Protective equipment for protection against falls and protective element for use in a garment for protection against falls

Abstract

The invention relates to protective equipment 200 for protection in the event of falls, comprising: a piece of clothing 210 comprising a torso-enclosing region 211, and a protective element 220, 320, 420 which is arranged on the torso-enclosing region and is designed to at least partially encompass a torso, wherein the protective element is designed to encompass the torso by at least more than 180° in a circumferential direction, wherein the protective element has a first end 228, 328 and a second end 229, 329, 429 in the circumferential direction and comprises a material which is designed to deflect and preferably absorb an impact force which acts at least partially perpendicularly on the protective element along the circumferential direction, and wherein the protective element is designed to encompass the torso in such a way that a deflected portion of the impact force can be at least partially transmitted between the first end and the second end.The invention can significantly reduce the risk of injury to a person wearing the protective equipment in the event of a fall.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of protective equipment and in particular to protective equipment for protection against falls, a protective element for use in a garment for protection against falls, a method for protection against falls and a use of a protective element in protective equipment.

[0002] Especially in older people, bone fractures regularly occur even from trivial falls. These fractures primarily affect the pelvis, sacrum, femoral neck, and / or the lower part of the spine.

[0003] Falls, as mentioned above, frequently occur in everyday life when wearing ordinary clothing. Even if bone fractures in common falls could be prevented with standard protective clothing, this is not usually implemented in everyday life, especially since standard protective clothing restricts the wearer's freedom of movement.

[0004] This means that there is no known protective clothing that is suitable for everyday use by older people and at the same time provides significant protection against trivial falls.

[0005] It is therefore desirable to present a solution that reduces the likelihood of bone fractures in everyday falls.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, protective equipment is proposed as defined in claim 1, namely protective equipment for protection against falls, comprising (i) a garment comprising a torso-enclosing region, and (ii) a protective element arranged on the torso-enclosing region and configured to at least partially encompass a torso, wherein the protective element is configured to encompass the torso in a circumferential direction by at least more than 180°, wherein the protective element has a first end and a second end in the circumferential direction and comprises a material configured to redirect and preferably absorb an impact force acting at least partially perpendicularly on the protective element along the circumferential direction, and wherein the protective element is configured to encompass the torso in such a way thatthat a deflected portion of the impact force is at least partially transferable between the first end and the second end.

[0007] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a protective element. The protective element is intended and configured for use in a piece of clothing for protection in the event of falls. The protective element is designed to at least partially encompass a person's torso. In particular, the protective element is designed to encompass the torso by at least more than 180° in a circumferential direction. Furthermore, the protective element has a first end and a second end in the circumferential direction and comprises a material designed to deflect and preferably absorb an impact force that acts at least partially perpendicular to the protective element along the circumferential direction, wherein the protective element is designed to encompass the torso in such a way that a deflected portion of the impact force can be at least partially transmitted between the first end and the second end.

[0008] Preferably, the protective element is a protective element according to one of the embodiments described above or below.

[0009] In a further aspect of the invention, a method for protection in the event of falls is described, comprising the steps of: (i) encompassing a torso, in particular a hip, along a circumferential direction by a protective element according to one of the embodiments described above or below, by more than 180°, (ii) acting an impact force at least partially perpendicularly on the protective element, and (iii) deflecting at least part of the impact force along the circumferential direction by the protective element, so that a deflected portion of the impact force is at least partially transmitted between the first end and the second end.

[0010] In a further aspect of the invention, a use of a protective element according to one of the embodiments described above or below is described, wherein the protective element is used in protective equipment according to one of the embodiments described above or below.

[0011] Part of the background of the present invention can be found in the following considerations.

[0012] If an impact force can lead to (serious) bone fractures even in trivial falls, then a simple countermeasure should be possible to reduce the extent of the impact forces and thus reduce the number of bone fractures.

[0013] Literature research yielded data on the medically and ethically worst bone fractures resulting from common falls. Based on pathophysiological findings, the inventors simulated the most common fall positions and sequences using a skeleton model and a lifelike manikin. This resulted in various impact points that can be summarized in two fall models: a fall onto the lateral hip and a fall backward onto the coccyx. By incorporating the data from the literature, calculable values for forces at the point of impact were derived, and clues were identified for the transmission of fall forces into the skeleton. It was recognized that, for example, the pelvic ring does not usually fracture directly as a result of the impact, but rather due to fracture forces transmitted inward into the pelvis and spine.

[0014] Driven by the findings described, the concept of protective equipment was invented in which not only selective force absorption at the point of impact plays a role, but also, in particular, force deflection into a circular and axial material construct of the protective element.

[0015] This material construct is intended to be integrated into clothing, particularly outerwear, as a protective mechanism and requires, in particular, a design that is so discreet that maximum acceptance by the wearer is ensured.

[0016] The protective equipment is preferably intelligent outerwear with a fall protection concept to reduce the number of bone fractures in the pelvis and spine in banal falls.

[0017] The protective equipment according to the invention is intended and designed to provide protection in the event of falls.

[0018] The protective equipment comprises a garment. The garment is, in particular, a conventional garment that has the characteristics of the respective garment, i.e., the garment is a familiar, barely noticeable, garment, such as a vest. The garment preferably has no or only subtle modifications, such as a seam, on an external side to be suitable as part of the protective equipment.

[0019] It should be noted that any references such as "inner side," "outer side," "inboard," etc., refer to a condition in which a person wears the garment as intended, with an inner side facing inward toward the person and an outer side facing outward away from the person. Furthermore, any references such as "lower area," "front area," "rear area," etc., refer to a condition of the protective equipment in which a person wears the garment as intended.

[0020] The garment comprises a torso-enclosing region. This means that the torso-enclosing region is a particular feature of the garment. The torso-enclosing region is, in particular, the region of a garment that encloses the torso, in particular a lower part of the torso. The torso-enclosing region is designed to at least partially enclose a torso of a wearer of the garment. In this case, the garment is, in particular, designed to enclose the torso by at least more than 180° in a circumferential direction of the torso.

[0021] The protective equipment further comprises a protective element. The protective element is arranged on the torso-enclosing region. An arrangement of the protective element "on the torso-enclosing region" means that the protective element is arranged on an inner side or on an outer side of the garment in the torso-enclosing region and / or is incorporated into the torso-enclosing region of the garment. The protective element is preferably incorporated on an inner side of the garment.

[0022] The protective element is designed to at least partially encompass the torso of a wearer of the garment. The protective element is designed to encompass the torso by at least more than 180° in a circumferential direction of the torso. In particular, the protective element is designed to encompass the torso by preferably 270° or more, so that a rear region, a first lateral region, and / or a second lateral region of the torso are encompassed by the protective element.

[0023] The protective element has a first end and a second end in the circumferential direction and comprises a material, wherein the material is configured to deflect and / or absorb an impact force acting at least partially perpendicularly on the protective element along the circumferential direction. Preferably, the material of the protective element is configured to deflect and / or absorb an impact force acting at least partially perpendicularly on the protective element along the circumferential direction. Additionally or alternatively, the material of the protective element is configured to deflect an impact force acting at least partially perpendicularly on the protective element perpendicular to the circumferential direction.

[0024] The impact force is, in particular, the force that acts on the protective element when a person wearing the protective equipment or garment hits the ground during a fall. Specifically, the force can be understood as an impact force.

[0025] A deflection along the circumferential direction also occurs when only a part of the force, i.e. the impact force, is deflected along the circumferential direction.

[0026] Furthermore, the protective element is designed to encompass the torso in such a way that a deflected portion of the impact force can be at least partially transmitted between the first end and the second end. This means that the protective element is arranged on the protective equipment in such a way that the first end and the second end of the protective element are so close to each other that at least partial force transmission between the first end and the second end is possible.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the protective element has a first end face at the first end and a second end face at the second end. The impact force can then be transmitted between the first end face and the second end face. Preferably, the first end face and the second end face are opposite each other, i.e., the protective element is arranged on the protective equipment such that the first end face and the second end face are arranged substantially parallel to each other.

[0028] In a preferred variant of the above embodiment, the protective equipment has an opening / closing mechanism, such as a zipper or buttons, for opening and closing the protective equipment, wherein the first end face and the second end face are then arranged, in particular directly, on the opening / closing mechanism. The distance between the first end and the second end or between the first end face and the second end face is preferably minimized, thus maximizing force transmission.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of one aspect of the invention, the protective element comprises at least one protective zone. The protective zone then comprises the material configured to redirect and preferably absorb the impact force acting at least partially perpendicularly on the protective zone along the circumferential direction.

[0030] More preferably, the protective element comprises at least one further zone. The at least one further zone can in particular be understood as a support zone. Ie, the at least one further zone as a support zone is designed to support the protective zone. In a case in which the protective element comprises two or more protective zones, the further zone can additionally or alternatively be understood as a connecting zone. Ie, the further zone as a connecting zone is designed to connect the two or more protective zones. Further additionally or alternatively, the at least one further zone can be understood as an end zone which corresponds to an end region of the protective element in the circumferential direction.

[0031] In a preferred variant, the at least one protection zone comprises at least a first lateral protection zone in a first lateral region of the garment or the torso and a second lateral protection zone in a second lateral region of the garment or the torso opposite the first lateral region. In particular, the first lateral protection zone is arranged on a first side of the torso and the second lateral protection zone is arranged on a second side of the torso opposite the first side. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one protection zone preferably comprises a rear protection zone in a rear region of the garment. In particular, the rear protection zone is arranged in a rear region, in particular the back region, of the torso.

[0032] In a further preferred variant, the protective element comprises a plurality of protective zones and a plurality of further zones, wherein the plurality of protective zones and the plurality of further zones are particularly preferably arranged alternately in a circumferential direction.

[0033] In a further preferred variant of the above embodiment, a thickness d s of the protection zone in a distal direction of the fuselage is greater than a thickness d of the further zone. In the case where several protection zones are provided, a respective thickness d s of several protection zones and / or a thickness d s within a protection zone. Additionally or alternatively, in the case where several further zones are provided, a respective thickness d τ of several further zones and / or a thickness d τ within another zone.

[0034] The above variant can advantageously be designed so that for the thickness d s the protection zone 7 ≤ d s ≤ 9 mm applies, particularly preferred d s = 8 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the thickness d τ the further zone 5 ≤ d τ ≤ 7 mm, particularly preferred d τ = 6 mm.

[0035] In a further advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, the protective element at least partially has a hole pattern. If the protective element has at least one protective zone and at least one further zone, the hole pattern is preferably arranged in at least one of the at least one further zone.

[0036] The hole pattern comprises, in particular, a plurality of holes. The plurality of holes is preferably arranged symmetrically, particularly preferably in a grid pattern, for example within a further zone. A hole pattern can ensure air exchange through the protective element.

[0037] Particularly preferred is the diameter d of the holes: 0.1 ≤ d ≤ 3 mm, particularly preferably 2 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the distance a between the holes of a zone, for example, another zone, is: 4 ≤ d ≤ 8 cm, particularly preferably 6 cm. The distance a is, in particular, the shortest distance between two adjacent holes of a zone, for example, another zone.

[0038] In a further preferred embodiment, the protective element at least partially comprises cellular rubber. If the protective element comprises at least one protective zone and at least one further zone, at least the protective zone is at least partially, particularly preferably entirely, made of cellular rubber. Additionally, one or all of the at least one further zone can also be made of cellular rubber. Cellular rubber provides a certain degree of hardness to ensure protection and also allows a certain degree of mobility for the wearer of the protective equipment due to its flexibility / weight.

[0039] Particularly preferably, the protective element is designed in one piece, ie the protective element preferably consists of one material, in particular cellular rubber.

[0040] In a preferred variant of the above embodiment, the protective element comprises EPDM. If the protective element comprises at least one protective zone and at least one further zone, at least the protective zone is at least partially, particularly preferably completely, made of EPDM. Additionally, one or all of the at least one further zone can also be made of EPDM.

[0041] Particularly preferably, the protective element is designed in one piece, ie the protective element preferably consists of one material, in particular EPDM.

[0042] In a further preferred embodiment of an aspect of the invention, a height h of the protective element decreases at least partially along a longitudinal axis of the torso from a rear region of the garment to a front region of the garment. In particular, a maximum height h max of the protective element is preferably arranged in the rear area of the garment and has a minimum height h minThe protective element is preferably arranged in a front area of the garment. The height h is particularly preferably: 5 ≤ h ≤ 40 cm.

[0043] In a further preferred embodiment, the protective element comprises a plurality of circumferential segments arranged next to one another in the circumferential direction. If the protective element comprises at least one protective zone and at least one further zone, each circumferential segment is preferably either a protective zone or a further zone. Additionally or alternatively, the protective element preferably comprises a plurality of height segments arranged next to one another along a longitudinal axis of the fuselage. In this preferred embodiment, one of the at least one protective zone then comprises a plurality of height segments and / or one of the at least one further zones comprises a plurality of height segments. In this case, each of the protective zones or each of the further zones does not necessarily have to comprise a plurality of height segments. Rather, only some of the protective zones and / or the further zones comprise a plurality of height segments.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively, multiple segments can also be provided in a distal direction of the torso. For example, a segment can be provided that runs across the entire width of the protective element and can be understood as a carrier segment. Then, on at least one side of the carrier segment, in particular on an inner side of the carrier segment, one or more further protective segments are provided. In particular, the zone(s) in which the one or more protective segments are arranged can be understood as protective zone(s), and the zone(s) in which no protective segment is provided can be understood as further zone or connecting zone. Conversely, in this embodiment, the protective zone(s) comprise the respective protective segment and a corresponding part of the carrier segment against which the protective segment rests, and the further zone(s) comprise the parts of the carrier segment against which no protective segment rests.

[0045] In a preferred variant of the above embodiment, at least two adjacent circumferential segments and / or vertical segments are connected to one another. Particularly preferably, the at least two adjacent circumferential segments and / or vertical segments are connected to one another on an inner side of the circumferential segments and / or vertical segments, i.e., on an inner side of the protective element or the garment. Particularly preferably, all segments, i.e., all circumferential segments and / or vertical segments, of the protective element are connected to one another, in particular, on an inner side of the protective element.

[0046] In a further preferred embodiment of an aspect of the invention, the torso-enclosing region of the garment has at least one pocket. The pocket is preferably arranged internally. The protective element is then preferably arranged in the pocket of the torso-enclosing region of the garment. This allows the protective element to be securely positioned on or in the garment. Furthermore, the pocket is preferably designed to fit precisely to the protective element, or the protective element is designed to fit precisely to the pocket.

[0047] In a preferred variant of the above embodiment, the bag has an internal opening through which the protective element can be inserted into or removed from the bag. Particularly preferably, the opening is a closable opening that can be opened and closed, e.g., with a zipper, Velcro fastener, button, etc.

[0048] In a further preferred embodiment of an aspect of the invention, the torso-enclosing region comprises a hip-enclosing region. The protective element is then arranged at least partially on the hip-enclosing region. Additionally or alternatively, the torso-enclosing region comprises a sacrum-enclosing region, in which case the protective element is arranged at least partially on the sacrum-enclosing region.

[0049] Preferably, the garment is a vest. Alternatively, the garment can be a jacket, trousers, e.g., dungarees, overalls, or a similar, well-known garment that encompasses a torso-enclosing area.

[0050] Features of advantageous embodiments of the invention are defined in particular in the subclaims, wherein further advantageous features, embodiments and configurations can also be gathered from the above explanation and the following discussion by the person skilled in the art.

[0051] In the following, the present invention is further illustrated and explained with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. Fig. 1 a schematic representation to illustrate a skeletal area in the hip region, Fig. 2 a schematic representation to illustrate a first embodiment of the protective equipment, Fig. 3 a schematic representation to illustrate a first embodiment of the protective element, Fig. 4 a schematic representation to illustrate a second embodiment of the protective element, Fig. 5 a schematic representation to illustrate at least part of a third embodiment of the protective element, and Fig. 6 a schematic flow diagram of an embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0052] In the accompanying drawings and the explanations to these drawings, corresponding or related elements are - where appropriate - identified by corresponding or similar reference numerals, even if they are found in different embodiments.

[0053] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram illustrating a region of a basin 100. In particular, Fig. 1 shows a pelvic girdle 110 of the pelvis 100. Furthermore, Fig. 1 the femur 120 can be seen, which in the upper part includes the femoral neck 121. Fig. 1 also shows a part of the spine 130, which in particular includes the sacrum 131 and the coccyx 132 as the lower part of the spine 130.

[0054] In the course of the invention, it was recognized that in banal falls, such as can occur in everyday life, especially among older people, the most common bone fractures occur in two areas of the above section: in the area of the femoral neck 121 and in the area of the coccyx 132.

[0055] According to the invention, the protective equipment is worn such that the protective element is arranged in the torso-enclosing region and encompasses the torso-enclosing region by at least more than 180° in a circumferential direction of the torso. This means that the protective element encompasses the torso in the region of the femoral neck 121 and in the region of the coccyx 132.

[0056] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation illustrating a first embodiment of the protective equipment. The protective equipment 200 comprises a garment 210 and a protective element 220. In the embodiment shown, the garment 210 is a vest. The garment 210 comprises a torso-enclosing region 211. The protective element 220 is arranged on the torso-enclosing region 211 of the garment 210 and is configured to at least partially enclose the torso when the garment 210 is (properly) worn. In particular, the protective element 220 is configured to enclose the torso by at least more than 180° in a circumferential direction. The protective element 220 comprises a first end 228 and a second end 229 in a circumferential direction and comprises a material configured to redirect and / or absorb an impact force acting at least partially perpendicular to the protective element 220 along the circumferential direction.

[0057] When the garment 210 is worn (properly), the protective element 220 surrounds the torso in such a way that a deflected portion of the impact force can be at least partially transmitted between the first end and the second end. The assignment of the ends of the protective element 220 in the circumferential direction as the first end or the second end is arbitrary and serves merely for differentiation.

[0058] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation to illustrate a first embodiment of the protective element 220.

[0059] When the protective element 220 is arranged on the garment 210, the protective element 220 is designed to encompass the torso in such a way that a deflected portion of the impact force can be at least partially transmitted between the first end 228 and the second end 229. In particular, the first end 228 has a first end face and a second end face at the second end 229, wherein a deflected portion of the impact force can be transmitted between the first end face and the second end face. The first end face and the second end face are opposite one another when the protective element 220 is arranged on the garment 210.

[0060] The protective element 220 comprises, in particular, a plurality of protective zones 221, 222, 223 and a plurality of further zones 224, 225, 226, and 227. At least the protective zones 221, 222, 223 comprise the material configured to redirect and / or absorb an impact force acting at least partially perpendicularly on the protective zones 221, 222, 223 along the circumferential direction. The material of the protective zones 221, 222, 223 or of the entire protective element 220 is cellular rubber, in particular EPDM. Alternatively, the material of the protective zone can also comprise or consist of natural rubber, Plastazote, Evazote, cellular polyethylene + EVA, or foam rubber.

[0061] The embodiment shown has a carrier segment across the entire width of the protective element 220 and three protective segments in the respective protective zones 221, 222, 223.

[0062] The illustrated protective zones 221, 222, 223 are not formed over a height of the protective element 220, but only over a part of the height. Alternatively, the protective zone can also be formed over the height of the protective element 220. Preferably, the thickness of the protective zone d s = 8 mm and for a thickness d τ the further zone d τ = 6 mm.

[0063] In the embodiment shown, at least parts of the additional zones 224, 225, 226, 227 comprise a hole pattern. The hole pattern is merely exemplary and may also comprise a different number of holes, be arranged differently, be provided over the entire additional zones, etc. Alternatively, the protective element 220 may also be provided without a hole pattern.

[0064] In the embodiment shown, the protective element 220 comprises a first lateral protection zone 222 and a second lateral protection zone 223. In addition, the protective element 220 comprises a rear protection zone 221. The first lateral protection zone 222 is arranged in a first lateral region of the garment, in this case on a right side as seen from the wearer, and the second lateral protection zone 223 is arranged in a second lateral region of the garment opposite the first lateral region. The rear protection zone 221 is arranged in a rear region of the garment. It should be noted that the first lateral region of the garment and the second lateral region of the garment are only opposite each other when the garment is in the worn position or is being worn.If the protective element 220 is not arranged within the garment, as shown, the first lateral protective zone 222 and the second lateral protective zone 223 are not opposite each other, but are arranged side by side. As an alternative to a first lateral protective zone 222, a second lateral protective zone 223, and a rear protective zone 221, which are separate from each other, a continuous protective zone can also be provided, comprising the first lateral protective zone 222, the second lateral protective zone 223, and the rear protective zone 221.

[0065] In this embodiment, a height h of the protective element 220 decreases along a longitudinal axis of the torso from a rear region of the garment to a front region of the garment, wherein the decrease is formed in particular by a two-sided decrease in height. Preferably, the height 5 ≤ h ≤ 40 cm applies.

[0066] In particular, the additional zones 226 and 227 comprise lower notches, with the protective zone 221 and the additional zones 224 and 225 also comprising notches in the lower region. This increases the mobility of a wearer of the corresponding garment 210.

[0067] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation to illustrate a second embodiment of the protective element.

[0068] When the protective element 320 is arranged on the garment 210, the protective element 320 is designed to encompass the torso in such a way that a deflected portion of the impact force can be at least partially transmitted between the first end 328 and the second end 329. In particular, the first end 328 has a first end face and a second end face at the second end 329, wherein a deflected portion of the impact force can be transmitted between the first end face and the second end face. The first end face and the second end face are opposite one another when the protective element 320 is arranged on the garment 210.

[0069] The protective element 320 comprises three protective zones 321, 322, and 323. The protective element 320 in turn comprises several protective zones 321, 322, 323 and several further zones 324, 325, 326, and 327. At least the protective zones 321, 322, 323 comprise the material configured to redirect and / or absorb an impact force acting at least partially perpendicularly on the protective zones 321, 322, 323 along the circumferential direction. The material of the protective zones 321, 322, 323, or of the entire protective element 320, is cellular rubber, in particular EPDM. Alternatively, the material of the protective zone or the entire protective element 320 may also comprise or consist of natural rubber, Plastazote, Evazote, cellular polyethylene + EVA or foam rubber.

[0070] The embodiment of the protective element 320 shown is designed in one piece.

[0071] The protective zones 321, 322, 323 differ from the further zones 324, 325, 326, and 327 in that the further zones 324, 325, 326, and 327 at least partially comprise a hole pattern. The hole pattern is merely exemplary and may also comprise a different number of holes, be arranged differently, be provided across the entire further zones, etc. Alternatively, the protective element 320 may also be provided without a hole pattern.

[0072] In the embodiment shown, the protective element 320 comprises a first lateral protection zone 322 and a second lateral protection zone 323. In addition, the protective element 320 comprises a rear protection zone 321. The first lateral protection zone 322 is arranged in a first lateral region of the garment, in this case on a right side from the wearer's perspective, and the second lateral protection zone 323 is arranged in a second lateral region of the garment opposite the first lateral region. The rear protection zone 321 is arranged in a rear region of the garment. It should be noted that the first lateral region of the garment and the second lateral region of the garment only face each other when the garment is in the worn position or is being worn.If the protective element 320 is not arranged inside the garment, as shown, the first lateral protective zone 322 and the second lateral protective zone 323 are not opposite each other, but are arranged next to each other.

[0073] In this embodiment, a height h of the protective element 320 decreases along a longitudinal axis of the torso from a rear region of the garment to a front region of the garment, wherein the decrease is formed in particular by a two-sided decrease in height. Preferably, the height 5 ≤ h ≤ 40 cm applies.

[0074] In particular, the additional zones 326 and 327 comprise lower notches, with the protective zone 321 and the additional zones 324 and 325 also comprising notches in the lower region. This increases the mobility of a wearer of the corresponding garment.

[0075] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation illustrating at least a portion of a third embodiment of the protective element 420. In particular, a wing of the protective element 420 can be seen here, which corresponds to a right wing of the protective element 420. The protective element 420 further comprises a left wing (not shown), which is constructed mirror-symmetrically to the right wing.

[0076] When the protective element 420 is arranged on the garment 210, the protective element 420 is configured to encompass the torso in such a way that a deflected portion of the impact force can be at least partially transmitted between the first end (not shown) and the second end 429. In particular, the first end has a first end face and the second end 429 has a second end face, wherein a deflected portion of the impact force can be transmitted between the first end face and the second end face. The first end face and the second end face are opposite one another when the protective element 420 is arranged on the garment 210.

[0077] The protective element 420 comprises a plurality of protective zones 421, 422 and a plurality of further zones 424, 426, 428. The protective element differs from the previous embodiments in that the protective zones 421, 422 and the further zones 424, 426, 428 each have one or more height segments. In particular, the protective zone 421 comprises three height segments 431, 432, 433, the protective zone 422 comprises two height segments, and the further zone 424 comprises two height segments. Two adjacent segments, i.e., height segments or circumferential segments, can be connected to one another on an inner side of the segments.

[0078] Fig.6 shows a schematic flow diagram of an embodiment of the method according to the invention. The method 500 comprises at least steps 510, 520, and 530. In step 510, protective equipment according to one of the described embodiments is provided. In step 520, a force is exerted at least partially perpendicularly on the protective element of the protective equipment. The force originates in particular from a fall and can be understood as an impact force.

[0079] In the third step 530, at least part of the force is then deflected and / or absorbed along the circumferential direction by the protective element.

[0080] Although various aspects or features of the invention are shown in combination in the figures, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art—unless otherwise stated—that the illustrated and discussed combinations are not the only possible ones. In particular, corresponding units or feature complexes from different embodiments can be interchanged.

[0081] The following are further considerations regarding the invention: The invention relates to a protective concept that can be implemented in ordinary clothing. This is particularly relevant for older people, who often suffer severe bone fractures even from simple falls. Bone fractures frequently occur in the pelvis, sacrum, and lower spine.

[0082] Driven by the findings described, the concept of a protective mechanism has been developed as an invention in which not only point-wise force absorption at the point of impact plays a role, but also, in particular, force deflection into a circular and axial material construct, i.e. the protective element according to the invention.

[0083] The material construct, i.e. the protective element, will be integrated as a protective mechanism in a garment, preferably outerwear, and requires such a discreet design that maximum acceptance by the wearer is ensured.

[0084] The protective element is preferably inserted into the garment and more preferably is fixed to the inside of the garment in an interchangeable manner.

[0085] When using the material for the protective element, in addition to the preferred fixation of the protective element in an inner layer of a garment, direct material processing with perforations and / or segmentations can also play a role, as well as a special arrangement of different zones of the protective element taking into account the anatomical conditions and the calculated fall force curves.

[0086] The invention particularly relates to intelligent outerwear with a fall protection concept for reducing the number of bone fractures in the pelvis and spine in common falls. The protective equipment according to the invention can also improve the wearing comfort of the garment.

[0087] The protective element can be understood as a clamp around the pelvis that redirects or distributes the force of a fall. This "force redirection" significantly reduces the risk of fractures.

[0088] In particular, the protective element, due to its nature, shape and arrangement, can lead to a significant reduction in fractures when an elderly person falls onto the hips, buttocks and back.

[0089] Preferably, the protective element is replaceably integrated into the garment. For this purpose, in one embodiment, the garment comprises a pocket. The pocket is preferably adapted to an external shape of the protective element, i.e., a precise fit to the protective element. Further preferably, the pocket is attached to the inside of the garment.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, the protective element is made of cellular rubber, particularly preferably EPDM. Numerous tests, both unbraked and braked, have been conducted with EPDM, yielding the following results (explanation of the impact force test sheet): The average unbraked impact force (iron on iron) is 18.67 kN. The average impact force braked by the cellular rubber is 13.73 kN. This means the impact force reduction achieved by EPDM is 4.94 kN.

[0091] The average strength of an elderly female hip bone is 2.4 kN, and the average value for a fall onto the hip is 3.5 kN to 5.2 kN. To prevent a femoral neck fracture, the required reduction in fall force is at least 2.70 kN.

[0092] The following setup was used to determine the values: The material testing station used consists of a 0.5 kg steel body that falls from a height of 95 cm onto a force measuring element.

[0093] The materials testing station consists of an aluminum frame with three-sided paneling and a 2 cm thick aluminum plate at the top and bottom. The force measuring element is located in the center of the lower plate. The upper plate has a hole drilled in the center with a plastic tube. The tube diameter is 3.9 cm. The force measuring element is connected to a laboratory charge amplifier.

[0094] For comparison: In DIN 1621, the performance requirements between protection, comfort, and ergonomic requirements were chosen as the best practical compromise. Protectors that are too rigid or too heavy are not worn (see introduction to DIN 1621).

[0095] In the test procedure according to DIN 1621, a 5 kg falling body is dropped from a height of 1 m onto an anvil. The measured force of 150 kN to 180 kN without damping is very high and is more of an auxiliary value.

[0096] In the first step, the unbraked impact force was measured. After 40 tests, the average impact force was determined to be 18.67 kN. Subsequently, different materials of varying thicknesses were placed on the force measuring element, and the respective impact force was measured.

[0097] The cellular rubber EPDM with a material thickness of 6 mm produced the best results in terms of damping.

[0098] Particularly when using an air-impermeable material, it is preferable to drill holes to ensure air exchange. Holes are provided in particular at non-relevant locations on the protective element, i.e., hardly any holes above the hips, but instead in the hollow back and / or flank. Holes can also reduce the overall weight of the protective element, and thus of the protective equipment. This means that the holes are preferably selected to achieve a compromise between a minimum amount of material to reduce the impact force and a limitation of the overall weight.

[0099] If the protective element comprises protective zones and additional zones, the holes are preferably arranged in the additional zones. This means that the protective zones are arranged at impact points of the protective element (lateral, rear), and the additional zones are arranged at "non-relevant locations," i.e., between the impact points. The holes preferably have a diameter of 0.5 to 1.5 mm, particularly preferably 1 mm.

[0100] The protective equipment, and in particular the protective element, can not only prevent a hip / femoral neck fracture but also reduce the load on the pelvic ring and vertebral bodies. This is achieved by deflecting and / or absorbing forces, particularly at the point of impact. In particular, the protective element compresses upon application of force and dissipates the impact force, particularly in the circumferential direction.

[0101] A preferred embodiment is described below.

[0102] The garment is a vest that includes a zipper inside the back (right or left) for a pocket.

[0103] The protective element is one-piece and comprises several zones. The protective element is made entirely of EPDM. In particular, the protective element is made of cellular rubber. The protective element comprises a support component over the entire circumferential extent of the protective element. The thickness of the support component is preferably 6 to 8 mm, particularly preferably 6 mm. Placed on top of the support component, the protective element comprises a protective component in each of three areas of the protective element, in particular on an inner side of the protective element. These three areas can each be understood as a protective zone. The thickness of the protective component is preferably 1 to 3 mm, particularly preferably 2 mm. The protective components are arranged as follows: once dorsally over the spine from top to bottom (minus 1 cm each upper edge and lower edge as a transition); and twice rounded, palm-shaped over the hips.

[0104] The support component comprises two zones in which ventilation holes are provided, with a diameter of the holes preferably being 2 mm. For example, with a surface area of 2 x 2 cm, the holes can be arranged in the corners of the surface. The two zones are arranged to the right and left of the spinal zone, respectively.

[0105] In this embodiment, the protective element comprises the following zones in the circumferential direction (from left to right): an outer (left) zone with a width of 20 cm and a thickness of 6 mm, wherein the outer (left) zone at least partially comprises a perforation, a first (left) protective zone with a width of 18 cm and a thickness of 8 mm, wherein the first (left) protective zone does not comprise a perforation, an inner (left) zone with a width of 7.5 cm and a thickness of 6 mm, wherein the inner (left) zone comprises a perforation, a rear protective zone with a width of 15 cm and a thickness of 8 mm, wherein the rear protective zone does not comprise a perforation, an inner (right) zone with a width of 7.5 cm and a thickness of 6 mm, wherein the inner (right) zone comprises a perforation, a second (right) protective zone with a width of 18 cm and a thickness of 8 mm,The second (right) protective zone has no perforation and an outer (right) zone with a width of 20 cm and a thickness of 6 mm, the outer (right) zone at least partially comprising perforation. For each size level, 2 cm is added to the left and right, i.e., the dimensions of the protective element apply to one clothing size, and the width of the zones can be larger or smaller depending on the clothing size.

[0106] In addition to or as an alternative to cellular rubber, the following materials can also be used: natural rubber, Plastazote, Evazote, cellular polyethylene + EVA and / or foam rubber.

[0107] The invention relates to protective equipment for protection in the event of falls, comprising: a garment comprising a torso-enclosing region, and a protective element arranged on the torso-enclosing region and configured to at least partially enclose a torso, wherein the protective element is configured to enclose the torso by at least more than 180° in a circumferential direction, wherein the protective element comprises a material configured to redirect and / or absorb a force acting at least partially perpendicularly on the protective element along the circumferential direction. The invention can significantly reduce the risk of injury to a person wearing the protective equipment in the event of a fall.

Claims

[1] Protective equipment (200) for protection against falls with: a garment (210) comprising a torso-enclosing region (211), and a protective element (220, 320, 420) which is arranged on the fuselage-enclosing region (211) and is designed to at least partially encompass a fuselage, wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) is designed to encompass the fuselage in a circumferential direction by at least more than 180°, wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) has a first end (228, 328) and a second end (229, 329, 429) in the circumferential direction and comprises a material which is designed to redirect and preferably absorb an impact force acting at least partially perpendicularly on the protective element (220, 320, 420) along the circumferential direction, and wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) is designed to encompass the fuselage in such a way that a deflected portion of the impact force can be at least partially transmitted between the first end (228, 328) and the second end (229, 329, 429). [2] Protective equipment (200) according to claim 1, wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) has a first end face at the first end (228, 328) and a second end face at the second end (229, 329, 429), wherein the deflected impact force is transferable between the first end face and the second end face, wherein the first end face and the second end face are preferably opposite one another. [3] Protective equipment (200) according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) comprises at least one protective zone (221, 222, 223, 321, 322, 323, 421, 422), wherein at least the protective zone (221, 222, 223, 321, 322, 323, 421, 422) comprises the material which is designed to deflect and / or absorb a force acting at least partially perpendicular to the protective zone (221, 222, 223, 321, 322, 323, 421, 422) along the circumferential direction, wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) further comprises at least one further zone (224, 225, 226, 227, 324, 325, 326, 327, 424, 426, 428), wherein in particular a thickness d s at least the protection zone (221, 222, 223, 321, 322, 323, 421, 422) in a distal direction of the trunk is greater than a thickness d τ the further zone (224, 225, 226, 227, 324, 325, 326, 327, 424, 426, 428). [4] Protective equipment (200) according to claim 3, wherein the at least one protection zone (221, 222, 223, 321, 322, 323, 421, 422) comprises at least a first lateral protection zone (222, 322, 422) in a first lateral region of the garment (210) and a second lateral protection zone (223, 323) in a second lateral region of the garment (210) opposite the first lateral region and / or comprises a rear protection zone (221, 321, 421) in a rear region of the garment (210). [5] Protective equipment (200) according to one of claims 3 and 4, wherein at least one of the at least one further zone (324, 325, 326, 327) at least partially has a hole pattern, the hole pattern comprising a plurality of holes. [6] Protective equipment (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) at least partially comprises cellular rubber, preferably consists thereof, wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) in particular at least partially comprises EPDM, preferably consists thereof. [7] Protective equipment (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) comprises a plurality of circumferential segments (421, 424, 422, 426, 427) arranged next to one another in the circumferential direction and / or a plurality of height segments (431, 432, 433) arranged next to one another along a longitudinal axis of the torso, wherein preferably at least two adjacent circumferential segments (421, 424, 422, 426, 427) and / or height segments (431, 432, 433), particularly preferably on an inner side of the circumferential segments (421, 424, 422, 426, 427) and / or height segments (431, 432, 433), are connected to one another. [8] Protective element (220, 320, 420) for use in a garment (210) for protection in case of falls, wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) is designed to at least partially encompass a torso of a person, wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) is designed to encompass the fuselage in a circumferential direction by at least more than 180°, wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) has a first end (228, 328) and a second end (229, 329, 429) in the circumferential direction and comprises a material which is designed to redirect and preferably absorb an impact force acting at least partially perpendicularly on the protective element (220, 320, 420) along the circumferential direction, and wherein the protective element (220, 320, 420) is designed to encompass the fuselage in such a way that a deflected portion of the impact force can be at least partially transmitted between the first end (228, 328) and the second end (229, 329, 429). [9] Method (500) for protection against falls with the steps: Providing (510) protective equipment (200) according to one of claims 1 to 7, Exerting (520) an impact force at least partially perpendicular to the protective element (220, 320, 420), and Diverting (530) at least a portion of the impact force along the circumferential direction such that a diverted portion of the impact force is at least partially transmitted between the first end (228, 328) and the second end (229, 329, 429). [10] Use of a protective element (210, 320, 420) according to claim 8 in protective equipment (200) according to one of claims 1 to 7.

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