Portable protective device

Abstract

Portable protective device (100) for protecting at least one part of the body of a wearer (202), comprising an inflatable element (100,110a,110b) that is arranged adjacent to a body part to be protected (204,204a,204b), wherein the inflatable element can be inflated from a first, substantially uninflated state to a second, substantially inflated state by applying a releasable source of a gas (302, 302a, 302b) to the inflatable element to fill the inflatable element at least partially with the gas, wherein the inflatable element, when inflated into the second state, assumes a predetermined three-dimensional shape, wherein the inflatable element has a first extension in a first direction and a second extension in a second direction, where the first direction and the second direction are not parallel to each other, wherein one of the first extensions and the second extension is larger in the first state than in the second state, and wherein the other of the first extension and the second extension is smaller in the first state than in the second state, such that during the transition from the first state to the second state, the inflatable element increases in size in one extension while the inflatable element decreases in size in the other extension, wherein the portable protective device can be connected to a fastening device (102) to attach the portable protective device to the carrier, and wherein the portable protective device is designed to be at least partially displaceable relative to the fastening device, such that the portable protective device is moved along the fastening device while remaining connected to the fastening device and positioned adjacent to a body part to be protected when either the first extension or the second extension becomes smaller during inflation of the inflatable element.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to protective devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to protective devices that can be worn on the human body. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to wearable protective devices that inflate to prevent injury to the human body in the event of an accident, e.g., a fall. BACKGROUND

[0002] Inflatable protection devices are very common in the automotive industry. Inflatable elements, also called airbags, have long been used in the interior of vehicles to protect occupants in the event of an accident. Such inflatable elements are deployed, i.e., inflated, when an impending or occurring vehicle collision is taking place, to cushion the impact of a vehicle occupant on elements of the vehicle such as the steering wheel or dashboard. Over time, additional inflatable elements have been installed throughout the vehicle interior to provide additional protection in the event of unusual impact angles. For example, side airbags, window airbags, and airbags for rear passengers are now common practice. Some vehicles even include inflatable elements mounted on the exterior of the vehicle to protect occupants involved in a vehicle collision in the event of an accident outside the vehicle.

[0003] Newer personal protective devices are designed to protect specific parts of the body by placing the inflatable protective devices close to a specific part of the body that needs to be protected. By wearing an inflatable protective device on a specific part of the body, the inflatable protective device can be inflated in the event of an impending or occurring accident to create a cushioning effect for that specific part of the body. For example, inflatable protective devices are known that are worn like a normal belt and comprise inflatable elements that unfold when a fall is detected in order to cushion the fall and reduce the impact forces acting on the wearer's body. In other words, such inflatable protective devices, which, for example,Designed to protect the hip area of ​​their wearer, they sense that the person wearing the protective device is about to fall and then trigger the deployment, i.e., the inflation, of the inflatable elements. The inflatable elements are positioned close to the body part to be protected, so that at the time of impact, the inflatable element is expected to be located between the wearer's body and the impacting object, e.g., the ground, a wall, or another object, to protect that body part.

[0004] When transitioning from a substantially deflated state to an inflated state, inflatable elements regularly change their shape as the interior of the inflatable element fills with a gas. Such a change in shape usually consists of at least one dimension of the inflatable element increasing, i.e. becoming larger, while another dimension of the inflatable elements decreasing, i.e. becoming smaller. Such a change in shape or dimension may mean that the inflatable element moves away from the body part to be protected or at least is positioned at some distance from the body part. In other words, inflatable elements tend to expand from the intended protective position due to the forces generated during inflation of the inflatable element.As one dimension, which regularly runs radially and thus points away from the wearer's body, increases during inflation while another dimension, which regularly runs circumferentially around the wearer's body, decreases, inflatable elements tend to shift their orientation relative to the body part to be protected. Furthermore, a good and snug fit of the wearable protective device relative to the wearer's body is necessary to ensure protection against accidents. At the same time, wearing a wearable protective device for extended periods can be uncomfortable if the snug fit is maintained throughout the entire wear period.

[0005] At the same time, the physical dimensions of individual wearers may vary considerably, while the physical dimensions of the body part to be protected do not necessarily change by the same amount. In other words, to accommodate a wide range of potential wearer sizes, it is not necessarily necessary to change the dimensions of the protective device in the same way. This may result in a comparatively small number of different sizes of wearable protective device being able to fit a comparatively large number of different wearer sizes. Even if the dimensions of a wearable protective device do not change, it may still be necessary to align the wearable protective device accordingly and thus position it adjacent to the body part to be protected.

[0006] It may therefore be necessary to ensure that the inflatable element remains appropriately positioned relative to the body parts to be protected when the personal protective device is deployed, i.e. when it is inflated.

[0007] Furthermore, it may be necessary to provide an attachment for a portable protective device to the body of a wearer so that the position of the protective device relative to the wearer's body can be easily adjusted without changing the dimensions of the portable protective device or its elements.

[0008] EP 3 291 697 B1 describes a protective device comprising an inflatable element capable of assuming an active inflated state and a resting state without air, and wherein the inflatable element comprises a knitted body having a closed structure on at least four sides or walls and having an at least partially tubular shape to define an interior region or an interior chamber, wherein the knitted body has a plurality of connecting threads at least partially occupying the interior region and being suitable for connecting two surfaces or walls of the knitted body.

[0009] US 6,857,136 B1 describes a support collar with a bladder and a shell. The bladder can be inflated with a liquid. The shell can be attached to a harness. When inflated, the bladder is shaped by the shell to form an air chamber. The air chamber is characterized by a cross-section with a center of gravity and a dimension through the center of gravity. The dimension is larger at an open end than at the closed end.

[0010] CN 1 09 008 022 A describes a smart care belt. The belt comprises a belt body, a casing, and an airbag. The belt body penetrates an outer surface of the casing. The casing comprises an airbag bag for accommodating the airbag and a gas cylinder bag for accommodating a gas cylinder. The gas cylinder bag is connected to and secured above the center of the airbag. The surface in which the belt body of the casing is disposed is internally provided with a control unit and a battery. The airbag comprises an inner liner and an outer layer. The inner liner has a multi-claw structure. An edge of the inner liner is sealed by heat sealing. The outer layer has a bag-shaped structure. The edge of the inner liner is secured to the outer layer. An air inlet is formed in the top of the inner liner. The gas cylinder is inserted into the air inlet.Both sides of the lower part of the outer layer are connected with buckles, the buckles are provided with start switches inside, the airbag is housed in the airbag bag, the buckles protrude from the airbag bag, a cylinder mouth of the gas cylinder is covered with a first spot-jet assembly, a spot-jet head is arranged in the first spot-jet assembly, a vent hole connecting the cylinder mouth and the outside space is formed in the first spot-jet assembly, and the belt has a larger protection area for a human body and a reasonable structure.

[0011] CN 1 12 089 121 A describes fall protection trousers that can be repeatedly inflated. The fall protection trousers comprise a trouser body, wherein a fall protection device is arranged on the trouser body, the fall protection device comprises a protective air bag and intelligent inflation hardware for fall assessment, the intelligent inflation hardware for fall assessment comprises an inflation air cylinder, the inflation air cylinder is permanently connected to an inflation and deflation pressure-maintaining valve, the inflation and deflation pressure-maintaining valve is permanently connected to the protective air bag by an arranged ventilation line, the inflation and deflation pressure-maintaining valve is electrically connected to a sensor module, and the sensor module is used for fall assessment and remote alarm. SUMMARY

[0012] At least one such need can be met by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are specified in the dependent claims and are explained in more detail in the following description.

[0013] The present invention relates to portable protective devices for preventing injuries to the human body in the event of an accident.

[0014] According to a first aspect of the disclosure, a wearable protective device for protecting at least one body part of a wearer is provided, comprising an inflatable member disposed adjacent to a body part to be protected, the inflatable member being inflatable from a first, substantially uninflated state to a second, substantially inflated state by applying a releasable source of gas to the inflatable member to at least partially fill the inflatable member with the gas, the inflatable member, when inflated to the second state, assuming a predetermined three-dimensional shape, the inflatable member having a first extent in a first direction and a second extent in a second direction, the first direction and the second direction not being parallel to each other,wherein one of the first extent and the second extent is greater in the first state than in the second state, and wherein the other of the first extent and the second extent is smaller in the first state than in the second state, such that upon transition from the first state to the second state, the inflatable element increases in size in one extent while the inflatable element decreases in size in the other extent, wherein the wearable protective device is connectable to a fastening device for fastening the wearable protective device to the wearer, and wherein the wearable protective device is configured to be at least partially displaceable relative to the fastening device such that when one of the first extent and the second extent decreases while the inflatable element is inflated, the wearable protective device slides along the fastening device,while remaining connected to the fastening device and positioned adjacent to a body part to be protected.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the wearable protective device may be connected to the fastening device by a plurality of loop members, wherein the loop members may be adapted to receive the fastening device and are arranged to move along a length of the fastening device.

[0016] Loop elements may be a preferred means for attaching the wearable protective device to the attachment device. The attachment device may be guided through and move along the loop elements, allowing a user of the wearable protective device to easily attach the personal protective device by sliding the attachment device onto the wearable protective device. Although the wearable protective device remains substantially unchanged in terms of its physical dimensions, various attachment devices may be used to accommodate different physical dimensions of the wearer, and the wearable protective device may be attached thereto to accommodate different physical sizes of the wearer.By using elements that enable the portable protective device to be moved on the fastening device, the position of the portable protective device on the wearer's body can also be adjusted. The relative position of the portable protective device in relation to the body part to be protected can be adjusted so that the inflatable element can be arranged adjacent to the body part to be protected. For example, a wearer can attach the portable protective device to their body, while the moveability provided by the loop elements enables the relative positioning of the inflatable element and / or the portable protective device on the fastening device, whereby the inflatable element and / or the portable protective device can be aligned relative to the body part to be protected.

[0017] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable element and at least one loop element from the plurality of loop elements may be formed as a single piece, thereby forming an opening for receiving the fastening device, wherein in particular the inflatable element and at least one loop element from the plurality of loop elements may be formed as a single piece from a single-piece fabric.

[0018] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable element and at least one of the plurality of loop elements may be in contact at two contact areas, wherein the inflatable element and the at least one of the plurality of loop elements may be integrally formed at a first contact area of ​​the two contact areas, and wherein the inflatable element and the at least one of the plurality of loop elements may be connected but not integrally formed at a second contact area of ​​the two contact areas, thereby forming an opening for receiving the fastening device.

[0019] By forming a loop element and the inflatable element as a single piece, a preferred, secure connection between the elements and the guide elements can be achieved. "Single piece" can be understood in particular as such an integral connection between the part forming the inflatable element and the part forming the loop. In other words, part of the inflatable element can merge into part of the loop element. In this case, the loop element can have an open end that can be brought back into contact with the inflatable element at a desired location, whereby the loop element and the inflatable element can in turn be connected to one another to form the loop. This connection must not be an integral connection, but must be sewn or welded, creating a connecting seam between the loop element and the inflatable element.

[0020] Alternatively, the inflatable element and a loop element may be formed entirely as a single piece, with the inflatable element and the loop elements forming a continuous fabric that effectively integrally connects the loop element and the inflatable element at both ends of the loop. To achieve such an integral connection, the loop element and the inflatable element may be formed as a single piece, e.g., from a single-piece fabric, such that the loop element and the inflatable element are formed from substantially continuous threads, eliminating the need for external fastening such as welding or sewing. Such integral formation of the loop element and the inflatable element creates a very strong connection between the loop element and the inflatable element.Furthermore, this allows for the provision of a loop element attached to the inflatable element in locations where sewing or welding is not possible. For example, in areas where the inflatable element actually inflates, it may not be possible to sew or weld the loop element to the inflatable element without compromising its inflatable properties.

[0021] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable member may comprise inflatable portions and non-inflatable portions, and wherein at least one of the plurality of loop members is attached to two non-inflatable portions of the inflatable member, thereby forming an opening for receiving the fastening device.

[0022] When connecting a loop element to non-inflatable regions of the inflatable elements, the connection may be made by sewing or welding, a connection method that would otherwise impair the inflatable element's inflatability. Furthermore, by attaching a loop element to non-inflatable regions, the position of the loop element in the inflated and deflated states of the inflatable element may remain substantially unchanged. In other words, the geometry of the loop element with respect to the attachment device may not change, or may change only to a lesser extent, when the loop element is attached to two non-inflatable regions of the inflatable element, compared to when it is attached to only one non-inflatable region or to no non-inflatable regions of the inflatable element.For example, changing a relative local dimension of the inflatable element during inflation can negatively influence the geometry of the loop element.

[0023] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable element may comprise a one-piece fabric, wherein the non-inflatable regions may be regions in which the one-piece fabric is integrally woven.

[0024] To be inflatable, the inflatable element must have an inflatable volume located between at least two fabric layers, such as a front and a back layer. These layers can be integrally formed or woven in areas where seams would normally be provided to join the layers. Instead of such seams being sewn or welded, the fabric layers of the inflatable element are integrally woven so that the threads of the two layers interlock, essentially forming a single fabric. By using a one-piece fabric, the inflatable volumes of the inflatable elements can be freely arranged within the fabric, and the geometric shape of the inflatable element can be freely determined.Furthermore, there is no need to provide separate fabric layers that are then joined together by sewing or welding; instead, the inflatable element can be manufactured using a continuous weaving process in a single production step. Creating fillable volumes of the inflatable element through one-piece weaving ensures a stronger fabric bond in the non-inflatable areas, increasing the tensile strength and thus the load-bearing capacity of the inflatable element.

[0025] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the loop elements may have a longitudinal extension, wherein the longitudinal extension of a first subset of loop elements and the longitudinal extension of a second subset of loop elements may not be parallel.

[0026] When an inflatable element is inflated, it regularly changes its shape and dimensions because its volume changes in certain areas. Due to the change in volume, i.e. due to the inflation of the inflatable element, the inflatable element / wearable protection device is deformed during inflation. Such deformation also affects the relative alignment of the loop elements of the wearable protection device. By providing several loop elements that are not all aligned parallel to one another, the effects of such deformation on the relative alignment of the loop elements to one another and to the fastening device can be reduced. If the increase in volume and thus the deformation leads to a relative rotation of the individual elements to one another, this can, for example,the fastening device can become jammed in the loop elements, thereby negatively affecting the sliding ability of the portable protective device on the fastening device. This means that the loop elements can become tangled or twisted due to inflation and get caught on the fastening device, increasing the friction against the fastening device so that essentially easy sliding of the portable protective device on the fastening device can no longer be guaranteed. By angling a subset of loop elements relative to another subset of loop elements, the overall load can be balanced out. The friction of some loop elements against the fastening device can increase, while the friction of other loop elements decreases, so that the overall friction for sliding is maintained.

[0027] Alternatively, the orientation of a loop element can be adjusted to the expected deformation of the inflatable element during inflation. This means that individual loop elements can be aligned such that the deformation does not significantly change the orientation and / or alignment of the loop element relative to the attachment device, provided the deformation is known. This, in turn, maintains the overall friction for displacement, so that the mobility of the portable protective device relative to the attachment device is not negatively affected.

[0028] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable element may remain substantially stationary at a first end relative to the attachment device when the inflatable element translates relative to the attachment device upon inflation, while the wearable protective device translates relative to the attachment device and toward the first end at a second end opposite the first end, wherein the wearable protective device may be shortened in length when inflated, and wherein the inflatable element may be asymmetrical with respect to a point centrally located between the first end and the second end, in particular wherein the portion of the inflatable element between the second end and the centrally located point may be larger than the portion of the inflatable element between the first end and the centrally located point.

[0029] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the fastening device may be a belt.

[0030] By providing a fixed position at a first end, repeated alignment of the inflatable element with respect to the body part to be protected can be facilitated. In other words, the inflatable element / wearable protective device can be adapted to the physical dimensions of a wearer such that the inflatable element adapts to the body parts to be protected while remaining in a fixed position on the attachment device. If the wearable protective device is removed from the wearer's body, e.g., during sleep, and reattached in the morning, the wearable protective device can be easily reattached such that the inflatable element realigns with the body parts to be protected without the need to realign the relative position of the inflatable element and the body part to be protected.Furthermore, by providing the inflatable element / wearable protective device at a specific position on the mounting device, displacement of the inflatable element / wearable protective device on the mounting device is avoided. This, in turn, prevents inadvertent misalignment caused by inadvertent displacement of the inflatable element relative to the body part to be protected while wearing the wearable protective device. For example, if the wearable protective device is worn for extended periods throughout the day, a freely movable wearable protective device on the mounting device can lead to relative misalignment of the wearable protective device and the mounting device.In other words, relative displacement of the wearable protective device on the attachment device may result in misalignment of the inflatable element and the body part to be protected, while the attachment device may remain in a certain position relative to the wearer's body.

[0031] For example, if the fastening device is a belt, the wearer can easily realign the belt throughout the day, e.g., by occasionally aligning a specific point of the fastening device, such as a buckle, with the wearer's body. If the inflatable element / wearable protective device is positioned relative to the fastening device, realigning the fastening device relative to the wearer's body cannot ensure correct (re)alignment of the inflatable element / wearable protective device relative to the body part to be protected. Only if the inflatable element, the wearable protective device, is attached to the fastening device can accidental misalignment be avoided.

[0032] If the inflatable element is only attached to the fastening device at one end, this part of the inflatable element can still slide relative to the fastening device if the dimensions of the inflatable element change. When inflating the inflatable element, for example, a first dimension can be reduced and a second dimension can be increased. In other words, a length of the inflatable elements can be shortened by inflation, so that at least part of the inflatable element has to be moved along the circumference of the fastening device. If only one end of the inflatable element is attached to the fastening device, the rest of the inflatable element can continue to slide along the fastening device, in particular towards the attached end.The physical dimensions of the inflatable element can be selected such that the inflatable elements remain adjacent to the body part to be protected even when inflated, albeit with altered physical dimensions. In other words, the inflatable element can be dimensioned such that, when inflated, it adapts to and accommodates the body part to be protected. This, in turn, can lead to slight misalignment of the inflatable element when deflated. However, since the inflatable element / wearable protective device essentially performs no protective function when deflated, such misalignment is negligible when deflated.One way to compensate for the shortening of the extension of the inflatable element in the inflated state compared to the deflated state is to provide a sufficiently large inflatable element so that the inflatable element remains adjacent to the body part to be protected when inflated.

[0033] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the attachment device can be adjusted to accommodate a variety of wearer sizes, particularly wherein adjusting the size of the attachment device does not change the orientation of the wearable protective device relative to the attachment device.

[0034] In other words, the fastening device has a region to which the wearable protective device is fastened, while it has another region that is substantially free from the wearable protective device or at least not rigidly connected to the wearable protective device and allows the fastening device to be adjusted to the size of the wearer. In the example of a belt, the wearable protective device could be arranged on a first region of the belt, wherein the belt can be adjusted in size to adapt to the wearer's circumference. The wearable protective device could, for example, be arranged on the belt in a substantially central region between the belt buckle and the open end, wherein the size of the belt can be adjusted by adjusting the belt relative to the open end.Preferably, the adjustment is carried out symmetrically at both ends of the fastening device, in particular symmetrically with respect to an arranged or fixed portable protective device, so that the alignment of the portable protective device / the inflatable element with the body part to be protected is not changed by the adjustment of the size.

[0035] Alternatively, particularly in cases where the wearable protective device is not designed as a symmetrical protective device, i.e. does not protect symmetrical body parts, the wearer could align the wearable protective device with the (single) body part to be protected and adjust the fastening device for a good fit relative to the wearer's body. In the case of a wearable protective device that protects, for example, a joint such as a knee joint or an elbow joint, the wearer could align the wearable protective device with the joint and close or fasten the fastening device so that the wearable protective device remains adjacent to the joint. In this example, symmetrical alignment of, for example, the belt buckle or other fastening device on the wearable protective device is not required because the wearable protective device is not designed as a symmetrical protective device that, for example,protects both hip joints, but is designed as a single protective device that protects a single joint.

[0036] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the wearable protective device may be comprised of a one-piece fabric with woven-in retaining straps to provide the defined three-dimensional shape in the substantially inflated state.

[0037] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the defined three-dimensional shape is adapted to the body part to be protected.

[0038] Woven tethers are a method of giving an inflatable element a defined three-dimensional shape when inflated. When the inflatable element is in an under-inflated state, i.e., the first state, the tethers woven into the inflatable chamber of the inflatable element are essentially tension-free, allowing the sides of the inflatable element to fit tightly together. In this state, the inflatable element can be freely deformed, e.g., it can be folded or rolled to fit into a smaller space than when unfolded or unrolled. Once the inflatable element is essentially inflated, i.e., the sides of the inflatable element are pushed outward by the pressure of the gas inside the inflatable element, the tethers are tensioned, thereby allowing the inflatable element to be given a defined three-dimensional shape.By providing such retaining straps at suitable locations and by suitably connecting the two sides of the inflatable element by the retaining straps, the three-dimensional shape of the inflatable element can be adapted to the anatomical shape of the body part to be protected. A preferred method for integrating such retaining straps into the inflatable element is to provide woven retaining straps that are incorporated into a possibly one-piece woven inflatable element at the time of exiting the inflatable element. This avoids the need for subsequent insertion of straps into the inflatable element, e.g., by sewing such retaining straps into the inflatable element. This ensures preferential airtightness of the inflatable element with the woven retaining straps compared to retaining straps attached individually and subsequently by sewing.

[0039] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the wearable protective device may comprise at least two inflatable elements arranged symmetrically to a body axis of the wearer, in particular symmetrically to the longitudinal axis of the wearer.

[0040] Since the human body is generally symmetrical about its longitudinal axis, it may be advantageous to provide a wearable protective device comprising a plurality of inflatable elements. The inflatable elements may be arranged as mirror images of one another. Furthermore, the manufacture of the wearable protective device may be simplified by providing a plurality of smaller inflatable elements, each adapted to a specific body part to be protected, or rather a portion of that body part. In the case of a hip protective device, for example, the wearable protective device may comprise two separate inflatable elements, one inflatable element being arranged adjacent to each of the left and right hip regions.This also allows for easier adaptation of a wearable protective device to a variety of wearer sizes, since only the relative orientation of an inflatable element relative to one of the hips needs to be adjusted, while the general distance between the inflatable elements and thus the size of the hip circumference is of secondary importance.

[0041] Furthermore, it is possible for only the inflatable element on the side where an impact is expected to deploy, while the other inflatable element remains essentially deflated. Thus, after a protective event, only one of the multiple inflatable elements needs to be replaced. This requires separate gas generating elements for each individual inflatable element. Alternatively, even with separate inflatable elements, these can be deployed by a single gas generating element, positioned, for example, in the symmetrical center of two inflatable elements.

[0042] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the wearable protective device may be a hip protective device, which is particularly to be worn around the hip of the wearer and protects the body part in the event of a fall.

[0043] In this scenario, the wearable protective device may generally be in the form of a belt or attached to a conventional belt and may include undeployed inflatable elements arranged symmetrically to the wearer's posterior hip region. Falls, especially in advanced age, often result in severe hip injuries, which, in the case of a femoral neck fracture, may require extensive surgery such as hip replacement with an artificial hip joint. Since recovery from such an injury is lengthy and arduous, falls should be avoided or at least mitigated, such as by wearing a wearable protective device according to the present disclosure.

[0044] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the wearable protective device, when inflated, can deploy in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the fastening device and, in particular, can deploy around the body of the wearer so that the body part to be protected is received in the inflatable element to mitigate a fall impact.

[0045] Where the wearable protective device is attached substantially circumferentially to the wearer's body, it may be advantageous for the inflatable elements to inflate in a direction generally perpendicular to the circumferential direction, so that they inflate without external obstructions. In this case, the inflatable element may be rolled or folded and thus extend in the longitudinal direction of the body part to be protected by unrolling or unfolding. Such an arrangement would ensure a small footprint for the wearable protective device when attached to the wearer's body, while offering sufficient protection in the event of an accident by not only expanding to provide a cushioning effect, but also increasing its size and thus its surface area, preferably so that it substantially surrounds the body part to be protected. For example, in a hip protective device, the wearable protective device couldIt could be worn like a belt, extending from the area above the hips to below the buttocks to provide essentially complete hip protection. In the case of knee or elbow protection, the wearable protective device could be worn proximal to the joint to be protected and, when inflated, extend over the joint to be protected and into the distal region of the joint.

[0046] The present disclosure describes the particular application scenario of a hip protection device for protecting the wearer's hip area with the wearable protection device. However, it is clear that the concept described herein may also apply to wearable protection devices that protect different body parts, such as the back, neck, torso, arms, and legs. In such a specific scenario, the wearable protection device may be embodied in the form of a wearable vest.

[0047] Briefly summarized and using different terminology, the present disclosure provides an airbag as an inflatable member configured to be inflated by a gas source, the airbag being formed from first and second fabric layers disposed one above the other to define an inflatable chamber or region between the layers for containing inflation gas; each fabric layer having a structure comprising at least one yarn, and the two layers being joined together by a plurality of tether yarns extending between the layers within the inflatable chamber, at least some of the tether yarns being incorporated into the structure of the layers within a first group of joining regions or seams comprising a plurality of first joining regions,within which the tether yarns are incorporated into the structure of the first layer, and a plurality of second connecting regions or seams within which the tether yarns are incorporated into the structure of the second layer, and at least some of the tether yarns are incorporated into the structure of the layers in a second group of connecting regions comprising a plurality of first connecting regions within which the tether yarns are incorporated into the structure of the first layer, and a plurality of second connecting regions within which the tether yarns are incorporated into the structure of the second layer, wherein within each group of connecting regions: i) each of the first connecting regions is wider in a longitudinal direction of the tether yarns than each of the second connecting regions, and ii) the second connecting regions are offset relative to the first connecting regions so thatthat the second connecting regions do not oppose any of the first connecting regions across the inflatable chamber, and wherein the first and second connecting regions within each group are elongated and extend generally parallel to one another and across the respective layers of the airbag, the connecting regions of the first group not being parallel to the connecting regions of the second group, wherein the tether yarns serve to impart a first curvature to the airbag across the first group of connecting regions and to impart a second curvature to the airbag across the second group of connecting regions when the inflatable chamber is inflated.

[0048] Furthermore, at least one of the groups of connecting regions comprises a first set of the first and second connecting regions and a second set of first and second connecting regions, wherein each first connecting region of the first set extends collinearly with a respective first connecting region of the second set and each second connecting region of the first set extends collinearly with a respective second connection of the second set, and wherein the first and second sets of connecting regions are separated from one another by a bend seam that connects the first and second fabric layers to one another. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure. Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of an application of a wearable protective device arranged on a wearer according to the present disclosure. Fig. 3a to 3c show another embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure and its application. Fig. 4a to 4c show another embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure and its application. Fig. 5a to 5c show another embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure and its application. Fig. 6a is a perspective view of a deflated airbag according to the present disclosure. Fig. 6b another perspective view of the Fig. 6a, but showing the airbag in an inflated and bulged configuration. Fig. 6c is a schematic plan view of a unitary woven mesh having opposing fabric layers in which a pair of airbags is formed in accordance with the present disclosure. Fig. 6d is a plan view showing a pair of airbags deployed from the Fig. 6c shown network was created. Fig. 6e is a schematic plan view showing a single one of the airbags of Fig. 6d shows. Fig. 6f is an embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure. Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b show embodiments of loop assemblies for a wearable protective device according to the present disclosure and their application. Fig. 8a and Fig. 8b show further embodiments of loop arrangements for a wearable protective device according to the present disclosure and their application. Fig. 9a to 9c show an embodiment for sizing the portable protective device according to the present disclosure. Fig. 10a to 10c show an embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure and its application in a non-inflated state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] With reference to Fig. 1 depicts an embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure.

[0051] In Fig. 1 shows a portable protective device 100, which is designed, by way of example, as a protective device for wearing with a fastening device, e.g., a belt 102. The belt 102 can be fastened to the hip area of ​​a wearer, and by closing the belt 102, i.e., by guiding the belt 102 through the buckle 104 and closing the buckle 104, the size of the portable protective device 100 around the hip of the wearer can be adjusted so that the portable protective device 100 can be worn comfortably. The portable protective device 100 comprises two inflatable elements 110a, 110b arranged around a central portion 106 of the portable protective device 100. In other words, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b are arranged symmetrically to the central portion 106. The belt 102 can be molded integrally with the portable protective device 100 or, as in Fig. 1, be separate from the belt 102. The belt 102 may be comparable to a standard household belt to which the portable protective device is attached, for example, by loop elements 108. The fastening device 102 may in particular be adjustable at one end, either near the buckle 104 or at an open end opposite the buckle 104, or at both ends. In other words, the adjustability may be provided on both sides of the inflatable element or on one side of the inflatable element. Furthermore, the fastening device 102 may have preferred friction or sliding properties, particularly in the region of the loop elements, in order to enable the portable protective device 100 to slide easily on the fastening device 102.

[0052] Preferably, the wearable protective device 100 is attachable relative to the belt 102 to prevent inadvertent movement of the wearable protective device 100 relative to the belt 102. Such inadvertent movement may result in repositioning of the wearable protective device 100 relative to the wearer's body, resulting in misalignment of the wearable protective device 100, in particular its inflatable elements 110a, 110b, relative to the wearer's body and thus the body parts to be protected by the wearable protective device.

[0053] In Fig. 1, the individual inflatable elements 110a, 110b are shown folded as an example, so that they have a compact outer shape in the unfolded, non-inflated state. Not specifically in Fig. 1 shows at least one gas generating element configured to deliver the generated gas into the interior of the inflatable elements 110a, 110b in order to inflate the inflatable elements 110a, 110b through application of the generated gas. The one or more gas generating elements may be arranged inside the wearable protective device 100 in the general region of the central portion 106. The provision of the gas generating element in the central portion 106 enables the substantially simultaneous supply of gas to the two inflatable elements 110a, 110b, thereby ensuring substantially simultaneous inflation. Alternatively, two gas generating elements may be provided, each connected to a single inflatable element 110a, 110b. This may enable the independent deployment, i.e., inflation, of the inflatable elements 110a, 110b.In other words, the provision of two independent gas generating elements can allow only one of several inflatable elements to be inflated at a given time. For example, only the inflatable element that would provide protection for the body part to be protected in a current accident scenario can be inflated. In other words, only the inflatable element that cushions the wearer's fall could be inflated, leaving other inflatable elements deflated, thus eliminating the need to replace the unused inflatable elements for a specific accident scenario.

[0054] With reference to Fig. 2 depicts an embodiment of an application of a wearable protective device disposed on a wearer in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0055] In Fig. 2, the two inflatable elements 110a, 110b are shown in their inflated state. The wearable protective device 100 is arranged around the waist of the wearer 202. The Fig. 1 and Fig. The exemplary wearable protective device 100 shown in Figure 2 is a hip protection device that protects the hip region of the wearer from a fall impact. In other words, the body parts 104a,b to be protected are generally the buttock regions of the wearer 202, where the hip joints are located. In the event of a fall, the wearer 202 could fall sideways and strike an object 206, such as the ground or a road, in the region of the hip joint, which could result in a serious hip injury. Particularly if the bone structure is already in an advanced stage of deterioration or atrophy, such a fall could result in a hip fracture, requiring complex surgery such as an artificial hip replacement.

[0056] The inflatable elements 110a, 110b of the portable protective device 100 protect the wearer's body from such a fall impact and thus from injury by being arranged adjacent to the body parts 204a, b to be protected. As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b have a three-dimensional shape that extends downwards and, when deployed, is bent inwards so that it wraps around the buttocks area of ​​the wearer 202. Such a three-dimensional shape, adapted to the anatomical characteristics of the wearer, keeps the inflatable elements 110a, 110b close to the body part to be protected, in order to prevent one of the inflatable elements 110a, 110b from being so far away from the body of the wearer 202 at the moment of impact that optimal protection can no longer be guaranteed. In the worst case, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b would expand so far that the body parts to be protected are essentially exposed and thus no longer protected from the impact. By providing an appropriate three-dimensional shape, the expansion of the inflatable elements 110a, 110b can be avoided.

[0057] The carrier 202 in Fig. 2 is in the process of a fall event in which he falls with his left hip onto an object 206, e.g., the ground. The inflatable element 110a is arranged between the object 206 and the body part 204a to be protected, i.e., the left hip. The inflatable element 110a has successfully inflated, is arranged adjacent to the body parts 204a to be protected, and thereby cushions the impact of the fall. The inflatable element 110a essentially acts like an airbag for the wearer 202 to cushion the fall to the ground.

[0058] With reference to Fig. 3a to 3c show another embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure and its application.

[0059] The portable protective device 100 in the Fig. 3a to 3c corresponds in principle to the Fig. 2. The portable protective device 100 comprises inflatable elements 100a, 100b arranged adjacent to the body parts 204a, b of a wearer 202 to be protected. Fig. Figure 3b shows the deployed wearable protective device 100, while the wearer 202 is depicted in a sitting position. It should be noted that the sitting position is for illustrative purposes only and is not to be understood as the deployment position for the wearable protective device 200. The wearable protective device 200 comprises two inflatable elements 100a, 100b arranged on a belt 102. Two independent gas generating devices 302a,b are provided in the front region of the wearable protective device. Each gas generating device 302a,b is connected to a dedicated inlet 306 of one of the inflatable elements 110a,110b. Upon deployment, one or both of the gas generating devices 302a,b can be activated, thereby generating a gas for filling the respective inflatable element associated with the respective gas generating device. As can be seen from Fig. 3a,b, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b assume a defined three-dimensional shape by bending around the body parts 204a,b of the wearer 202 to be protected. In the embodiments of Fig. 3 a to c, the three-dimensional shape essentially consists of an inwardly directed curvature, so that the inflatable elements 100a,b curve radially around the buttocks area of ​​the wearer 202.

[0060] Fig. 3c shows a single inflatable element 110, wherein the portable protective device 100 comprises two inflatable elements arranged symmetrically and mirrored to each other. The inflatable element 110 comprises an inlet 306 to which a gas generating device is connected, such that the gas generating device expels the gas into the interior of the inflatable element 110 during gas generation, thereby inflating the inflatable element 110. The inflatable element 110 of Fig. 3c includes two inflatable regions 308, with one inflatable region 308 located proximal to the inlet 306 and the second inflatable region 308 located distal to the inlet 306. The inflatable member 110 includes a plurality of loop members 108 for securing the inflatable member 110 to the belt 102. In the central portion of the inflatable member 110, the inflatable member 110 includes a narrow section 310 so that the inflatable regions 308 have a certain freedom of movement relative to each other. For example, one inflatable region 308 may flex more than the other inflatable region due to the anatomy of the wearer 202. Outside of the inflatable region 308, the inflatable member 110 includes non-inflatable material 312, which may be dead material 312 to be removed after manufacture, such that the dead material 312 is not present in the final wearable protective device 100.Likewise, the dead material 312 may be provided as an inflatable region, e.g., as a skirt-like material surrounding the inflatable element.

[0061] In the example of Fig. 3c, the inflatable element 110 comprises seams 304 integrated into the interior of the inflatable areas 308. In Fig. 3c, the seams 304 are designed as horizontal seams. These seams can be sewn or welded, or even incorporated into the interior of the inflatable element, e.g., if the inflatable element is made of a one-piece woven material. In the embodiment of Fig. 3a to 3c, the horizontal seams 304 form the described inward bend in the radial direction towards the central body access of the wearer 202. In other words, the horizontal seams 304 ensure good bending behavior in the direction below the hip and less bending behavior around the hip, whereby they Fig. 3b point outwards.

[0062] With reference to Fig. 4a to 4c show another embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure and its application.

[0063] The embodiment of Fig. 4a to 4c essentially corresponds to the embodiment of Fig. 3a to 3c, with the difference that the seams 404 run vertically, i.e., parallel to the longitudinal body axis of the wearer 202. The vertical arrangement of the seams 404 results in a different bending behavior of the inflatable element 110 relative to the wearer's body. In particular, the inflatable regions 308 exhibit circumferential bending behavior due to the vertical seams 404 and not radial or inward (relative to the central longitudinal body axis) bending behavior, as in the embodiment of Fig. 3a to 3c. In other words, the vertical seams 404 cause a circumferential bending behavior around the central longitudinal axis of the wearer 302. In other words, the vertical seams 404 ensure good bending behavior in the direction around the hip and less bending behavior below the hip, which in Fig. 4b points downwards.

[0064] With reference to Fig. 5a to 5c show another embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure and its application.

[0065] Each of the inflatable elements 110a, 110b in turn comprises inflatable regions 308, which are, however, connected to one another at their distal end by a retaining element 502. Between the exemplary two inflatable regions 308 of each inflatable element 110a, 110b, a further retaining element 504 can be provided. The element 504 can be a seam or the like, comparable to the seam 24. The seams of the inflatable element 110a, 110b of Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b are again horizontal seams 304. As described above, horizontal seams exhibit a bending behavior in which the inflatable elements 110a, 110b bend longitudinally inwardly toward the central body axis (assuming that the wearable protective device 100 is worn circumferentially around the longitudinal axis of the wearer 202). By providing retaining elements 502 and 504, further three-dimensional shaping of the inflatable elements 110a, 110b can be achieved. In particular, the horizontal seams 304 bend the inflatable elements inwardly, while the retaining element 502 tightly pulls the inflatable regions 308 at the distal end of the inflatable elements 308 together. At the same time, the seam 504 allows, e.g.a flexible seam, the spacing of the inflatable elements 308 in the middle part, between the proximal and the distal end, so that the three-dimensional shape of the inflatable element is not just a bend in one direction, but essentially allows bending in two directions, one in the radial direction, as previously with respect to the . Fig. 3a to 3c, and additionally a circumferential bend. In other words, each inflatable element has a cup-like shape due to the holding elements 502 and 504 and thereby preferably receives the body parts 204a,b to be protected, such as protruding body parts. In the example of a hip protection device according to the Fig. 5a,b, each inflatable element bends inwardly around the buttocks region of the wearer 202 and further circumferentially around the hips to provide preferential protection for the hip region, ie the area around a protruding hip bone.

[0066] Fig. Figure 5b again shows the gas generating devices 302a, b, which are arranged on the front of the wearable protective device 100 adjacent to a buckle (not shown). The respective inflatable elements 110a, 110b can thus be activated simultaneously or independently of each other, depending on the direction of the fall and the assumed impact area of ​​the wearer 202. Alternatively, it is possible to provide gas generating devices in the central section 106, which in Fig. 5a is shown as an example of a bag worn on the back. The gas generating device(s) arranged in the central section 106 can, in turn, enable the simultaneous or independent activation of the inflatable element 110a, 110b.

[0067] As in the Fig. 5a,b, the provision of inflatable elements with a plurality of, here by way of example two, inflatable regions 308 offers an increased area of ​​protection in that the inflatable element 110a, 110b extends further in the radial direction, i.e. under the buttocks region of the wearer 202, and further in the circumferential direction around the hip region of the wearer 202.

[0068] Fig. Figure 6a shows the inflatable element 110, in particular a one-piece woven inflatable element 110, in a pre-inflated configuration in which it lies flat. The inflatable element 110 has a somewhat elongated configuration. The inflatable element comprises two fabric layers 2, 3, the first fabric layer not being shown, as it is the underside of the inflatable element 110, which lies on the surface, while the second fabric layer 3 forms the Fig. 6a is the visible upper layer. An integral circumferential seam 6 of the illustrated inflatable element 110, which connects the first and second fabric layers 2, 3, follows a circumferential path with a resuming region, such that the resulting inflatable region 308 of the inflatable element 110 has a goggle-like shape and includes two main inflatable regions 308 fluidly connected to each other by a narrow section 310. Adjacent to the resuming region of the circumferential seam 6, outside the inflatable region 308, the yarns of the two fabric layers 2, 3 are interwoven to form a non-inflatable region of non-inflatable material or dead material 312 of the inflatable element 110, in the manner of a thicker panel of fabric.

[0069] The inflatable element 110 from Fig. 6a comprises seams 9b in which tether yarns are incorporated into the fabric of the second fabric layer 3. As will be apparent, a first group of seams 9b is provided in a region of the fabric layer 3 defining a first inflatable region 308, and a second group of seams 9b is provided in a region of the fabric layer 3 defining the second inflatable region 308. Although in Fig. 6a, first seams 9a are also provided, within which the retaining band yarns are integrated into the fabric of the underlying first fabric layer 2. Like the second seams 9b, the seams 9a are also divided into two groups, namely a first group provided in a region of the underlying first fabric layer 2 that defines the first inflatable region 308, and a second group provided in a region of the underlying first fabric layer 2 that defines the second inflatable region 308. The seams 9a, 9b in the first group (i.e., corresponding to the first inflatable region 308) are arranged such that they run parallel to one another, while the seams 9a, 9b in the second group (i.e., corresponding to the second inflatable region 308) are also arranged such that they run parallel to one another.However, it should be noted that the seams 9a,9b of the first group do not run parallel to the seams 9a,9b of the second group.

[0070] In Fig. 6b is the inflatable element 110 made of Fig. 6a is shown in inflated condition. Fig. 6b, it is noted that the tether yarns serve to impart a first curvature to the inflatable regions 308 of the inflatable element 110, causing them to bend upwards. Likewise, the tether yarns 8 forming the first and second connecting regions 9a, 9b of the second group (i.e., corresponding to the second chamber region 7b) serve to impart a second curvature to the second chamber region 7b of the airbag 1, causing it to also bend upwards. As can be seen, the inflatable regions 308 are thereby brought into an inflated shape, in which they bend around the longitudinal extension directions of the first and second groups of seams 9a, 9b, respectively.It should be noted that in this arrangement, each inflatable region 308 is designed to bend in a single specific direction, the two directions of the inflatable regions 308 being different from each other and being defined by the direction of extension of the respective seams 9a, 9b across the local areas of the fabric layers 2, 3.

[0071] Therefore, under certain circumstances, it may be desirable to provide an inflatable member 110 that can be optimized to flex in two directions rather than just one.

[0072] Fig. Figure 6b shows a short section of a one-piece woven fabric web 21 consisting of a first and a second fabric layer 2, 3 that are opposite one another. The fabric web 21 is woven in a one-piece weaving process, in which the two fabric layers 2, 3 are woven simultaneously on a single, specially configured loom in a manner known per se. The warp yarns of the fabric extend in a warp direction 12, and the weft yarns of the fabric extend in the weft direction 11. Fig. The short piece of fabric 21 shown in Figure 16 comprises a pair of one-piece molded inflatable elements 110, wherein the two inflatable elements 110 are formed within the fabric in a mirror image of the longitudinal axis 22 (i.e., aligned with the warp direction 12). The inflatable elements 110 are defined by respective circumferential seams 6, within which the yarns of the two fabric layers 2, 3 are interwoven such that each circumferential seam 6 is formed as an integral structural feature of the fabric of the respective inflatable element 110.

[0073] The circumferential seam 6 of each inflatable element 110 defines the main inflatable area of ​​the inflatable element 110, but also an elongated inlet area for an inlet 306, which is designed to receive or be connected to a gas generating device. Fig. 6c, it should also be noted that each inflatable element 110 includes an additional, integrally formed seam 24 that is substantially linear and extends inwardly from the circumferential seam 6. As will be explained in more detail below, the additional seam 24 of each inflatable element 110 is a flex seam and serves to impart a curvature to the inflatable element 110 when inflated. Since the seam 24 enables adjustment of the three-dimensional shape of the inflatable elements 110, the seam 24 may be considered a retention element 502 for the purposes of the present disclosure.

[0074] Each of the inflatable elements 110 can be removed from the fabric web 21 by cutting the fabric layers 2, 3 of the web around the circumferential seam 6. The resulting inflatable elements 110 are, after removal from the fabric web 21, in Fig. 6d, whereby it should be noted that the inflatable elements 110 are shown in other orientations than in Fig. 6c are shown.

[0075] As in the previous embodiments, the Fig. 6c and Fig. The inflatable elements 110 shown in Figure 6d are provided with internal tether arrangements and thus comprise a plurality of tether yarns that are incorporated into the fabric of the first fabric layer 2 at first connecting regions or seams 9a and into the fabric of the second fabric layer 3 at second connecting regions or seams 9b. The first and second connecting regions or seams 9a, 9b are all elongated and arranged such that they extend obliquely to both the warp direction 12 and the weft direction 11. The connecting regions or seams 9a, 9b thus extend obliquely to the warp yarns and the weft yarns of the fabric layers 2, 3. As can be seen from the above description, the holding tape yarns are arranged between the weft yarns and thus follow the weft direction 11. The holding tape yarns are interwoven within the seam 9a with the warp yarns of the first fabric layer 2 and within the seam 9b with the warp yarns of the second fabric layer 3.

[0076] The special arrangement of the seams 9a, 9b in this embodiment can be seen most clearly from Fig. 6e, in which partial areas of the first connecting areas or seams 9a (within which holding tape yarns are integrated into the fabric of the first fabric layer 2) are shown by solid lines and the second connecting areas or seams 9b (within which holding tape yarns are integrated into the fabric of the second fabric layer 3) are shown by dashed lines.

[0077] In Fig. 6e, it can be observed in particular that the seams 9a, 9b are provided in two individual groups of connecting regions, namely in a first group within the first imaginary rectangular region 25 and in a second (larger) group within the second imaginary rectangular region 26. The two groups 25, 26 are located next to one another and, as can be seen, each group 25, 26 of connecting regions comprises both first connecting regions 9a (within which the holding tape yarns are incorporated into the fabric of the first fabric layer 2) and second connecting regions 9b (within which the holding tape yarns are incorporated into the fabric of the second layer 3).

[0078] As can be observed, the connecting regions 9a, 9b within the first group 25 are essentially all parallel to one another, while the connecting regions 9a, 9b within the second group 26 are also essentially parallel to one another. However, the connecting regions 9a, 9b of the first group 25 are not parallel to the connecting regions 9a, 9b of the second group 26. The connecting regions 9a, 9b of the first group 25 thus extend obliquely to the extension of the connecting regions 9a, 9b of the second group 26.

[0079] A key difference between the Fig. 6d to 6e shown configuration of the inflatable elements 110 and the Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b (which also has two individual groups of connecting regions or seams 9a, 9b) concerns the relationship between the connecting regions 9a, 9b of the first group 25 and the connecting regions 9a, 9b of the second group 26.

[0080] In the configuration of Fig. 6d to 6e, it should be noted that at least some of the subregions of the first connecting regions 9a and the second connecting regions 9b of the second group 26 extend beyond the extension axes 27 along which the subregions of the first connecting regions 9a and the second connecting regions 9b of the first group 25 extend.

[0081] As can be seen from the above description, the tether yarns forming the first group 25 of connecting regions 9a, 9b serve to impart a first curvature to the inflatable element 110 during inflation in order to bend the inflatable element 110 about the longitudinal extension direction of the first group of connecting regions 9a, 9b (i.e., about the extension axes 27). As can be seen, the second group 26 of connecting regions 9a, 9b extends transversely to the axes 27 around which the first group of connecting regions imparts a curvature to the inflatable element 110. As a result, the second group 26 of connecting regions 9a, 9b is located in a region of the inflatable element 110 in which the curvature is caused by the first group of connecting regions 9a, 9b.Furthermore, the tether yarns forming the second group 26 of connecting regions 9a, 9b serve to impart a second curvature to the inflatable element 110 during inflation, in order to bend the inflatable element 110 about the longitudinal direction of the first group of connecting regions 9a, 9b. Since the second group 26 of connecting regions 9a, 9b does not extend parallel to the first group 25 of connecting regions 9a, 9b, it is understood that the second curvature extends in a different direction or sense than the first curvature. Since the second group 26 of connecting regions 9a, 9b extends transversely to the axes 27 around which the first group 25 of connecting regions 9a, 9b imparts the first curvature to the inflatable element 110, two differently directed curvatures are thereby formed in the same region of the inflatable element 110, effectively bending the inflatable element 110 in two different directions.

[0082] With regard to the second group 26 of connecting areas 9a,9b, Fig. 6e that the second group 26 is divided into two sets of connecting regions 9a, 9b, namely a first set 28 located on one side of the bend seam 24, and a second set 29 located on the opposite side of the bend seam 24. The bend seam 24 thus separates the two groups 28, 29 of connecting regions 9a, 9b within the second group. Furthermore, it should be noted that the seam 24 extends generally orthogonal to the extension of the connecting regions 9a, 9b within the second group 26. As can also be seen, each sub-region of the first connecting regions 9a of the first set 28 is aligned with a corresponding sub-region of the second set 29, so that each pair of aligned connecting sub-regions 9a' extends collinearly.Similarly, each second connection 9b of the first set 28 is aligned with a corresponding second connection region 9b of the second set 29, such that each pair of aligned second connection regions 9b extends collinearly.

[0083] Since the bend seam 24 connects the two fabric layers 2, 3 of the inflatable element 110 to each other, the bend seam 24 serves to limit the inflated depth of the inflatable region 308 between the two groups 28, 29 of connecting regions 9a, 9b within the second group 26. Thus, the bend seam 24 can contribute to the second group 26 of connecting regions 9a, 9b imparting the second curvature to the inflatable element 110, with the bend seam 24 effectively defining a fold around which the second group 26 of connecting regions 9a, 9b can then more easily bend the inflatable element 110. In other words, the seam 24 acts as a retaining element 502 and prevents the two groups 28, 29 of connecting regions 9a, 9b from expanding.

[0084] Between the first set 28 and the second set 29, the seam 24 forms a further bending axis 30, which allows the inflated first set 28 and the inflated second set 29 to also bend to a certain extent relative to each other. In other words, the inflatable element 110 of Fig. 6e the bending or arching of defined regions of the inflatable element 110, wherein the first rectangular region 25 arches around the extension direction 27 of the seams 9a,b, while the second rectangular region 26 arches around the extension direction 27b of the seams 9a,b, while the bending axis 30 provided by the seam 24 allows further bending of the first group 28 and the second group 29 relative to each other.

[0085] With reference to Fig. 6f shows an embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure.

[0086] Fig. Figure 6f shows the symmetrical arrangement of a portable protective device 100 according to the present invention. The inflatable elements 110a, 110b in Fig. 6f are shown in the unfolded state. In the unfolded state, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b can still be Fig. 6f, but simply not inflated, or alternatively, they may be rolled or folded so that they substantially correspond to the size or height of the fastening device 102.

[0087] The portable protective device 100 comprises, for example, two inflatable elements 110a, 110b, which are arranged symmetrically but mirror-inverted around the central portion 106. The inflatable elements essentially correspond to the Fig. 6c to 6e. Alternatively, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b can also be designed according to one of the Fig. 2 to 6. A gas generating device 302 is schematically depicted at the central portion 106. The gas generating device 302 may be a single gas generating device that acts on both inflatable elements 110a, 110b substantially simultaneously, or it may be embodied as a plurality of gas generating devices that act independently on the inflatable elements 110a, 110b. The inflatable elements 110a, 110b are arranged on a fastening device 102, which is depicted as a belt by way of example. The inflatable elements 110a, 110b may be formed integrally with the fastening device 102 or may be attached to the fastening device 102 by means of loop elements 118.The fastening device 102 includes a buckle 104 and an open end 1808 that can be connected to the buckle 104 and closes the fastening device 102 around the wearer to accommodate the wearable protective device on the wearer and to arrange the inflatable elements 110a, 110b adjacent the body part to be protected.

[0088] The inflatable elements 110a, 110b are substantially rigidly connected to the fastening device 102 at a first end 1802, 1802', while they may be loosely or slidably connected to the fastening device 102 at a second end 1804, 1804'. Alternatively, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b may also be substantially rigidly connected to the fastening device 102 at the second end 1804, 1804'.

[0089] This combination of fixed and sliding connection results in a lateral displacement of the inflatable elements 110a, 110b toward the central portion 106. In other words, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b are inflated upon deployment and increase in a first dimension and / or a second dimension. In particular, the thickness of the inflatable elements 110a, 110b may increase upon inflation in a first dimension that is perpendicular to the plane of Fig. 6f. In the case where the inflatable elements 110a, 110b are rolled up or folded, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b additionally increase in one direction in the deployment direction 1812 as a second direction, as shown by the black arrow pointing to the lower part of Fig. 6f shows. Due to the increase in size in the first dimension and / or the second dimension, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b decrease in size in a third dimension parallel to the longitudinal extension 1810 of the fastening device 102. In other words, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b shrink in the direction 1810 and thus approach the central portion 106, as illustrated by the two horizontal black arrows pointing inward toward the central portion 106.

[0090] The fastening device 102 is adjustable within an adjustable range 1806 to accommodate a variety of wearer sizes. In other words, the longitudinal extent 1810 of the fastening device 102 can be adjusted, for example, to the wearer's hip circumference. A second adjustable range 1806' can be provided to enable symmetrical adjustment of the fastening device 102. Alternatively, the fastening device 102 can also be adjusted within only a single adjustable range 1806, 1806'.

[0091] Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b show embodiments of loop arrangements for a wearable protective device according to the present disclosure and its application.

[0092] Fig. 7a shows an inflatable element 110 with a plurality of, for example, three loop elements 108a,b. Two loop elements 108a are arranged as loop elements that are connected to a non-inflatable, dead area 312 via two regions. In particular, the loop elements 108a connect a loop material between the non-inflatable area 312 at the top of the inflatable element 110 and the dead area 312 at the bottom. The left loop element 108a extends from the top of the inflatable element 110 to just below the inlets 306. The central loop element 108a also extends from the top of the inflatable element 110 to a central area between the two inflatable areas 308. A narrow dead area 312 is located between the two inflatable areas 308. The central loop 108a is in turn connected to two dead areas 312.

[0093] In contrast, the right loop element 108b is designed as a circular loop element that is only attached to a single dead area 312 at the upper end of the inflatable element 110. In other words, the loop element 108b is attached to the dead area 312 at the upper end of the inflatable element 110 and winds itself until it arrives again at the same dead area 312 at the upper end of the inflatable element 112. The loop element 108b can already be an integrated loop element, i.e., a loop without its own end or beginning, or it can essentially be a piece of fabric that is attached at both ends to the dead area 312, thereby forming a loop for receiving the fastening device 102. By passing the fastening device 102 through the exemplary three loop elements 108a,b of Fig. 7a, the inflatable element 110 can be attached to the fastening device 102, but can remain displaceable within the loop elements 108a,b.

[0094] With reference to Fig. 7b shows an inflatable element 110 with, for example, five loop elements 108a, i.e., with loop elements that are attached to two dead areas 312. The dead areas on the top side of the inflatable element 110 are not shown separately, but are comparable to those shown in Fig. 7a depicted dead areas 312. In Fig. 7b, three loop elements 108a are depicted substantially perpendicularly, i.e., their longitudinal extension is vertical, while two loop elements 108a' are depicted at an angle of approximately +-60° to the vertically oriented loop elements 108a. In other words, the longitudinal extension of the loop elements 108a and the longitudinal extension of the loop elements 108a' are not parallel to each other. The angle of approximately +-60° is only exemplary and depends on the specific embodiment of the inflatable element 110. In the example of Fig. 7b, it is possible for the fastening device 102 to move along the three loop elements 108a when the inflatable element 110 inflates, since these loop elements are arranged in regions of the inflatable element 110 that are only slightly inflatable. Furthermore, it is possible for the regions where the loop elements 108a' are arranged to expand more. In this example, the loop elements 108a' provide a larger loop area for receiving the fastening device 102. As the inflatable element 110 inflates and thereby enlarges in the region of the loop elements 108a', the provision of a larger loop area reduces the risk of entanglement of the fastening device 102 and the loop elements 108a'.

[0095] Fig. 8a and Fig. 8b show further embodiments of loop arrangements for a portable protective device according to the present disclosure and its application.

[0096] Fig. 8a shows a loop element 108 that is formed integrally with the inflatable element 110 in a first contact region 1704a. In other words, during the manufacture of the fabric of the inflatable element 110, the loop element 108 can be manufactured as a continuous piece of fabric with the inflatable element 110. In Fig. 8a, the loop element 108 extends substantially horizontally from the contact area 1704a. Other directions are possible, e.g., the loop element 108 may extend substantially vertically from the contact area 1704a. In Fig. 8b shows the attachment of the loop elements 1082 to the inflatable element 110 and thus the formation of the loop by forming an opening 1706. The opening 1706 in Fig. 8b is only shown schematically and should in any case be understood to be capable of receiving the fastening device 102. The loop element 108 is brought into contact with the fabric of the inflatable element 110 in a contact region 1704b. The loop element 108 can be brought into contact with its fabric substantially with the fabric of the inflatable element 110, which in the contact region 1704b can be non-inflatable material, i.e., dead material or a dead region 312. In the contact region 1704b, the loop element 108 is attached to the inflatable element 110 by sewing or welding 1702, thereby forming the opening 1706 for receiving the fastening device 102.

[0097] Fig. 9a to 9c show an embodiment for sizing the portable protective device according to the present disclosure.

[0098] Fig. 9a shows an illustration of an inflatable element 110. The inflatable element 110 comprises, by way of example, fastening areas for loop elements 108. The three loop elements arranged closest to the inlet 106 essentially correspond to the three in Fig. 7a shown loop elements. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9a, the three loop elements are provided for a first body size, in this case the hip circumference. For example, the three loop elements are provided for a hip circumference of 74 cm. Another loop element 108', located on the far right, is provided for a second body size that is larger than the first body size. For example, when using the loop element 108', the inflatable element 110 is provided for a hip circumference of 88 cm.

[0099] In other words, the same inflatable element 110 can be made of Fig. 9a can be used for different wearer sizes. A comparatively small wearer requiring a hip circumference of 74 cm can attach the inflatable element 110 / the portable protection device 100 only with the three leftmost loop elements 108, while a comparatively tall wearer requiring a hip circumference of 88 cm can attach the inflatable element 110 / the portable protection device with the two leftmost loop elements 108 and the rightmost loop element 108' or alternatively with all in Fig. 9a shown loop elements.

[0100] When attached only with the loop elements 108, the remaining right end 1816 of the inflatable element 110 cannot be attached to the wearer / attachment device 102. In a folded or rolled-up state of the inflatable element, i.e., in the deflated state before deployment, the right end 1816 may initially protrude from the attachment device 102. Since a gas generating device to be used with the inflatable element 110 comprises gas for inflating the entire inflatable element 110, the protruding end 1816 does not pose a particular problem but may protrude from the wearer's body in the inflated state. Since the remainder of the inflatable element 110 is sufficient to protect a small wearer, the protruding end 1816 is not required to protect the body part to be protected.

[0101] In Fig. Figure 9b depicts the wearable protective device 100 with a single inflatable element 110 on the right side of the wearer's body. It is, of course, possible for the wearable protective device to comprise two inflatable elements 110, i.e., asymmetrical arrangements, to serve both sides of the hip, with the left inflatable element 110 hidden from view and positioned behind the wearer 101.

[0102] The three upper images in Fig. 9b show a wearer with increasing hip circumference, while the inflatable element 110 remains the same size. In other words, the size of the fastening device 102 increases to adapt to the hip circumference of the wearer. This results in the wearable protective device 100 appearing to be mounted further back on the wearer 202. Since the body part to be protected, i.e., the hip area, remains on the back of the wearer, the increase in hip circumference does not negatively affect the protective function of the wearable protective device. An adjustable fastening device 102 thus compensates for the varying hip circumference of the wearer 202 while remaining adjacent to the body part to be protected. The two lower illustrations in Fig. 9b show an embodiment in which the portable protective device 100 and its inflatable elements 110 are shown in Fig. 9b have a larger size. As can be seen, the protective function remains essentially unchanged, while the inflatable elements 110 extend further forward towards the carrier 202. The inflatable element 110 in the two lower illustrations of Fig. 9b is to be understood that only the three left loop elements 118 of Fig. 9a, since the right side 1818 of the inflatable element 110 is not attached to the fastening device 102 but faces outward. However, the protective function of the portable protective device is not impaired by this arrangement.

[0103] With reference to Fig. 9c shows a first arrangement of a portable protective device 100 according to the present invention. The inflatable elements 110 in Fig. 9c are shown in the deployed state. In the non-deployed state, the inflatable element 110 can still be Fig. 9c, only uninflated, or alternatively it may be rolled or folded so that it substantially corresponds to the size or height of the fastening device 102.

[0104] The wearable protective device 100 consists, for example, of a single inflatable element 110. A gas generating device 302 is schematically depicted at the central portion 106. The gas generating device 302 can be a single gas generating device 302 that acts on the inflatable element 110. The gas generating device 302 is arranged, for example, in the direction of the buckle 104. The inflatable element 110 is arranged on a fastening device 102, which is depicted, for example, as a belt. The inflatable element 110 can be formed integrally with the fastening device 102 or can be attached to the fastening device 102 by means of loop elements 118a,b.The fastening device 102 comprises a buckle 104 and an open end 1808 which can be connected to the buckle 104 and closes the fastening device 102 around the wearer in order to accommodate the wearable protective device on the wearer and to arrange the inflatable element 110 adjacent to the body part to be protected, here for example the buttocks and hip area.

[0105] The inflatable element 110 is substantially fixedly connected to the fastening device 102 at a first end 1802, while it is substantially loosely or slidably connected to the fastening device 102 at a second end 1804. This combination of fixed and sliding connection results in a lateral displacement of the inflatable element 110 towards the gas generating device 302. In other words, the inflatable element 110 is inflated upon deployment and increases in a first dimension and / or a second dimension. In particular, upon inflation, the thickness of the inflatable element 110 increases in a first dimension that is perpendicular to the plane of Fig. 9b. When the inflatable elements 110 are rolled up or folded, the inflatable element 110 additionally rises in one direction in the deployment direction 1812 as a second direction, as shown by the black arrow pointing to the lower part of the Fig. 9c shows. Due to the increase in size in the first dimension and / or the second dimension, the inflatable element 110 decreases in size in a third dimension, here, for example, parallel to the longitudinal extension 1810 of the fastening element 102. In other words, the inflatable element 110 shrinks in the direction 1810 and thus moves closer to the gas generating device 302, as shown by the middle horizontal black arrow pointing inwards towards the gas generating device 302. In order to ensure sufficient protection in the inflated second state, an inflatable region, here, for example, the left inflatable region 308 of Fig. 9c, be larger than the other inflatable area, here for example the right inflatable area 308 of Fig. 9c.

[0106] The fastening device 102 is adjustable in an adjustable range 1806 to accommodate a variety of wearer sizes. In other words, the longitudinal extent of the fastening device 1810 can be adjusted, for example, to the wearer's hip circumference. A second adjustable range 1806' can be provided to enable symmetrical adjustment of the fastening device 102. Alternatively, the fastening device 102 can also be adjusted in only a single adjustable range 1806, 1806'.

[0107] Fig. 10a to 10c show an embodiment of a portable protective device according to the present disclosure and its application in an uninflated state.

[0108] Fig. 10a to 10c show the Fig. 1 shows a portable protective device 100 shown from different angles. Fig. Figure 10a shows the outer surface of the portable protective device 100 from the outside and from an elevated position. Fig. Figure 10b shows the portable protective device 100 from directly above and in the open position. A wearer wearing the portable protective device 100 and looking downward would essentially use the portable protective device 100 as shown in Fig. 10b shown. Fig. 10c shows the interior of the portable protective device 100, again from an elevated position. As can be seen, the portable protective device 100 is attached to a belt 102 with, for example, six loop elements 108 around a central portion 106, which may include a loop around the belt 102 and the portable protective device 100. Not shown are gas generating devices that can be received in the central portion 106. The belt 102 includes a buckle 104 and an open end 1808, which in turn can be passed through the buckle 104 to secure the belt 102.

[0109] The belt 102 can be fastened to the hip area of ​​a wearer, and by closing the belt 102, i.e., by guiding the belt 102 through the buckle 104 and closing the buckle 104, the size of the wearable protective device 100 around the hip of the wearer can be adjusted by appropriately positioning the open end 1808 and the buckle 104 so that comfortable wearing of the wearable protective device 100 is possible. The wearable protective device 100 comprises two inflatable elements 110a, 110b arranged around a central portion 106 of the wearable protective device 100. In other words, the inflatable elements 110a, 110b are arranged symmetrically to the central portion 106. The belt 102 can be formed integrally with the wearable protective device 100 or, as in Fig. 6a to 6c, may be a separate element from the belt 102.

[0110] It should be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and that various modifications and improvements may be made without departing from the concepts described herein. Each of the features described above and below may be used separately or in combination with other features described herein, provided they are not mutually exclusive, and the disclosure extends to and includes all combinations and subcombinations of one or more features described herein.

[0111] Finally, it should be noted that the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and that "a" does not exclude the plural. Elements described with respect to different types of embodiments may be combined. Reference signs in the claims are not to be understood as limiting the scope of a claim. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 2 first fabric layer 3 second fabric layer 6 circumferential seam, integral 7a Chamber area 9a,b seam 11 Direction of fire 12 Warp direction 21 Fabric panel, woven in one piece 22 Axis 24 seam, one-piece molded 25 first rectangular area 26 second rectangular area 27,a Extension axis 28 first sentence 29 second sentence 30 Bending axis 100 portable protective devices 102 Fastening device / belt 104 Buckle 106 Middle section 108,a,b,a' loop element 110,a,b inflatable elements 202 carriers 204,a,b body part to be protected 206 Object 302,a,b Gas generating device 304 horizontal seam 306 Inlet 308 inflatable areas 310 narrow section 312 non-inflatable material, dead material, dead area 404 vertical seam 502 retaining element 504 Opening 1702 sewing / welding 1704a,b Contact areas 1706 Opening 1802,' first end 1804,' second end 1806,' adjustable range 1808 open ending 1810 Longitudinal extension of the fastening device 1812 Deployment direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the fastening device 1814 Longitudinal axis of the beam 1816 right end 1818 right side of the inflatable element

Claims

[1] A portable protective device (100) for protecting at least one body part of a wearer (202), comprising an inflatable element (100,110a,110b) arranged adjacent to a body part to be protected (204,204a,204b), wherein the inflatable element is inflatable from a first, substantially uninflated state to a second, substantially inflated state by applying a releasable source of a gas (302, 302a, 302b) to the inflatable element to at least partially fill the inflatable element with the gas, wherein the inflatable element, when inflated to the second state, assumes a predetermined three-dimensional shape, wherein the inflatable element has a first extension in a first direction and a second extension in a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are not parallel to each other, wherein one of the first extension and the second extension is larger in the first state than in the second state, and wherein the other of the first extension and the second extension is smaller in the first state than in the second state, so that during the transition from the first state to the second state, the inflatable element increases in size in one extension while the inflatable element decreases in size in the other extension, wherein the portable protective device can be connected to a fastening device (102) to fasten the portable protective device to the carrier, and wherein the portable protective device is configured to be at least partially displaceable relative to the attachment device such that the portable protective device is displaced along the attachment device while remaining connected to the attachment device and disposed adjacent a body part to be protected when either one of the first extent or the second extent decreases upon inflation of the inflatable element. [2] A device according to the preceding claim, wherein the portable protective device is connected to the fastening device by a plurality of loop elements (208), which loop elements may be adapted to receive the fastening device and are arranged to be displaceable along a length of the fastening device. [3] Device according to the preceding claim, wherein the inflatable element and at least one loop element of the plurality of loop elements are formed as a single piece, thereby forming an opening for receiving the fastening device, wherein in particular the inflatable element and at least one loop element of the plurality of loop elements are formed as a single piece from a single-piece fabric. [4] The device of claim 2, wherein the inflatable element and at least one of the plurality of loop elements are in contact at two contact areas (1704a,b), wherein the inflatable element and the at least one of the plurality of loop elements are integrally formed at a first contact area (1704a) of the two contact areas, and wherein the inflatable element and the at least one of the plurality of loop elements are connected but not integrally formed at a second contact area (1704b) of the two contact areas, thereby forming an opening (1706) for receiving the fastening device. [5] The device of claim 2, wherein the inflatable member comprises inflatable portions (308) and non-inflatable portions (312), and wherein at least one of the plurality of loop members is attached to two non-inflatable portions of the inflatable member, thereby forming an opening (1706) for receiving the attachment device. [6] A device according to the preceding claim, wherein the inflatable element comprises a one-piece fabric, the non-inflatable regions being those in which the one-piece fabric is integrally woven. [7] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims 2 to 6, wherein the loop elements have a longitudinal extension and wherein the longitudinal extension of a first subset of loop elements and the longitudinal extension of a second subset of loop elements are not parallel. [8] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the inflatable element at a first end (1802) remains substantially stationary relative to the fastening device when the inflatable element slides relative to the fastening device during inflation, while the portable protective device slides relative to the fastening device and towards the first end at a second end (1804) opposite the first end, wherein the portable protective device is shortened in length when inflated, and wherein the inflatable element is asymmetrical with respect to a point centrally located between the first end and the second end, in particular wherein the part of the inflatable element between the second end and the centrally located point is larger than the part of the inflatable element between the first end and the centrally located point. [9] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening device is adjustable (1806) so that it can adapt to a variety of wearer sizes, in particular wherein the adjustment of the size of the fastening device does not change the adaptation of the portable protective device relative to the fastening device. [10] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening device is a belt (102). [11] A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inflatable element comprises a one-piece fabric with woven-in retaining straps to produce the defined three-dimensional shape in the substantially inflated state. [12] Device according to the preceding claim, wherein the defined three-dimensional shape is adapted to the body part to be protected. [13] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the portable protective device comprises at least two inflatable elements (110a, 110b) arranged symmetrically to a body axis of the wearer, in particular symmetrically to the longitudinal axis of the wearer (1814). [14] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the portable protective device is a hip protective device, which is to be worn in particular around the hip of the wearer and is to be fastened by the loop elements to a belt worn by the wearer and protects the body part in the event of a fall. [15] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the portable protective device, when inflated, unfolds in a direction (1812) substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the fastening device (1810), and in particular unfolds around the body of the wearer to receive the body part to be protected in the inflatable element in order to mitigate a fall impact.

Images