Protective device for protection against shocks, impacts, projectiles or similar

A multi-layered protective device with a stab- and bullet-resistant first layer and an elastic, geometric second layer with controlled gas escape mechanisms addresses the issue of undamped impulse transmission, enhancing protection and comfort by distributing and dampening kinetic energy.

EP4617615A1Inactive Publication Date: 2025-09-17LOLIS NIKOLAUS
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Patent Information

Application Number
EP2024163733
Authority / Receiving Office
EP · EP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-03-15
Publication Date
2025-09-17
Estimated Expiration
Not applicable · inactive patent

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Abstract

A protective device (1) for protection against the effects of impacts, blows, shots, or the like, which is constructed in multiple layers and has a first side (2) receiving impacts and a second side (3) opposite said first side (2), wherein - a first layer (4) which is arranged on the first side or forms the first side, wherein the first layer (4) consists of a stab- and / or bullet-resistant material, - a second layer (5), wherein the second layer (5) is formed from an elastic, repeating geometric structure (6) made of a plastic and / or a silicone rubber and / or silicone elastomers and / or casting resin, with a hardness between 20 SHORE A to 90 SHORE A and / or between 0 SHORE D to 80 SHORE D, wherein the structure (6) forms cavities (8, 8') delimited by walls (7), which are hermetically sealed towards the first side and open towards the second side and have opening sections (9) of the cavities (8,8'), - a third layer (10) which is arranged on the second side or forms this and is arranged on the second layer (5) and at least temporarily closes the cavities (8, 8') at the opening sections (9) or at least temporarily reduces a degree of opening of the opening sections (9).
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Description

[0001] The invention relates to a protective device for protection against the effects of impacts, blows, gunshots or the like. In general, the invention relates to a device for protection or mitigation against the introduction of kinetic energy. Corresponding protective devices are basically known from the prior art. Typically, materials with a high level of strength are used for protective devices, so that penetration of the protective device by the element introducing the kinetic energy is prevented. However, the high level of strength is usually accompanied by a high degree of rigidity, so that a possibly unbraked or undamped impulse transmission to the element wearing the protective device or the person wearing it can occur. This is particularly true in the case of a device used as a protective weapon, e.g. as a body armor orThis can be disadvantageous for a protective device designed as a bullet-resistant vest, as the shock received can lead to injuries to the person wearing the protective device.

[0002] The invention is based on the object of providing a protective device for protection against the effects of impacts, blows, gunshots, or the like, which is particularly advantageous with regard to its protective effect as well as its manufacturability and usability. In particular, the object may be to reduce the degree of blunt trauma due to the impact of a projectile impulse on the wearer of the protective device.

[0003] The object is achieved by a protective device according to claim 1. The dependent claims relate to possible embodiments of the protective device. The object is also achieved by protective clothing, in particular by a protective weapon such as a protective vest or a protective helmet, according to claim 14.

[0004] The invention relates to a protective device for protection against the effects of impacts, blows, gunshots, or the like, wherein the protective device is multi-layered or multi-layered and has a first side that receives the impacts and a second side opposite this first side. A first layer of the protective device can be arranged on the first side or form this side, wherein the first layer consists of a stab-, cut-, and / or bullet-resistant material. Furthermore, the protective device comprises a second layer that is arranged on the second side or forms this side, wherein the second layer consists of or is formed from an elastic, repeating geometric structure made of a plastic and / or a silicone rubber and / or silicone elastomers and / or casting resin, wherein the material used for the second layer has a hardness between 20 SHORE A and 90 SHORE A and / or between 0 SHORE D and 80 SHORE D.For example, a material can be used that has a hardness between 20 SHORE A and 80 SHORE D. The casting resin used can, for example, be a casting resin consisting of or at least partially formed from polyurethane. In other words, a material that has a hardness in the range from 20 SHORE A to 90 SHORE A and / or between 0 SHORE D and 80 SHORE D is used to form the second layer forming the repeating geometric structure. The material used for the second layer can preferably have a hardness between 20 SHORE A and 70 SHORE A, particularly preferably between 25 SHORE A and 50 SHORE A, further preferably between 30 SHORE A and 40 SHORE A.Alternatively or additionally, the material used for the second layer can have a hardness between 5 SHORE D to 75 SHORE D, preferably 10 SHORE D to 70 SHORE D, particularly preferably between 15 SHORE D to 65 SHORE D, further preferably between 20 SHORE D to 60 SHORE D, most preferably between 25 SHORE D to 55 SHORE D.

[0005] The geometric structure of the second layer includes walls that form or define cavities. These cavities are hermetically sealed towards the first side and open towards the second side, forming

[0006] Opening sections of the cavities, i.e. openings which basically allow gas to escape from the cavities towards the second side. In other words, the cavities are hermetically sealed on the pulse-receiving side and are open or designed as open opening sections on the (second) side opposite the pulse-receiving side. This makes it possible for a gas, in particular air, located in the cavities to escape at least partially via the opening sections in response to the pulse being applied. This escape of air from the cavities can be preceded by a cavity closure event which temporarily closes at least one cavity. For this purpose, due to the effect of the pulse, the second and third layers can be pressed together in such a way that at least one cavity is closed or sealed, preferably in such a way that air can only escape to a small extent.Only after a further impact of the pulse can a gap open or a significant escape of air from the at least one cavity occur. The repeating geometric structure can, for example, be honeycomb-shaped; in particular, the repeating geometric structure has a hexagonal basic shape, as this enables a homogeneous energy distribution.

[0007] For example, the second layer may not have a direct connection to the third layer, i.e., there is no direct attachment of the second and third layers to one another. In such a case, the second and third layers may be held, for example, by a holding means, wherein a relative position and / or alignment of the second and third layers to one another is fixed exclusively via the holding means. The holding means may, for example, be directly connected to the body forming the first layer and directly to the body forming the second layer.

[0008] Furthermore, the protective device comprises a third layer, which is arranged on the second layer and at least temporarily closes the cavities at the opening sections or at least temporarily reduces the degree of opening of the opening sections or has an opening that is significantly smaller than a central internal cross-section of the cavities, so that this opening can act like a nozzle or a diaphragm, i.e., air located in the cavity can escape from the cavity through the opening, developing pressure or resisting it. The resulting internal pressure in the cavity can lead to elastic deformation of the structure forming the cavities.It is possible that the strength, the elasticity and the geometry of the second layer are selected in such a way that a structural section affected by an external pressurization, after an impact or a shock load, automatically straightens itself again, at least in sections, preferably to a predominant extent, particularly preferably completely, and is thus ready for further pressurization.

[0009] In essence, an advantageous protective device can be formed in that the second layer, on the one hand, forms a geometric, hollow-forming structure which has elasticity and, due to this elasticity, exhibits a defined behavior when subjected to an impulse in that this impulse propagates to adjacent and further cavities or to the wall sections defining these cavities, thus leading to an impulse deflection and / or division in the direction of the main extension of the protective device. The fact that the cavities do not form completely closed cavities in which trapped gas cannot escape, but rather that a defined escape (e.g.from exceeding a limit value of the internal pressure of at least one cavity) of a part of the air in the cavities, leads to an advantageous damping of the pulse event at the protective device.

[0010] In other words, the cavities or honeycomb chambers can be at least temporarily closed or sealed during the shock load, or their degree of opening, particularly of the opening sections, can be reduced. Thus, at least some of the air in the honeycomb chambers is trapped within the honeycomb chambers and can only escape from them with a time delay. The resulting internal pressure in the cells leads to a deformation, particularly elastic, or to a bulging, particularly elastic, of the cell walls, since the internal pressure is distributed over the cell interior surfaces. Consequently, neighboring cavities or their cell walls can receive a pressure pulse (bulging of the cell walls) and pass this on to the next neighboring cavities or chambers (in a dampened form), similar to the wave structure resulting from a stone falling into water.This means that the kinetic energy introduced into the device is distributed or passed on in a damped form to the next or neighboring chambers.

[0011] It is possible for the second layer to be made of a silicone rubber, so that the second layer forms a body that can be converted into a rubber-elastic state. For example, the second layer contains poly(organo)siloxanes that have groups accessible for crosslinking reactions. Examples of such groups that can be used include hydrogen atoms, hydroxyl groups, and vinyl groups. In a preferred embodiment, a liquid rubber can be used, e.g., a so-called LSR material (LSR = Liquid Silicone Rubber) or a silicone rubber produced using an LSR process. For example, the body forming the second layer is produced as a molded part made of silicone rubber by injection molding, vacuum casting, or 3D printing from liquid or low-viscosity two-component components. The material used can have a hardness of, for example, 20 SHORE A to 70 SHORE A.

[0012] The walls of the second layer that delimit adjacent cavities can, for example, be designed to be airtight, in particular such that the cavities are at least temporarily open for air exchange exclusively via the opening sections. In particular, the material that at least partially forms the cavities can be designed to be gas-impermeable. For example, the first and second layers are designed to be gas-impermeable, so that no air can escape from the interior space from the adjacent sections of a cavity of the first and second layers and at the contact points between the first and second layers. This ensures that, in the event of pressure buildup within the cavities, a defined escape of air is achieved, in particular exclusively via the opening sections. The opening sections are preferably, in particular exclusively, arranged or formed at the contact point between the second and third layers.This ensures that air escaping from the cavities can only exit, as intended, through openings which are formed or delimited partly by the second layer and partly by the third layer. Alternatively, the third layer can be gas-tight at its contact points with the second layer and at the same time have at least one opening (through opening) formed within the third layer through which only air escaping from the cavities can escape or can escape when kinetic energy is applied. It is possible for the third layer to have a permeability such that a small amount of air or gas can pass through. For this purpose, the third layer can, for example, be formed with or have a perforation in the nano (e.g. 1 nm to 999 nm) and / or micro (e.g. 1 µm to 999 µm) and / or millimeter range (e.g. 1 mm to 9.9 mm).

[0013] It is possible to provide a receiving pocket for receiving a layering means comprising the first and second layers, with a pocket wall forming the receiving pocket, preferably designed to be gas-impermeable, forming the third layer. Thus, the protective device is formed by the pocket wall and the layering means. For example, the pocket wall is a component of a garment equipped with a pocket, and only after the layering means has been inserted into the pocket of the garment is a protective device as described herein created by the layering means and the garment.

[0014] The walls of the second layer delimiting the cavities can, for example, have a, in particular constant, minimum height, e.g. an extension perpendicular to the main extension direction, of 2.0 mm, preferably of 4.0 mm, particularly preferably of 5.0 mm, further preferably of 6.0 mm.

[0015] In particular, the wall heights can have a minimum height of 6.0 mm, preferably 8.0 mm, particularly preferably 10.0 mm, and even more preferably 20.0 mm. In principle, a wall height and / or honeycomb structure can be selected to suit the specific application. For example, the geometry of the honeycombs, with regard to their width and height, or even the wall thickness of the individual honeycomb walls, can be tailored to the specific application. Pulse size, surface pressure, material selection, and manufacturing-related factors must be taken into account.

[0016] It is possible for the first layer to be made from a tough, elastic material. A tough, elastic material can be understood as a material that has high tensile strength and / or a high tensile modulus of elasticity. Alternatively or additionally, the second layer can be made from a tough, elastic material. The tough, elastic material can also have high resistance. For example, aramids such as Kevlar, Dyneema and / or fiber-reinforced, in particular carbon and / or glass fiber reinforced, plastics can be used as the tough, elastic material. Due to the tough, elastic and at the same time resistant properties of the material used for the first and / or second layer, for example, a point-acting impact, i.e. a point-based application of kinetic energy, can be distributed over a larger area or reshaped.

[0017] For example, the second layer is formed at least partially, preferably predominantly, and particularly preferably completely, from or comprises a casting resin. In particular, the second layer can be produced using a manufacturing process that uses a reusable or lost mold for casting the second layer. Preferably, the second layer is formed from a casting resin with high recovery properties. A polyurethane vacuum casting resin, for example, can be used as the casting resin.

[0018] It is possible for the second layer to be produced at least partially, preferably predominantly, and particularly preferably completely, using an additive manufacturing process. This achieves a high degree of geometric design freedom. Optionally, the first and / or second and / or third layer can be produced or producible using an additive manufacturing process, in particular a joint one. It can prove advantageous, for example, if the first and second layers are produced together in a single work step. This makes it possible, for example, to achieve a gas-tight design of the transition region between the first and second layers in a simple and reliable manner.If an additive manufacturing process is used to produce the first and / or second and / or third layer, it may prove advantageous if the additive manufacturing process uses or develops different materials and / or different curing or solidification parameters depending on the area. This makes it possible to provide different areas of the first and / or second and / or third layer with different strength and / or stiffness values. Such an area-dependent strength and / or stiffness behavior of the at least one layer can occur, for example, without a geometric adaptation. Preferably, an area-dependent geometric adaptation of the at least one layer occurs in addition to the area-dependent use of different materials and / or different curing or solidification parameters within the additive manufacturing process.

[0019] The third layer can, for example, be fixed or secured to the second layer with interruptions, whereby in the resting state, i.e., when the protective device is not subjected to an impulse, a prestressing force is applied or acts between the second and third layers at least at the interruptions. For example, the second and / or third layer has an internal tension, which leads to the two layers being pressed together at least in sections.

[0020] It is possible for the second layer to form cup-shaped cavities, i.e. the regions of the cavities facing the first side can be formed, for example, by material of the second layer. A cup base of the cup-shaped cavities can be formed by the second layer and can be formed on the side of the cavities facing the first layer. In other words, the first layer cannot form a direct wall section to delimit the cavities. For example, the first layer directly or indirectly borders on a section of the second layer, wherein the second layer delimits the cavities at least in the first direction, in particular completely.

[0021] At least a second layer can be produced, for example, during a vacuum casting process. Optionally, the first and / or second and / or third layer can be produced or producible during a, in particular joint, vacuum die-casting process or a vacuum casting process. Preferably, a vacuum casting process with a negative mold can be used to produce the second layer. The negative mold can be made of silicone, for example. In general, a single-use mold or a reusable mold can be used as the negative mold. For example, when using a vacuum casting process to produce the second layer, it can prove advantageous if the first layer is produced at the same time as the second layer. This means that the first and second layers can be produced in one work step of the vacuum casting process.the first and second layers can be cast at the same time.

[0022] At least the second and third layers can be manufactured in one, in particular joint, additive manufacturing process or vacuum die-casting process. Joint production of the second and third layers means that they are produced jointly or in situ, at least in sections, preferably predominantly, and particularly preferably completely. In particular, a connection between the second and third layers can be created during their joint production. This eliminates the need to join two components together, particularly in a predefined position and / or orientation, and to fasten them together.

[0023] The second and third layers can, for example, be formed at least in sections, preferably predominantly, particularly preferably completely, from the same material, e.g. from the same material.

[0024] The protective device can be designed, for example, as an element worn by a person, e.g., as a helmet, into which the protective device is detachably or permanently incorporated or integrated. For example, the protective device, as a whole or as a component of the protective device, forms an element or protective clothing worn by a person. This element worn by a person or the protective clothing can be designed, for example, as a vest or a helmet; the first layer can preferably be formed from Kevlar and / or a ceramic plate.

[0025] Optionally, the cavities can be open when not subjected to impact, allowing air or gas exchange through the openings. This increases the wearing comfort of the protective device when used as part of protective clothing. The protective device can also be mounted, particularly by conforming to the body.

[0026] It is possible that the regular structure, particularly a honeycomb geometry, of the second layer made of elastic material exhibits a distinctly elastic or soft behavior upon slow pressure application, whereas upon sudden pressure application, this layer exhibits a hard, kinetic energy-absorbing behavior. This alternating behavior can be adjusted, for example, by the Shore hardness of the material used for the second layer—within the aforementioned limits.

[0027] The repeating geometric structure of the second layer can, for example, be honeycomb-like; in particular, it can have the basic shape of a preferably regular hexagon. For example, a honeycomb chamber height can be in the range from 2 mm to 25 mm, preferably 5 mm to 12 mm, particularly preferably 6.5 mm to 10 mm, further preferably 7.5 mm to 8.5 mm. A honeycomb diameter (distance from honeycomb wall to opposite honeycomb wall) can, for example, be between 1.2 mm and 13 mm, preferably 2.5 mm to 6.0 mm, particularly preferably 3.0 mm to 5.0 mm, most preferably 3.75 mm to 4.25 mm. The wall thickness of the honeycomb walls can, for example, be in the range from 0.3 mm to 3.5 mm, preferably 0.65 mm to 1.50 mm, particularly preferably 0.80 mm to 1.25 mm, further preferably 0.95 to 1.05 mm.In particular, a second layer of the protective device can have a honeycomb-like geometry that falls within at least one range of the aforementioned ranges for the honeycomb chamber height and the honeycomb diameter and the honeycomb walls. Any value from the aforementioned value intervals can be used as the upper / lower limit of the respective interval.

[0028] In a first example, the second layer can comprise a rubber-like material with a hardness of 60 SHORE AA and a cavity cross-section (minimum internal extension distance) of 20 mm (wall to wall), a cavity or honeycomb height of 20 mm, and a wall thickness of 1 mm. A protective device 1 according to this example is suitable, for example, for simulating surface loads. Even isolated complete interruptions (e.g., air holes) of this structure are possible without significantly impairing the protective function. Thus, this protective device 1 can be used, for example, as a protector or helmet component for American football sportswear.

[0029] In a second example, an LSR silicone with a hardness of 60 SHORE A and a cavity cross-section of 10 mm (wall-to-wall), a cavity or honeycomb height of 10 mm, and a wall thickness of 1 mm can be used for the second layer. Such a protective device 1 can exhibit high protective performance under small-area loads, such as a hailstone with a diameter of 40 mm at an impact speed of 140 km / h.

[0030] In a third example, a casting resin with a hardness of 80 SHORE D and an internal cavity extension (honeycomb diameter) of 8 mm (wall-to-wall), a honeycomb height of 9 mm, and a wall thickness of 1 mm can be used. A protective device constructed according to the third example provides a high degree of protection against impacts from small projectiles such as rifle or pistol bullets. Consequently, a high degree of absorption can be achieved with a simultaneously lower density. Self-recovery of the elastic second layer can also be achieved.

[0031] In a fourth example, a casting resin having a hardness of 80 SHORE D can be used as the material and is processed in a vacuum casting process to form the molded body of the second layer, wherein the cavity interior extension (honeycomb diameter) is 4 mm (wall to wall), the wall thickness is 1 mm, and the cavity height or honeycomb height is 8 mm.

[0032] In general, it can be stated that the larger the area to be absorbed, the larger the cavity or honeycomb dimensions must be and vice versa.

[0033] In addition to the protective device, the invention also relates to protective clothing for protecting a person against the effects of impacts, blows, shots and the like, wherein the protective clothing comprises a protective device described herein.

[0034] All advantages, details, designs and / or features of the protective device according to the invention are applicable to the protective clothing according to the invention and vice versa.

[0035] The invention is explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments in the drawings. In the drawings: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a protective device in the unloaded state according to an embodiment; Fig. 2a schematic representation of a protective device according to Fig. 1 at an early stage of a stressed condition; Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a protective device according to Fig. 1 in a compared to Fig. 2 later stage of the stressed condition; Fig. 4 a schematic representation of a protective device according to a second embodiment; Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a protective device according to a third embodiment; Fig. 6 a schematic representation of a layer means which is inserted into a receiving pocket having the third layer, according to a fourth embodiment; Fig. 7 a schematic representation of a storage means used in a receiving pocket, according to Figure 5 ; Fig. 8 a perspective schematic representation of a first and second layer viewed from the second side according to an embodiment.

[0036] The figures show a protective device 1 for protection against impacts, blows, gunshots, or the like. The protective device 1 has a multi-layer construction and comprises a first side 2, which is intended to receive an impact, and a second side 3 opposite the first side 2. Typically, the second side 3 faces or is assigned to an object to be protected, in particular a person to be protected.

[0037] The protective device 1 comprises a first layer 4 arranged on or forming the first side. The first layer 4 is made of a stab- and / or bullet-resistant material. For example, the first layer 4 forms the actual armor of the protective device 1 against penetration or significant penetration by an object applying the impulse to the protective device 1, e.g., a projectile.

[0038] Furthermore, the protective device 1 has a second layer 5, wherein the second layer 5 is formed from an elastic, repeating geometric structure 6 made of a plastic and / or a silicone rubber and / or silicone elastomers and / or casting resin, with a hardness between 20 SHORE A to 90 SHORE A and / or between 0 SHORE D to 80 SHORE D, and the structure 6 forms cavities 8, 8' delimited by walls 7, which are hermetically sealed towards the first side 2 and open towards the second side 3 and form opening sections 9 of the cavities 8, 8'. A third layer 10, which is arranged on the second side 5 or forms this and is arranged on the second layer 5 and at least temporarily closes the cavities 8, 8' at the opening sections 9 or at least temporarily reduces the degree of opening of the opening sections 9.

[0039] As exemplified in the Figures 1 to 3As shown, the third layer 10 cannot be connected to the second layer 5 over its entire surface. For example, the third layer 10 is connected to the second layer 5 at certain points - see points 18, 18', 18". Based on the Figure 1In the unloaded state shown, due to the pulse application (cf. arrow 17), at an early stage of the pulse application of the protective device 1, the second layer 5 is initially pressed against the third layer 10, so that the cavities 8, 8' are closed or the opening sections 9 close and thus the gas or air in the cavities 8, 8' is trapped or enclosed. Due to the elasticity of the second layer 5 and the closed state of the cavities 8, 8', the gas in these cavities 8, 8' is compressed, i.e. the internal pressure of the honeycomb chamber increases. This leads to a deformation, in particular an elastic one, of the chamber walls, whereby part of the energy received by the pulse is transferred into the deformation work. If the (air) pressure in the cavities 8, 8' exceeds a limit value, gaps 16, 16' form between the two layers 5, 10.The gaps 16, 16' that form in this state act like a pressure relief valve, preventing the chamber walls from being destroyed. In other words, the gaps 16, 16' that form can function as an emergency valve, preventing the regular geometry of the second layer 5 from collapsing due to the air contained in the cavities 8, 8' escaping. These gaps 16, 16' can, for example, already be present in the resting state or when the protective device 1 is not subjected to a mechanical impulse, see . Figure 1 This can be advantageous for basic flexibility of the protective device 1, e.g., to increase wearing comfort. In the case of impulse loading of the protective device 1, see arrow 17 in the Figures 2 and 3 , the gap 16, 16' present in the resting state may initially close (cf. Figure 2) and with progressive impulse action an expansion or enlargement of the gaps 16, 16', cf. Figure 3 , result. Overall, an elastic and / or plastic deformation of the first layer 4, an at least predominantly elastic deformation of the second layer 5 and an elastic deformation of the third layer 10 can result. Figure 3It can be seen that, via the gaps 16, 16', air in particular from the cavity 8 closest to the pulse impact point (see arrow 17) can escape via the gap 16. Furthermore, it can be seen that due to the pressure build-up in the cavity 8' closest to the pulse impact point, the air there leads to a deformation, in particular an elastic deformation, of the dividing walls 7 to the adjacent cavities 8'. The air in the adjacent cavity 8' in turn partially deforms, in particular elastically, the other dividing walls of this cavity 8' to the adjacent cavities, wherein the degree of deformation of the dividing walls 7 decreases with increasing distance from the pulse impact point. A further portion of the air from the adjacent cavity 8' escapes via the gap 16'.Because the air present in the respective cavities 8, 8' partially escapes through the gaps 16, 16' during the pulse application event and partially leads to a deformation, in particular an elastic deformation, of the partition walls 7, an advantageous energy conversion by the protective device 1 is achieved that is unprecedented in the prior art. The hardness of the material forming the second layer 5, in the range from 20 SHORE A to 90 SHORE A and / or between 0 SHORE D and 80 SHORE D, plays a decisive role, since this hardness of the material of the second layer 5 results in a balanced and effective distribution of the energy conversion.

[0040] Opening sections 9 are initially understood to be the openings of the body forming the second layer 5, which are assigned to the second side 5. The opening sections 9 can be covered at least partially, preferably completely, by the body forming the third layer 10, specifically when the protective device 1 is not subjected to any load. When an impulse acts on the protective device 1, either a gap 16, 16' forms between the second and third layers 5, 10, or an already existing gap 16, 16' is enlarged, so that in both cases air can escape from the cavity 8, 8' via this gap 16, 16'. The air escapes in the direction of the second side 3.

[0041] Optionally, the third layer 10 can have at least one passage opening 15 which is formed exclusively by the third layer 10, cf. Figure 4In other words, the at least one passage opening 15 is formed by the material of the third layer 10 or the passage opening 15 is formed on a plane of the third layer 10 that runs parallel to the first layer 4. The passage openings 15 can, for example, be dimensioned such that a defined counterpressure results during the escape of air from the cavities 8 via the passage openings 15. This counterpressure or this escape resistance of the passage openings 15 makes it possible to define a division of the energy conversion or the energy distribution when the protective device 1 is subjected to an impulse. The passage openings 15 can, for example, be in the nanometer or micrometer range. In general, the third layer 10 can have a permeability such that, although it is not completely gas- or airtight, it leads to a significant increase in internal pressure in the cavities in the event of an impulse event.Especially since air escape can only occur to a small extent during the impulse event.

[0042] Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the third layer 10 is at least partially connected in a prestressed state to the second layer 5. In other words, the third layer 10 can be connected to the second layer 5 in the resting state and / or in the non-impulse state of the protective device 1 in such a way that any gaps 16, 16' between the second and third layers 5, 10 are reduced or completely closed. So that in the impulse event, the air in the cavity 8 presses against the prestressing force acting between the second and third layers 5, 10. In the Figure 5 In the embodiment 4 shown, the third layer 10 is connected to the second layer 5 at points, cf. points 18, 18', 18", so that gaps 16, 16' are formed between the second and third layers 5, 10 during a pulse event, cf. Figure 3, wherein to form the gaps 16, 16', a prestressing force is applied against the third layer 10 in the direction of the second layer 5. In other words, the third layer 10 can be fixed to the second layer (5) at fastening points (18, 18', 18") and thus with interruptions (locations between the points 18, 18', 18"), wherein in the rest state, at least at the interruptions, a prestressing force is applied or acts between the second and third layers (5, 10). This prestressing force acts in such a way that any gaps 16, 16' at the interruptions are reduced or closed in the rest state. The prestressing force is indirectly Figure 5 shown schematically, so that between the points 18, 18', 18", at which the third layer 10 is attached to the second layer 5, a pushing in or pressing of the third layer 10 in the direction of the second layer is shown, cf. arrows 19, 19`.

[0043] Optionally, a third layer 10 prestressed in the direction of the second layer 5 or a third layer 10 which serves to reduce or close (in the rest state) the gaps 16, 16' can alternatively or additionally be provided with passage openings 15.

[0044] The walls 7 of the second layer 5 delimiting the cavities 8, 8' can be designed to be airtight, in particular such that the cavities 8, 8' are at least temporarily open for air exchange exclusively via the opening sections 9. In other words, no air exchange of air from a first cavity 8 to a second cavity 8' can occur through the laterally arranged walls 7 or through the walls 7 running perpendicular to the main extension plane of the protective device 1 and / or perpendicular to the main extension plane of the first layer 4. For example, the cavities 8, 8' are delimited by pot-shaped or U-shaped walls 7 in cross-section and are designed to be particularly airtight, so that air can escape from the cavities 8, 8' only via the pot opening or via the opening sections 9, optionally via any through-openings 15.

[0045] A receiving pocket 11 can, for example, be provided for receiving a layer means 12 comprising the first and second layers 4, 5, wherein a pocket wall 13 forming the receiving pocket 11, preferably designed to be gas-impermeable, forms the third layer 10. Thus, in the final assembly state of the layer means 12 and the receiving pocket 11, the pocket wall 13 can perform or have the function of the third layer 10, namely, enable a defined escape of air located in the cavities 8, 8' in the event of an impulse load on the protective device 1. In the Figures 6 and 7By way of example, a receiving pocket 11 is shown into which a layer means 12, consisting of a first and a second layer 4, 5, can be inserted. The receiving pocket 11 can, for example, have fixing means 20, 20', which are designed to fix a layer means 12 introduced into the receiving pocket 11 in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner in the receiving pocket 11. For example, at least one fixing means 20, 20' can be designed as a pre-tensioning means, so that by means of this pre-tensioning means the layer means 12 can be fastened in a force-fitting manner, e.g. by clamping, in the receiving pocket 11. Alternatively or additionally, at least one fixing means 20, 20' can fix a layer means 12 in a form-fitting manner in the receiving pocket 11. It is also possible for at least one fixing means 20, 20' to fix the layer means 12 in the receiving pocket 11 in a force-fitting and form-fitting manner, so that it can be secured without play and without loss. The third layer 10 of the Figures 6 and 7The embodiment shown has no through-openings 15; of course, this pocket wall 13 can also have the function of through-openings 15 or be permeable. Alternatively or in addition to the through-openings 15, the third layer 10 can be connected to the second layer 5 at certain points or incompletely and at least temporarily form gaps 16, 16'. In other words, a receiving pocket 11 can be present whose pocket wall 13, which has the function of the third layer 10, has no through-openings 15 and is thus designed as a gas-impermeable third layer 10.

[0046] The walls 7 of the second layer 5 delimiting the cavities 8, 8' can, for example, have a particularly constant minimum height 14, in particular an extension perpendicular to the main extension direction, of 2.0 mm, preferably 4.0 mm, particularly preferably 5.0 mm, further preferably 6.0 mm. If the walls 7 are not oriented at right angles to the main extension plane of the protective device 1, the height 14 of the walls 7 can be understood as their distance perpendicular to the main extension plane of the first layer 4 and / or the main extension plane of the protective device 1.

[0047] The first layer 4 is preferably formed from a tough, elastic material. Alternatively or additionally, the second layer 5 can be formed from a tough, elastic material. For example, the second layer 5 can consist of a casting resin. Thus, the second layer 5 can be formed using a casting process, preferably a die casting or a vacuum casting process. Alternatively, at least the second layer 5 can be produced using an additive manufacturing process. In particular, the second and third layers 5, 10 can be produced, for example, in a joint or separate additive manufacturing process or vacuum die casting process.

[0048] The second and third layers 5, 10 can, for example, be made of the same material.

[0049] It is possible that the protective clothing serves to protect a person against the effects of impacts, blows, shots or the like, wherein the protective clothing comprises a protective device 1 described herein.

[0050] In Figure 8 The repeating geometric structure 6 of the second layer 5 is shown as an example, wherein this geometric structure 6 shows a hexagonal basic shape for the individual cells or for the cavities 8, 8'. In the example shown, the bottoms of the cavities 8, 8' are formed by the first layer 4. It is optionally possible for the bottoms of the cavities 8, 8' to be formed by the second layer 5. In this case, the first layer 4 can be arranged or formed below the bottoms of the cavities 8, 8' formed by the second layer 5. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0051] 1Protection device 2First side (shock-receiving side) 3Second side (opposite side of 2) 4First layer 5Second layer 6Structure of 5 7Wall of 5 8, 8'Cavity of 5 9Opening section of 8, 8' 10Third layer 11Receiving pocket 12Layer center 13Pocket wall of 11 14Height of 7 15Passage opening 16, 16'Gap 17Arrow (impulse, shock) 18, 18', 18"Point (connection between 5 and 10) 19Arrow (sections of 10 pressed against 5) 20, 20'Fixing agent

Claims

1. A protective device (1) for protection against the effects of impacts, blows, shots, or the like, which has a multi-layer construction and comprises a first side (2) receiving impacts and a second side (3) opposite said first side (2), wherein - a first layer (4) arranged on or forming the first side, wherein the first layer (4) consists of a stab- and / or bullet-resistant material, - a second layer (5), wherein the second layer (5) is formed from an elastic, repeating geometric structure (6) made of a plastic and / or a silicone rubber and / or silicone elastomers and / or casting resin, with a hardness between 20 SHORE A to 90 SHORE A and / or between 0 SHORE D to 80 SHORE D, wherein the structure (6) forms cavities (8, 8') delimited by walls (7),which are hermetically sealed in the direction of the first side (2) and open in the direction of the second side (3) and form opening sections (9) of the cavities (8, 8'), - a third layer (10) which is arranged on the second side (3) or forms this and is arranged on the second layer (5) and at least temporarily closes the cavities (8, 8') at the opening sections (9) or at least temporarily reduces the degree of opening of the opening sections (9).

2. Protective device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the walls (7) of the second layer (5) delimiting the cavities (8, 8') are designed to be airtight, in particular such that the cavities (8, 8') are at least temporarily open for air exchange exclusively via the opening sections (9).

3. Protective device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bya receiving pocket (11) for receiving a layer means (12) comprising at least the second layer (5), wherein a pocket wall (13) forming the receiving pocket (11) and preferably designed to be gas-impermeable forms the third layer (10).

4. Protective device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the layer means (12) comprises a first layer (4) and a second layer (5).

5. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the walls (7) of the second layer (5) delimiting the cavities (8, 8') have a, in particular constant, minimum height (14), in particular an extension perpendicular to the main extension direction, of 2.0 mm, preferably of 4.0 mm, particularly preferably of 5.0 mm, further preferably of 6.0 mm.

6. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first layer (4) is made of a tough elastic material.

7. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second layer (5) is formed from a tough elastic material.

8. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second layer (5) consists of a cast resin.

9. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the second layer (5) is produced in the course of an additive manufacturing process.

10. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the second layer (5) is produced by a vacuum casting process.

11. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the second and the third layer (5, 10) are produced in a particularly common additive manufacturing process or vacuum die-casting process.

12. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second and third layers (5, 10) are made of the same material.

13. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the third layer (10) is fixed to the second layer (5) with interruptions, wherein in the rest state a prestressing force is applied or acts between the second and third layers (5, 10) at least at the interruptions.

14. Protective clothing for protecting a person against the effects of impacts, blows, shots or the like, wherein the protective clothing comprises a protective device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10.

Citation Information

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