Inflatable protective device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to inflatable protective devices. Specifically, the disclosure relates to protective devices that can be worn on a human body or that surround other elements to be protected. Even more specifically, the disclosure relates to wearable protective devices that surround a body part or element and adapt their shape to the body part or element upon inflation. Accordingly, an inflatable protective device (100) for protecting an element or body part of a wearer is provided, the inflatable protective device including an inflatable element (102) disposed adjacent to the element or body part to be protected, the inflatable element being inflatable from a first substantially uninflated state to a second substantially inflated state by applying a source of releasable gas to the inflatable element to at least partially fill the inflatable element with gas, the inflatable element adapting to at least a predetermined three-dimensional shape around the element or body part upon inflation to the second state. wherein the inflatable element includes, inter alia, at least one non-inflatable region (106) disposed adjacent to or between the at least two inflatable regions, and the inflatable protection device includes at least one inflatable extension element (104) that is inflatable by application of gas from a first substantially uninflated state to a second substantially inflated state, and at least in the inflated state, the inflatable extension element is disposed overlapping the at least one non-inflatable region and provides protection for the element or body part in the region of the non-inflatable region.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to inflatable protective devices. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to protective devices that can be worn on a human body or that surround other elements to be protected. Even more specifically, the present disclosure relates to wearable protective devices that surround a body part or element and adapt their shape to the body part or element upon inflation. [Background technology]

[0002] Inflatable restraint devices are well known in the automotive industry. Traditionally, inflatable elements, also known as airbags, have been provided inside vehicles to protect occupants in the event of an accident. These inflatable elements are deployed, or inflated, during an impending or actual vehicle collision to cushion the impact of vehicle occupants against elements of the vehicle, such as the steering wheel or dashboard. Over time, additional inflatable elements have been distributed throughout the vehicle cabin to provide additional protection in the event of specific crash angles. For example, side airbags, window airbags, and rear seat passenger airbags are now commonplace. Some vehicles also include inflatable elements located on the exterior of the vehicle to protect people caught in the vehicle crash during a crash scenario.

[0003] New personal protective devices aim to specifically protect a specific element or body part by placing an inflatable protective device near a specific element or body part to be protected. By wearing the inflatable protective device at a predetermined position on the body, the inflatable protective device can be inflated to provide a cushioning effect to the area in the event of an impending accident or during an accident. For example, inflatable protective devices are known that are worn like a normal belt and include an inflatable element arranged to deploy upon detection of a fall, thereby providing cushioning to reduce the impact force acting on the wearer's body. That is, such inflatable protective devices aim to provide protection, for example, for the buttocks area of ​​the wearer, and upon detection of an imminent fall, the deployment of the inflatable element, i.e., the inflation of the inflatable element, is subsequently initiated. The inflatable element is positioned near the body part to be protected, with the intention that it will be positioned between the wearer's body and the impacting object, such as a floor, a wall, or any other object, during an impact to protect the body part.

[0004] When the inflatable element transitions from an essentially uninflated state to an inflated state, the interior of the inflatable element fills with gas, causing the inflatable element to undergo a systematic change in shape. This systematic change in shape involves at least one dimension of the inflatable element increasing, i.e., becoming larger, while another dimension of the inflatable element decreases, i.e., becoming smaller. However, optimal protection requires a good, tight fit of the wearable protective device to the wearer's body to ensure protection from an accident.

[0005] In light of the foregoing, to provide such a tight fit around the element or body part to be protected, the inflatable protective device preferably requires a means for adapting its shape when at least partially inflated so that it remains adjacent to and thus protects the element or body part to be protected. Typically, this is achieved by incorporating non-inflatable regions or regions that are less inflatable than the main inflatable region providing the protective function. This maintains the shape flexibility of the inflatable protective device, allowing it to conform to the shape of the element or body part to be protected in both the uninflated and inflated or at least partially inflated states. Such inflatable regions may be provided by integrally formed or separately manufactured, regularly spaced seams that function as hinges within the fabric of the inflatable protective device. These hinges allow the two inflatable regions to move relative to one another, for example, to rotate about the seams, providing a three-dimensional shape for the inflatable protective device that conforms to the element or body part to be protected.

[0006] However, the non-inflatable regions generally offer less protection than the inflatable regions, for example, sharp or pointed objects, or objects with sharp edges in general, may circumvent the protection offered by the inflatable protective device if impacted in the area of ​​the non-inflatable regions.

[0007] Therefore, it may be necessary to provide additional protection near the non-distensible areas.

[0008] Additionally, if additional protection is to be provided, it may be necessary to simplify the expansion of the element. Summary of the Invention

[0009] At least one of these needs may be met by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are provided in the dependent claims and are explained in detail in the following description.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an inflatable protective device for protecting an element or a body part of a wearer, the inflatable protective device including an inflatable element disposed adjacent to the element or body part to be protected, the inflatable element being inflatable from a first substantially uninflated state to a second substantially inflated state by applying a source of releasable gas to the inflatable element to at least partially fill the inflatable element with gas, the inflatable element assuming at least a partially predetermined three-dimensional shape around the element or body part upon inflation to the second state, the inflatable element including, inter alia, at least one non-inflatable region disposed adjacent to or between at least two inflatable regions, the inflatable protective device including at least one inflatable extension element, inflatable from the first substantially uninflated state to the second substantially inflated state by application of gas, the inflatable extension element being disposed overlapping the at least one non-inflatable region at least in the inflated state to provide protection for the element or body part in the region of the non-inflatable region.

[0011] The present invention relates to inflatable protective devices. Specifically, the present invention provides an inflatable protective device that is arranged to adapt its shape to fit the element or body part to be protected when in an inflated state. Adaptation is provided by providing at least two inflatable regions separated from one another by a non-inflatable region. Such a non-inflatable region can be provided as an integrally woven seam, where one fabric side of the inflatable protective device is integrally connected to a second fabric side during the manufacture of the inflatable protective device. Alternatively, the non-inflatable region can be provided by connecting two layers of fabric of the inflatable protective device, for example, by stitching, welding, etc. In either case, an area is created in which the inflatable protective device cannot be inflated. This allows a certain degree of flexibility for the inflatable regions to move relative to one another, even in an inflated or at least partially inflated state, as the non-inflatable region can function as a hinge, e.g., a living hinge. The non-inflatable regions may be considered to be connected to the inflatable regions so that the inflatable regions can move relative to each other to assume an intended three-dimensional shape around the element or body part to be protected.

[0012] To avoid exposing the element or body part to be protected, the present invention provides an inflatable extension element, particularly an integrally formed inflatable extension element, formed as part of an inflatable protective device that overlaps at least one non-inflatable region to provide additional protection for the element or body part to be protected in areas where the non-inflatable region provides less protection. By providing an overlapping arrangement of the non-inflatable and inflatable regions, and thereby covering the non-inflatable region with the inflatable extension element, an essentially continuous inflated arrangement of the individual elements can be provided around the element or body part to be protected. Provided that the inflatable protective device is positioned around the element or body part to be protected, the inflatable extension element can be positioned radially outside or inside the inflatable protective device. That is, the inflatable protective device can be positioned between the radially outside inflatable extension elements, or alternatively, the inflatable extension element can be positioned radially inside between the inflatable protective device and the element or body part to be protected.

[0013] For example, the inflatable extension element may resemble the shape, size, and local arrangement of the non-inflatable region, thereby achieving overlap, i.e., local overlap, between the non-inflatable region and the inflatable extension element in a simple and efficient manner. For example, the inflatable extension element may be folded over the non-inflatable region such that when the inflatable protective device is inflated and the inflatable extension element expands as the inflatable protection device expands, the inflated extension element bridges the gap provided by the non-inflatable region. The inflatable extension element may be held in place by a further attachment means, thereby ensuring that the inflatable extension element is correctly positioned when inflation is about to begin.

[0014] To provide sufficient flexibility to the inflatable protective device, the attachment of the inflatable extension elements may be achieved with sufficient freedom so that, upon inflation, the inflatable protective device can still assume its intended three-dimensional shape around the element or body part to be protected. It may be beneficial to provide only spot or line attachments, thus avoiding attachment of the inflatable extension elements over a larger area, which may interfere with the formation of the intended three-dimensional shape of the inflatable protective device.

[0015] Such attachment means can be realized by integrally weaving the fabric forming the inflatable protective device and the inflatable extension element together. Such integral weaving can provide a particularly strong connection between a particular region of the inflatable protective device and the inflatable extension element while minimizing adverse effects on the flexibility of the inflatable protective device to assume its intended three-dimensional shape in an inflated state. Alternatively, attachment of the inflatable extension element near the non-inflatable region can be similarly provided by a suitable connection method, such as stitching, welding, or sewing. Furthermore, alternatively, the inflatable extension element may not be fixed in place relative to the non-inflatable region, and may be positioned accordingly when the inflatable protective device is attached to the element or body part to be protected. For example, the wearer wearing the wearable protective device can appropriately position the inflatable extension element near the non-inflatable region.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the expandable element and the expandable extension element may be integrally formed.

[0017] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the expandable extension element and the expandable element may be integrally formed as a unitary woven element.

[0018] It is believed that integrally forming the expandable element and the expandable extension element provides a relatively strong connection between the expandable element and the inflated extension element, or between the protector generally and the inflated extension element, and avoids the need to join the expandable element and the expandable extension element by additional means such as stitching, welding, riveting, etc., which potentially reduces the integral stability of the expandable element and the inflated extension element and may not provide as strong a connection as the original connection.

[0019] One particularly preferred method of integral connection may be an integrally woven, one-piece woven element, in which essentially continuous yarns are used to form the individual parts or elements of the inflatable restraint device, thereby avoiding introducing weak points into the structure of the inflatable restraint device that could cause premature structural failure.

[0020] According to further embodiments of the present disclosure, the inflatable element and the inflatable extension element may be inflatable from the same gas source, or alternatively, the inflatable element and the inflatable extension element may be inflatable from different gas sources.

[0021] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, when expanding to the second state, the expandable element and the expandable extension element may expand sequentially such that expansion of one element begins earlier than expansion of the other element.

[0022] According to further embodiments of the present disclosure, the expansion of the first element may be substantially complete before the expansion of the second element begins, or may begin before the expansion is substantially complete.

[0023] Using the same gas source has the advantage that the inflatable elements can be inflated from the same gas source substantially simultaneously, eliminating the need for timing coordination. Depending on the specific configuration of the inflatable element and the inflatable extension element, inflation can be substantially simultaneous or sequential, depending on the specific embodiment of the gas flow path from the gas source to the inflatable element and the inflatable extension element. For example, if one gas flow path is narrower than the other, one inflatable element can be inflated only after the inflation of the other inflatable element has begun, substantially progressed, or terminated. This allows the inflatable element to be inflated either before or after the inflatable extension element, or vice versa. Depending on the specific location of the inflatable extension element relative to the inflatable protective device, it may be beneficial to start inflation of the inflatable extension element or inflatable element first.

[0024] Alternatively, the use of two gas sources may allow for a time sequence of inflation. For example, a first gas source may be released at a predetermined time, e.g., in response to an accident or imminent accident, while the release of a second gas source may be delayed, e.g., until an inflatable element connected to the first gas source has been fully inflated. Again, depending on the particular position of the inflatable extension element relative to the inflatable protective device, it may be beneficial to initiate inflation of the inflatable extension element or inflatable element first.

[0025] If an inflatable element is known to inflate earlier than a further inflatable element, it may not be necessary to complete inflation of the first inflatable element to be inflated before inflating the further inflatable element. Indeed, it may be sufficient to begin inflation of the first inflatable element, e.g., an inflatable extension element, slightly earlier than inflation of the second inflatable element, e.g., an inflatable element or the inflatable protective device in general.

[0026] Alternatively, depending on the structural configuration of the inflatable protective device, it may be beneficial to terminate inflation of the first inflatable element in order to begin inflation of the second element. For example, if the inflatable protective device fits fairly tightly around the element or body part to be protected, an internally positioned inflatable element, such as an inflatable extension element positioned between the inflatable protective device and the element or body part to be protected, may be more easily inflated. Furthermore, if the first inflatable element is fully inflated before inflating the second inflatable element, positioning or overlapping of the first inflatable element relative to the second inflatable element may be easily achieved.

[0027] According to further embodiments of the present disclosure, the shape of the expandable extension element and the shape of the non-expandable region in the region of the non-expandable region can match, such that the resulting overlapping structure of the expandable extension element and the non-expandable region can include a substantially uniform and / or substantially continuous expanded thickness.

[0028] By providing an inflatable element that conforms to such a form or shape without straining the wearer of the inflatable protective element and / or without unevenly tensioning or forcing the element or body part to be protected, substantially continuous protection can be provided. A substantially uniform or continuously inflated thickness, instead, distributes forces acting on the element or body part to be protected evenly across the entire surface of the element or body part to be protected. That is, if there are protrusions on either the inflatable element or the inflatable extension element, such protrusions will likely exhibit specific localized forces, which can cause anything from an uncomfortable fit to extreme localized forces in the area of ​​the protrusions, potentially injuring the body part or damaging the element to be protected. For example, if, when inflated, the protrusions exert extreme pressure on a body part or portion of the element, e.g., in an accident scenario, external forces acting on the inflatable protective device may be concentrated in the area of ​​the protrusions rather than being evenly spread across the surface of the element or body part to be protected, thereby potentially failing to provide protection.

[0029] The shape or form of the inflatable extension element and the area of ​​the non-inflatable region may not need to match each other's shape substantially perfectly. For example, the inflatable extension element may be embodied as a circular tube or a flat tubular structure and may be disposed adjacent to a non-inflatable region disposed between inflatable regions adjacent to the non-inflatable region, thereby essentially filling or bridging the gap between the inflatable regions provided by the non-inflatable region. If an external force acting on the inflatable protective device is sufficiently distributed over the entire inner surface of the inflatable protective device, and thus over the surface of the element or body part to be protected, so that extreme local forces do not occur, the resulting surface may still be considered uniform.

[0030] According to further embodiments of the present disclosure, the inflatable extension element may be connected to the inflatable element in a first region where the inflatable extension element and the inflatable element may be fluidly connected so as to be fillable by the same gas source, and the inflatable extension element may be connected to the inflatable element in a second region, particularly in a non-fluidic connection, so as to maintain a predetermined position relative to the non-inflatable region.

[0031] According to further embodiments of the present disclosure, an expandable element may be formed within or adjacent to a non-expandable region, and the expandable element and non-expandable region may be overlapped by folding one element over the other.

[0032] The interior of the inflatable extension element and the interior of the inflatable element or inflatable protective device generally may be fluidly connected in a first region such that gas used to fill the inflatable protective device naturally migrates fluidly from the interior of the inflatable element / inflatable protective device to the interior of the inflatable extension element, thereby inflating the inflatable extension element. Such inflation may be simultaneous or sequential, with either the inflatable extension element or the inflatable element / inflatable protective device inflating before the other. Depending on the volume filled, one element may be substantially fully inflated before the other element is substantially fully inflated. For example, if the inflatable extension element / its internal volume is relatively small compared to the inflatable element / inflatable protective device, simultaneous inflation may result in the inflatable extension element being substantially fully inflated before the inflatable element is substantially fully inflated. If the fluid connection between the inflatable extension element and the inflatable element in the first region is substantially unimpeded, inflation may occur simultaneously despite differences in internal volume, so that all inflatable elements are substantially fully inflated at substantially the same time.

[0033] The connection between the inflatable element and the inflatable extension element in the second region can determine the position of the inflatable extension element relative to the inflatable element, the non-inflatable region, or the inflatable protective device in general. For example, if the inflatable extension element protrudes from the inflatable protective device in the first region / fluid connection and is folded toward / onto / around the inflatable protective device so as to rest against the inflatable protective device in the area of ​​the inflatable element, or in the non-inflatable region in particular, the relative positions of the inflatable extension element and the inflatable element / non-inflatable region / inflatable protective device can be fixed. Such fixation in the second region can be provided by stitching, welding, or rivets or buttons, depending on the method of connecting the elements. The inflatable extension element can include a non-inflatable portion in the area of ​​the second region so that it can be connected to the inflatable protective device in the aforementioned manner in the second region without risking unexpected leakage of gas used to fill the inflatable protective device.

[0034] According to further embodiments of the present disclosure, the expandable element can include a first fabric side and a second fabric side to form an expandable region or volume between the fabric sides, and the non-expandable region is a region where the fabric sides are connected in direct contact or are integrally formed.

[0035] Inflatable elements, as well as inflatable extension elements and inflatable protective devices in general, can include a first fabric side and a second fabric side that are connected to form an inflatable interior volume. To provide an airtight inflatable interior volume, the fabric sides must be connected in an airtight manner. If the inflatable element is formed from separate fabric sides, joining can be achieved by sewing the fabric sides together by forming dedicated seams, or by welding the fabric sides, e.g., by applying heat such that the fabric sides at least partially melt in localized areas of the heat application, thereby joining the fabric sides in a substantially airtight manner. Alternatively, the fabric sides can be connected together, for example, by an integral weaving manufacturing process.

[0036] According to further embodiments of the present disclosure, an expandable extension element may be positioned between the expandable element and the element or body part, or alternatively, an expandable element may be positioned between the expandable extension element and the element or body part.

[0037] In an arrangement in which the inflatable extension element is disposed between the inflatable element and the element or body part to be protected, the inflatable extension element can be easily positioned and held in place because the inflatable extension element is essentially housed between the inflatable element / inflatable protective device in general and the element or body part to be protected. That is, the inflatable extension element remains in place between the element or body part to be protected and the inflatable protective device because large forces that would otherwise reposition or move the inflatable extension element cannot act on the inflatable extension element. In particular, if the inflatable extension element and the inflatable element are connected, specifically fluidly connected, in a first region and the other connected in a second region, accidental repositioning of one element relative to the other can be avoided.

[0038] Alternatively, when the inflatable element / inflatable protective device in general is positioned between the inflatable extension element and the element or body part to be protected, the shape of the inflatable extension element may not be required to match the inflatable protective device in the area of ​​the non-inflatable region to the same extent as when the inflatable extension element is positioned between the inflatable element and the element or body part to be protected. For example, if the inflatable extension element is a circular extension and the non-inflatable region is V-shaped, the inflatable extension element may protrude further beyond the outer surface of the inflatable protective device to provide additional protection to the non-inflatable region. While such protrusion may not be detrimental to the protective function when positioned outside the inflatable protective device, when positioned inside the inflatable protective device, it may result in an area of ​​increased exposure to external forces by protruding beyond the inner surface of the inflatable protective device toward the element or body part to be protected.

[0039] According to further embodiments of the present disclosure, at least one of the non-expandable region and the expandable extension element may comprise a substantially linear, straight, or curved two-dimensional extension.

[0040] Such simple geometric shapes may allow for favorable adaptation of the shape and configuration of the inflatable extension elements and non-inflatable regions, such that areas of weakness in the non-inflatable regions can be adequately covered or compensated for by providing inflatable extension elements having similar shapes. This allows the non-inflatable regions to be adapted for optimal protection of the element or body part to be protected by allowing the necessary movement of the inflatable elements relative to each other along the non-inflatable regions. In this regard, the non-inflatable regions may be adapted as required by the protective function of the inflatable protective elements, but without regard to weaknesses introduced by this adaptation, to the extent that the weaknesses can subsequently be compensated for by appropriately shaped inflatable extension elements covering or compensating for the weaknesses in the non-inflatable regions.

[0041] According to further embodiments of the present disclosure, the expandable element may include multiple non-expandable regions and / or multiple expandable extension elements, and in particular, the number of non-expandable regions may be equal to the number of expandable extension elements.

[0042] By providing multiple non-inflatable regions, a preferred three-dimensional shape of the inflatable protective device can be obtained that is specifically adapted to the shape and configuration of the element or body part to be protected. Areas of reduced protection due to the non-inflatable regions can then be compensated for by providing inflatable extension elements. The number of inflatable extension elements and the number of non-inflatable regions do not necessarily have to be the same. For example, if this is beneficial to the protective function, a non-inflatable region can be provided with multiple inflatable extension elements, each specifically adapted to a portion of the non-inflatable region. This allows the shape and configuration of the inflatable extension elements and non-inflatable regions to be preferably adapted to increase the protective function of the inflatable protective device.

[0043] For example, the non-inflatable region may be V-shaped and may be covered by, for example, two inflatable extension elements, each covering one leg of the V. Alternatively, the inflatable extension elements themselves may be V-shaped. Such a V-shape of the non-inflatable region may provide a favorable adaptation of the three-dimensional shape of the inflatable protective device to the shape of the element or body part to be protected, thereby achieving enhanced protection. The V-shaped inflatable extension elements may be fluidly connected in a first region below the V with two second regions where the inflatable extension elements are connected to the inflatable protective device so that the two legs of the V are held in position adjacent to the V-shaped non-inflatable region. Alternatively, the V-shaped inflatable extension elements may include two fluid connections, for example, on the two upper sides of the V, so that the V-shaped inflatable extension elements can be automatically positioned adjacent to the V-shaped non-inflatable region. Because the two upper sides of the V are fluidly connected to the inflatable interior of the inflatable protective device and joined at the bottom of the V, the resulting shape of the inflatable extension element is substantially defined. Upon inflation, a V-shape is formed that substantially coincides with the non-inflatable region of the V, if so adapted. Even a rolled-up V-shaped extension element can be unrolled and / or stretched to form a V-shape, thereby avoiding accidental misalignment of the inflatable extension element and the non-inflatable region. As mentioned above, it may still be preferable to provide a fixation between the inflatable extension element and the inflatable protective device in the second region.

[0044] According to further embodiments of the present disclosure, at least one of the expandable element and the expandable extension element can include at least one internal stabilizing element and / or woven tether to provide a three-dimensional shape for accommodating the element or body part.

[0045] By providing an internal stabilizing element or woven tether, the overall three-dimensional shape, particularly the thickness of a particular region of the inflatable protective device, can be defined. Thus, by providing one or more such internal stabilizing elements, the curvature of the inflatable protective device in the inflated state can be established so that the three-dimensional shape conforms to the outer shape of the element or body part to be protected. Internal stabilizing elements or woven tethers can also be used within the inflatable extension element to provide the inflatable extension element with a defined three-dimensional structure, which can result in, for example, a better match between the shape of the inflatable extension element and, for example, non-inflatable regions. This can result in a desirable, uniform inner or outer surface, particularly without protruding elements.

[0046] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the inflatable protective device may be a wearable protective device, in particular a jacket-type protective device or a pants-type protective device.

[0047] By providing multiple non-inflatable regions, the overall shape of the inflatable protective device can be adapted to all shapes and morphologies of the human body. Thus, the inflatable protective device can be embodied as a jacket-type protective device or a pants-type protective device. This allows the inflatable protective device to substantially surround and protect a portion of the wearer's body. The wearer may be, for example, a pedestrian crossing a road or a bicyclist or motorcyclist riding in a vehicle. However, the concept of the present invention is not limited to two-wheeled vehicles. Similarly, the wearer may wear the protective device while riding in a four-wheeled vehicle, such as a car, truck, bus, or van. Even inside a vehicle, the inflatable protective device can provide extra protection to the wearer, even while seated, when inflated during an actual or impending vehicle collision. The inflatable protective device can be embodied to protect body parts that are particularly exposed in a particular application scenario. For example, a vehicle occupant may benefit from an inflatable restraint device that provides protection to the wearer's highly exposed front side, but may provide less or reduced protection to the less exposed back side, e.g., the side that is stationary against the vehicle seat. Such reduced protection may occur by reducing the size of the inflatable air chamber within the inflatable restraint device or by omitting it entirely in areas less likely to be exposed to an accident. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0048] The present invention will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a plan view of an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A illustrates a process for preparing an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B illustrates a process for preparing an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C illustrates a process for preparing an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3]FIG. 3 illustrates an inflatable protective device in a wearable configuration according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A shows a further view of the process of preparing an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B shows a further view of the process of preparing an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C shows a further view of the process of preparing an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A illustrates an operational process for inflating an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B illustrates an operational process for inflating an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C illustrates an operational sequence for inflating an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A illustrates an operational process for inflating an alternative embodiment of an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B illustrates an operational process for inflating an alternative embodiment of an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] Reference is now made to FIG. 1, which illustrates in plan view an inflatable protective device in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 1 shows inflatable protection device 100 in a plan view, i.e., unassembled state. Inflatable protection device 100 includes a first fabric side and a second fabric side, which are not individually identifiable in FIG. 1. The first fabric side and the second fabric side are essentially congruent, i.e., have substantially the same shape. One fabric side forms the exterior of inflatable protection device 100, and the other fabric side forms the interior of inflatable protection device 100. The fabric sides are joined together by seam 116. Seam 116 can be an integrally formed seam, in which the fabric sides are woven together to form seam 116. Alternatively, the fabric sides can be separate fabric sides joined by seam 116, embodied as a weld or stitch.

[0051] The inflatable protective device 100 of FIG. 1 a includes a chest area 122, a back area 124, and a shoulder area 126. Additionally, the inflatable protective device 100 includes a head opening 120. A gas inlet 108 is provided in the area of ​​the head opening 120, which is essentially a fluid passageway between fabric sides into the interior of the inflatable protective device 100. A gas-generating element (not shown) can be connected to the gas inlet 108 to fill the interior of the inflatable protective device 100 with gas, thereby inflating the inflatable protective device 100. The inflatable protective device 100 includes multiple inflatable elements 102, e.g., inflatable chambers, that are in fluid communication with each other and with the gas inlet 108, so that gas introduced into the interior of the inflatable protective device 100 through the gas inlet 108 is distributed throughout the interior of the inflatable protective device 100, thereby inflating the inflatable protective device 100. 1 illustratively includes a plurality of connection points 114a that are provided to maintain a specified distance between fabric sides of the inflatable protective device 100 to prevent outward flaring or excessive ballooning in certain areas of the inflatable protective device 100. The connection points 114a may be externally introduced connection points, for example, by welding or stitching, or may be integrally formed using integral weaving techniques and / or by providing a woven tether within the inflatable protective device during its manufacture.

[0052] To achieve the defined three-dimensional shape, in addition to the connection points 114a, the inflatable protective device 100 includes, among other things, non-inflatable regions 106 disposed between the defined inflatable elements 102. Such non-inflatable regions 106 are particularly regions where two fabric sides are joined, for example, by welding, stitching, or integral weaving, as previously described. The non-inflatable regions 106 allow relative movement of one inflatable element relative to another, thereby allowing the inflatable protective device 100 to conform to the element or body part to be protected as it surrounds it. However, such non-inflatable regions 106 represent weak points or areas of weakness in the structure of the inflatable protective device 100 in that the non-inflatable regions 106 do not provide the same protection as the inflatable elements 102. To provide a substantially continuous inflation structure around the element or body part to be protected, the inflatable protective device 100 includes, in the embodiment of FIG. 1, inflatable extension elements 104 positioned to be inflated substantially simultaneously with the inflatable elements 102. The overlapping of the inflatable extension element 104 with the non-inflatable region 106 strengthens the weak point or area of ​​weakness of the inflatable protective device 100 introduced by the non-inflatable region 106 .

[0053] In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the inflatable extension element 104 extends from the inflatable protective device 100 into the first region 110 and is intended to be folded at 128 over the non-inflatable region 106 in the first region 110, thereby overlapping the non-inflatable region 106 and the inflatable extension element 104. The folding is indicated by the black arrow in FIG. 1 . When folded over and overlapping the non-inflatable region 106, the inflatable extension element 104 can be fastened to the surface of the inflatable protective device 100 at the second region 112 such that the inflatable extension element 104 remains in a defined position relative to the inflatable protective device 100, i.e., overlapping the non-inflatable region 106. The folding of the inflatable extension element 104 and the fastening to the inflatable protective device 100 are not depicted in FIG. 1 .

[0054] To further provide a three-dimensional shape, inflatable restraint device 100 includes fastening regions 118, illustratively fastening regions 118a and 118b in FIG. 1, which may be joined by any suitable means, such as welding, sewing, riveting, tying, etc. The connection of fastening regions 118 may be a reversible connection or an irreversible connection.

[0055] In general, the inflatable protective device 100 is illustratively a chest protection device to be worn by a person, such as a motorcyclist or a pedestrian. The inflatable extension elements 104 may be folded inside the inflatable protective device 100, or alternatively, may be folded outside the inflatable protective device 100. Furthermore, FIG. 1 shows connection points 114b located on selected inflatable elements 102. These connection points provide openings in the chest area 122, simplifying donning and doffing of the inflatable protective device 100 in an assembled state when the inflatable protective device 100 is deployed as a jacket-type protective device. FIG. 2B shows the inflatable protective device 100 in an assembled but uninflated state.

[0056] The joining of the inflatable element 102 and the inflatable extension element 104 is depicted in FIG. 2C, which shows an enlarged partial cross-sectional view through line A-A' in FIG. 2B. Also seen in FIG. 2C are the first and second fabric sides of the inflatable protective device 100, which are the top and bottom layers of the respective elements 102, 104, which are illustratively depicted joined by, for example, seams 116. In FIG. 2C, the inflatable element 102 is folded over the (already folded) inflated extension element 104 and at least temporarily joined or fastened at connection point 114b by seam 116a or a similar suitable (reversible) joining method, such as welding. In the context of further description, it is beneficial to have a reversible joining method, even though the joining method is referred to as a stitch or a weld.

[0057] Reference is now made to Figures 2A-2C, which illustrate steps for preparing an inflatable protective device in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0058] In FIG. 2A , as depicted by the horizontal dashed line, the expandable extension element 104 is folded at 128 to overlap the non-expandable region 106. The non-expandable region 106 is not separately visible in FIG. 2A because it is below the expandable extension element 104. Connection points 113, illustratively embodied as stitching, are provided to fasten and hold the expandable extension element 104 in place relative to the non-expandable region 106 and the expandable element 102. In FIG. 2B , in addition to the expandable extension element 104 being folded at 128 about the horizontal dashed line, a selected expandable element 102 is folded at 128 about a vertical dashed line, illustratively splitting the expandable element 102 in half so that connection point 114b of the expandable element 102 is adjacent to the expandable extension element 104. This allows the folded expandable extension element 104 and the folded expandable element 102 to be fastened together, at least temporarily, to hold the expandable extension element 104 and the expandable element 102 in place.

[0059] Reference is now made to Figure 3, which illustrates an inflatable protective device in a wearable configuration in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 3 shows the assembled wearable protective device 100 as seen from the back area 124. The fastening areas 118a, b are fastened relative to one another using suitable, particularly reversible, means when the inflatable protective device is disassembled. The inflatable extension element 104 is folded inside the inflatable protective device 100, and the inflatable element 102 is similarly folded inside and then appropriately (reversibly) joined to the inflatable extension element 104 and / or a seam, e.g., a seam of the non-inflatable region 106. This provides a jacket-type inflatable protective device that can be put on and taken off without disassembly. The inflatable protective device can be integrated into additional clothing, such as a protective jacket, which may have the appearance of a regular garment. As depicted in FIG. 3, the inflatable protective device 100 in its uninflated state is rather unobtrusive, making its incorporation into additional clothing easily manageable.

[0061] Although not depicted in FIG. 3, a gas source may be connected to the gas inlet 108 for delivering gas on demand to inflate the protective device 100 .

[0062] Reference is now made to Figures 4A-4C, which show further views of a process for preparing an inflatable protective device in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0063] In Figure 4A, a portion of a wearable protective device 100 is shown, having a structure equivalent to the embodiment shown in Figure 1. Again, the inflatable protective device 100 includes an inflatable element 102 and a non-inflatable region 106 disposed therebetween. The inflatable protective device 100 includes an inflatable extension element 104 in an unfolded state, i.e., unfolded (yet) at 128 about the horizontal dashed line.

[0064] In FIG. 4B , the inflated extension element 104 is folded about the horizontal dashed line at 128, and the inflatable element 102 is folded about the vertical dashed line. The non-inflatable region 106, not visible in FIG. 4B , is below the combined folded elements 102, 104. The inflatable extension element 104 is attached to the wearable protective device 100 by connection point 113, illustratively depicted as two individual seam sections. A single seam in the upper seam region of FIG. 4B is also contemplated, or alternatively, a long seam comparable to connection point 113 depicted in FIG. 2A is also contemplated. The folded elements 102, 104 are (temporarily) joined at connection point 114b, illustratively sewn in FIG. 4B . Connection point 114b is a relatively weak seam, i.e., a seam designed to break upon inflation. The temporary joining of the folded elements 102, 104 is to be understood in particular as a temporary joining until the inflatable protective device, and thus the inflatable element 102 and the inflatable extension element 104, are expanded. Upon expansion, the force provided by the expansion, i.e., the change in shape of the inflatable element 102 and the inflatable extension element 104, generates a force acting on the connecting means connecting the elements 102, 104, causing the elements 102, 104 to move away from each other, thereby separating or releasing the connection between the elements 102, 104. That is, the force of the expansion of the inflatable protective device 100 causes the connection to be released, for example, by tearing the seam connecting the elements 102, 104. Alternatively, there may be no seam connecting the elements 102, 104, and both elements may be connected only to the inflatable protective device 100, for example, to a base or outer layer or upper layer of fabric of the inflatable protective device 100.

[0065] Figure 4C shows the configuration of Figure 4B from the back, where inflatable element 102 and inflatable element 104 are folded at 128 to the back of inflatable protector 100 as positioned in Figure 4C and are therefore not visible in Figure 4C. Non-inflatable region 106 is then visible in Figure 4C.

[0066] Reference is now made to Figures 5A-5C, which illustrate the operational steps for inflating an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure.

[0067] 5A-5C, the inflatable protective device 100 continues to inflate. In FIG. 5A, the inflatable protective device is substantially uninflated, as depicted in FIGS. 1-4. In FIG. 5B, the introduction of gas into the interior of the inflatable protective device begins, causing the inflatable element 102 and the inflatable extension element 104 to (partially) inflate. Because the inflatable extension element 104 is on the rear side of the inflatable protective device 100, the inflated state is not readily visible in FIG. 5B. This state is still one in which the inflatable extension element 104 and the inflatable element 102 are folded distally 128 in FIG. 5B, and further, the inflatable extension element 104 and the inflatable element 102 are still joined to the inflatable protective device 100, for example, to a base or outer layer or upper layer of fabric of the inflatable protective device 100.

[0068] 5C, the pressure inside the inflatable protective device 100 increases to the point where the reversible connection between the inflatable element 102 and the inflatable extension element 104 is released. As a result, the inflatable element 102 is deployed at 128 by the pressure of the gas inside the inflatable element 102. The deployment of the inflatable elements 102 deploys both inflatable elements 102, now positioned in the thoracic area 122, thereby closing the gap so that the gap in the thoracic area 122 is substantially closed, as depicted in FIG.

[0069] The inflatable extension element 104 remains inside the inflatable protective device 100 in the area of ​​the non-inflatable region 106, thereby providing additional protection in the area of ​​the non-inflatable region 106.

[0070] Reference is now made to Figures 6A and 6B, which illustrate the operational steps for inflating an alternative embodiment of an inflatable protective device according to the present disclosure.

[0071] A different embodiment of the inflatable protective device 100 is shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B. Here, the external inflatable extension elements 104 are positioned in the region of the non-inflatable region 106, but are not visible in FIGS. 6A and 6B because they are below the inflatable extension elements 104. The inflatable protective device 100 is closed at the chest area 122 by a fastening mechanism. In the embodiment of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the inflatable elements 102 of the chest area 122 are illustratively tied together with strings so that they are held in place relative to each other. Thus, the inflatable elements 102 are not folded and remain unfolded even in the uninflated state. In the embodiment of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the inflatable extension elements 104 are positioned outside the inflatable protective device 100 in the uninflated state and are held in place by suitable means not further depicted in FIGS. 6A and 6B. When inflated as seen in Figure 6B, the inflatable extension element 104 remains in place, especially near the non-inflatable area 106, which is not visible in Figures 6A and 6B. This compensates for the weakened area of ​​the non-inflatable area 106 by overlapping the protective function of the inflatable extension element 104.

[0072] The inflatable element 102 and the inflatable extension element 104 may not be fluidly connected. That is, while connected to one another or while overlapping, inflation of the inflatable element 102 and inflation of the inflatable extension element 104 may be independent of one another. Thus, although not shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B , it is contemplated that two independent gas generating elements may be provided, which may be activated independently of one another. Thus, the inflatable element 102 and the inflatable extension element 104 may be inflated independently of one another. Thus, sequential inflation may be more easily achieved with separate gas generating elements.

[0073] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and that various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the concepts described herein. Any features described above and below can be used separately or in combination with other features described herein, provided that they are not mutually exclusive, and the present disclosure extends to and includes all combinations and subcombinations of one or more features described herein. Finally, it should be noted that the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and "a" or "one" does not exclude a plurality. Elements described in association with different types of embodiments can be combined. Reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0074] 100 Inflatable protective device 102 Expandable Elements 104 Inflatable extension element 106 Non-expandable area 108 Gas inlet 110 First Area / Fold 112 Second Area 113 stitches 114a,b connection point 116 stitches 118a,b Fastening area 120 Head opening 122 Chest Area 124 Back Area 126 Shoulder Area 128 Folds

Claims

1. An inflatable protective device (100) for protecting the elements or a body part of a wearer, comprising: an inflatable element (102) positioned adjacent to the element or body part to be protected; the inflatable element is inflatable from a first substantially uninflated state to a second substantially inflated state by applying a source of releasable gas to the inflatable element to at least partially fill the inflatable element with the gas; the expandable element, when expanded to the second condition, assumes a predetermined three-dimensional shape at least partially around the element or body part; The inflatable element comprises, in particular, at least one non-inflatable region (106) adjacent to or located between at least two inflatable regions (102), The inflatable protection device includes at least one inflatable extension element (104); the inflatable extension element (104) is inflatable from a first substantially uninflated state to a second substantially inflated state by the application of gas; Inflatable protective device, wherein at least in the inflated state, the inflatable extension element (104) is arranged overlapping with the at least one non-inflatable region (106) and provides protection for the element or the body part in the region of the non-inflatable region (106).

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the expandable element (102) and the expandable extension element (104) are integrally formed.

3. The inflatable element (102) and the inflatable extension element (104) are inflatable from the same gas source, or The device according to at least one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the inflatable element (102) and the inflatable extension element (104) are inflatable from different gas sources.

4. 4. The device according to claim 1, wherein when expanding to the second state, the expandable element (102) and the expandable extension element (104) expand sequentially such that expansion of one element begins earlier than expansion of the other element.

5. 5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the expansion of the first element (102, 104) is substantially complete before the expansion of the second element (102, 104) begins, or the expansion of the first element (102, 104) begins before the expansion is substantially complete.

6. 6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the shape of the inflatable extension element (104) in the region of the non-inflatable region (106) and the shape of the non-inflatable region (106) coincide so that the resulting overlapping structure of the inflatable extension element (104) and the non-inflatable region (106) comprises a substantially uniform and / or substantially continuous inflated thickness.

7. the inflatable extension element (104) is connected to the inflatable element (102) at a first region where the inflatable extension element (104) and the inflatable element (102) are fluidly connected so as to be fillable by the same gas source; and 7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the inflatable extension element (104) is connected to the inflatable element (102) in a second region, in particular with a non-fluid connection, so as to maintain a predetermined position relative to the non-inflatable region.

8. The device according to at least one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the inflatable extension element (104) and the inflatable element (102) are integrally formed as a unitary woven element.

9. 9. The device according to claim 1, wherein the inflatable element (102) is formed within or adjacent to the non-inflatable region (106), and the inflatable element (102) and the non-inflatable region (106) are superimposed by folding one element over the other.

10. the inflatable element (102) includes a first fabric side and a second fabric side forming an inflatable region between the fabric sides; 10. The device according to claim 1, wherein the non-expandable area (106) is an area to which the fabric sides are connected in direct contact or are integrally formed.

11. the inflatable extension element (104) is disposed between the inflatable element (102) and the element or body part; or The device according to at least one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the inflatable element (102) is arranged between the inflatable extension element (104) and the element or body part.

12. 12. The device according to at least one of claims 1 to 11, wherein at least one of the non-expandable region (106) and the expandable extension element (104) comprises a substantially linear, straight or curved two-dimensional extension.

13. 13. The device according to at least one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the inflatable element (102) comprises a plurality of non-inflatable regions (106) and / or a plurality of inflatable extension elements (104), in particular the number of non-inflatable regions (106) is equal to the number of inflatable extension elements (104).

14. 14. The device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the expandable element (102) and the expandable extension element (104) comprises at least one internal stabilizing element and / or woven tether to provide a three-dimensional shape for accommodating the element or the body part.

15. The device according to at least one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the inflatable protective device (100) is a wearable protective device, in particular a jacket-type protective device or a trouser-type protective device.

Images