INFLATABLE PROTECTIVE DEVICE

Abstract

Inflatable protective device (100) for protecting an element or part of the body of a carrier, comprising an inflatable element (102) that is arranged adjacent to an element or body part to be protected, wherein the inflatable element is capable of being inflated from a first, substantially uninflated state to a second, substantially inflated state by attaching a releasable source of a gas to the inflatable element in order to at least partially fill the inflatable element with the gas, wherein the inflatable element, when inflated into the second state, assumes a predetermined three-dimensional shape at least partially around the element or body part, wherein the inflatable element comprises at least one non-inflatable area (106) which is in particular arranged adjacent to or between at least two inflatable areas (102), wherein the inflatable protective device comprises at least one inflatable extension element (104), wherein the inflatable extension element (104) can be inflated from a first, substantially uninflated state to a second, substantially inflated state using a gas, and wherein, at least in the inflated state, the inflatable extension element (104) is arranged in superposition with the at least one non-inflatable area (106) in order to provide protection for the element or the body part in the area of ​​the non-inflatable area (106).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to inflatable protective devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to protective devices that can be worn on the human body or that surround other elements to be protected. Further, more particularly, the present disclosure relates to wearable protective devices that surround a body part or element and conform to the body part or element when inflated. BACKGROUND

[0002] Inflatable protection devices are well known 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 deploy when an impending or occurring vehicle collision, i.e. they inflate 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 elements or parts of the body by placing the inflatable protective devices close to a specific element or 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, in order to create a cushioning effect for that area. 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., 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 an impacting object, such as 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 periodically change their shape as the interior of the inflatable element fills with a gas. Such a change in shape typically involves 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. However, to ensure optimal protection, a good and snug fit of the wearable protective device relative to the wearer's body is required to ensure protection against accidents.

[0005] In order for the inflatable protective device to enclose the element or body part to be protected as tightly as described above, it preferably requires means that adapt its shape when at least partially inflated so that it rests against the element or body part to be protected and thus protects it. This is typically achieved by introducing non-inflatable areas or areas that are less inflatable than the main protective inflation areas. This maintains the flexibility of the shape of the inflatable protective device, allowing it to adapt to the shape of the element or body part to be protected both in the deflated and inflated, or at least partially inflated, states.Such inflatable areas can be provided by integrally formed or separately formed seams spaced at specific intervals, which act as joints in the fabric of the inflatable protective device. These joints allow two inflated areas to move relative to each other, e.g., rotate around the seam, creating a three-dimensional shape of the inflatable protective device that adapts to the element or body part to be protected.

[0006] However, a deflated area generally offers less protection than an inflated area. For example, a sharp or pointed object, or any object with a pronounced edge, can circumvent the protection provided by the inflatable protection device if it impacts the deflated area.

[0007] Therefore, it may be necessary to provide additional protection near the uninflated area.

[0008] It may also be necessary to simplify the inflation of elements that provide additional protection.

[0009] EP 2 373 190 A1 describes a protective device for protecting a user, wherein the protective device comprises an inflatable element including a first wall and a second wall connected to each other along respective peripheral edges. The inflatable element also comprises a textile structure having a first mesh, a second mesh, and a plurality of connecting elements, wherein the first mesh is arranged opposite the second mesh, and the connecting elements have opposite ends attached to the first mesh and the second mesh, respectively. The first mesh at least partially lines the first wall internally, and the second mesh at least partially lines the second wall internally. The protective device comprises at least one seam connecting a surface portion of the first mesh to a surface portion of the second mesh, wherein the at least one seam is arranged along a folding zone of the inflatable element.

[0010] US 2022 / 0 295 918 A1 describes a wearable airbag device configured to protect a specific body part of a wearer, and includes an airbag configured to inflate to cover the specific body part by allowing inflation gas to flow into it. The airbag has a plurality of columnar inflation sections whose width dimensions are set to be smaller than those of the targeted body part, and is configured to maintain an arranged state of the columnar inflation sections after inflation is completed and protect the targeted body part.

[0011] JP 4 711 883 B2 describes a shock-absorbing jacket worn on the human body, comprising an abdominal swelling chamber comprising a bag body formed by joining base sheets, a back swelling chamber, both shoulder swelling chambers, a left-side abdominal swelling chamber, and a left-side abdominal swelling chamber. It absorbs shock from the outside of the human body by supplying pressurized fluid to the swelling chambers to swell the chambers. In the jacket, at least one of the swelling chambers of the abdominal part, the back part, the left abdominal part, and / or the left abdominal part includes a swelling chamber having a plurality of structures almost superimposed in a shock-absorbing direction.

[0012] WO 2016 / 127 223 A1 describes an inflation device for protecting limbs. The device comprises a first portion inflatable to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around a person's limb and a second portion disposed between the first portion and the limb, the second portion inflatable to cushion the limb and operable to restrict movement of the limb relative to the first portion when both the first and second portions are inflated, thereby at least partially protecting the limb.

[0013] US 9,775,389 B2 describes a personal protective device for protecting a portion of a user's body. The device has an inflatable element designed to at least partially protect a portion of a user's body. The personal protective device comprises at least a first portion and a second portion. The first portion and the second portion are arranged one above the other in a respective overlap region or superimposed region. In the personal protective device, the height or thickness of at least one or each of the first portion and the second portion in the overlap region or superimposed region is smaller than the height or thickness of a remaining portion of the inflatable element. SUMMARY

[0014] 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 further explained in the following description.

[0015] According to a first aspect of the disclosure, an inflatable protective device for protecting an element or a body part of a wearer is provided, comprising an inflatable element arranged adjacent to an element or a body part to be protected, wherein the inflatable element is inflatable from a first, substantially uninflated state to a second state by attaching a releasable gas source 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 at least partially around the element or the body part, wherein the inflatable element comprises at least one non-inflatable region, which is in particular arranged adjacent to or between at least two inflatable regions,wherein the inflatable protection device comprises at least one inflatable extension element, wherein the inflatable extension element is inflatable from a first, substantially uninflated state to a second, substantially inflated state using a gas, and wherein at least in the inflated state the inflatable extension element is arranged in overlay with the at least one non-inflatable region to provide protection for the element or the body part in the region of the non-inflatable region.

[0016] The present invention relates to inflatable protective devices. In particular, the present invention provides an inflatable protective device designed to conform to an element or body part to be protected when inflated. The conformation is achieved by providing at least two inflatable regions separated by a non-inflatable region. Such a non-inflatable region may be designed as a one-piece woven seam, in which one fabric side of the inflatable protective device is integrally connected to a second fabric side during manufacture of the inflatable protective device. Alternatively, a non-inflatable region may be provided by joining two fabric layers of the inflatable protective device, e.g., by sewing, welding, or the like.In both cases, a zone is formed where the inflatable protective device cannot be inflated. This maintains a certain degree of flexibility even in the inflated or at least partially inflated state, allowing the inflated sections to move relative to each other, as the deflated section can act as a joint, e.g., a film joint. The non-inflatable section can be considered a connection to the inflatable sections, allowing the inflatable sections to move relative to each other to assume an intended three-dimensional shape around the element or body part to be protected.

[0017] To avoid exposure of the element or body part to be protected, the present invention provides an inflatable extension element, in particular an integrally formed inflatable extension element, which is formed as part of the inflatable protective device, which can be brought into superposition with the at least one non-inflatable region, thereby achieving additional protection for the element or body part to be protected in the region in which the non-inflatable region would only offer reduced protection. By superimposing the non-inflatable region and the inflatable regions, the result can be a substantially continuous inflated arrangement of individual elements around the element or body part to be protected by covering non-inflatable regions with the inflatable extension element.Assuming that the inflatable protective device is disposed around the element or body part to be protected, the inflatable extension element can be disposed radially outward or radially inward from the inflatable protective device. In other words, the inflatable protective device can be disposed between the radially outwardly disposed inflatable extension element, or alternatively, the inflatable extension element can be disposed radially inward between the inflatable protective device and the element or body part to be protected.

[0018] For example, the inflatable extension element can be similar in shape, size, and location to the non-inflatable section. This allows for an overlap, a local superposition, of the non-inflatable section and the inflatable extension element to be achieved in a simple and efficient manner. For example, the inflatable extension element can be folded onto the non-inflatable section so that when the inflatable protection device is inflated and the inflatable extension element is inflated with the inflation, the inflated inflatable extension element closes the gap created by the non-inflatable section. The inflatable extension element can be held in position by additional fastening means, ensuring that the inflatable extension element is correctly positioned when inflation begins.

[0019] To ensure sufficient flexibility of the inflatable protective device, the attachment of the inflatable extension element can be realized with sufficient degrees of freedom so that the inflatable protective device, when inflated, can still assume the intended three-dimensional shape around the element or body part to be protected. It may be advantageous to provide only a point or line attachment, i.e., an attachment that avoids a large-area attachment of the inflatable extension element, which could prevent the formation of the intended three-dimensional shape of the inflatable protective device.

[0020] Such fastening means can, in turn, be designed as a single piece by weaving the fabric forming the inflatable protective device and the inflatable extension element together. Such a single-piece weaving can create a particularly strong connection between a specific area of ​​the inflatable protective device and the inflatable extension element, while minimizing any negative impact on the flexibility of the inflatable protective device, allowing it to assume the intended three-dimensional shape when inflated. Alternatively, the inflatable extension element can be attached near the non-inflatable area using a suitable joining method such as stitching, welding, sewing, etc.Alternatively, the inflatable extension element may not be attached relative to the non-inflatable area, which can be positioned accordingly when the inflatable protective device is applied to the element or body part to be protected. For example, a wearer applying the variable protective device can position the inflatable extension element close to the non-inflatable area.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable member and the inflatable extension member may be integrally formed.

[0022] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable extension member and the inflatable member may be integrally formed as a one-piece woven member.

[0023] The one-piece design of the inflatable element and the inflatable extension element makes it possible to create a comparatively strong connection between the inflatable element and the inflated extension element, or between the protective device in general and the inflated extension element. The one-piece design avoids the need to connect the inflatable element and the inflatable extension element by additional means such as sewing, welding, riveting, and the like, which may reduce the integral stability of the inflated element and the inflated extension element and also do not provide as strong a connection as a joint.

[0024] A particularly preferred type of integral connection may be a one-piece woven element, using essentially continuous yarn to form the individual parts or elements of the inflatable protection device. This avoids introducing weak points into the structure of the inflatable protection device that could lead to premature structural failure.

[0025] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable member and the inflatable extension member may be inflatable from the same gas source, or the inflatable member and the inflatable extension member may be inflatable from different gas sources.

[0026] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, when inflated to the second state, the inflatable member and the inflatable extension member may be inflated sequentially such that inflation of one member may begin earlier than inflation of the other member.

[0027] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, inflation of the first member may be substantially complete before inflation of the second member is initiated, or may be initiated before inflation is substantially complete.

[0028] The use of the same gas source offers the advantage that the inflatable elements can be inflated substantially simultaneously by the same gas source, so timing is not required. Depending on the specific design of the inflatable element and the inflatable extension element, inflation can occur substantially simultaneously or sequentially, depending on the specific design of the gas flow paths from the gas source to the inflatable element and the inflatable extension element. For example, if one gas flow path is narrower than the other gas flow path, one inflatable element can only be inflated after inflation of the other inflatable element has begun, substantially continued, or ended. The inflatable element can be inflated either before or after the inflatable extension element, or vice versa.Depending on the arrangement of the inflatable extension element in relation to the inflatable protection device, it may be advantageous to start by inflating the inflatable extension element or the inflatable element first.

[0029] Alternatively, the use of two gas sources can allow for sequencing of inflation. For example, the first gas source can be released at a specific time, e.g., in response to an actual or impending accident, while the release of the second gas source can be delayed, e.g., until the inflatable element connected to the first gas source is sufficiently inflated. Again, depending on the arrangement of the inflatable extension element relative to the inflatable protection device, it may be advantageous to start inflating either the inflatable extension element or the inflatable element first.

[0030] If one inflatable element is inflated earlier than another inflatable element, it is not necessary to complete the inflation of the first inflatable element before inflating the other inflatable element. It may be sufficient to start inflating a first inflatable element, e.g., the inflatable extension element, slightly earlier than the second inflatable element, e.g., the inflatable element or the inflatable protection device in general.

[0031] Alternatively, depending on the structural design of the inflatable protection device, it may be advantageous to stop inflation of a first inflatable element and begin inflation of a second element. For example, if the inflatable protection device fits fairly tightly around the element or body part to be protected, it may allow easier inflation of an inward-facing inflatable element, such as an inflatable extension element disposed between the protection device and the element or body part to be protected. If a first inflatable element is sufficiently inflated before inflation of a second inflatable element, easier positioning or superimposition of the first inflatable element relative to the second inflatable element may be achieved.

[0032] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the shape of the inflatable extension member in the region of the non-inflatable region and the shape of the non-inflatable region may match such that the resulting superimposed structure of the inflatable extension member and the non-inflatable region may have a substantially uniform and / or substantially continuous inflated thickness.

[0033] The provision of such form-fitting, inflatable elements enables a substantially continuous protective function without burdening the wearer of the inflatable protective element and / or unevenly stressing or loading the element or body part to be protected. A substantially uniform or continuous inflated thickness is more likely to distribute a force acting on the element or body part to be protected evenly over the surface of the element or body part to be protected. In other words, if any part of the inflatable element or the inflatable extension element protrudes, this protruding part would exert a certain local force, ranging from an uncomfortable fit to an extreme local force in the area of ​​the protruding part, potentially injuring the body part to be protected or damaging the element. For example, ifIf a protruding part exerts extreme pressure on a part of the body part or element when inflated, an external force acting on the inflatable protective device, for example in an accident scenario, may be concentrated on the area of ​​the protruding part instead of being evenly distributed over the surface of the element or body part to be protected, thus not ensuring the protective function.

[0034] It is not absolutely necessary that the shape of the inflatable extension element and the area of ​​the non-inflatable region substantially coincide. The inflatable extension element can, for example, be designed as a circular tube or a flat tubular structure and be arranged adjacent to the non-inflatable region, located between the inflatable regions adjacent to the non-inflatable region, thereby substantially filling or bridging the gap between the inflatable regions formed by the non-inflatable region. The resulting surface area can still be considered uniform if the external force acting on the inflatable protection device is sufficiently distributed over the inner surface of the inflatable protection device, and thus over the surface of the element or body part to be protected, so that no extreme local force occurs.

[0035] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable extension element may be connected to the inflatable element in a first region in which the inflatable extension element and the inflatable element may be in fluid communication so that they can be filled by the same gas source, and wherein the inflatable extension element may be connected to the inflatable element in a second region, in particular with a non-fluid connection, in order to maintain a defined position relative to the non-inflatable region.

[0036] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable element may be formed in or adjacent to the region of the non-inflatable region, and wherein the inflatable element and the non-inflatable region may be brought into superposition by folding one element relative to the other element.

[0037] The interior of the inflatable extension member and the interior of the inflatable member or inflatable protection device in general may be in fluid communication in a first region such that a gas used to fill the inflatable protection device naturally passes through the fluid communication from the interior of the inflatable member / inflatable protection device to the interior of the inflatable extension member, inflating the inflatable extension member. This inflation may occur simultaneously or sequentially, with either the inflatable extension member or the inflatable element / inflatable protection device being inflated before the other. Depending on the volume to be filled, one member may be substantially fully inflated before the other. For example, if the inflatable extension member or the inflatable protection device is inflated, the inflation pressure may be increased by more than 10 bar.If its internal volume is relatively small compared to the inflatable element / inflatable protection device, simultaneous inflation may result in the inflatable extension element being substantially fully inflated before the inflatable element is substantially fully inflated. With substantially unobstructed fluid communication between the inflatable extension element and the inflatable element in the first region, inflation may occur simultaneously despite a different internal volume, so that all inflatable elements are substantially fully inflated at substantially the same time.

[0038] By connecting the inflatable element and the inflatable extension element in the second region, the position of the inflatable extension element relative to the inflatable element, the non-inflatable region, or the inflatable protection device in general can be defined. For example, if the inflatable extension element protrudes from the inflatable protection device in the first region / in the fluid connection and is bent back or folded toward / onto the inflatable protection device so that it rests against the inflatable protection device in the region of the inflatable elements or, in particular, the non-inflatable region, the relative position of the inflatable extension element and the inflatable element / the non-inflatable region / the inflatable protection device can be fixed.Such attachment in the second region may be achieved by a connection point between the elements, by sewing, welding, riveting, buttoning, or the like. The inflatable extension element may, in particular, have a non-inflatable portion in the second region, allowing it to be connected to the inflatable protective device in the second region by the aforementioned methods without the risk of inadvertent leakage of gas used to inflate the inflatable protective device.

[0039] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable element may comprise a first fabric side and a second fabric side to form an inflatable region or volume between the fabric sides, and wherein the non-inflatable region is a region in which the fabric sides are joined in direct contact with each other or are integrally formed.

[0040] The inflatable element, but also the inflatable extension element and the inflatable protective device in general can have a first fabric side and a second fabric side that are connected to each other to form an inflatable internal volume. To obtain an airtight inflatable internal volume, the fabric sides must be connected to each other in an airtight manner. If the inflatable element consists of separate fabric sides, the connection can be achieved by sewing the fabric sides together by forming a special seam or by welding the fabric sides, e.g. by applying heat so that the fabric sides at least partially melt in the area of ​​​​heat exposure, thereby connecting the fabric sides in a substantially airtight manner. Alternatively, the fabric sides can also be connected in one piece, e.g. by a one-piece weaving process.

[0041] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable extension member may be disposed between the inflatable member and the member or body part, or the inflatable member may be disposed between the inflatable extension member and the member or body part.

[0042] An arrangement in which the inflatable extension element is positioned between the inflatable element and the element or body part to be protected allows for easy positioning and retention of the inflatable extension elements, as it is essentially housed between the inflatable element / inflatable protection device in general and the element or body part to be protected. In other words, the inflatable extension element remains in place between the element or body part to be protected and the inflatable protection device, as no significant forces can act on the inflatable extension element that would otherwise reposition or move the inflatable extension element.In particular, if the inflatable extension element and the inflatable element are connected in a first region, in particular in fluid communication, and otherwise connected in a second region, an unintentional change in the position of one element relative to the other element can be avoided.

[0043] Generally, when the inflatable element / protection device is located between the inflatable extension element and the element or body part to be protected, the shape of the inflatable extension element may not be required to conform to the inflatable protection device in the non-inflatable area to the same extent as when the inflatable extension element is located between the inflatable element and the element or body part to be protected. For example, if the inflatable extension element extends in a circular shape and the non-inflatable area is V-shaped, the inflatable extension element may extend beyond the outer surface of the inflatable protection device to a greater extent to provide additional protection to the non-inflatable area.Such a projection may not impair the protective function if it is located on the outside of the inflatable protective device, whereas on the inside of the inflatable protective device it may create an area of ​​increased exposure to external forces by protruding beyond the inner surface of the inflatable protective device towards the element or body part to be protected.

[0044] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the non-inflatable regions and the inflatable extension element may have a substantially linear, straight or curved two-dimensional extension.

[0045] Such a simple geometric shape can enable the desired adaptation of the shape and form of the inflatable extension element and the non-inflatable region, so that the weak area of ​​the non-inflatable region can be adequately covered or compensated for by providing the inflatable extension element with a similar shape. This allows the non-inflatable region to be adapted for optimal protection of the element or body part to be protected by allowing the required movement of the inflatable elements relative to each other along the non-inflatable region.The non-inflatable area can be adapted to the required protective function of the inflatable protective element without the resulting weak points having to be taken into account to the same extent, since the weak points are then compensated for by the appropriately shaped inflatable extension element, which covers or compensates for the weak points of the non-inflatable area.

[0046] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable element may comprise a plurality of non-inflatable regions and / or a plurality of inflatable extension elements, wherein in particular the number of non-inflatable regions may correspond to the number of inflatable extension elements.

[0047] By providing a plurality of non-inflatable areas, a preferred three-dimensional shape of the inflatable protective device can be created, specifically adapted to the shape and form of the element or body part to be protected. The reductions in protection caused by the non-inflatable areas can then be compensated for by the inflatable extension elements. The number of inflatable extension elements and the number of non-inflatable areas do not necessarily have to be the same. For example, if it is advantageous for the protective function, a non-inflatable area can be provided with several inflatable extension elements, each of which is specifically adapted to a part of the non-inflatable area.This may allow for preferential adaptation of the shape and design of the inflatable extension elements and the non-inflatable areas to increase the protective function of the inflatable protective device.

[0048] The non-inflatable region can, for example, be V-shaped and covered by two inflatable extension elements, each covering one leg of the V. Alternatively, the inflatable extension element itself can be V-shaped. Such a V-shape of the non-inflatable region can enable a preferential adaptation of the three-dimensional shape of the inflatable protective device to the shape of the element or body part to be protected in order to achieve an improved protective function. A V-shaped inflatable extension element can be brought into fluid communication in a first region at the bottom of the V with two second regions in which the inflatable extension element is connected to the inflatable protective device, so that the two legs of the V are held in place next to the V-shaped non-inflatable region. Alternatively, the V-shaped inflatable extension element can have two fluid connections, e.g.at the two top surfaces of the V, which can lead to automatic positioning of the V-shaped inflatable extension adjacent to a V-shaped non-inflatable section. Because the two top surfaces of the V can be fluidly connected to the inflatable interior of the inflatable protection device and converge at the bottom of the V, the resulting shape of the inflatable extension element is substantially defined. When inflated, the V-shaped section is substantially congruent with the non-inflatable V-shaped section if appropriately adjusted. Even a rolled-up V-shaped extension element can unfurl and / or expand to form the V shape, thus avoiding accidental misalignment of the inflatable extension element and the non-inflatable section.It may still be advantageous to provide a fixation between the inflatable extension element and the inflatable protection device in the second region, as previously described.

[0049] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the inflatable member and the inflatable extension member may include at least one internal stabilizing member and / or a woven-in tether to create a three-dimensional shape for receiving the member or the body part.

[0050] An internal stabilizing element or a woven-in retaining band can be used to define the overall three-dimensional shape, particularly the thickness of certain areas of the inflatable protective device. By providing one or more such internal stabilizing elements, the curvature of the inflatable protective device in the inflated state can be designed so that the three-dimensional shape matches the outer surface shape of the element or body part to be protected. The internal stabilizing element or the woven-in retaining band can also be used in the inflatable extension element to impart a defined three-dimensional structure to the inflatable extension element, e.g., to achieve a better match between the shape of the inflatable extension element and, for example, a non-inflatable area.This allows a preferred internal or external uniform surface to be formed in which no element stands out particularly.

[0051] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable protective device may be a wearable protective device, in particular a protective device in the form of a jacket or a protective device in the form of trousers.

[0052] By providing a plurality of non-inflatable areas, the overall shape of the inflatable protective device can be adapted to the overall shape of the human body. The inflatable protective device can be designed as a jacket-shaped protective device or as a trouser-shaped protective device. The inflatable protective device can thus substantially enclose a part of the wearer's body to protect it. The wearer can be a pedestrian, for example, crossing the street, or a cyclist or motorcyclist driving a vehicle. However, the present concept is not limited to two-wheeled vehicles. It is also possible for a wearer to wear the protective device while using a four-wheeled vehicle, such as a car, truck, bus, or van.Even in the interior, the inflatable protection device, when inflated during an ongoing or impending vehicle collision, can provide additional protection to the wearer, even when seated. The inflatable protection device can be designed to specifically protect those parts of the body that are most exposed in a particular application scenario. For example, it may be advantageous for vehicle occupants for the inflatable protection device to protect a highly exposed front side of the wearer, while a less exposed back side, such as that resting against a vehicle seat, receives less or reduced protection. Such reduced protection can be achieved by reducing the size of an inflatable air chamber inside the inflatable protection device or by omitting it altogether in a less crash-prone area. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 shows an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure in a plan view. Fig. 2A to 2C show the steps for manufacturing the inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. Fig. 3 shows the inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure in a portable configuration. Fig. 4A to 4C show further views of the steps for manufacturing an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. Fig. 5A to 5C illustrate the steps of inflating the inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B illustrate the steps of inflating an alternative embodiment of the inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] In Fig. 1 is a plan view of an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure.

[0055] Fig. Figure 1 shows an inflatable protective device 100 in a plan view, ie in the unassembled state. The inflatable protective device 100 comprises a first fabric side and a second fabric side, which in Fig. 1 cannot be seen separately. The first fabric side and the second fabric side substantially coincide, i.e., they are substantially identically shaped. One fabric side forms the outside of the inflatable protective device 100, and one fabric side forms the inside of the inflatable protective device 100. The fabric sides are connected to one another by the seam 116. The seam 116 may be a one-piece molded seam in which the fabric sides are woven as one piece to form the seam 116. Alternatively, the fabric sides may also be separate fabric sides connected by a seam 116 in the form of a weld or a seam.

[0056] The inflatable protection device 100 from Fig. 1a comprises a chest region 122, a back region 124, and shoulder regions 126. The inflatable protective device 100 further comprises a head opening 120. In the region of the head opening 120, a gas inlet 108 is provided, which essentially forms a fluid path between the fabric sides into the interior of the inflatable protective device 100. A gas generating element (not shown) can be connected to the gas inlet 108 to fill the interior of the inflatable protective device 100 with a gas and thus inflate the inflatable protective device 100. The inflatable protective device 100 comprises a plurality of inflatable elements 102, e.g., inflatable chambers, which are in fluid communication with one another and with the gas inlet 108, such that the gas introduced into the interior of the inflatable protective device 100 through the gas inlet 108 is distributed throughout the interior of the inflatable protective device 100 and thus inflates the inflatable protective device 100.In addition to the circumferential seam 116, the inflatable protective device 100 of . Fig. 1 illustrates, by way of example, a plurality of connection points 114a provided to maintain a defined distance between the fabric sides of the inflatable protective device 100 to prevent the expansion or inflation of certain areas of the inflatable protective device 100. The connection points 114a can be introduced externally, e.g., by welding or sewing, or they can be integrated into the interior of the inflatable protective device during manufacture using a one-piece weaving technique and / or by weaving in retaining straps.

[0057] To enable a defined three-dimensional shape, the inflatable protective device 100 comprises, in addition to the connection points 114a, non-inflatable regions 106, which are arranged in particular between defined inflatable elements 102. Such non-inflatable regions 106 are in particular the regions in which the two fabric sides are connected as previously described, e.g., by welding, sewing, or one-piece weaving. The non-inflatable regions 106 enable relative movement of one inflatable element with respect to another inflatable element, whereby the inflatable protective device 100 can adapt to an element or body part to be protected when it surrounds it.However, such non-inflatable regions 106 are weak points or areas in the structure of the inflatable protection device 100 because the non-inflatable regions 106 do not provide the same level of protection as the inflatable elements 102. In order to create a substantially continuous inflated structure around the element or body part to be protected, the inflatable protection device 100 includes inflatable extension elements 104 arranged to extend beyond the inflatable extension elements 104 in the embodiment of FIG. Fig. 1 can be inflated substantially simultaneously with the inflatable elements 102. The inflatable extension elements 104 are superimposed on the non-inflatable regions 106, thereby reinforcing the weak points or weak areas of the inflatable protective device 100 created by the non-inflatable regions 106.

[0058] In the embodiments of Fig. 1, the inflatable extension elements 104 extend in a first region 110 from the inflatable protection device 100 and are intended to be folded back 128 onto the non-inflatable regions 106 in this first region 110, thereby superimposing the non-inflatable regions 106 and the inflatable extension elements 104. The folding is indicated by the black arrows in Fig. 1. In the folded state, the inflatable extension elements 104, when brought into overlap with the non-inflatable regions 106, can be fastened in a second region 112 to the surface of the inflatable protective device 100, so that the inflatable extension elements 104 remain in a defined position relative to the inflatable protective device 100, ie in overlap with the non-inflatable region 106. The folding and fastening of the inflatable extension element 104 to the inflatable protective device 100 is in Fig. 1 not shown.

[0059] In order to maintain a three-dimensional shape, the inflatable protective device 100 comprises fastening areas 118, in Fig. 1 shows, by way of example, fastening regions 118a, 118b, which can be connected to one another by suitable means such as welding, sewing, riveting, lacing, or the like. The connection in the fastening regions 118 can be a reversible connection or an irreversible connection.

[0060] Generally, the inflatable protective device 100 is a chest protective device worn by a person, such as a motorcyclist or a pedestrian. The inflatable extension member 104 can be folded into the interior of the inflatable protective device 100 or, alternatively, into the exterior of the inflatable protective device 100. Fig. 1 further shows connection points 114b arranged on selected inflatable elements 102. This creates an opening in the chest area 122, so that when the inflatable protective device 100 is arranged as a jacket-like protective device, it is easier to put on and take off in the assembled state. The inflatable protective device 100 in Fig. 2B is in the assembled but still uninflated state.

[0061] The connection between the inflatable elements 102 and the inflatable extension elements 104 is in Fig. 2C. Fig. Figure 2C shows an enlarged partial cross-section through the line AA' of Fig. 2B. From Fig. 2C, the first and second fabric sides of the inflatable protective device 100 can also be seen as the top and bottom sides of the respective elements 102, 104, which are connected in one case by a seam 116. In Fig. 2C, the inflatable elements 102 are folded onto the (already folded) inflated extension elements 104 and at least temporarily connected or secured at the connection point 114b with a seam 116a or a similar, suitable (reversible) connection method such as welding. For the purposes of the following description, it is advantageous to use a reversible connection method, although the connection method is understood to be a seam or weld.

[0062] In the Fig. 2A to 2C illustrate the steps for manufacturing the inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure.

[0063] In Fig. 2A, the inflatable extension elements 104 are folded 128 to overlap the non-inflatable regions 106, as shown by the dashed horizontal lines. The non-inflatable regions 106 are in Fig. 2A, since they are located below the inflatable extension elements 104. Connection points 113 are provided for fastening and holding the inflatable extension elements 104 relative to the non-inflatable area 106 and the inflatable elements 102, which are designed, for example, as seams. Fig. 2B, in addition to the inflatable extension elements 104 being folded around the horizontal dashed lines, selected inflatable elements 102 are folded around vertical dashed lines, exemplarily folding the inflatable elements 102 in half so that the connection points 114b of the inflatable elements 102 are adjacent to the inflatable extension elements 104. In doing so, the folded inflatable extension elements 104 and the folded inflatable elements 102 may be at least temporarily secured to one another to hold the inflatable extension elements 104 and the inflatable elements 102 in position.

[0064] In Fig. 3, the inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure is illustrated in a portable configuration.

[0065] Fig. 3 shows an assembled, wearable protective device 100, looking at the back region 124. The fastening regions 118a,b are fastened to one another using suitable, particularly reversible, means if the inflatable protective device is to be disassembled. The inflatable extension elements 104 are folded into the interior of the inflatable protective device 100, and the inflatable elements 102 are also folded into the interior and connected in a suitable manner (reversibly) to the inflatable extension elements 104 and / or a seam, e.g., a seam of the non-inflatable region 106. This creates an inflatable protective device in the form of a jacket that can be put on and taken off without having to be disassembled. The inflatable protective device can be integrated into another piece of clothing, e.g., a protective jacket, which can have the appearance of normal clothing.Since the inflatable protective device 100 in the uninflated state, as shown in . Fig. 3 is rather inconspicuous, the integration into another piece of clothing is easy to handle.

[0066] A gas source can be connected to the gas inlet 108 to supply gas for inflating the inflatable protective device 100 when required (not shown). Fig. 3 shown).

[0067] The Fig. 4A to 4C show further views of the steps for manufacturing an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure.

[0068] In Fig. 4a shows a part of a portable protective device 100 which is comparable to that shown in Fig. 1. The inflatable protective device 100 again comprises inflatable elements 102, between which there is a non-inflatable region 106. The inflatable protective device 100 comprises an inflatable extension element 104, which is in the unfolded state, ie, not (yet) folded around the dashed horizontal line 128.

[0069] In Fig. 4B, the inflated extension element 104 is folded around the horizontal dashed line 128, while the inflatable element 102 is folded around the vertical dashed line. The non-inflatable area 106 is located below the combined folding elements 102, 104 and is in Fig. 4B. The inflatable extension element 104 is attached to the portable protective device 100 via connection points 113; two individual seam sections are shown as an example. A single seam in the area of ​​the upper seam in Fig. 4B or alternatively a longer seam, comparable to the one in Fig. 2A. The folded elements 102, 104 are (temporarily) joined at the connection points 114b, whereby they are Fig. 4B, for example. The connection points 114b are a comparatively fragile seam, i.e. a seam that breaks upon inflation. A temporary joining of the folded elements 102, 104 is to be understood in particular as a temporary joining until the inflatable protective device and thus the inflatable element 102 and the inflatable extension element 104 are inflated. In the inflated state, the force generated by the inflation, i.e. the change in shape of the inflatable element 102 and the inflatable extension element 104, leads to a force acting on the connecting means connecting the elements 102, 104 in that the elements 102, 104 move away from one another, whereby the connection of the elements 102, 104 is separated or released. In other words, the force of the inflation of the inflatable protective device 100 releases the connection, e.g.the seam connecting the elements 102, 104 breaks. Alternatively, there is no seam connecting the elements 102, 104, and both elements are connected only to the inflatable protective device 100, e.g., to the base or the outer or top layer of the fabric of the inflatable protective device 100.

[0070] Fig. Figure 4C shows the arrangement of Fig. 4B from the back. Here, the inflatable element 102 and the inflatable element 104 are folded towards the back of the inflatable protection device 100, as shown in Fig. 4C and are therefore in Fig. 4C is not visible. The non-inflatable area 106 is in Fig. visible.

[0071] In the Fig. 5A to 5C illustrate the steps for inflating the inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure.

[0072] In the Fig. 5A to 5C, the inflatable protective device 100 is inflated step by step. In Fig. 5A, the inflatable protective device is substantially uninflated, as shown in the Fig. 1 to 4. In Fig. 5B, the introduction of a gas into the interior of the inflatable protective device has begun, causing the inflatable elements 102 and the inflatable extension element 104 to be (partially) inflated. Since the inflatable extension element 104 is located on the rear side of the inflatable protective device 100, the inflated state in Fig. 5B is not directly visible. The condition is still that the inflatable extension element 104 and the inflatable element 102 are positioned to the distal side in Fig. 5B and the inflatable extension member 104 and the inflatable member 102 are still connected to the inflatable protective device 100, e.g., to the base or outer or top layer of the fabric of the inflatable protective device 100.

[0073] The inflation of the inflatable protective device 100 continues ( Fig. 5C), whereby the pressure inside the inflatable protection device 100 increases to a point where the reversible connection between the inflatable element 102 and the inflatable extension element 104 is released. Consequently, the inflatable element 102 is deployed 128 by the pressure of the gas inside the inflatable element 102. By deploying the inflatable element 102, the Fig. 2B is substantially closed because both inflatable elements 102 are deployed and are now positioned in the chest region 122, thereby closing the gap.

[0074] The inflatable extension element 104 remains inside the inflatable protection device 100 in the area of ​​the non-inflatable region 106 and thereby provides additional protection in the area of ​​the non-inflatable region 106.

[0075] In the Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B illustrates the steps of inflating an alternative embodiment of the inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure.

[0076] Another embodiment of an inflatable protective device 100 is shown in the Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B. Here, an external inflatable extension element 104 is arranged in the area of ​​the non-inflatable areas 106, which in Fig. 6A,B are not visible because they are located below the inflatable extension element 104. The inflatable protective device 100 is closed in the chest area 122 by a fastening mechanism. In the embodiment of the Fig. 6A,B, the inflatable elements are connected to each other by cords, so that the inflatable elements 102 are held relative to each other in the chest area 122. Accordingly, the inflatable elements 102 are not folded, but remain unfolded even in the deflated state. The inflatable extension elements 104 in the embodiment of Fig. 6A, B are arranged in the uninflated state on the outside of the inflatable protective device 100 and are secured by suitable means which are Fig. 6A,B are not further shown. In the inflated state, as shown in Fig. 6B, the inflatable extension elements 104 remain in place, particularly near the non-inflatable areas 106, which are in the Fig. 6A,B are not visible. This allows the weak areas of the non-inflatable areas 106 to be compensated by the protective function of the superimposed inflatable extension elements 104.

[0077] The inflatable elements 102 and the inflatable extension elements 104 must not be in fluid communication. In other words, the inflation of the inflatable elements 102 and the inflation of the inflatable extension elements 104 can occur independently of each other, even if they are connected to each other or arranged in superposition. Thus, it is possible for two independent gas generating elements located in the Fig. 6A and Fig.6B, which can be activated independently of one another. Thus, the inflatable elements 102 and the inflatable extension elements 104 can be inflated independently of one another. A chronological inflation sequence is therefore easier to achieve with separate gas generating elements.

[0078] It should be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and that various changes and improvements can 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 sub-combinations of one or more features described herein. 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 numerals in the claims are not to be understood as limiting the scope of a claim. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 100 Inflatable protective device 102 Inflatable element 104 Inflatable extension element 106 Non-inflatable area 108 Gas inlet 110 First area / folding 112 Second area 113 Seam 114a,b connection point 116 seam 118a,b fastening area 120 head opening 122 chest area 124 back area 126 shoulder area 128 folding

Claims

[1] An inflatable protective device (100) for protecting an element or body part of a wearer, comprising an inflatable element (102) arranged adjacent to an element or body part to be protected, wherein the inflatable element is inflatable from a first, substantially uninflated state to a second, substantially inflated state by applying a releasable source of gas 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 at least partially around the element or the body part, wherein the inflatable element comprises at least one non-inflatable region (106), which is arranged in particular adjacent to or between at least two inflatable regions (102), wherein the inflatable protective device comprises at least one inflatable extension element (104), wherein the inflatable extension element (104) is inflatable from a first, substantially uninflated state to a second, substantially inflated state using a gas, and wherein, at least in the inflated state, the inflatable extension element (104) is arranged in superposition with the at least one non-inflatable region (106) in order to ensure protection for the element or the body part in the region of the non-inflatable region (106). [2] Device according to the preceding claim, wherein the inflatable element (102) and the inflatable extension element (104) are formed in one piece. [3] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the inflatable element (102) and the inflatable extension element (104) are inflatable from the same gas source, or wherein the inflatable element (102) and the inflatable extension element (104) are inflatable from different gas sources. [4] A device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the inflatable element (102) and the inflatable extension element (104), when inflated to the second state, are inflated sequentially such that inflation of one element begins earlier than inflation of the other element. [5] Apparatus according to the preceding claim, wherein inflation of the first element (102, 104) is substantially completed before inflation of the second element (102, 104) is commenced, or is commenced before substantially complete inflation. [6] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the shape of the inflatable extension element (104) in the region of the non-inflatable region (106) and the shape of the non-inflatable region (106) match such that the resulting superimposed structure of the inflatable extension element (104) and the non-inflatable region (106) has a substantially uniform and / or substantially continuous inflated thickness. [7] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the inflatable extension element (104) is connected to the inflatable element (102) in a first region in which the inflatable extension element (104) and the inflatable element (1029) are in fluid communication so that they can be filled by the same gas source, and wherein the inflatable extension element (104) is connected to the inflatable element (102) in a second region, in particular with a non-fluid connection, in order to maintain a defined position relative to the non-inflatable region. [8] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the inflatable extension element (104) and the inflatable element (102) are integrally formed as a one-piece woven element. [9] Device according to the preceding claim, wherein the inflatable element (102) is formed in the region of the non-inflatable region (106) or adjacent thereto, and wherein the inflatable element (102) and the non-inflatable region (106) are brought into superposition by folding one element relative to the other element. [10] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the inflatable element (102) comprises a first fabric side and a second fabric side for forming an inflatable region between the fabric sides, and wherein the non-inflatable region (106) is a region in which the fabric sides are joined in direct contact with one another or are formed integrally. [11] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the inflatable extension element (104) is arranged between the inflatable element (102) and the element or body part, or wherein the inflatable element (102) is arranged between the inflatable extension element (104) and the element or body part. [12] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the non-inflatable regions (106) and the inflatable extension element (104) has a substantially linear, straight or curved two-dimensional extension. [13] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the inflatable element (102) has a plurality of non-inflatable regions (106) and / or a plurality of inflatable extension elements (104), in particular wherein the number of non-inflatable regions (106) is equal to the number of inflatable extension elements (104). [14] A device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the inflatable element (102) and the inflatable extension element (104) comprises at least one internal stabilizing element and / or a woven-in tether to create a three-dimensional shape for receiving the element or the body part. [15] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the inflatable protective device (100) is a wearable protective device, in particular a protective device in the form of a jacket or a protective device in the form of trousers.

Images