Absorbent structure with customizable zones for body protection

Abstract

Absorption structure with customizable zones for body protection. Absorption structure (1) for body protection (35) comprising a plurality of three-dimensional patterns (3), each three-dimensional pattern (3) comprising a plurality of interconnected uprights; at least two customizable zones (15), each customizable zone (15) comprising three-dimensional patterns (3) defining a corresponding region of the absorption structure (1), the three-dimensional patterns (3) of a customizable zone (15) having a determined material density corresponding to a reference density among at least two reference densities. Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Absorption structure with customizable zones for body protection Field of invention

[0001] The present invention relates to an absorption structure with customizable zones for body protection, in particular for a knee pad. Prior art

[0002] It is known to use absorption structures as body protection to absorb shocks during sports activities. The absorption structures may have reinforced parts which correspond to a highly stressed body location.

[0003] Furthermore, practitioners request customization of absorption structures to their sporting practice but also to their personal preferences and / or physical characteristics such as more fragile or sensitive areas.

[0004] Thus, it is known not only to have absorption structures with certain reinforced parts but also to adapt the location and consistency of the reinforcement to the specificities of the user.

[0005] However, since the customization of absorption structures is different for each practitioner, the problem of the cost and difficulty of mass manufacturing body protection arises.

[0006] Indeed, not every practitioner, especially an amateur, is ready to have custom-made body protection made individually.

[0007] There are thus contradictory needs on the part of sports practitioners who want protections adapted to their morphology, practice and / or personal preferences while being available at a lower cost and without requiring any particular procedure to measure the body part to be protected.

[0008] The present invention aims to resolve all or part of the drawbacks mentioned above. Statement of the invention

[0009] To this end, the present invention relates to an absorption structure for body protection, the absorption structure comprising:

[0010] a plurality of three-dimensional patterns, each three-dimensional pattern being linked to one or more adjacent three-dimensional patterns so as to generate the absorption structure having a low total thickness compared to an extension surface of said absorption structure, each three-dimensional pattern comprising a plurality of uprights linked to each other,

[0011] at least two customizable zones, each customizable zone comprising three-dimensional patterns defining a corresponding region of the absorption structure, the three-dimensional patterns of a customizable zone having a determined material density corresponding to a reference density among at least two reference densities.

[0012] Each three-dimensional pattern consists of amounts linked to each other. The amounts constituting the three-dimensional pattern are characterized by a determined material density.

[0013] The absorption structure thus has, according to one example, two customizable zones of medium density and, moreover, a customizable zone of low density and another customizable zone of high density.

[0014] By customizable, it is understood that the combination of reference densities may be different from one absorption structure to another. Thus, with an identical general structure, it is possible to obtain different damping characteristics by adapting the density of the customizable zones. In this sense, the present absorption structure is a customizable absorption structure.

[0015] By varying the material density, a reinforced customizable area of ​​the absorption structure is obtained.

[0016] It thus appears that the use of three-dimensional patterns organized into customizable zones makes it possible to constitute body protection adapting both to the body surface to be covered and to the intensity of the protection adapted to the user.

[0017] The absorption structure is thus optimally designed to both facilitate production and present “tailor-made” properties chosen by the user.

[0018] According to one aspect of the invention, each reference density corresponds to a defined diameter or width of uprights, the uprights of customizable zones of different reference densities being geometrically organized in the same way.

[0019] The criterion that defines the material density of three-dimensional patterns is not the geometry defining the spatial arrangement but the diameter or width of the uprights.

[0020] Thus, from one absorption structure to another, there is only one structural difference: the amounts of certain customizable zones are more or less large.

[0021] This arrangement facilitates mass production of the absorption structure because there are few structural differences between two customized examples.

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, the determined material density corresponds to a reference density among three reference densities. Preferably, the three reference densities comprise a low density, a medium density and a high density.

[0023] This limitation to three densities is advantageous because although the choice is limited, it is sufficient for the practitioner to find the density that suits him.

[0024] According to one aspect of the invention, the medium density is about twice the low density and the high density is about three times the low density.

[0025] Preferably, the low density is between 50 and 150 g / l. According to one example, the low density is 101 g / l, the medium density is 200 g / l and the high density is 349 g / l.

[0026] The fact that the three-dimensional pattern used has a density between 100 and 350 g / L can be important for many reasons.

[0027] The density of material influences its durability and impact resistance. A denser three-dimensional pattern will generally be more durable and impact resistant than a less dense three-dimensional pattern.

[0028] According to one aspect of the invention, the medium density corresponds to a diameter or width of the upright greater than 10 to 20% and in particular about 15% of that of the low density. The high density corresponds to a diameter or width of the upright greater than 20 to 40% and in particular about 30% of that of the low density.

[0029] Diameter or width influences the ability to absorb shock. A thicker three-dimensional pattern will generally be better able to absorb shock than a thinner three-dimensional pattern.

[0030] The diameter or width can vary depending on its applications and desired performance requirements. It can be thin and lightweight, making it ideal for sports where mobility and lightness are key factors, or thicker and more robust for use in more demanding applications.

[0031] Preferably, the low density corresponds to a diameter or width of the upright of 0.7 and 1.3 mm, the medium density of 1.8 to 2 mm, the high density of 2 and 3 mm.

[0032] The diameter or width of the uprights of the three-dimensional pattern is an important element, because it determines the robustness and resistance of the absorption structure.

[0033] A larger diameter or width may provide greater strength, but may also make the absorption structure heavier and less flexible. It is recommended to find a balance between strength, lightness and flexibility to achieve a high-performance and comfortable absorption structure.

[0034] In summary, the characteristics of the three-dimensional pattern can be important for performance and durability.

[0035] According to one aspect of the invention, the diameter or width of the amount varies progressively between two contiguous customizable zones.

[0036] According to one possibility, each three-dimensional pattern is linked to one or more three-dimensional patterns by sharing common uprights. This gives the absorption structure a certain rigidity.

[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, each three-dimensional pattern is linked to one or more adjacent three-dimensional patterns by one or more corresponding links, each link being designed to allow a relative displacement of a defined amplitude of said three-dimensional pattern with respect to the adjacent three-dimensional pattern(s) in at least one direction.

[0038] This arrangement gives a certain flexibility to the absorption structure. The body protection generated by the absorption structure thus adapts to the shape of the part of the body to be protected without it being necessary to predict in advance the places where the absorption structure will bend.

[0039] Furthermore, when using the absorption structure, this flexibility allows deformation improving shock absorption.

[0040] Preferably, each connection is generated by a nesting of uprights of two adjacent three-dimensional patterns. In particular, the nesting corresponds to a closed loop of uprights of a first three-dimensional pattern through which another closed loop of uprights of a second three-dimensional pattern passes.

[0041] The closed loops can be arranged according to several different geometries so as to define the defined amplitude and the direction(s) of freedom of relative movements.

[0042] According to one example, two loop uprights may have an angle, preferably a right angle capable of cooperating with another similar angle of two uprights of a complementary loop.

[0043] This structure promotes centering between the junctions at a single point. Each three-dimensional pattern maintains its alignment with the adjacent three-dimensional pattern(s) during extension. Also, a direction of movement is favored, depending on the direction of extension of the angle, with lateral movements being limited.

[0044] According to another example, two loop uprights may have a zigzag bend, that is, a bend which instead of having an angle formed by two uprights comprises at least three uprights. A central upright extends laterally relative to the two adjoining uprights connected to the ends of the central upright.

[0045] This structure allows lateral movements, thus providing more freedom of movement. In addition, it is possible to adjust the freedom of movement of the structure, for example by modifying the dimension of the central upright.

[0046] In this case, the amplitude of movement of the three-dimensional pattern is in two directions: one lateral according to the orientation of the central upright and one longitudinal.

[0047] According to one aspect of the invention, the three-dimensional patterns are lattice patterns, the absorption structure comprising additional uprights configured to generate the contours of the absorption structure.

[0048] This construction of the absorption structure by manufactured uprights jointly is advantageous compared to an absorption structure comprising several separate parts mounted together.

[0049] In fact, we obtain a single piece with customizable zones which have a different density and thus shock absorption. It is not necessary to add an additional layer or an additional reinforcement piece to obtain this personalized protection.

[0050] Using additional amounts that are part of the same part as the three-dimensional patterns to define the contours is also advantageous.

[0051] The absorption structure can be manufactured in a single step of jointly producing the three-dimensional patterns and the additional amounts.

[0052] The lattice patterns are adjacent to each other so as to present a lattice structure.

[0053] This structure corresponds to a combination of uprights linked to each other and empty areas between the uprights. This lattice structure provides a high shock absorption capacity as well as good energy restitution.

[0054] According to one aspect of the invention, the three-dimensional patterns are fourteen-sided polyhedra.

[0055] The three-dimensional pattern is an elementary pattern which is a fourteen-sided polyhedron also called vintile, Kelvin pattern, tetrakaidecahedron, truncated octahedron, Archimedean solid or permutohedron.

[0056] The three-dimensional pattern is formed by truncating the corners of an octahedron. This means that the edges that meet at the apex of each corner of the octahedron are cut off, so that the resulting faces are hexagons and squares rather than regular triangles.

[0057] According to one aspect of the invention, the truncated octahedron has 14 faces, including 8 hexagonal faces and 6 square faces. Each three-dimensional pattern has 24 vertices and 36 edges, the edges being the uprights of the three-dimensional pattern.

[0058] Vinyl has interesting geometric properties, particularly for improving shock absorption.

[0059] Alternatively, the lattice structure may be based on planes. This is referred to as a "planar based lattice." This category encompasses structures that rely on planar patterns, such as the honeycomb pattern and other plane-based patterns.

[0060] Alternatively, the lattice structure may be based on beams. This is referred to as a "strut based lattice". This category is advantageous for the absorption structure due to its observed damping characteristics.

[0061] In addition, the lattice structure can be based on surfaces. This is called a "surface based lattice". This category includes structures based on surfaces, such as the TPMS (Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces) pattern and the gyroid, among others.

[0062] It thus appears possible to produce an absorption structure according to several lattice structure geometries, each geometry being able to be advantageous depending on the chosen application.

[0063] According to one aspect of the invention, the total thickness of the absorption structure is two three-dimensional patterns and in which each three-dimensional pattern has a specific thickness at least twice less than a longitudinal dimension and / or a lateral dimension of said three-dimensional pattern.

[0064] This proportion of the three-dimensional pattern as well as the number of three-dimensional patterns constituting the total thickness of the absorption structure exhibit good behavior in terms of shock absorption and in terms of flexibility and rigidity for all of the reference densities.

[0065] According to one aspect of the invention, the longitudinal dimension is equal to the lateral dimension. Preferably, the longitudinal dimension is 2 cm, the lateral dimension is 2 cm and the proper thickness of a three-dimensional pattern is 0.7 cm. This means that the three-dimensional pattern repeats every 2 cm in the planar directions.

[0066] According to one aspect of the invention, the absorption structure comprises at least one articulation provided between two parts of the absorption structure, each part comprising at least two customizable zones.

[0067] According to one aspect of the invention, additional amounts of the absorption structure can be used to generate the at least one articulation.

[0068] According to one aspect of the invention, the absorption structure comprises a first articulation between a central part and a first lateral part and a second articulation between the central part and a second lateral part.

[0069] The first joint and the second joint correspond to the at least one joint mentioned above.

[0070] This arrangement favors certain uses of body protection requiring a certain curvature of the customizable adaptation structure.

[0071] The three-dimensional shape of the absorption structure is thus substantially planar, which simplifies manufacturing compared to a highly curved hingeless structure.

[0072] According to one aspect of the invention, the first articulation and the second articulation extend substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the absorption structure, the central part having three customizable zones aligned along the longitudinal direction, and the first lateral part and the second lateral part each having two customizable zones aligned along the longitudinal direction.

[0073] According to one possibility, the plurality of three-dimensional patterns is organized in a manner plane. In this case, all three-dimensional patterns can have identical dimensions. However, this is not mandatory and some three-dimensional patterns may have their size adjusted. This is especially true near contours or joints.

[0074] According to another possibility, the plurality of three-dimensional patterns are organized so as to constitute a curved assembly. This arrangement has a double utility. On the one hand, the body protection adapts to the part of the body to be protected, and on the other hand the absorption structure has a limited lateral size which facilitates production which can be carried out in one go and storage.

[0075] Preferably, some three-dimensional patterns are smaller or larger than others so as to generate a radius of curvature of the curved assembly.

[0076] The present invention also relates to a body protection comprising an absorption structure as described above and a cover designed to receive at least part of the absorption structure, said cover being configured to cooperate by form complementarity with the absorption structure.

[0077] The cover allows both to hide the absorption structure and to protect it. Preferably, the cover is designed as a covering adapted to cooperate with the skin of a user.

[0078] According to one aspect of the invention, the cover is removable. This arrangement facilitates the maintenance of the body protection, the cover being able to be washed or changed.

[0079] According to one aspect of the invention, the cover is configured to be disposed between hard or sharp edges of the absorption structure and the user's skin. Preferably, the cover may be perforated. It may also be smooth.

[0080] According to one aspect of the invention, the cover is configured to distribute the forces evenly over the absorption structure following a deformation induced by the user and / or an obstacle on which the user comes up against. This avoids creating weak points on the body protection.

[0081] According to one aspect of the invention, the cover is made of a textile material.

[0082] According to one aspect of the invention, different sizes of absorption structures can be provided, in particular by adding three-dimensional patterns longitudinally and / or laterally. The total thickness of the absorption structure and the size of the three-dimensional patterns can remain the same, only the extension surface varies.

[0083] According to one aspect of the invention, the body protection is suitable for use as a knee pad.

[0084] Having customizable areas is particularly suitable for knee pads. The user can thus predict whether the kneecap, the top of the kneecap or the bottom of the kneecap, a high side or a low side should be reinforced.

[0085] The user can thus adapt the knee pad to his practice, his level and / or an area sensitive to protect, for example following an old injury.

[0086] According to one aspect of the invention, the cover includes a user attachment system such as a two-part clamping system or an elastic sleeve system for fitting the body protection over the body part to be protected.

[0087] Alternatively, the absorption structure is suitable for use in other applications such as helmets, back protectors, or any other body protection product against impacts.

[0088] The present invention further relates to a method of manufacturing an absorption structure as described above, comprising the following steps:

[0089] have a three-dimensional printing machine by additive manufacturing,

[0090] have geometric parameters of the absorption structure and parameters of customization relating to the reference densities of each customizable zone,

[0091] carrying out the printing of the absorption structure by additive manufacturing with the printing machine.

[0092] This arrangement makes it possible to manufacture on demand an absorption structure adapted to a user.

[0093] Inventory can be better managed by producing custom absorption structures for each user, rather than having to stock different sizes and models in anticipation of customer needs. This can reduce production and delivery times.

[0094] The possibility of manufacturing the absorption structure locally near the point of sale or delivery thanks to additive manufacturing can also contribute to reducing transport costs and supporting the local economy.

[0095] According to one aspect of the invention, only one type of material is used for printing by additive manufacturing. This arrangement is advantageous for recycling.

[0096] According to one aspect of the invention, the step of printing the absorption structure by additive manufacturing is carried out in a single step.

[0097] In other words, the machine is configured to print the entire absorption structure without moving a first portion of absorption structure already printed.

[0098] The machine comprises a container capable of entirely containing the absorption structure or several absorption structures.

[0099] The presence of at least one articulation is advantageous because it is possible to define an absorption structure in a substantially planar manner.

[0100] The absorption structure occupies less volume. It is possible to put more parts in the same production bin, which can improve production efficiency and profitability.

[0101] One-shot printing is also made possible by the presence of the additional amounts of contours and articulations which are capable of generating the contours and at least one articulation where applicable.

[0102] In particular, the at least one articulation is generated by one or more additional uprights extending along a line.

[0103] This one-piece print requires no gluing or stitching to complete the build.

[0104] According to one aspect of the invention, the manufacturing method comprises a prior step consisting of obtaining the geometric parameters and / or the personalization parameters from a control interface of the printing machine or from a remote server capable of communicating with the printing machine.

[0105] It is thus possible to define the customizable areas locally or remotely. In particular, the customization parameters can be obtained from a web page comprising a form or configurator to be completed by the user, the server being able to collect the customization parameters entered by the user.

[0106] According to one aspect of the invention, the personalization parameters correspond to a direct entry of the determined material densities of the polarizable zones among the at least two reference densities.

[0107] This direct input can be performed on the control interface or on a remote interface connected to the remote server. According to one example, the remote interface can be a computer connected to the Internet. The user can thus configure himself the absorption structure that he wishes to control.

[0108] According to an alternative, the personalization parameters correspond to an indirect entry of the determined material densities, the indirect entry corresponds to a choice of a practice category from a set of practice categories, the method comprising a step of transcribing the chosen practice category into determined material densities.

[0109] A practice category corresponds to a sport, position, and possibly to the size and / or weight of a user.

[0110] According to one aspect of the invention, the geometric parameters correspond to the shape of each three-dimensional pattern, to the arrangement of the plurality of three-dimensional patterns generating the absorption structure and / or to the location and spatial configuration or contours of the regions corresponding to the customizable zones.

[0111] According to one possibility, the geometric parameters are determined in advance by the manufacturer and cannot be modified at the control interface or the remote interface.

[0112] In this case, the user will only be able to modify the customization parameters.

[0113] According to another possibility, the geometric parameters can, at least for some of them, be modified by a user at the interface level of command or remote interface.

[0114] In particular, it may be possible to enter parameters relating to at least one of the regions defining the customizable zones. The definition of a region may correspond to a contour drawing on the control interface or the remote interface or to the selection of an alternative for spatial definition of said region from a plurality of alternatives.

[0115] Thus, according to this possibility, not only can the user choose the density of the customizable zones but also their location and contours.

[0116] According to one aspect of the invention, the absorption structure can be obtained by different types of three-dimensional printing machine, in particular, of the type capable of producing thermoplastic parts, TPU, TPA, from filaments and / or resins.

[0117] The three-dimensional printing machines used can generate the material by polymerization, crosslinking, fusion or by any other type of technical alternatives allowing the accumulation of material.

[0118] The different aspects defined above which are not incompatible can be combined. Brief description of the figures

[0119] The invention will be better understood with the aid of the detailed description which is set out below with reference to the appended drawings.

[0120] [Fig-1] is a top view of a body protection comprising a structure absorption and a cover.

[0121] [Fig.2] is a perspective and sectional view of customizable areas of the absorption structure.

[0122] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of a three-dimensional pattern of the structure absorption.

[0123] [Fig.4] is a schematic top view of a knee brace comprising seven zones customizable.

[0124] [Fig.5] is a top and side view of customizable areas of the structure absorption.

[0125] [Fig.6] is a diagram detailing the steps of a manufacturing process of the absorption structure.

[0126] [Fig.7] is a schematic top view of an absorption structure in which geometric parameters defined the outline of the customizable areas.

[0127] [Fig.8] is a detailed side view of a portion of absorption structure obtained by the manufacturing process. Description with reference to the figures

[0128] In the detailed description which follows of the figures defined above, the same elements or the elements fulfilling identical functions may retain the same references so as to simplify the understanding of the invention.

[0129] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, an absorption structure 1 comprises a plurality of three-dimensional patterns 3.

[0130] Each three-dimensional pattern 3 is linked to one or more adjacent three-dimensional patterns 3 so as to generate the absorption structure 1 having a low total thickness 5 compared to an extension surface 7 of said absorption structure 1.

[0131] Each three-dimensional pattern 3 comprises a plurality of uprights 9 linked to each other.

[0132] The absorption structure 1 comprises at least one articulation 11 formed between two parts 13 of the absorption structure 1, here there are two articulations 11.

[0133] The absorption structure 1 may also not include a joint 11, the flexibility of the absorption structure 1 being generated in this case by the arrangement of the three-dimensional patterns 3 relative to each other.

[0134] The absorption structure 1 comprises at least two customizable areas 15 in each part 13. Each customizable area 15 comprises three-dimensional patterns 3 defining a corresponding region of the absorption structure 1.

[0135] The three-dimensional patterns 3 of a customizable zone 15 have a determined material density corresponding to a reference density among at least two reference densities.

[0136] Thus, each three-dimensional pattern 3 is made up of uprights 9 linked to each other. The uprights 9 constituting the three-dimensional pattern 3 are characterized by a determined material density.

[0137] Each reference density corresponds to a defined diameter or width 17 of uprights 9, the uprights 9 of customizable zones 15 of different reference densities being geometrically organized in the same way.

[0138] The criterion which defines the material density of the three-dimensional patterns 3 is not the geometry defining the spatial arrangement but the diameter or width 17 of the uprights 9.

[0139] Thus, from one absorption structure 1 to another, there is only one structural difference: the amounts 9 of certain customizable zones 15 are more or less large.

[0140] As illustrated in [Fig.2], the determined material density corresponding to a reference density among three reference densities. Preferably, the three reference densities comprise a low density 19, a medium density 21 and a high density 23.

[0141] The average density 21 is about twice as high as the low density 19 and the high density 23 is about three times as high as the low density 19.

[0142] Preferably, the low density 19 is between 50 and 150 g / l. According to one example, the low density 19 is 101 g / l, the medium density 21 is 200 g / l and the high density 23 is 349 g / l.

[0143] The average density 21 corresponds to a diameter or width 17 of the upright 9 which is 10 to 20% greater and in particular approximately 15% greater than that of the low density 19. The high density 23 corresponds to a diameter or width 17 of the upright 9 which is 20 to 40% greater and in particular approximately 30% greater than that of the low density 19.

[0144] The diameter or width 17 influences the ability to absorb shocks. A thicker 3-dimensional pattern 3 will generally be better able to absorb shocks than a thinner 3-dimensional pattern 3.

[0145] The overall thickness 5 can vary depending on its applications and desired performance requirements. It can be thin and lightweight, making it ideal for sports where mobility and lightness are key factors, or thicker and more robust for use in more demanding applications.

[0146] The low density 19 corresponds to a diameter or width 17 of the upright of 0.7 to 1.3 mm, the medium density of 1.8 to 2 mm, the high density of 2 to 3 mm. In the example presented in [Fig.2], the uprights 9 have a circular base.

[0147] This base can also be square or rectangular according to another example as in [Fig.3]. In this case, one of the widths of the square can be increased or both to obtain the desired density.

[0148] The diameter or width 17 of the uprights 9 of the three-dimensional pattern 3 is an important element, because it determines the robustness and resistance of the absorption structure 1.

[0149] A larger diameter or width 17 may provide greater strength, but may also make the absorption structure 1 heavier and less flexible. It is recommended to strike a balance between strength, lightness, and flexibility to achieve a high-performance and comfortable absorption structure 1.

[0150] In summary, the characteristics of the three-dimensional pattern 3 may be important for performance and durability.

[0151] The diameter or width 17 of the upright 9 varies progressively between two contiguous customizable zones 15.

[0152] According to one possibility shown in Figures 1 and 2, each three-dimensional pattern 3 is linked to one or more three-dimensional patterns 3 by sharing common uprights 9. This gives the absorption structure 1 a certain rigidity.

[0153] According to another possibility represented in [Fig.5], each three-dimensional pattern 3 is linked to one or more adjacent three-dimensional patterns 3 by one or more corresponding links 24.

[0154] Each link 24 is designed to allow a relative displacement of a defined amplitude of said three-dimensional pattern with respect to the adjacent three-dimensional pattern(s) in at least one direction.

[0155] This arrangement gives a certain flexibility to the absorption structure 1. The absorption structure 1 thus adapts to the shape of the part of the body to be protected without it being necessary to foresee in advance the places where the absorption structure 1 will bend. The use of links 24 therefore makes it possible not to provide an articulation 11. Of course, it is possible to combine links 24 and at least one articulation 11 in the same absorption structure 1.

[0156] Preferably, each connection 24 is generated by an interlocking of uprights 5 of two adjacent three-dimensional patterns 3. In particular, the interlocking corresponds to a closed loop of uprights 9 of a first three-dimensional pattern 3 through which another closed loop of uprights 9 of a second three-dimensional pattern 3 passes.

[0157] The closed loops can be arranged according to several different geometries so as to define the amplitude and the direction(s) of relative freedom of movement.

[0158] According to an example shown in the upper part of [Fig.5], two loop uprights 9 may have an angle, preferably a right angle 26 capable of cooperating with another similar angle 26 of two uprights 9 of a complementary loop.

[0159] This structure promotes centering between the junctions at a single point. Each three-dimensional pattern 3 maintains its alignment with the adjacent three-dimensional pattern(s) 3 during extension. Also, a direction of movement is favored, along an extension direction 28 of the angle 26, with lateral movements being limited.

[0160] According to another example shown in the lower part of [Fig.5], two loop uprights 9 may have a zigzag bend, that is to say a bend which instead of having an angle formed by two uprights 9 comprises at least three uprights 9. A central upright 30 extends laterally relative to the two contiguous uprights 9 linked to the ends of the central upright 30.

[0161] This structure also allows, in relation to the structure above, lateral movements, thus offering more freedom of movement. In addition, it is possible to adjust the freedom of movement of the structure, for example by modifying the dimension of the central upright.

[0162] In this case, the amplitude of movement of the three-dimensional pattern is in two directions: one lateral according to the orientation of the central upright 30 and one longitudinal.

[0163] As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the three-dimensional patterns 3 are lattice patterns, the absorption structure 1 comprising additional amounts 25 of contours and articulations configured to generate the contours and articulations 11 of the absorption structure 1.

[0164] The three-dimensional patterns 3 and the additional amounts 25 of contours and articulations are manufactured jointly.

[0165] The lattice patterns are adjacent to each other so as to present a lattice structure.

[0166] This structure corresponds to a combination of uprights 9 linked to each other and empty zones between the uprights 9. This lattice structure provides a high capacity for shock absorption as well as good energy restitution.

[0167] As illustrated in [Fig.3], the three-dimensional patterns 3 are fourteen-sided polyhedra.

[0168] The three-dimensional pattern 3 is an elementary pattern which is a fourteen-sided polyhedron also called vintile, Kelvin pattern, tetrakaidecahedron, truncated octahedron, Archimedean solid or permutohedron.

[0169] The three-dimensional pattern 3 is formed by truncating the corners of an octahedron. This means that the edges that meet at the apex of each corner of the octahedron are cut off, so that the resulting faces are hexagons and squares rather than regular triangles.

[0170] The truncated octahedron has 14 faces, including 8 hexagonal faces and 6 square faces. Each three-dimensional pattern has 24 vertices and 36 edges, the edges being the 9-squares of the three-dimensional pattern 3.

[0171] Vinyl has interesting geometric properties, particularly for improving shock absorption.

[0172] The total thickness 5 of the absorption structure 1 is two three-dimensional patterns 3 and each three-dimensional pattern 3 has a specific thickness 27 at least twice less than a longitudinal dimension 29 and a lateral dimension 31 of said three-dimensional pattern 3.

[0173] The longitudinal dimension 31 is equal to the lateral dimension 29. Preferably, the longitudinal dimension 31 is 2 cm, the lateral dimension 29 is 2 cm and the proper thickness 27 of a three-dimensional pattern is 0.7 cm. This means that the three-dimensional pattern 3 is repeated every 2 cm in the planar directions.

[0174] The absorption structure 1 comprises a first articulation 11a between a central part 13a and a first lateral part 13b and a second articulation 11b between the central part 13a and a second lateral part 13c.

[0175] This arrangement favors certain uses requiring a certain curvature of the absorption structure 1. The three-dimensional shape of the absorption structure 1 is thus substantially flat.

[0176] The first articulation 11a and the second articulation 11b extend substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction 33 of the absorption structure 1, the central part having three customizable zones 15 aligned along the longitudinal direction. tudinal 33, and, the first lateral part 13b and the second lateral part 13b each having two customizable zones 15 aligned in the longitudinal direction 33.

[0177] According to one possibility, the plurality of three-dimensional patterns 3 is organized in a planar manner. In this case, all the three-dimensional patterns 3 may have identical dimensions. However, this is not obligatory and some three-dimensional patterns 3 may have their size adapted. This is particularly true near contours or joints.

[0178] According to another possibility, the plurality of three-dimensional patterns 3 are organized so as to constitute a curved assembly. This arrangement has a double utility. On the one hand, the absorption structure 1 adapts to the part of the body to be protected, and on the other hand the absorption structure 1 has a limited lateral size which facilitates production which can be carried out in one go and storage.

[0179] Preferably, some three-dimensional patterns 3 are smaller or larger than others so as to generate a radius of curvature of the curved assembly.

[0180] As illustrated in [Fig.l], a body protector 35 comprises an absorption structure 1 as described above and a cover 37 adapted to receive at least in part the absorption structure 1.

[0181] The cover 37 is configured to cooperate by shape complementarity with the absorption structure 1.

[0182] The cover 37 makes it possible both to mask the absorption structure 1 and to protect it. Preferably, the cover 37 is designed as a covering adapted to cooperate with the skin of a user.

[0183] The cover 37 is removable. This arrangement facilitates the maintenance of the body protection 35, the cover being able to be washed or changed.

[0184] The cover 37 is configured to be disposed between hard or sharp edges of the absorption structure 1 and the user's skin. Preferably, the cover 37 may be perforated. It may also be smooth.

[0185] The cover 37 is configured to distribute the forces evenly over the absorption structure 1 following a deformation induced by the user and / or an obstacle on which the user comes up against. This avoids creating weak points on the body protection 35. The cover 37 is made of a textile material.

[0186] Depending on the uses, different sizes of absorption structures 1 can be provided, in particular by adding three-dimensional patterns 3 longitudinally and / or laterally. The total thickness 5 of the absorption structure 1 and the size of the three-dimensional patterns 3 can remain identical, only the extension surface 7 varies.

[0187] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 4, the body protection 35 is suitable for use as a knee pad.

[0188] Having customizable zones 15 is particularly suitable for knee pads. The user can thus predict whether the kneecap, the top of the kneecap or the bottom of the kneecap, a high side or a low side should be reinforced.

[0189] The user can thus adapt the knee pad to their practice, their level and / or a sensitive area to be protected, for example following a previous injury.

[0190] The cover 37 includes a user attachment system such as a two-part clamping system or an elastic sleeve system for fitting the body protection over the body part to be protected.

[0191] Alternatively, the absorption structure 1 is suitable for use in other applications such as helmets, back protectors or any other body protection product against impacts.

[0192] As illustrated in [Fig.6], a method of manufacturing an absorption structure 1 comprises the following steps: - Have a three-dimensional printing machine using additive manufacturing, - E2 have geometric parameters of the absorption structure 1 and customization parameters relating to the reference densities of each customizable zone 15, - E3 carry out the printing of the absorption structure 1 by additive manufacturing with the printing machine.

[0193] This arrangement makes it possible to manufacture on demand an absorption structure 1 adapted to a user.

[0194] Inventory can be better managed by producing custom-made absorption structures 1 for each user, rather than having to stock different sizes and models in anticipation of customer needs. This can reduce production and delivery times.

[0195] The possibility of manufacturing the absorption structure 1 locally near the point of sale or delivery thanks to additive manufacturing can also contribute to reducing transport costs and supporting the local economy.

[0196] Only one type of material is used for additive manufacturing printing. This arrangement is advantageous for recycling.

[0197] Step E3 of printing the absorption structure 1 by additive manufacturing is carried out in one go.

[0198] In other words, the machine is configured to print the entire absorption structure 1 without moving a first portion of absorption structure already printed.

[0199] The machine comprises a container capable of entirely containing the absorption structure 1 or several absorption structures 1.

[0200] The presence of the joints 11 is advantageous because it is possible to define an absorption structure 1 in a substantially planar manner.

[0201] The absorption structure 1 occupies less volume. It is possible to put more parts in the same production bin, which can improve production efficiency and profitability.

[0202] One-time printing is also made possible by the presence of the additional contour and joint amounts 25 which are capable of generating the contours and joints 11.

[0203] In particular, the joints 11 are generated by one or more additional uprights 25 extending along a line.

[0204] This one-piece print requires no gluing or stitching to complete the build.

[0205] The manufacturing method comprises a prior step E0 consisting of obtaining the geometric parameters and / or the personalization parameters from a control interface of the printing machine or from a remote server capable of communicating with the printing machine.

[0206] It is thus possible to define the customizable zones 15 locally or remotely. In particular, the customization parameters can be obtained from a web page comprising a form or configurator to be completed by the user, the server being able to collect the customization parameters entered by the user.

[0207] The customization parameters may correspond to a direct entry of the determined material densities of the polarizable zones among the at least two reference densities.

[0208] This direct input can be performed on the control interface or on a remote interface connected to the remote server. According to one example, the remote interface can be a computer connected to the Internet. The user can thus configure himself the absorption structure that he wishes to control.

[0209] According to an alternative, the personalization parameters correspond to an indirect entry of the determined material densities, the indirect entry corresponds to a choice of a practice category from a set of practice categories, the method comprising a step of transcribing the chosen practice category into determined material densities.

[0210] A practice category corresponds to a sport, position, and possibly to the size and / or weight of a user.

[0211] For example, for a receiver position of a given size and weight, only one type of knee pad will be produced with material densities determined in advance and generally considered suitable for the conditions of use. In this case, the user has less freedom of choice but can obtain a suitable product without having to find out in advance about the specific densities to choose. In practice, a configurator can be set up to assist the user in making their choice.

[0212] The geometric parameters correspond to the shape of each three-dimensional pattern 3, to the arrangement of the plurality of three-dimensional patterns 3 generating the absorption structure 1 and / or to the location and spatial configuration or contours of the regions corresponding to the customizable zones 15.

[0213] According to one possibility, the geometric parameters are determined in advance by the manufacturer and cannot be modified at the control interface or the remote interface.

[0214] According to another possibility, the geometric parameters can, at least for some of them, be modified by a user at the level of the control interface or the remote interface.

[0215] In particular, it may be possible to enter parameters relating to at least one of the regions defining the customizable zones 15.

[0216] The definition of a region may correspond to a contour drawing on the control interface or the remote interface or to the selection of an alternative for spatial definition of said region among a plurality of alternatives. These alternatives may be recorded by the manufacturer and proposed as choices during configuration by the user.

[0217] As illustrated in [Fig.7], a drawing made by a user at the command interface or the remote interface makes it possible to define customizable zones 15 whose drawing is different from that of [Fig.l].

[0218] This example is only one possibility among others. The interest is to allow no longer to have constraints concerning the locations of the customizable zones 15.

[0219] A user noticing from experience that he wishes to thicken certain zones of his absorption structure 1 can thus determine for himself the contours and densities of the customizable zones 15.

[0220] In [Fig.8] a portion of the absorption structure 1 obtained by the manufacturing process is shown, seen from the side.

[0221] The absorption structure can be obtained by different types of three-dimensional printing machine, in particular, of the type capable of producing thermoplastic parts, TPU, TPA, from filaments and / or resins.

[0222] The three-dimensional printing machines used can generate the material by polymerization, crosslinking, fusion or by any other type of technical alternatives allowing the accumulation of material.

[0223] It thus appears that the use of three-dimensional patterns 3 organized in customizable zones 15 and with at least one articulation makes it possible to constitute a body protection 35 adapting both to the body surface 35 to be covered and to the intensity user-friendly protection.

[0224] The absorption structure 1 is thus optimally designed to both facilitate production and present “tailor-made” properties chosen by the user.

[0225] As goes without saying, the invention is not limited to the single embodiment described above as an example; on the contrary, it encompasses all variant embodiments thereof.

Claims

Claims

1. An absorption structure (1) for body protection (35), the absorption structure (1) comprising: - a plurality of three-dimensional patterns (3), each three-dimensional pattern (3) being linked to one or more adjacent three-dimensional patterns (3) so as to generate the absorption structure (1) having a low total thickness (5) compared to an extension surface (7) of said absorption structure (1), each three-dimensional pattern (3) comprising a plurality of uprights (9) linked to each other, - at least two customizable zones (15), each customizable zone (15) comprising three-dimensional patterns (3) defining a corresponding region of the absorption structure (1), the three-dimensional patterns (3) of a customizable zone (15) having a determined material density corresponding to a reference density among at least two reference densities.

2. Absorption structure (1) according to claim 1, wherein each reference density corresponds to a defined diameter or width (17) of uprights (9), the uprights (9) of customizable zones (15) of different reference densities being geometrically organized in the same way.

3. Absorption structure (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein each three-dimensional pattern (3) is linked to one or more adjacent three-dimensional patterns (3) by one or more corresponding links, each link being designed to allow a relative displacement of a defined amplitude of said three-dimensional pattern (3) with respect to the adjacent three-dimensional pattern(s) in at least one direction.

4. Absorption structure (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the three-dimensional patterns (3) are lattice patterns, the absorption structure (1) comprising additional uprights (25) configured to generate the contours of the absorption structure (1).

5. An absorption structure (1) according to claim 4, wherein the three-dimensional patterns (3) are fourteen-sided polyhedra.

6. Absorption structure (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which the total thickness (5) of the absorption structure (1) is two three-dimensional patterns (3) and in which each three-dimensional pattern (3) has a specific thickness (27) at least twice less than a longitudinal dimension (29) and / or a lateral dimension (31) of said three-dimensional pattern (3).

7. Absorption structure (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, comprising at least one articulation (11) formed between two parts (13) of the absorption structure (1), each part (13) comprising at least two customizable zones (15).

8. Body protection (35) comprising an absorption structure (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7 and a cover (37) designed to receive at least in part the absorption structure (1), said cover (37) being configured to cooperate by form complementarity with the absorption structure (1).

9. Body protection (35) according to claim 8, suitable for use as a knee pad.

10. Method for manufacturing an absorption structure (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, comprising the following steps: - (E1) having a three-dimensional printing machine by additive manufacturing, - (E2) having geometric parameters of the absorption structure (1) and personalization parameters relating to the reference densities of each customizable zone (15), - (E3) carrying out the printing of the absorption structure (1) by additive manufacturing with the printing machine.

11. Manufacturing method according to claim 10, wherein the step (E3) of printing the absorption structure (1) by additive manufacturing is carried out in one go.

12. Manufacturing method according to one of claims 10 or 11, comprising a prior step (E0) consisting of obtaining the geometric parameters and / or the personalization parameters from a control interface of the printing machine or from a remote server capable of communicating with the printing machine.