at the seams 230. For example, when a user wears a garment with second insulation elements 220, the user's body or parts of the body can exert a force on the second insulation elements 220, pressing them against the seams 230 and / or the first insulation elements 210. This can cause the second insulation elements 220 to overlap the adjacent seams 230 with both layers 212, 214 and the fill material.

[0078] To increase the contact areas 250, the second insulating elements 220 can, for example, be significantly thicker than the first insulating elements 210, as shown in Fig. 2c shown. The thicknesses 260 and 265 of the first and second insulation elements 210 and 220, respectively, can be, for example, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 2c, starting from a plane 280 which intersects the first and second insulation elements 210 and 220 as well as the seams 230, the distance is measured in a direction 285 essentially perpendicular to the inside of the thermal insulation structure 200. When the jacket is worn, the surfaces of the second insulation elements 220 preferentially come into contact with the surface of the wearer and are deformed by the pressure exerted on the inside of the thermal insulation structure 200 during use. This situation is described in Figure 2c. Fig. 2b. In some embodiments, the first insulating elements 210 can also undergo deformation. These enlarged contact surfaces 250, where the first insulating elements 210 touch the second insulating elements 220, can in particular reduce the escape of body heat.

[0079] Furthermore, in a cross-section of the thermal insulation structure 200, the first arc 224 along the inner surface of the second insulation elements 220 can have a greater length A than the length B of the second arc 222 in the cross-section along the outer surface of the second insulation elements 220. The inner surface and the outer surface can be delimited, for example, by the plane 280 mentioned above.

[0080] The ratio of the length of the first arc 224 to the length of the second arc 222, i.e., the ratio of length A to length B, can be in the range of approximately 1.2:1 to 3:1, preferably in the range of 1.4:1 to 2:1, and particularly preferably in the range of 1.45:1 to 1.55:1. For example, the ratio of length A of the first arc 224 to length B of the second arc 222, i.e., A:B, can be approximately 1.5:1.

[0081] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2c, the height D of the second insulation elements 220 can also be measured, for example along the plane 280. The height D can, in particular, be measured between two seams 230 adjacent to a second insulation element 220. The length A of the first arc 224 can be longer than the height D of the second insulation elements 220.

[0082] In some embodiments, the ratio of the length A of the first arc 224 to the height D of the second insulating elements 220, i.e., A : D, can be in the range of 1.2 : 1 to 3 : 1, preferably in the range of 1.3 : 1 to 2.5 : 1, and particularly preferably in the range of 1.4 : 1 to 2.1 : 1. For example, the ratio of the length A of the first arc 224 to the height D of the second insulating elements 220, i.e., A : D, can be approximately 2.0.

[0083] As already mentioned, these ranges for the values ​​A : B or A : D may preferentially apply to all second insulation elements 220. However, it is also conceivable that they only apply to a subset of the second insulation elements 220.

[0084] Furthermore, both ratios A : B and A : D can preferably lie simultaneously within the preferred ranges shown above. However, it is also conceivable that only one ratio, e.g., the ratio A : B, lies within a preferred range, while the other ratio, in the example A : D, does not, or vice versa.

[0085] In the Fig. In the embodiment 200 shown in Figures 2a-c, the first and second insulation elements 210 and 220 are elongated. Here, insulation elements 210 and 220 are referred to as elongated if they extend over a length that is significantly longer than their height, e.g., height D, which is measured, for example, along the plane 280 between respective adjacent seams 230.

[0086] In some embodiments, the first and second insulation elements 210, 220 have cross-sections that depend in part on the materials used in the layers 212, 214, the amount of material used to construct each insulation element 210, 220, the filler material, the volume and weight of the filler material, the stitching, or other structural features used in the insulation elements 210, 220, to name a few parameters. In general, the insulation elements 210, 220 can have cross-sections that include, but are not limited to, curved elements such as circles, ovals, ellipses or parts thereof, rectangles, triangles, irregular shapes, tubes, freehand geometries, and / or combinations thereof. For example, as shown in the Fig. Figures 2a-c show that the cross-sections of the insulation elements 210 and 220 are essentially curved. In some cases, the cross-sections of the insulation elements are essentially oval or elliptical. For example, seams or similar features may be present due to the manufacturing process of the insulation elements 210 and 220, causing them to deviate from a perfectly regular shape, such as a round or oval shape. Further possible configurations of insulation elements are described below.

[0087] The first insulation elements 210 can define chambers or cavities 215, and the second insulation elements 220 can in turn define chambers or cavities 225. Preferably, the first insulation elements 210 and / or the second insulation elements 220 comprise a filling material or insulating material. This material can be arranged in the chambers 215 and 225, respectively. For example, the chambers 215 and 225 can be filled with such a filling material. Filling materials or insulating materials can include, but are not limited to, natural fibers, such as animal fibers like wool or plant fibers, or feathers, in particular down, or synthetic fibers, such as...Fibers made of polyesters, polyethylene terephthalate, mixtures of polyethylene terephthalate and polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate-polyethylene isophthalate copolymer, acrylics and mixtures thereof, synthetic microfiber insulation, mixtures of synthetic microfibers and macrofibers, and / or combinations thereof, for example a mixture of natural and synthetic filling materials.

[0088] Synthetic fibers, for example, exhibit good insulating properties when moist and are therefore a viable option as filling or insulation material. In contrast, down provides excellent thermal insulation at an extremely low weight when dry. Mixtures of such materials are also conceivable. Other possible filling materials include air, gels, foams, liquids, gases, or solids such as granules. Evacuated cavities are also a possibility, in principle, to reduce heat convection. Furthermore, the amount and / or density of the respective filling material can vary between the first and second insulation elements 210 and 220. It is also possible for the amount and / or density of each individual first insulation element 210 to vary, and / or for the amount and / or density of each individual second insulation element 220 to vary.Finally, the fill quantity / fill density can also be inhomogeneous within a single insulation element 210 or 220.

[0089] The second insulation elements 220 can contain significantly more filler material than the first insulation elements 210. In some cases, for example, the ratio of the weight of filler material in the second insulation elements 220 to the weight of filler material in the first insulation elements 210 can be in the range of 1.3:1 to 4:1, preferably in the range of 1.4:1 to 3:1, and particularly preferably in the range of 1.45:1 to 2:1. For example, a thermal insulation structure 200 can have a ratio of the weight of filler material in the second insulation elements 220 to the first insulation elements 210 of approximately 1.5. Again, this can apply to all first and second insulation elements 210, 220, or only to a subset thereof.

[0090] Furthermore, instead of the ratio of the weight of filling material in the second insulation elements 220 to the weight of filling material in the first insulation elements 210, a ratio of the volume of filling material in the second insulation elements 220 to a volume of filling material in the first insulation elements 210 can also be considered, as already mentioned, and for this ratio of filling volumes, for example, the same preferred ranges can be applied which were mentioned above with reference to the filling weight.

[0091] As already mentioned, the first insulation elements 210 and / or the second insulation elements 220, or a subset thereof, may preferably be provided in an elongated form.

[0092] Furthermore, insulation elements, which are elongated elements, can have any cross-sectional geometry, including but not limited to round, oval, rectangular, triangular or combinations thereof, and wherein their extent in a longitudinal direction is significantly greater than the height or width of the insulation elements.

[0093] Preferably, the first insulation elements 210 and the second insulation elements 220, or some of them, are arranged substantially horizontally when the garment is worn. This prevents any filling material from migrating downwards due to gravity, particularly when used in garments, which could lead to an uneven distribution of the filling material within the insulation elements 210 and 220 of the thermal insulation structure 200 and thus to insufficient insulation in higher areas. Another preferred option is to arrange some or all of the first and second insulation elements 210, 220 in a V-shape within the garment. This allows, for example,A consistent distribution of filling material in the first and / or second insulation elements 210 and 220 can be further improved, since such V-shaped insulation elements 210, 220 can also ensure a certain degree of fixation in a direction perpendicular to the body axis, e.g., in a horizontal direction. Therefore, the "V-shape" can still be chosen to be sufficiently flat so that a negative influence, for example, of gravity, can be largely avoided.

[0094] It is also possible that some first and / or second insulation elements 210, 220 are arranged essentially horizontally in the garment and some first and / or second insulation elements 210, 220 are arranged in a V-shape in the garment.

[0095] As a further design option, it should be noted that the thermal insulation structure 200 can have at least one outer layer (not shown), which can be located on the inside or outside of the structure. This could, for example, be an inner lining that increases wearing comfort and further enhances thermal insulation. Outer layers that repel water, dirt, wind, etc., are also possible. The outer layer can, for example, consist of one or more of the following materials: a knitted, crocheted, and / or woven textile made of natural and / or synthetic materials. Additionally, the textile can be treated with a durable water repellent (DWR).

[0096] Further currently preferred embodiments of thermal insulation structures according to the invention are discussed below. To avoid repetition, however, only the differences to the one just described in connection with the Fig. The embodiment 200 discussed in sections 2a-c is examined in detail. Furthermore, the statements made regarding embodiment 200 and the mentioned design options also apply, where applicable, to all subsequent embodiments.

[0097] It should further be noted that in the Fig. 3a-d, Fig. 4, Fig. 5a-b and Fig. Figures 9a-b show only a cross-section through the respective thermal insulation structure for the sake of simplicity, so that it can extend into and out of the image plane.

[0098] The Fig. Figures 3a-d show further possible embodiments of the thermal insulation structures 300a, 300b, 300c, 300d according to the invention, which differ from the thermal insulation structure 200 mainly in the design and arrangement of the first and / or second insulation elements, more precisely in their initial shape. The previously described function for sealing seams or similar remains essentially the same.

[0099] Fig. Figure 3a shows, for example, an embodiment of a thermal insulation structure 300a according to the invention, which comprises a plurality of first insulation elements 310a and a plurality of second insulation elements 320a. The first and second insulation elements 310a and 320a have a substantially rectangular cross-section. This can, in particular, lead to the following, as shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3a, even without the pressure exerted by the support, the first and second insulation elements 310a and 320a lie close together, and the thermal insulation structure 300a thus inherently exhibits particularly good insulating properties. Also in Fig. 3a The second insulation elements 320a, without the pressure generated during carrying, point in a direction perpendicular to the inside of the thermal insulation structure 300a (in Fig. 3a above) has a greater thickness than the first insulation elements 310a. This causes the second insulation elements 320a to be deformed by the pressure generated on the inside of the thermal insulation structure 300a during carrying, such that the contact surfaces in which the first insulation elements 310a touch the second insulation elements 320a are enlarged.

[0100] Analogous statements also apply to those in the Fig. 3b,c shown embodiments of the thermal insulation structures 300b and 300c according to the invention, with the exception of the initial shape, in particular the cross-sectional shape, of the insulation elements. While in the thermal insulation structure 300b the first insulation elements 310b have a tubular nature and the second insulation elements 320b are rectangular in cross-section, in the thermal insulation structure 300c, which is shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3c, the relationships are reversed. Here, the first insulation elements 310c have a rectangular cross-section, and the second insulation elements 320c are tubular. The second insulation elements 320b, 320c each have a greater thickness in a direction perpendicular to the inside of the thermal insulation structure 300b, 300c (in the image above) than the first insulation elements 310b, 310c.

[0101] The in Fig. The 3D illustrated embodiment of a thermal insulation structure 300d finally makes it clear that the first insulation elements 310d and the second insulation elements 320d do not necessarily have to be arranged alternately next to each other in the thermal insulation structure 300d. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3d, first insulation elements 310d can be connected to second insulation elements 320d and / or, in some cases, to other first insulation elements 310d. An element 330d can also be positioned at various points within the thermal insulation structure 300d. Element 330d can include structures that provide functionality specific to the requirements of a particular garment. For example, element 330d can be designed to provide breathability and / or ventilation, allow the passage of materials such as wires, cables, or the like, and / or provide insulation. Such additional elements can also be part of other embodiments of thermal insulation structures according to the invention described herein, even if they are not explicitly shown.

[0102] An alternating arrangement and connection of the first and second insulation elements can be desirable, as this allows as many seams and connection areas between the first and second insulation elements as possible to be sealed by increased contact surfaces under pressure. Furthermore, a repeating arrangement can improve wearing comfort.

[0103] It is clear to those skilled in the art that not all possible combinations and arrangements of first, second, and possibly further elements can be shown here. However, these can be deduced from their specialist knowledge, and such embodiments also belong to the invention.

[0104] Fig. Figure 4 shows another preferred embodiment of a thermal insulation structure 400. The thermal insulation structure 400 comprises layers 412 and 414. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, layer 412 can contain a single piece or fabric. Layer 414 can be connected to layer 412 by suture 430. As shown in Figure 412, layer 412 can be a single piece or fabric. Fig. As shown in Figure 4, seam 430 includes connecting tape 440 and quilting 450. Furthermore, seam 430 can have a combination of construction methods described herein.

[0105] As in Fig. Figure 4 shows that the first insulation elements 410 have a different initial shape than the second insulation elements 420. In some embodiments, the length A' of the arc 424 of the second insulation elements 420 can be longer than the length B' of the arc 422 of the first insulation elements 410.

[0106] Furthermore, the ratio of the length A' of the arc 424 of the second insulating elements 420 to the height E of the second insulating elements 420, i.e., the ratio of length A' to height E, can be in the range of 1.2 : 1 to 3 : 1, preferably in the range of 1.3 : 1 to 2.5 : 1, and particularly preferably in the range of 1.4 : 1 to 2.1 : 1. For example, the ratio of the length A' of the arc 424 to the height E of the second insulating elements 420, i.e., A' : E, can be approximately 1.5.

[0107] In further embodiments, layer 412 can be constructed from several material parts which are joined together. The material parts used can be selected because of the special properties or characteristics of the material.

[0108] The Fig. Figures 5a-b show a further embodiment of a thermal insulation structure 500 and a manufacturing method 550 according to the invention. The thermal insulation structure 500 can, for example, be one of the embodiments of a thermal insulation structure already described, in particular the thermal insulation structure 200.

[0109] The thermal insulation structure 500 comprises one or more first insulation elements 510 and one or more second insulation elements 520. For the sake of simplicity, only one example of each is shown. At least one of the first insulation elements 510 has an inner layer 511 and an outer layer 512, which define a cavity 515. At least one of the second insulation elements 520 also has an inner layer 521 and an outer layer 522, which define a cavity 525. Preferably, all first and second insulation elements 510, 520 have corresponding inner layers 511, 521 and outer layers 512, 522, which define cavities 515, 525.

[0110] The surface area of ​​the inner layer 511 of the first insulation elements 510 (in the following, the plural will again be used for simplicity) is smaller than the surface area of ​​the inner layer 521 of the second insulation elements 520.

[0111] Furthermore, in the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figures 5a-b, the surface area of ​​the inner layer 511 of the first insulating elements 510 is essentially the same size as the surface area of ​​the outer layer 512 of the first insulating elements 510. The surface area of ​​the inner layer 521 of the second insulating elements 520, however, is larger than the surface area of ​​the outer layer 522 of the second insulating elements 520. This construction, possibly after filling the cavities 515 and 525, leads to the following, as shown in the Fig. As shown in Figures 5a-b, the second insulation elements 520 have a greater thickness in a direction perpendicular to the inside than the first insulation elements 510.

[0112] Particularly preferred are, as in the Fig. Figures 5a-b show that the inner layers 511 and 521 of the first and second insulation elements 510 and 520 are formed together in one piece. This allows for a continuous inner layer. Furthermore, the outer layers 512 and 522 of the first and second insulation elements 510 and 520 are also preferably formed together in one piece. This also allows for a continuous outer layer. If both the inner and outer layers are formed in one piece, this can improve the stability, thermal insulation, water impermeability, dirt repellency, etc., of the thermal insulation structure 500. Furthermore, this can simplify manufacturing and / or reduce costs.

[0113] Furthermore, in the embodiment shown here, a first arc 534 along the inner surface 521 of the second insulation elements 520 has a greater length a in a cross-section of the thermal insulation structure 500 than a length b of a second arc 532 in the cross-section along the outer surface 522 of the second insulation elements 520. The inner surface and the outer surface can be defined, for example, by the Fig. The plane 590 shown in 5a-b is limited, which intersects the first and second insulation elements 510, 520 and, if present, the seams 571, 572, 573.

[0114] The ratio of the length of the first arc 534 to the length of the second arc 532, i.e., the ratio of length a to length b, can be in the range of approximately 1.2 : 1 to 3 : 1, preferably in the range of 1.4 : 1 to 2 : 1, and particularly preferably in the range of 1.45 : 1 to 1.55 : 1. For example, the ratio of length a of the first arc 534 to length b of the second arc 532, i.e., a : b, can be approximately 1.5 : 1.

[0115] As also in Fig. As shown in Figure 5a, the height d of the second insulation elements 520 can be measured, for example along the plane 590. The height d can be measured, in particular, between two seams 572, 573, which are adjacent to a second insulation element 520. The length a of the first arch 534 can be longer than the height d of the second insulation elements 520.

[0116] In some embodiments, the ratio of the length a of the first arc 534 to the height d of the second insulating elements 520, i.e., a : d, can be in the range of 1.2 : 1 to 3 : 1, preferably in the range of 1.3 : 1 to 2.5 : 1, and particularly preferably in the range of 1.4 : 1 to 2.1 : 1. For example, the ratio of the length a of the first arc 534 to the height d of the second insulating elements 520, i.e., a : d, can be approximately 2.0.

[0117] One possible manufacturing process 550 for a thermal insulation structure 500 is, for example, in Fig. Figure 5b shows that the single-piece inner layer 560 and the single-piece outer layer 565 can be fed at variable speeds, indicated by arrows 580 and 585 respectively, to a sewing table 570, which sews the inner layer 560 and the outer layer 565 together. For example, a V-shaped seam running perpendicular to the plane of the image can also be created to produce V-shaped first and second insulation elements 510 and 520. To produce the first insulation elements 510, the inner layer 560 and the outer layer 565 can now be fed to the sewing table 570 at the same speeds 580 and 585 respectively between the sewing of two seams 571 and 572 that define a first insulation element 510. This results in the surfaces of sections 511 and 512 of the inner and outer layers 560 and 565 being of the same size.To produce the second insulation element 520, the inner layer 560 can be fed to the sewing table 570 at a higher speed 580 than the outer layer 565 between the sewing of two seams 572 and 573 that define a second insulation element 520. This results in the surface area of ​​section 521 of the inner layer 560 being larger than the surface area of ​​section 522 of the outer layer 565. After passing through the sewing table 570, the cavities 515 and / or 525 can be filled with a filling or insulating material, and the first and second insulation elements 510 and 520 can be sewn together at their ends, if necessary.

[0118] The constructions described herein may allow garments that utilize thermal insulation structures to be assembled by machines, or at least parts of the garments may be assembled by machines.

[0119] Thermal insulation structures as described herein can be combined with conventional structures to manufacture garments. Thermal insulation structures 200, 300a-d, 400, 500, and 900a-b, possibly in combination with conventional structures 100, can be positioned in areas of the user most susceptible to heat loss. These thermal insulation structures can also be combined with structures designed to allow additional breathability, mobility, comfort, protection from the elements (i.e., wind, rain, moisture, etc.), and / or utility.

[0120] A garment comprising, but not limited to, a jacket, vest, insulated trousers, hat, mittens, gloves or the like, with an embodiment of a thermal insulation structure according to the invention 200, 300a-d, 400, 500, 900a-b represents a further aspect of the invention.

[0121] The Fig. Figures 6a-e show an embodiment of a jacket 600 with an embodiment of a thermal insulation structure according to the invention. The inside of the jacket 600 is shown in each case.

[0122] The figures show a plurality of first insulation elements 610 and a plurality of second insulation elements 620. Some of the first and second insulation elements 610 and 620 have a V-shaped form. The insulation elements 610 and 620 are filled with a filling material, for example, down or a synthetic fiber material. Furthermore, the figures, in particular the Fig. It can be seen from figures 6c-e that the second insulation elements 620, when the jacket 600 is unworn (i.e., without any pressure exerted on the inside by the wearer), have a greater thickness in a direction perpendicular to the inside of the jacket 600 or the thermal insulation structure than the first insulation elements 610. The ratio of the thicknesses is approximately 3:1.

[0123] The first and second insulation elements 610 and 620 are primarily arranged around the torso of the wearer's body, as this part of the body can potentially lead to a significant amount of heat loss. In the shoulder and neck areas, on the other hand, which may be covered by a backpack and are areas prone to high perspiration, a different, more breathable material 630 can be used, as shown here.

[0124] Fig. Figure 7 shows a thermal image of the Jacket 600, which was taken under the same external conditions as the thermal image of the conventional Jacket 160. Fig. 1d. The admission to Fig. It is clearly evident from point 7 that in the lower back area 700, the inside of which is in the Fig. As can be seen in Figures 6a-e, a temperature consistently below approximately 10°C was measured, particularly in areas 710 where the seams of the jacket 600 are located. The jacket 600 therefore exhibits significantly fewer heat holes than the conventional jacket 160. A marked reduction in heat holes is also evident in the sleeve areas of the jacket 600, where thermal insulation structures according to the invention are also arranged.

[0125] On the other hand, in the area of ​​750 of the breathable material 630, a much more pronounced loss of body heat can be seen.

[0126] The Fig. Figures 8a-b show a further embodiment of a jacket 800 with an embodiment of a thermal insulation structure according to the invention. The jacket has a plurality of first insulation elements 810 and a plurality of second insulation elements 820, which are arranged alternately next to each other. The first and second insulation elements 810, 820 are arranged elongated and horizontally in the left and right halves of the wearer's torso. In the middle of the back of the jacket 800, further insulation elements 830, provided in a V-shape, are arranged. These insulation elements 830 may or may not provide the "sealing" effect of heat holes according to the invention.

[0127] The jacket further comprises an outer covering layer 850, for example a water-repellent outer covering layer 850, which is arranged on the outside of the jacket 800 with a thermal insulation structure according to the invention. The outer layer 850 can also serve design purposes.

[0128] While in the case shown here no first and second insulation elements 810, 820 according to the invention are arranged, for example, in the sleeves of the jacket 800, in other preferred embodiments of a jacket according to the invention the sleeves also include first and second insulation elements which provide the sealing function according to the invention for heat holes also in those areas.

[0129] Finally, the Fig. Figures 9a-b describe further conceivable embodiments of the thermal insulation structures 900a and 900b according to the invention. What is special about these thermal insulation structures 900a and 900b is that the first insulation elements 910a and 910b, respectively, and the second insulation elements 920a and 920b, respectively, each have the same initial shape, but differ in their initial orientation. Such embodiments are also covered by the term "different initial shape," as explained above. In particular, the first insulation elements 910a and 910b and the second insulation elements 920a and 920b have different orientations with respect to their cross-sections.

[0130] The shape and orientation here again refers to the initial shape or orientation of the insulating elements 910a, 910b and 920a, 920b, which they have in an unloaded state, i.e. when no pressure is exerted on them.

[0131] As indicated by the dashed lines in the Fig. As indicated in Figures 9a-b, in thermal insulation structure 900a, the first insulation elements 910a, shown here with an oval (cross-sectional) shape, are rotated approximately 85° with respect to their cross-section relative to the second insulation elements 920a, also shown here with an oval shape. In contrast, in thermal insulation structure 900b, the first insulation elements 910b, shown here with a rectangular shape, are rotated approximately 90° with respect to their cross-section relative to the second insulation elements 920b, also shown here with a rectangular shape. Other angles of rotation are also conceivable, e.g., in the range of 80° to 100°.

Claims

[1] A garment (600), in particular a jacket or vest, comprising a thermal insulation structure (200; 300a-d; 400; 500) with a. a first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610); and b. a second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620), wherein the second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) has a different initial shape than the first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610); c. wherein the first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) is connected to the second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620); d. wherein the second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) is deformed when the garment (600) is worn by pressure on an inside of the thermal insulation structure (200; 300a-d; 400; 500) such that a contact area (250) in which the first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) touches the second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) is enlarged; and e. wherein the first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) and the second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) are arranged in a V-shape in the garment (600). [2] Garment (600) according to the preceding claim, comprising a plurality of first insulating elements (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) and a plurality of second insulating elements (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620), wherein the second insulating elements (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) each have a different initial shape than the first insulating elements (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610), wherein each first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) is connected to at least one second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620), and wherein the second insulating elements (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) when wearing the garment (600) by pressure on the inside of the thermal insulation structure (200; 300a-d; 400; 500) are deformed in such a way that contact surfaces (250) in which the first insulation elements (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) touch the second insulation elements (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) are enlarged. [3] Garment (600) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) and at least one second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) are connected at a corresponding seam (230; 430; 571; 572; 573) and wherein the enlarged contact area (250) of the seam (230; 430; 571; 572; 573) is adjacent, such that the at least one second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) substantially overlaps the seam (230; 430; 571; 572; 573) when the garment (600) is worn. [4] Clothing item (600) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the enlarged contact area (250) in which at least a first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) contacts at least a second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) reduces the escape of body heat. [5] Garment (600) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in a cross-section of the thermal insulation structure a first arc (224; 534) along an inner surface of at least one second insulation element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) has a greater length (A; a) than a length (B; b) of a second arc (222; 532) in the cross-section along an outer surface of the at least one second insulation element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620). [6] Garment (600) according to the preceding claim, wherein the ratio of the length (A; a) of the first arc (224; 534) to the length (B; b) of the second arc (222; 532) is in the range of 1.2 : 1 - 3 : 1, preferably in the range of 1.4 : 1 - 2 : 1, and particularly preferably in the range of 1.45 : 1 - 1.55 :

1. [7] Garment (600) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the ratio of the length (A; a) of the first arc (224; 534) to the height (D; d) of the at least one second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) in the cross-section is in the range of 1.2 : 1 - 3 : 1, preferably in the range of 1.3 : 1 - 2.5 : 1 and particularly preferably in the range of 1.4 : 1 - 2.1 :

1. [8] Garment (600) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) and / or at least one second insulating element (220; 320a-d; 420; 520; 620) comprise a filling material. [9] Garment (600) according to the preceding claim, wherein the ratio of the weight of filling material in the at least one second insulating element (220, 320a-d; 420; 520, 620) to the weight of filling material in the at least one first insulating element (210; 310a-d; 410; 510; 610) is in the range of 1.3 : 1 - 4 : 1, preferably in the range of 1.4 : 1 - 3 : 1, and particularly preferably in the range of 1.45 : 1 - 2.0 :

1. [10] Clothing item (600) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one first and at least one second insulating element (410; 420; 510; 520) each comprise: an inner layer (414; 511; 521) and an outer layer (412; 512; 522) that define a cavity (515; 525), wherein a surface area of ​​the inner layer (414; 511) of the at least one first insulating element (410; 510) is smaller than a surface area of ​​the inner layer (414; 521) of the at least one second insulating element (420; 520). [11] Clothing item (600) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one first and at least one second insulating element (510; 520) each comprise: an inner layer (511; 521) and an outer layer (512; 522) that define a cavity (515; 525), wherein a surface area of ​​the inner layer (511) of the at least one first insulating element (510) is substantially the same as a surface area of ​​the outer layer (512) of the at least one first insulating element (510), and wherein a surface area of ​​the inner layer (521) of the at least one second insulating element (520) is larger than a surface area of ​​the outer layer (522) of the at least one second insulating element (520). [12] Clothing item (600) according to one of the preceding claims 10 and 11, wherein the inner layer (414; 511) of the at least one first insulating element (410; 510) and the inner layer (414; 521) of the at least one second insulating element (420; 520) are formed in one piece. [13] Clothing item (600) according to any one of the preceding claims 10-12, wherein the outer layer (412; 512) of the at least one first insulating element (410; 510) and the outer layer (412; 522) of the at least one second insulating element (420; 520) are formed in one piece. [14] Clothing item (600) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one first insulating element (210; 310b; 310d; 410; 510; 610) and / or at least one second insulating element (220; 320c; 320d; 420; 520; 620) are elongated. [15] Clothing item (600) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one first insulating element (210; 310a-c; 410; 510; 610) and at least one second insulating element (220; 320a-c; 420; 520; 620) are arranged alternately next to each other. [16] Clothing item (600) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one covering layer which is arranged on the inside and / or an outside of the thermal insulation structure (200; 300a-d; 400; 500).

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