Wearable safety system and bag configuration using such a wearable safety system

Abstract

A wearable safety system (100; 100') configured for use in combination with a helmet (200) is provided. The system comprises a harness (1, 1') having two shoulder straps (3a, 3b), at least one inflator (10a, 10b), an ECU (13), and a battery (14). The ECU (13) is arranged to communicate with the at least one inflator (10a, 10b). The system further comprises at least one airbag (9a, 9b). The system is configured to generate an activation signal upon detection of an accident. The at least one airbag (9a, 9b) is configured to inflate and deploy upon generation of the activation signal to form at least one inflated C-shaped body that covers a neck portion (301) and a portion of a facial region (302) of a wearer. The present invention also relates to a bag configuration.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a wearable safety system and a bag configuration using such a wearable safety system. [Background technology]

[0002] Numerous helmets are available for sale to people who lead active lives, primarily those who wish to protect their heads in the event of an accident that does not involve a falling object from above.

[0003] One type of helmet is the so-called one-piece helmet. One-piece helmets are typically designed for motorcyclists and the like, but are too heavy and cumbersome for bikers or anyone who leads an active lifestyle or performs physical labor. Another type of helmet is a helmet that extends around the head like a cap. Such helmets are typically used by, for example, bikers, but also by, for example, workers. This type of helmet provides efficient protection for the skull and back of the head, but provides virtually no protection for facial areas such as the cheeks, chin, and nose.

[0004] Alternative wearable safety systems exist that are configured to replace helmets. One example of such a system includes a collar configured to be worn around the neck of a wearer. The collar includes an airbag configured to inflate and deploy in the event of an accident to form an inflatable structure that extends around the head and facial area. However, collars can be perceived as heavy, uncomfortable, and bulky, especially among active individuals who require a great deal of freedom of movement. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks described above and to provide an improved wearable safety system intended for active people, used to wear helmets.

[0006] The system must provide protection to at least a portion of the facial area.

[0007] The system should be applicable whether for commuting, construction work, outdoor activities or even extreme sports.

[0008] Another object is to provide a wearable safety system that can be easily combined with a bag such as a backpack.

[0009] These and other objects which will become apparent from the following summary and description are achieved by a wearable safety system according to the appended claims.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a wearable safety system configured for use in combination with a helmet, comprising: a harness including two shoulder straps, the harness configured to be worn around a wearer's torso; at least one inflator, an ECU, and a battery, the ECU being arranged in communication with the at least one inflator; at least one airbag; a wearable safety system configured to generate an activation signal upon detection of an accident; A wearable safety system is provided in which at least one airbag is configured to inflate and deploy upon generation of an activation signal to form at least one inflated C-shaped body that covers a portion of the neck and facial region of the wearer.

[0011] Thus, a wearable safety system is provided, embodied as a harness with two shoulder straps, whereby the wearable safety system is configured to be worn around the torso of a wearer. In the event of an accident, at least one airbag is inflated and deployed to form a C-shaped body that not only covers the neck and a portion of the face of the wearer, but also accommodates the C-shaped body below the lower circumferential edge of the helmet, the wearer's collarbone / shoulders, and the area formed by the upper edge of the harness. Thus, when deployed, the at least one airbag serves as active supplemental protection for the helmet. The at least one airbag protects at least a portion of the face, particularly the chin, cheeks, and nose, while the helmet protects the skull and back of the head. Furthermore, the harness does not restrict the wearer's normal movement or clothing options.

[0012] Thus, a wearable safety system is provided that is easy to don and to adapt to different types of clothing and types of activities. Therefore, the same safety system can be used for many different types of daily activities, whether the daily activities are work, hobbies, or sports. The safety system is particularly well-suited as an adjunct to activities where wearing a helmet is recommended or even required.

[0013] The C-shaped body may include a waist portion and first and second arms extending from the waist portion. The C-shaped body may be formed as one or more sections in communication with one or more inflators. In the case of two or more airbag sections, they may be disposed in fluid communication with one another and configured to be inflated by one single inflator. Alternatively, the two or more airbags may be separate airbags, each configured to be inflated by a respective inflator.

[0014] The free ends of the first and second arms may each have a height that exceeds the height of the waist portion, such that the C-shaped body, in its deployed state, is efficiently received in the area between the wearer's collarbone and the lower edge of the front end of the helmet.

[0015] The height of the free ends of the first and second arms may each correspond at least to the distance between the tip of the wearer's chin and the tip of the nose, and preferably to at least the distance between the tip of the wearer's chin and the cheekbones.

[0016] The first and second arms may each have a single curved extension that causes the arms to automatically bend forward when deployed.

[0017] The first and second arms may each have a free end configured to abut one another when the at least one airbag is inflated and thus in a deployed state.

[0018] The free ends of the first and second arms may each include a friction member or a mechanical connector. The friction member or mechanical connector acts as a locking or restraining means to prevent the free ends of the first and second arms from separating and opening in the deployed state. Non-limiting examples of friction members are rubber, adhesive, or complementary male and female surface patterns. Non-limiting examples of mechanical connectors are Velcro® and magnets.

[0019] The at least one airbag may be further configured to be deployed to form one or more inflatable sections having an extension over at least one of the wearer's chest region, the wearer's shoulders, and the wearer's buttocks. In the case of two or more sections, they may be disposed in fluid communication with one another and configured to be inflated by one single inflator. Alternatively, the two or more airbags may be formed as separate airbags, each configured to be inflated by a respective inflator.

[0020] The harness may further include a back protection panel, which may support at least one inflator, an ECU, and a battery. The back protection panel may have an extension along the longitudinal extension of the rear wall of the harness. The back protection panel may be made of a rigid material.

[0021] The at least one inflator may be received in a recess or through opening formed in the back protection panel.

[0022] This is advantageous if the inflator is received in a recess or through-opening substantially below or level with one or both of the two opposing major surfaces of the back protection panel. The battery is preferably located in a position that makes it easily accessible from the exterior of the back protection panel to allow for easy recharging or replacement. The ECU and one or more inflators may be located in a tamper-proof manner.

[0023] The wearable safety system may further comprise at least one motion sensor from the group consisting of a gyro sensor and an accelerometer, and the ECU is configured to determine the presence of an accident and generate an activation signal based on an input signal from the at least one motion sensor. The at least one motion sensor may be configured to communicate with the ECU in a wired or wireless manner.

[0024] The shoulder straps may include buckle arrangements each having a buckle sensor configured to generate a coupling signal indicating whether the wearable safety system is coupled to the wearer's body using the buckle arrangement.

[0025] The buckle sensor may be, by way of non-limiting example, a form of magnetic coupling that must be established by interconnecting components of the buckle configuration, or a form of a closed electrical circuit that is established by interconnecting components of the buckle configuration. Regardless of the configuration, the buckle sensor should be positioned to communicate with the ECU so that the ECU can determine, based on the coupling signal, whether the shoulder straps are properly fastened using the buckle configuration, and therefore whether the wearable safety system is properly coupled to the wearer's body. If properly fastened, the wearable safety system may be set to an active mode, thereby allowing the inflator to be activated if necessary.

[0026] At least one airbag may be integrated into the upper portion of the rear wall of the harness and / or into one or both of the two shoulder straps. If the airbag is designed to protect the buttocks, such airbag or airbag portion may be integrated into the hip belt.

[0027] The airbags may be arranged in a rolled, folded, or combination of rolled and folded configurations. One or more airbags may preferably be symmetrically integrated into the harness when viewed along an imaginary line of symmetry extending along the longitudinal centerline of the back protection panel.

[0028] The upper end of the rear wall of the harness or one or more shoulder straps may include one or more tear lines configured to break during inflation of the at least one airbag, depending on where the at least one airbag is located. The tear lines may be provided by locally weaker or locally thinner material. The one or more tear lines may be formed as, by way of example, a sewn seam, a glued seam, or a welded seam.

[0029] The at least one airbag may be removably attached to the harness by at least one quick connect arrangement.

[0030] The at least one airbag may include a first flap portion configured to form an inflated body in a deployed state that provides protection to a first portion of a wearer's body, and a second flap portion configured to form an inflated body in a deployed state that provides protection to a second portion of the wearer's body; The connector of the first flap portion is connectable to the connector of the second flap portion, whereby, in a deployed state of the at least one airbag, the first and second inflated bodies are forced to deploy together to conform to and at least partially surround first and second portions of the wearer's body.

[0031] The first flap portion may be configured to provide protection to the shoulder region of the wearer's body, and the second flap portion may be configured to provide protection to the chest region of the wearer's body.

[0032] The connector may be a quick connect arrangement, which may be at least partially supported by the harness.

[0033] The harness may be integral with the bag or may be removably connectable to the bag, thereby forming a backpack.

[0034] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a bag arrangement provided by a wearable safety system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the harness is integrated with the bag or is removably connectable thereto.

[0035] Such wearable safety systems and their advantages have been fully described above. Such discussion applies equally to bags employing such wearable safety systems. The bag may be configured as a backpack. Therefore, to avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the above section.

[0036] According to yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a wearable safety system comprising a harness and at least one airbag, the at least one airbag being removably attached to the harness by at least one quick connect arrangement, the at least one airbag comprising a first flap portion configured to form an inflated body that provides protection to a first portion of a wearer's body in a deployed state, and a second flap portion configured to form an inflated body that provides protection to a second portion of the wearer's body in a deployed state, the connector of the first flap portion being connectable to the connector of the second flap portion, whereby, in a deployed state of the at least one airbag, the first and second inflated bodies are forced to deploy together to conform to and at least partially surround the first and second portions of the wearer's body. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0037] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings which show an example of one currently preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a highly schematic, illustrative diagram of a wearable safety system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a highly schematic, illustrative view of the internal design of one embodiment of the harness-forming portion of the wearable safety system. [Figure 3a] FIG. 3a discloses a first embodiment of a wearable safety system having one airbag. [Figure 3b] FIG. 3b discloses a first embodiment of a wearable safety system having one airbag. [Figure 3c] FIG. 3c discloses a first embodiment of a wearable safety system having one airbag. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a highly schematic illustration of an airbag in the form of a C-shaped body. [Figure 5a] FIG. 5a discloses one embodiment of one embodiment of the C-shaped body. [Figure 5b] FIG. 5b discloses an embodiment of one embodiment of the C-shaped body. [Figure 6a] FIG. 6a discloses a second embodiment of a wearable safety system having one airbag. [Figure 6b] FIG. 6b discloses a second embodiment of the wearable safety system having one airbag. [Figure 6c] FIG. 6c discloses a second embodiment of the wearable safety system having one airbag. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a highly schematic, illustrative view of the internal design of another embodiment of the harness-forming portion of the wearable safety system. [Figure 8a] FIG. 8a discloses another embodiment of a wearable safety system having two airbags. [Figure 8b] FIG. 8b discloses another embodiment of a wearable safety system having two airbags. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a highly schematic illustration of a bag arrangement according to the invention in the form of a backpack. [Figure 10a] FIG. 10a is a highly schematic illustration of one example in which at least one airbag is removably attached to a harness by a quick connect arrangement. [Figure 10b] FIG. 10b is a highly schematic illustration of one example in which at least one airbag is removably attached to a harness by a quick connect arrangement. [Figure 11a] FIG. 11a discloses one embodiment in which a connector is used to control the overall shape of at least one airbag in its deployed state. [Figure 11b] FIG. 11b discloses one embodiment in which connectors are used to control the overall shape of at least one airbag in its deployed state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0038] The present invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which presently preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness, and to convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like reference characters refer to like elements throughout.

[0039] Beginning with FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a harness 1 forming part of a wearable safety system 100 is provided.

[0040] The harness 1 comprises a rear wall 2 configured to face the wearer's back, two shoulder straps 3a, 3b connected at their upper and lower edge portions to the rear wall 2, and a hip belt 4 in the form of two side surfaces 4a, 4b connected to the lower edge of the rear wall 2. The harness 1 is configured to be supported by and coupled to the wearer's torso in use. The hip belt 4 may be omitted.

[0041] The rear wall 2, the two shoulder straps 3a, 3b, and the hip belt 4 may be provided with suitable padding (not illustrated) on the surfaces configured to face the wearer's body. The harness 1 may be made of any suitable material, such as an abrasion-resistant and water-resistant material.

[0042] The two shoulder straps 3a, 3b are provided with a buckle arrangement 5 comprising a first buckle member 5a and a second buckle member 5b configured to interlock over the chest region of the wearer during use of the harness 1. The two side surfaces 4a, 4b of the hip belt 4 are provided with a buckle arrangement 6 comprising a first buckle member 6a and a second buckle member 6b configured to interlock over the buttocks of the wearer during use of the harness 1. The buckle arrangements 5, 6 allow the harness 1 to be securely coupled to the torso of the wearer during use.

[0043] The rear wall 2 includes a back protection panel 7. As best shown in FIG. 2, the back protection panel 7 is preferably enclosed in a protective cover 8 of the harness 1. The cover may be tamper-proof. The back protection panel 7 may be a rigid panel. The back protection panel 7 may have an extension along the longitudinal extension of the rear wall 2. The back protection panel 7 may be formed from a plastic material, a composite material, or a lightweight metal material. The back protection panel 7 provides the overall structure to the harness 1. Additionally, the back protection panel 7 may provide spinal protection in the event of an accident.

[0044] 2, there is disclosed a highly schematic, illustrative view of the internal design of one embodiment of a harness 1 forming part of a wearable safety system 100. The disclosed harness 1 comprises one airbag 9a and one inflator 10a.

[0045] The airbag 9a is enclosed in a folded and / or rolled state within a compartment 11 that spans the upper portion 20 of the rear wall 2 and has extensions along the two shoulder straps 3a, 3b. The airbag 9a is disposed in communication with an inflator 10a that is supported by the back protection panel 7. As will be explained below, the disclosed airbag 9a is configured to provide protection over a portion of the wearer's face region and optionally the shoulder and chest regions in an inflated and deployed state. The airbag 9a is disposed in communication with an opening of the first inflator 10a.

[0046] The airbag 9a is disclosed as one unitary body. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that the airbag 9a may be divided into two or more bodies. These bodies may be configured to communicate with each other and therefore be configured to be inflated by one single inflator. Alternatively, the airbag may be a stand-alone unit and therefore be configured to be inflated by one inflator per airbag.

[0047] At least one airbag 9a may be made of a flexible fabric material. The material may be a textile material, such as a woven or nonwoven material. The material may be a plastic material or a composite material. The airbag 9a may be provided with tethers (not illustrated) and other types of elements to control deployment. Such controls are well known in the airbag art and will not be discussed further.

[0048] Those skilled in the art will recognize that folding and / or rolling the airbag 9a can be done in many ways while remaining functional, with the folding pattern adapted to the overall geometry of the at least one airbag and to the intended deployment.

[0049] The at least one airbag 9 a is preferably integrated symmetrically into the harness when viewed along an imaginary line of symmetry extending along the longitudinal centerline of the back protection panel 7 .

[0050] The back protection panel 7 supports an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 13 and a battery 14. The ECU 13, which includes a processor (not shown), is arranged to communicate with at least one inflator 10a. The inflator 10a is well known in the field of airbag systems and may include a gas generator (not shown). The inflator 10a is configured to be connected to the ECU 13 and to be activated based on an activation signal indicative of an accident.

[0051] The ECU 13, the at least one inflator 10a, and the battery 14 may be received in one or more recesses 15 or through-openings formed in the back protection panel 7. It is advantageous if the ECU 13, the at least one inflator 10a, and the battery 14 are received in the one or more recesses 15 or through-openings so as to be substantially below or level with at least one of the two opposing main surfaces of the back protection panel 7, thereby not protruding from the back protection panel 7. The one or more recesses 15 or through-openings 15 may also be configured to receive at least a portion of the at least one airbag 9a.

[0052] The battery 14 is preferably located in a position that is easily accessible from the exterior of the back protection panel 7 to allow for easy recharging or replacement. Access to the battery 14 may be provided through a reclosable opening, not illustrated, in the cover 8. The inflator, ECU, and airbag are preferably located in a tamper-proof manner. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the ECU 13, at least one inflator 10a, and battery 14 may be located in other positions within the harness 1 while remaining functional.

[0053] Reference is now made to FIGS. 1 and 2. As described above, the shoulder straps 3a, 3b and the hip belt 4 each include a buckle arrangement 5, 6. Each buckle arrangement 5, 6 may include a sensor, hereinafter referred to as a buckle sensor 16, 17. The buckle sensor 16, 17 is configured to generate a coupling signal indicating whether the wearable safety system 100 is coupled to the wearer's torso through use of the buckle arrangement 5, 6. The buckle sensor 16, 17 may be, by way of non-limiting example, in the form of a magnetic coupling that must be established by interconnecting the buckle members 5a, 5b; 6a, 6b of the buckle arrangement 16, 17, or in the form of a closed electrical circuit that is established by interconnecting the buckle members 5a, 5b; 6a, 6b. Regardless of the configuration, the buckle sensors 16, 17 are arranged to communicate with the ECU 13. The buckle sensors 16, 17 may be configured to communicate with the ECU 13 in a wired or wireless manner. Based on the coupling signal, the ECU 13 may be configured to determine whether the shoulder straps 3 a, 3 b and hip belt 4 are properly fastened, and therefore whether the wearable safety system 100 is coupled to the wearer's body, by using the buckle arrangements 5, 6. If determined to be properly fastened, the wearable safety system 100 may be set to an active mode, thereby allowing activation of at least one inflator 10 a if desired.

[0054] Furthermore, the wearable safety system 100 comprises at least one motion sensor 18 from the group consisting of a gyro sensor and an accelerometer. The at least one motion sensor 18 is configured to communicate with the ECU 13 in a wired or wireless manner. The at least one motion sensor 18 may be located at any suitable position on the harness 1.

[0055] The ECU 13 is configured to determine the presence of an accident and generate an activation signal based on input signals from at least one motion sensor 18. An accident may be determined to have occurred when one or more motion sensors 18, alone or in combination, indicate motion or acceleration above a predetermined threshold. The ECU 13 may be configured to determine and control activation of at least one inflator 10a, thereby inflating and deploying at least one airbag 9a. In the case of some airbags, the ECU 13 may be configured to determine which of the one or more airbags should be inflated, or whether all airbags should be inflated simultaneously, depending on the determined type of accident.

[0056] If the processor of the ECU 13 should determine that an accident has occurred based on signals collected and processed from the at least one motion sensor 18, an activation signal is communicated to the at least one inflator 9a. Based on the activation signal, the gas generator is activated to generate a gas flow that inflates the airbag 9a.

[0057] The disclosed airbag 9a is configured to deploy to form an inflated C-shaped body that covers a portion of the neck and facial region of the wearer. It can also be designed to cover the shoulder and chest regions of the wearer. This is further described below with reference to Figures 3a-3c and 6a-6c.

[0058] When the secondary airbag 9b is positioned on a hip belt, such secondary airbag 9b may be configured to form a body that extends across the buttocks of the wearer, as will be further described below with reference to Figures 7 and 8a-8b.

[0059] As best shown in FIG. 1 , the upper portion 20 of the rear wall 2 and the two shoulder straps 3 a, 3 b include split lines 19. Those skilled in the art will recognize that, depending on the design of the at least one airbag in the upper portion 20 of the harness 1, the split lines 19 in the shoulder straps 31, 3 b may be omitted. If the hip belt 4 also includes an airbag 9 b, split lines 19 may also be formed along the two side surfaces of the hip belt 4. The split lines 19 are illustrated schematically by dashed lines. The split lines 19 are configured to break during inflation of the at least one airbag 9 a. The split lines 19 may be provided by locally weaker or locally thinner material. One or more split lines 19 may be formed as sewn seams, glued seams, or welded seams.

[0060] The material forming the harness may be configured to break along the split line 19 upon activation of one or more inflators, thereby forming a deflector-like flap (not illustrated). The deflector may be configured, by way of example, to guide the deployment of the first airbag 9a in a forward direction toward the facial area.

[0061] Referring now to Figures 3a-3c, a wearable safety system 100 according to a first embodiment is disclosed. The disclosed safety system 100 and harness 1 includes an airbag 9a configured solely to protect the wearer's facial region 302 and neck region 301. Starting with Figure 3a, the wearable safety system 100 is disclosed as worn during its normal use. The harness 1 is worn on the wearer's back, similar to a normal backpack. Also shown is the wearer wearing a helmet 200 on their head. The airbag 9a is housed at the upper end of the harness 1.

[0062] Figure 3b is a schematic front view of the safety system 100 in its inflated and deployed state, and Figure 3c is a schematic side view of the wearer's head and shoulders. Figure 4 is a highly schematic top view of the deployed airbag 9a. As best shown in Figures 3b and 3c, the airbag 9a has been inflated and deployed into a C-shaped body that extends from the top end of the harness 1 and extends on either side of the neck 301 towards the wearer's facial region 302, thereby providing efficient protection for the chin, cheeks, and even nose.

[0063] As best shown in Figure 4, the C-shaped body includes a waist portion 91 and first and second arms 92b. The first and second arms 92a, 92b extend from and merge with the waist portion 91. The first and second arms 92a, 92b are disclosed as having a single curved extension that allows the arms 92a, 92b to automatically bend forward when deployed.

[0064] The first arm 92a and the second arm 92b each have a free end 93a, 93b.

[0065] The free ends 93a, 93b are configured to abut against each other when the airbag 9a is deployed. To prevent the free ends 93a, 93b from separating and the first and second arms 92a, 92b from opening when the airbag 9a is deployed, the free ends 93a, 93b may each include a friction member 94 or a mechanical connector 95. The friction member 94 or the mechanical connector 95 serves as a locking or restraining means. Non-limiting examples of the friction member 94 are rubber, adhesive, or complementary male and female surface patterns such as mating ridges and valleys or mating protrusions and recesses. Non-limiting examples of the mechanical connector 95 are Velcro® and a magnet.

[0066] 3c, the free ends 93a, 92b of the first and second arms 92a, 93b each have a height H that preferably exceeds the height h of the waist portion 91. This allows the C-shaped body of the airbag 9a to be efficiently received in the area between the wearer's collarbone 303 and the lower edge 201 of the helmet 200. The height H of the free ends 93a, 93b of the first and second arms 92a, 93b each may correspond at least to the distance between the tip of the wearer's chin and the tip of the nose, and preferably to the distance between the tip of the wearer's chin and the cheekbones.

[0067] 5a and 5b, another schematic embodiment of a C-shaped inflated and deployed body of an airbag 9a is disclosed. Figure 5a is a schematic top view of the C-shaped body in its inflated and deployed state, and Figure 5b is a schematic view of one of the two free ends.

[0068] As best shown in FIG. 5b, the C-shaped body is formed by three panels. The first panel 81 extends along the top surface 82 of the C-shaped body, extends downward along two free ends 93a, 93b, and then extends along the bottom surface 83 of the C-shaped body. The second panel 84 extends along the inner single curved surface 85 of the C-shaped body. The third panel 86 extends along the outer single curved surface 87 of the C-shaped body. The three panels 81, 84, 86 are joined along their longitudinal edges 88, for example, by welding, sewing, or adhesive bonding. The second panel 84 has a shorter length than the third panel 86, thereby contributing to the C-shaped configuration of the inflated and deployed body. The three panels 81, 84, 86 result in a substantially square / rectangular cross-section with substantially flat walls. This has the advantage of maintaining a desired position during deployment on top of the wearer's shoulders. In particular, the two free ends 93a, 93b each have a substantially flat extension. This allows the two free ends 93a, 93b of the C-shaped body to better contact each other in the deployed state. See Figure 5a. This contributes to improved surface protection.

[0069] As illustrated in Figure 5b, the C-shaped body may be provided with one or more tethers 89 (only one is shown in dashed lines). The one or more tethers 89 may provide a slight waist to the C-shaped portion. The one or more tethers 89 may further contribute to flattening the walls of the C-shaped body, thereby allowing the C-shaped body to better conform to the shape of the wearer's neck and head, as well as the shoulders. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the number and location of tethers 89 may be varied within the scope of the present invention.

[0070] Figures 5a and 5b also illustrate schematically one example in which a friction member 94 or mechanical connector 95 is attached to the free ends 93a, 93b.

[0071] 6a-6c, there is disclosed a second embodiment of a wearable safety system 100. The safety system 100 and harness 1 differs from the systems described with reference to Figures 2, 3a-3c, and 4 in that the safety system includes an airbag 9a that is configured to protect not only a portion of the facial region 302, but also the shoulders 304 and chest region 305 of the wearer.

[0072] Starting with Fig. 6a, safety system 100 is shown as it would be worn during its normal use. Harness 1 is worn on the wearer's back, similar to a normal backpack. Also shown is the wearer wearing helmet 200 on their head. Fig. 6b is a schematic side view of the wearer, and Fig. 6c is a schematic front view of safety system 100 with airbag 9a in its inflated and deployed state.

[0073] The deployed airbag 9a includes a first portion 96 that extends across the wearer's neck 301 and a portion of the face region 302, thereby providing effective protection for the chin, cheeks, and even nose. A second portion 97 of the airbag 9a extends across the wearer's shoulders 304, and a third portion 98 extends across the wearer's chest region 305. The first portion 96, the second portion 97, and the third portion 98 may be part of a single airbag 9a. The different portions may be disposed in fluid communication with each other and configured to be inflated by a single inflator. The different portions may also be provided with fold lines that allow the inflated airbag to better fit the wearer's body. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the three airbag portions 96, 97, and 98 may be separated into separate airbags while retaining their functionality.

[0074] Referring now to FIG. 7, another embodiment of a wearable safety system 100' is disclosed. The safety system 100' differs from the safety system 100 disclosed with reference to FIG. 2 in that the harness 1' further includes a second airbag 9b enclosed in a folded and / or rolled state within a compartment 12 having extensions along two sides 4a, 4b of the hip belt 4. The second airbag 9b is disposed in communication with a second inflator 10b supported by the back protection panel 7. The second airbag 9b is in an inflated and deployed state configured to provide protection over the buttocks. The second airbag 9b is disposed in communication with an opening of the second inflator 10b.

[0075] This is an example where two inflators 10a, 10b are controlled by one and the same ECU 13. The overall design of the harness 1, first airbag 9a and second airbag 9b is the same as that described above with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0076] 8a and 8b, the harness 1' and the wearable safety system 100' according to FIG. 7 are schematically shown in their normal use and in their deployed state, respectively. Two airbags 9a, 9b are housed in the harness in their normal use. The first airbag 9a is of the same type as described above with reference to FIGS. 6a to 6c and will not be described further. The second airbag 9b is deployed along the hip belt 4, thereby providing protection for the wearer's buttocks 306.

[0077] 9, the wearable safety system 100, 100′, in one embodiment, may be provided as a backpack 102. The harness 1, 1′ may be integrated with or removably connectable to one or more bags 101. The backpack 102 is disclosed with two bags 101 having different sizes, volumes, and intended uses. By making the bags 101 removably connectable, the harness 1, 1′ may be easily converted from a standalone harness 1, 1′ to a backpack 102 at the wearer's discretion. The bags 101 may be removably connectable, for example, by using one or more straps or buckles (not illustrated).

[0078] 10a and 10b, at least one airbag 9a, 9b is illustrated above as being fixedly arranged in the harness 1, 1'. However, in the event of an accident causing deployment, it is difficult to replace the used airbag with a new airbag, thereby allowing the harness 1, 1' to be reused.

[0079] 10a and 10b highly schematically disclose an example in which at least one airbag 9a, 9b is removably attached to a harness 1, 1′ by a quick coupling arrangement 400. In the disclosed embodiment, at least one airbag 9a, 9b is provided with an eyelet forming a female connector 401, and the harness 1, 1′ is provided with a T-shaped protrusion forming a male connector 402. The reversed positions of the male connector 401 and the female connector 402 may be applied as well. To attach the airbag 9a, 9b to the harness 1, 1′, the T-shaped protrusion is inserted into the respective eyelet. If necessary, the reverse order is performed to remove the airbag 9a, 9b. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the number of quick coupling arrangements 400 in the harness 1, 1′ and the airbag 9a, 9b and their location depend on the overall shape of the airbags and harnesses to be connected. The location and number of quick connect arrangements 400 attaching the airbags 9a, 9b to the harness 1, 1' can be used to control the overall shape of the at least one airbag in its deployed state. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the quick connect arrangements 400 can have configurations other than T-shaped protrusions combined with eyelets. Non-limiting examples are poppers, straps, or one or more snap fasteners, also known as Velcro®.

[0080] The exact same principle can be used to connect the at least one airbag to other parts of the harness, such as shoulder straps or a hip belt.

[0081] Referring now to Figures 11a and 11b, one embodiment is disclosed in which a connector is used to control the overall shape of at least one airbag 9a, 9b in its deployed state.

[0082] Beginning with FIG. 11a, one example of an airbag 9a, 9b is disclosed in its flat, rolled state. The disclosed airbag 9a, 9b is configured to provide support, particularly to the shoulder and thorax regions. The airbag 9a, 9b comprises a first flap portion 90 and a second flap portion 91. The first flap portion 90 is configured to form an inflated body in a deployed state that provides protection to a first portion of the wearer's body, i.e., the shoulders. The second flap portion 91 is configured to form an inflated body in a deployed state that provides protection to a second portion of the wearer's body, i.e., the thorax region. Of course, additional flap portions can be added to provide the C-shaped face and neck protection discussed above. Regardless of the design, the airbags 9a, 9b have a design well known in the art by being divided into distinct bodies by a seam or weld line.

[0083] The first flap portion 90 has two female connectors 92 on either side of its longitudinal centerline, with the female connectors 92 located on respective tabs 93 located along the outer edges of the airbags 9a, 9b.

[0084] Accordingly, the second flap portion 91 includes two male connectors 94 on either side of the longitudinal centerline. The connectors 92, 94 are disclosed as being located in a region that does not expand. Thus, when the second flap portion 91 expands to separate into two main bodies 95, the male connector 94 is located in the region between the two main bodies 95. This allows for a more secure attachment of the connectors.

[0085] Referring now to Figure 11b, there is very schematically disclosed airbags 9a, 9b in an inflated and deployed state and removably attached to the rear wall of the harness 1, 1. The disclosed configuration is mirror symmetric about the longitudinal centerline and only one side is illustrated.

[0086] The harnesses 1, 1' are shown very diagrammatically by dashed lines. The shoulder straps have been omitted. The airbags 9a, 9b are removably attached to the harnesses 1, 1' by means of a quick-connect arrangement 400 of the same type as that discussed above with reference to Figures 9a and 9b. The airbags 9a, 9b are therefore provided with eyelets forming female connectors 401, and the harnesses 1, 1' are provided with T-shaped protrusions forming male connectors 402. To attach the airbags 9a, 9b to the harnesses 1, 1', the T-shaped protrusions are inserted into their respective eyelets. If necessary, the reverse procedure is followed to remove the airbags.

[0087] Furthermore, the first flap portion 90, which is configured to provide shoulder protection in its deployed state, is folded and connected to the second flap portion 91, which is configured to provide protection to the thoracic region in its deployed state. This connection is provided by engaging the female connector 92 of the first flap portion 90 with the male connector 94 of the second flap portion 91. In the event of an accident that inflates and deploys the airbags 9a, 9b, the interconnection between the two flap portions 90, 91 forces the resulting two inflated bodies 95, 96 to deploy together, conforming to and at least partially surrounding the first and second portions of the wearer's body. Thus, the shoulder and thoracic regions are efficiently protected.

[0088] Thus, according to one aspect, the present invention may be considered to relate to a wearable safety system comprising a harness 1, 1' and at least one airbag 9a, 9b, wherein the at least one airbag is removably attached to the harness by at least one quick connect arrangement 400, and wherein the at least one airbag comprises a first flap portion 90 configured to form an inflated body 96 that provides protection to a first portion of the wearer's body in a deployed state, and a second flap portion 91 configured to form an inflated body 95 that provides protection to a second portion of the wearer's body in a deployed state, wherein a connector 92 of the first flap portion 90 is connectable to a connector 94 of the second flap portion 91, whereby, in a deployed state of the at least one airbag, the first and second inflated bodies 96, 95 are forced to deploy together and conform to and at least partially surround the first and second portions of the wearer's body.

[0089] The exact same principle of using connectors to fit different inflatable bodies together can be applied to other parts of the wearer's body.

[0090] Those skilled in the art will recognize that numerous modifications of the embodiments described herein are possible without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.

[0091] As an example, one or more airbag materials may be configured to stretch during deployment. This stretching adds overall stiffness to the inflated airbag. This may be provided by using different material types / properties throughout the airbag or in localized surface areas of the airbag.

[0092] Regardless of the embodiment and the number of airbags, the spatial expansion of at least one airbag 9 a, 9 b, when viewed in its / their inflated and deployed state, may be divided into different virtual zones having different thicknesses, thereby providing different types of cushioning effect over different areas of the wearer's body. This effect may be provided by the use of seams and tethers.

[0093] Although the airbag has been illustrated as being positioned within the harness in a rolled or folded configuration, one skilled in the art will recognize that other patterns or combinations of different patterns may be used. Regardless of how the airbag is packed into the harness, it is preferred that the airbag be positioned symmetrically within the harness.

Claims

1. A wearable safety system (100, 100') configured for use in combination with a helmet (200), comprising: a harness (1, 1') having two shoulder straps (3a, 3b) and configured to be worn around the torso of a wearer; at least one inflator (10a, 10b), an ECU (13), and a battery (14), wherein the ECU (13) is arranged to communicate with the at least one inflator (10a, 10b); At least one airbag (9a, 9b), the wearable safety system (100, 100') is configured to generate an activation signal upon detection of an accident; the at least one airbag (9a, 9b) is configured to inflate and deploy upon the generation of the activation signal to form at least one inflated C-shaped body that covers a neck portion and a portion of a facial region of the wearer.

2. 2. The wearable safety system of claim 1, wherein the C-shaped inflated body comprises a waist portion (91) and first and second arms (92a, 92b), the first and second arms extending from the waist portion (91).

3. 3. The wearable safety system of claim 2, wherein the free ends (93a, 93b) of the first and second arms (92a, 92b) each have a height H that exceeds a height h of the waist portion (91).

4. 4. The wearable safety system of claim 3, wherein the height H of the free ends (93a, 93b) of the first and second arms (92a, 92b) each corresponds at least to a distance between the tip of the wearer's chin and the tip of the nose, and preferably corresponds at least to a distance between the tip of the wearer's chin and the cheekbones.

5. The wearable safety system of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the first and second arms (92a, 92b) each have a single curved extension.

6. 6. The wearable safety system according to claim 2, wherein the first and second arms (92a, 92b) each have a free end (93a, 93b), the free ends being configured to abut each other when the at least one airbag (9a, 9b) is in an inflated state.

7. 7. The wearable safety system of claim 6, wherein the free ends (93a, 93b) of the first and second arms (92a, 92b) each comprise a friction member (94) or a mechanical connector (95).

8. 8. The wearable safety system of claim 1, wherein the at least one airbag (9a, 9b) is further configured to deploy to form one or more inflated bodies having extensions over at least one of a chest region (305) of the wearer, shoulders (304) of the wearer, and buttocks (306) of the wearer.

9. 9. The wearable safety system according to claim 1, wherein the harness (1, 1') further comprises a back protection panel (7), the back protection panel (7) supporting the at least one inflator (10a, 10b), the ECU (13), and the battery (14).

10. 10. The wearable safety system according to claim 9, wherein the at least one inflator (10a, 10b) is received in a recess (15) or through-opening formed in the back protection panel (7).

11. 11. The wearable safety system of claim 1, further comprising at least one motion sensor (18) from the group consisting of a gyro sensor and an accelerometer, wherein the ECU (13) is configured to determine the presence of an accident and generate the activation signal based on an input signal from the at least one motion sensor (18).

12. The wearable safety system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the shoulder straps (3a, 3b) each comprise a buckle arrangement (5, 6) having a buckle sensor (16, 17), the buckle sensor being configured to generate a coupling signal indicative of whether the wearable safety system (100, 100') is coupled to the wearer's body by using the buckle arrangement (5, 6).

13. 13. The wearable safety system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the at least one airbag (9a, 9b) is integrated into an upper part (20) of the rear wall of the harness and / or into one or both of the two shoulder straps (3a, 3b).

14. The wearable safety system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the at least one airbag (9a, 9b) is removably attached to the harness (1, 1') by at least one quick connect arrangement (400).

15. the at least one airbag (9a, 9b) comprising a first flap portion (90) configured to form, in a deployed state, an inflated body (96) that provides protection to a first portion of the wearer's body, and a second flap portion (91) configured to form, in a deployed state, an inflated body (95) that provides protection to a second portion of the wearer's body; 15. The wearable safety system of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the connector (92) of the first flap portion (90) is connectable to the connector (94) of the second flap portion (91), whereby, in a deployed state of the at least one airbag (9a, 9b), the first and second inflated bodies (95, 96) are forced to deploy together and conform to and at least partially surround the first and second portions of the wearer's body.

16. A bag arrangement comprising a wearable safety system (100, 100') according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the harness (1, 1') is integrated with or removably connectable to the bag (101).

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