Protected article and method thereof

Abstract

Disclosed herein are wearable articles, and methods of making and using the same. The wearable article can include compression elements, gripping elements, and support elements that include rate-sensitive materials that can be activated to prevent injury. [Selection diagram] Figure 64A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] <Cross-reference> This application is related to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 502,254, filed on May 5, 2017, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 543,854, filed on August 10, 2017, the entire disclosures of both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Background Art

[0002] In sports, military operations, and other active physical activities, the human body can be subjected to significant stress. For example, impacts to the head and / or body can cause angular acceleration / rotational acceleration (whiplash) of the head and neck, and angular acceleration / rotational acceleration and whiplash are associated with concussion. Other body parts such as the neck / spine, or elbows, wrists, hips, knees, and / or ankles can also be subjected to musculoskeletal stress, strain, or fatigue.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] In some aspects, disclosed herein is an article configured to provide support and / or protection when worn by a subject. Further disclosed herein are methods of manufacturing and using the article. The article may utilize a material suitable for absorbing, resisting, reducing, or canceling a force. The material can be a non-Newtonian material having a property that reacts to a force or a rate-sensitive property. In some embodiments, the article includes one or more deformable regions suitable for functioning as a "shock-absorbing zone" that absorbs some of the force (internal, external, or both) that would otherwise be applied to the body part to which the article is secured. In some embodiments, the article includes one or more elements that prevent trauma by increasing resistance in response to an increasing force (e.g., an impact due to high acceleration), as opposed to conventional materials such as, for example, a soft foam pad.

[0004] Other aspects provided herein are articles wearable by a subject, the articles comprising: a substrate having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface has a first coefficient of friction (μ1) with respect to the body surface of the subject, and the substrate has a first modulus of elasticity (E1); at least one gripping element coupled to the inner surface of the substrate, wherein the at least one gripping element is configured to contact the body of the subject and has a second coefficient of friction (μ2) with respect to the body surface, and μ2 is greater than μ1; at least one compression element coupled to the substrate, the at least one compression element having a second modulus of elasticity (E2) greater than E1; and at least one support element coupled to the substrate and comprising a non-Newtonian material.

[0005] In some embodiments, at least one gripping element is a plurality of gripping elements disposed on the inner surface of the base layer in a manner that limits or reduces sliding movement across the body surface. In some embodiments, the article is attachable to the upper arm, forearm or forearm, shoulder, chest, back, torso, buttocks, legs or upper limbs, or lower legs or calves of a subject, and the plurality of gripping elements limit or reduce sliding movement across the upper arm, forearm or forearm, shoulder, chest, back, torso, buttocks, legs or upper limbs, or lower legs or calves. In some embodiments, at least one gripping element includes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more gripping elements. In some embodiments, at least one compression element includes at least one of the following: a chest compression element; a shoulder compression element; an elbow compression element; a leg compression element; a knee compression element; a tibia compression element; a metatarsal compression element; and a waist compression element. In some embodiments, at least one compression element includes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more compression elements. In some embodiments, at least one support element includes at least one of the following: a neck support element; a leg support element; a tibia support element; and a spinal support element. In some embodiments, at least one support element includes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more support elements. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is non-removably attached to the base layer. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is non-removably attached to the inner surface of the base layer. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element and the compression element is non-removably attached to the outer surface of the base layer. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is laminated or printed adjacent to the base layer. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is removably attached to the base layer. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is removably attached to the inner surface of the base layer. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element and the compression element is attached to the outer surface of the base layer.In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is removably attached to the base layer by a fastener, and optionally, the fastener includes a strap, buckle, hook-and-loop fastener, zipper, button, hook, guide, lace, magnet, clamp, clip, screw, bolt, nut, tie, or any combination thereof.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first coefficient of friction is from about 0.1 to about 1. In some embodiments, the first coefficient of friction is at least about 0.1. In some embodiments, the first coefficient of friction is at most about 1. In some embodiments, the first coefficient of friction is from about 0.1 to about 0.2, from about 0.1 to about 0.3, from about 0.1 to about 0.4, from about 0.1 to about 0.5, from about 0.1 to about 0.6, from about 0.1 to about 0.7, from about 0.1 to about 0.8, from about 0.1 to about 0.9, from about 0.1 to about 1, from about 0.2 to about 0.3, from about 0.2 to about 0.4, from about 0.2 to about 0.5, from about 0.2 to about 0.6, from about 0.2 to about 0.7, from about 0.2 to about 0.8, from about 0.2 to about 0.9, from about 0.2 to about 1, from about 0.3 to about 0.4, from about 0.3 to about 0.5, from about 0.3 to about 0.6, from about 0.3 to about 0.7, from about 0.3 to about 0.8, from about 0.3 to about 0.9, from about 0.3 to about 1, from about 0.4 to about 0.5, from about 0.4 to about 0.6, from about 0.4 to about 0.7, from about 0.4 to about 0.8, from about 0.4 to about 0.9, from about 0.4 to about 1, from about 0.5 to about 0.6, from about 0.5 to about 0.7, from about 0.5 to about 0.8, from about 0.5 to about 0.9, from about 0.5 to about 1, from about 0.6 to about 0.7, from about 0.6 to about 0.8, from about 0.6 to about 0.9, from about 0.6 to about 1, from about 0.7 to about 0.8, from about 0.7 to about 0.9, from about 0.7 to about 1, from about 0.8 to about 0.9, from about 0.8 to about 1, or from about 0.9 to about 1. In some embodiments, the first coefficient of friction is about 0.1, about 0.2, about 0.3, about 0.4, about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, or about 1. In some embodiments, the first coefficient of friction is at least about 0.1, about 0.2, about 0.3, about 0.4, about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, or about 1. In some embodiments, the first coefficient of friction is at most about 0.1, about 0.2, about 0.3, about 0.4, about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, or about 1.

[0007] In some embodiments, the second coefficient of friction is from about 0.1 to about 2. In some embodiments, the second coefficient of friction is at least about 0.1. In some embodiments, the second coefficient of friction is at most about 2. In some embodiments, the second coefficient of friction is from about 0.1 to about 0.2, from about 0.1 to about 0.3, from about 0.1 to about 0.4, from about 0.1 to about 0.5, from about 0.1 to about 0.6, from about 0.1 to about 0.7, from about 0.1 to about 0.8, from about 0.1 to about 0.9, from about 0.1 to about 1, from about 0.1 to about 1.1, from about 0.1 to about 1.2, from about 0.1 to about 1.3, from about 0.1 to about 1.4, from about 0.1 to about 1.5, from about 0.1 to about 1.6, from about 0.1 to about 1.7, from about 0.1 to about 1.8, from about 0.1 to about 1.9, from about 0.1 to about 2.0, from about 0.2 to about 0.3, from about 0.2 to about 0.4, from about 0.2 to about 0.5, from about 0.2 to about 0.6, from about 0.2 to about 0.7, from about 0.2 to about 0.8, from about 0.2 to about 0.9, from about 0.2 to about 1.0, from about 0.2 to about 1.1, from about 0.2 to about 1.2, from about 0.2 to about 1.3, from about 0.2 to about 1.4, from about 0.2 to about 1.5, from about 0.2 to about 1.6, from about 0.2 to about 1.7, from about 0.2 to about 1.8, from about 0.2 to about 1.9, from about 0.2 to about 2.0, from about 0.3 to about 0.4, from about 0.3 to about 0.5, from about 0.3 to about 0.6, from about 0.3 to about 0.7, from about 0.3 to about 0.8, from about 0.3 to about 0.9, from about 0.3 to about 1.0, from about 0.3 to about 1.1, from about 0.3 to about 1.2, from about 0.3 to about 1.3, from about 0.3 to about 1.4, from about 0.3 to about 1.5, from about 0.3 to about 1.6, from about 0.3 to about 1.7, from about 0.3 to about 1.8, from about 0.3 to about 1.9, from about 0.3 to about 2.0, from about 0.4 to about 0.5, from about 0.4 to about 0.6, from about 0.4 to about 0.7, from about 0.4 to about 0.8, from about 0.4 to about 0.9, from about 0.4 to about 1.0, from about 0.4 to about 1.1, from about 0.4 to about 1.2, from about 0.4 to about 1.3, from about 0.4 to about 1.4, from about 0.4 to about 1.5, from about 0.4 to about 1.6, from about 0.4 to about 1.7, from about 0.4 to about 1.8, from about 0.4 to about 1.9, from about 0.4 to about 2.0, from about 0.5 to about 0.6, from about 0.5 to about 0.7, from about 0.5 to about 0.8, from about 0.5 to about 0.9, from about 0.5 to about 1, from about 0.6 to about 0.7, from about 0.6 to about 0.8, from about 0.6 to about 0.9, from about 0.6 to about 1.0, from about 0.6 to about 1.1, from about 0.6 to about 1.2, from about 0.6 to about 1.3, from about 0.6 to about 1.4, from about 0.6 to about 1.5, from about 0.6 to about 1.6, from about 0.6 to about 1.7, from about 0.6 to about 1.8, from about 0.6 to about 1.9. About 0.6 to about 2.0, about 0.7 to about 0.8, about 0.7 to about 0.9, about 0.7 to about 1, about 0.8 to about 0.9, about 0.8 to about 1, about 0.9 to about 1.0, about 0.9 to about 1.1, about 0.9 to about 1.2, about 0.9 to about 1.3, about 0.9 to about 1.4, about 0.9 to about 1.5, about 0.9 to about 1.6, about 0.9 to about 1.7, about 0.9 to about 1.8, about 0.9 to about 1.9, about 0.9 to about 2.0, about 1.0 to about 1.0, about 1.0 to about 1.1, about 1.0 to about 1.2, about 1.0 to about 1.3, about 1.0 to about 1.4, about 1.0 to about 1.5, about 1.0 to about 1.6, about 1.0 to about 1.7, about 1.0 to about 1.8, about 1.0 to about 1.9, or about 1.0 to about 2.0. In some embodiments, the second coefficient of friction is about 0.1, about 0.2, about 0.3, about 0.4, about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, about 1.0, about 1.1, about 1.2, about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6, about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9, or about 2.0. In some embodiments, the second coefficient of friction is at least about 0.1, about 0.2, about 0.3, about 0.4, about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, about 1.0, about 1.1, about 1.2, about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6, about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9, or about 2.0. In some embodiments, the second coefficient of friction is at most about 0.1, about 0.2, about 0.3, about 0.4, about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, about 1.0, about 1.1, about 1.2, about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6, about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9, or about 2.0.

[0008] In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer has a modulus of elasticity of from about 0.01 GPa to about 15 GPa. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer has a modulus of elasticity of at least about 0.01 GPa. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer has a modulus of elasticity of at most about 15 GPa. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer has a modulus of elasticity of from about 0.01 GPa to about 0.02 GPa, from about 0.01 GPa to about 0.05 GPa, from about 0.01 GPa to about 0.1 GPa, from about 0.01 GPa to about 0.5 GPa, from about 0.01 GPa to about 1 GPa, from about 0.01 GPa to about 2 GPa, from about 0.01 GPa to about 5 GPa, from about 0.01 GPa to about 10 GPa, from about 0.01 GPa to about 15 GPa, from about 0.02 GPa to about 0.05 GPa, from about 0.02 GPa to about 0.1 GPa, from about 0.02 GPa to about 0.5 GPa, from about 0.02 GPa to about 1 GPa, from about 0.02 GPa to about 2 GPa, from about 0.02 GPa to about 5 GPa, from about 0.02 GPa to about 10 GPa, from about 0.02 GPa to about 15 GPa, from about 0.05 GPa to about 0.1 GPa, from about 0.05 GPa to about 0.5 GPa, from about 0.05 GPa to about 1 GPa, from about 0.05 GPa to about 2 GPa, from about 0.05 GPa to about 5 GPa, from about 0.05 GPa to about 10 GPa, from about 0.05 GPa to about 15 GPa, from about 0.1 GPa to about 0.5 GPa, from about 0.1 GPa to about 1 GPa, from about 0.1 GPa to about 2 GPa, from about 0.1 GPa to about 5 GPa, from about 0.1 GPa to about 10 GPa, from about 0.1 GPa to about 15 GPa, from about 0.5 GPa to about 1 GPa, from about 0.5 GPa to about 2 GPa, from about 0.5 GPa to about 5 GPa, from about 0.5 GPa to about 10 GPa, from about 0.5 GPa to about 15 GPa, from about 1 GPa to about 2 GPa, from about 1 GPa to about 5 GPa, from about 1 GPa to about 10 GPa, from about 1 GPa to about 15 GPa, from about 2 GPa to about 5 GPa, from about 2 GPa to about 10 GPa, from about 2 GPa to about 15 GPa, from about 5 GPa to about 10 GPa, from about 5 GPa to about 15 GPa, or from about 10 GPa to about 15 GPa.In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer has a modulus of elasticity of about 0.01 GPa, about 0.02 GPa, about 0.05 GPa, about 0.1 GPa, about 0.5 GPa, about 1 GPa, about 2 GPa, about 3 GPa, about 4 GPa, about 5 GPa, about 6 GPa, about 7 GPa, about 8 GPa, about 9 GPa, about 10 GPa, about 11 GPa, about 12 GPa, about 13 GPa, about 14 GPa, or about 15 GPa. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer has a modulus of elasticity of at least about 0.01 GPa, about 0.02 GPa, about 0.05 GPa, about 0.1 GPa, about 0.5 GPa, about 1 GPa, about 2 GPa, about 3 GPa, about 4 GPa, about 5 GPa, about 6 GPa, about 7 GPa, about 8 GPa, about 9 GPa, about 10 GPa, about 11 GPa, about 12 GPa, about 13 GPa, about 14 GPa, or about 15 GPa. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer has a modulus of elasticity of at most about 0.01 GPa, about 0.02 GPa, about 0.05 GPa, about 0.1 GPa, about 0.5 GPa, about 1 GPa, about 2 GPa, about 3 GPa, about 4 GPa, about 5 GPa, about 6 GPa, about 7 GPa, about 8 GPa, about 9 GPa, about 10 GPa, about 11 GPa, about 12 GPa, about 13 GPa, about 14 GPa, or about 15 GPa.

[0009] In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer includes two or more layers. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer is permanent, water resistant, stain proof, hypoallergenic, antibacterial, self-healing, heat resistant, friction resistant, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one gripping element or base layer is formed from a polymeric material or a composite material. In some embodiments, at least one support element includes a neck support device. In some embodiments, the neck support device includes a non-Newtonian substance incorporated into the base layer by at least one laminated layer. In some embodiments, the neck support device includes an inner mesh liner disposed inside the base layer that contacts the wearer's neck. In some embodiments, at least one of the compression elements includes a polymeric material or a composite material. In some embodiments, at least one of the compression elements includes silicon, nylon, Lycra, rubber, neoprene, vinyl, polyurethane, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one support element includes an elastic polymer. In some embodiments, at least one support element includes a gel, a foam, a non-Newtonian fluid, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the foam includes a non-Newtonian fluid. In some embodiments, the foam includes a shear thickening non-Newtonian fluid. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian foam is encapsulated within a pouch. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian fluid is encapsulated within a pouch. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian fluid includes a shear thickening non-Newtonian fluid. In some embodiments, at least one support element includes a non-Newtonian foam and a non-Newtonian fluid. In some embodiments, at least one support element includes a Newtonian foam material disposed between the body surface of the subject and the non-Newtonian substance.

[0010] In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian material has a power-law number of from about 0.01 to about 0.99. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian material has a power-law number of at least about 0.01. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian material has a power-law number of at most about 0.99. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian material has a power-law number of from about 0.01 to about 0.02, from about 0.01 to about 0.05, from about 0.01 to about 0.1, from about 0.01 to about 0.2, from about 0.01 to about 0.3, from about 0.01 to about 0.4, from about 0.01 to about 0.5, from about 0.01 to about 0.6, from about 0.01 to about 0.7, from about 0.01 to about 0.8, from about 0.01 to about 0.99, from about 0.02 to about 0.05, from about 0.02 to about 0.1, from about 0.02 to about 0.2, from about 0.02 to about 0.3, from about 0.02 to about 0.4, from about 0.02 to about 0.5, from about 0.02 to about 0.6, from about 0.02 to about 0.7, from about 0.02 to about 0.8, from about 0.02 to about 0.99, from about 0.05 to about 0.1, from about 0.05 to about 0.2, from about 0.05 to about 0.3, from about 0.05 to about 0.4, from about 0.05 to about 0.5, from about 0.05 to about 0.6, from about 0.05 to about 0.7, from about 0.05 to about 0.8, from about 0.05 to about 0.99, from about 0.1 to about 0.2, from about 0.1 to about 0.3, from about 0.1 to about 0.4, from about 0.1 to about 0.5, from about 0.1 to about 0.6, from about 0.1 to about 0.7, from about 0.1 to about 0.8, from about 0.1 to about 0.99, from about 0.2 to about 0.3, from about 0.2 to about 0.4, from about 0.2 to about 0.5, from about 0.2 to about 0.6, from about 0.2 to about 0.7, from about 0.2 to about 0.8, from about 0.2 to about 0.99, from about 0.3 to about 0.4, from about 0.3 to about 0.5, from about 0.3 to about 0.6, from about 0.3 to about 0.7, from about 0.3 to about 0.8, from about 0.3 to about 0.99, from about 0.4 to about 0.5, from about 0.4 to about 0.6, from about 0.4 to about 0.7, from about 0.4 to about 0.8, from about 0.4 to about 0.99, from about 0.5 to about 0.6, from about 0.5 to about 0.7, from about 0.5 to about 0.8, from about 0.5 to about 0.99, from about 0.6 to about 0.7, from about 0.6 to about 0.8, from about 0.6 to about 0.99, from about 0.7 to about 0.8, from about 0.7 to about 0.99, or from about 0.8 to about 0.99.In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian material has a power rule number of about 0.01, about 0.02, about 0.05, about 0.1, about 0.2, about 0.3, about 0.4, about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, or about 0.99. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian material has a power rule number of at least about 0.01, about 0.02, about 0.05, about 0.1, about 0.2, about 0.3, about 0.4, about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, or about 0.99. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian material has a power rule number of at most about 0.01, about 0.02, about 0.05, about 0.1, about 0.2, about 0.3, about 0.4, about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, or about 0.99.

[0011] In some embodiments, at least one gripping element is configured to apply at least one of a vertical force and a tangential force on the body surface of the wearer. In some embodiments, at least one gripping element is configured to apply at least one of a vertical force and a tangential force on the body surface of the wearer to prevent substantial displacement of an article across the wearer's skin. In some embodiments, at least one gripping element includes a surface texture configured to apply a tangential force on the body surface of the wearer. In some embodiments, at least one support element is configured to provide stress relief, load transfer, fatigue reduction, or any combination thereof to the wearer. In some embodiments, at least one support element is configured to provide resistance to at least one movement of the wearer's muscle, joint, or bone, where the resistance increases as the movement increases. In some embodiments, at least one support element is configured to apply a force to at least one of the wearer's muscle, joint, or bone through a full or partial range of motion of the wearer in one or more degrees of freedom. In some embodiments, the force includes a continuous force, a proportional force, a derived force, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one of the proportional force and the derived force is based on the linear position, angular position, velocity, or acceleration of the wearer's bone, muscle, or joint. In some embodiments, the muscles include biceps, triceps, deltoids, forearms, thighs, calves, trapezius, glutes, neck, chest, obliques, upper back, lower back, or abdominal muscles. In some embodiments, the joints include ankles, knees, hips, spine, wrists, elbows, or shoulders. In some embodiments, the bones include ankles, knees, hips, spine, wrists, elbows, shoulders, tibias, fibulas, arms, necks, or collar bones. In some embodiments, the neck support includes a semi-circular collar member that anatomically complements the wearer's neck. In some embodiments, the neck support includes an elastomeric material or a force-responsive polymer disposed around the rear and sides of the wearer's neck. In some embodiments, at least one of the neck support, the spine support, the thigh support, and the shin support includes a groove.In some embodiments, at least one of the neck support, spine support, leg support, and shin support includes a plurality of grooves, including 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more grooves. In some embodiments, two or more of the plurality of grooves have equal size or shape. In some embodiments, two or more of the plurality of grooves have unequal size or shape. In some embodiments, the grooves are configured to bend or fold along a set line, arch, or plane. In some embodiments, the grooves are configured to prevent or inhibit the wearer's movement in one or more degrees of freedom. In some embodiments, at least one compression element is configured to provide stress support, load transfer, fatigue reduction, or any combination thereof to the wearer. In some embodiments, at least one compression element is configured to apply force to the wearer's muscles, bones, or joints. In some embodiments, at least one compression element is configured to apply force to the wearer's muscles, bones, or joints over a full range or partial range of motion of the muscles, bones, or joints. In some embodiments, the force includes a continuous force, a proportional force, a derived force, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one of the proportional force and the derived force is based on the linear position, angular position, velocity, or acceleration of the wearer's bones, muscles, or joints. In some embodiments, the muscles include biceps, triceps, deltoids, forearms, legs, calves, trapezius, glutes, necks, chests, or abs. In some embodiments, the joints include ankles, knees, hips, spines, wrists, elbows, or shoulders. In some embodiments, the bones include ankles, knees, hips, spines, wrists, elbows, shoulders, tibias, fibulas, arms, necks, or collar bones. In some embodiments, the article further includes a harness fixed to at least one support element. In some embodiments, the harness is incorporated into the base layer. In some embodiments, the harness is laminated or printed adjacent to the base layer. In some embodiments, the article further includes at least one adjustable tension element.In some embodiments, at least one adjustable tension element includes at least one of a chest tension element, an abdominal tension element, a waist tension element, a leg tension element, or a shin tension element. In some embodiments, at least one adjustable tension element includes a strap, a fastener, a buckle, a hook-and-loop fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a guide, a lace, a magnet, a clamp, a clip, a screw, a bolt, a nut, a tie, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the article is a shirt, a pair of pants, or a full body bodysuit. In some embodiments, the base layer is bilaterally symmetric.

[0012] Other aspects provided herein are methods for forming an article wearable by a subject, the method comprising: providing a base layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface has a first coefficient of friction (μ1) with respect to the body surface of the subject, and the base layer has a first modulus of elasticity (E1); connecting at least one gripping element to the inner surface of the base layer, wherein the at least one gripping element is configured to contact the body of the subject, and the at least one gripping element has a second coefficient of friction (μ2) with respect to the body surface, and μ2 is greater than μ1; connecting at least one compressing element to the base layer, wherein the at least one compressing element has a second modulus of elasticity (E2) greater than E1; and connecting to the base layer at least one support element comprising a non-Newtonian material.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method further includes the step of laminating or printing a compression element or a gripping element adjacent to the base layer. In some embodiments, the printing step is three-dimensional printing. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is non-removably attached to the base layer. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is removably attached to the base layer. In some embodiments, at least one support element includes a neck support. In some embodiments, the neck support includes a quasi-annular collar member that anatomically complements the wearer's neck. In some embodiments, the neck support includes an elastomeric material or a force-responsive polymer disposed around the back and sides of the wearer's neck. In some embodiments, at least one support element includes a spinal support including at least one groove configured to bend or fold along a set line, arch, or plane.

[0014] Other aspects provided herein are methods for attaching an article to a subject's body, the method comprising: a base layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface has a first coefficient of friction (μ1) with respect to the subject's body surface, and the base layer has a first modulus of elasticity (E1); at least one gripping element coupled to the inner surface of the base layer, wherein the at least one gripping element is configured to contact the subject's body, and the at least one gripping element has a second coefficient of friction (μ2) with respect to the body surface, and μ2 is greater than μ1; at least one compression element coupled to the base layer, wherein the at least one compression element has a second modulus of elasticity (E2) greater than E1; and at least one support element coupled to the base layer and including a non-Newtonian material, providing an article comprising; and attaching the article to the subject's body, wherein when attached to the subject's body, the inner surface and the at least one gripping element contact the subject's body surface with a μ2 greater than μ1.

[0015] In some embodiments, when attached to the body of a subject, at least one gripping element contacts the body surface of the subject such that the article slides up to 5 centimeters, 4 centimeters, 3 centimeters, 2 centimeters, or 1 centimeter. In some embodiments, when attached to the body of a subject, at least one gripping element contacts the body surface of the subject such that the article slides up to 20°, 15°, 10°, 5°, or 1° around a point on the body of the subject. In some embodiments, when attached to the body of a subject, at least one gripping element contacts the body surface of the subject such that the article slides in a first direction up to about 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 5%, or 1% of the length of the gripping element in the first direction. In some embodiments, when attached to the body of a subject, at least one support element provides stress relief, load transfer, fatigue reduction, or any combination thereof to the subject. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian material of at least one support element, when attached to the body of a subject, includes: a first viscosity (v1) that allows unrestricted movement by the subject when an action applies a first force (F1) to the at least one support element; and a second viscosity (v2) that restricts movement by the subject when an action applies a second force (F2) to the at least one support element, where F2 is greater than F1 and v2 is greater than v1. In some embodiments, when attached to the body of a subject, at least one support element provides resistance to at least one movement of the muscles, joints, or bones of the subject, where the resistance increases as the force of the movement increases. In some embodiments, when attached to the body of a subject, at least one support element applies a force to at least one of the muscles, joints, or bones of the subject over a full or partial range of motion in one or more degrees of freedom. In some embodiments, when attached to the body of a subject, at least one compression element provides stress support, load transfer, fatigue reduction, or any combination thereof to the subject.In some embodiments, when attached to a subject's body, at least one compression element is configured to apply force to the wearer's muscle, bone, or joint over a full or partial range of motion of the muscle, bone, or joint.

[0016] Other aspects provided herein are wearable articles having a force - orientation frame that includes a plurality of frame elements and an amount of a velocity - sensitive substance. In some embodiments, the force - orientation frame is formed and dimensioned to be anatomically complementary to a body part of a subject. In some embodiments, at least one fastener is suitable for securing the wearable article to the subject by aligning with a body region that is form - fittingly engaged. In some embodiments, the frame elements form at least one deformable region within the frame and the velocity - sensitive substance is disposed within the deformable region. In some embodiments, the frame elements are configured to divert at least a portion of the internal strain forces within the body region into the deformable region via the frame elements when the wearable article is secured over the body region, whereby the velocity - sensitive substance weakens the diverted internal strain forces by deforming the velocity - sensitive substance within the deformable region.

[0017] Other aspects provided herein are methods for restricting harmful motion that include diverting at least a portion of the internal strain forces within a body region into a velocity - sensitive substance disposed within at least one deformable region within a frame of a wearable article when the wearable article is secured over the body region, and weakening the diverted internal strain forces by deforming the velocity - sensitive substance within the deformable region. In some preferred embodiments, the wearable article is secured to the subject externally and non - invasively.

[0018] Other aspects provided herein are articles that include an anatomical support and at least one fastener. In some embodiments, the anatomical support includes at least one force - directing frame and at least one damper engaged with the force - directing frame to absorb forces from the force - directing frame, and the force - directing frame is relatively stiffer than the damper. In some embodiments, the force - directing frame and the damper are formed and arranged to be anatomically complementary to the anatomical structure of a subject and relative to each other, such that the anatomical support has an engagement surface that conforms to the outer surface contour of the anatomical structure. In some embodiments, the fastener is positioned to fix the anatomical support to the subject in alignment with the anatomical structure and an engagement surface that engages closely morphologically with the surface contour of the anatomical structure, such that forces are transferred from hard tissue in the anatomical structure to the force - directing frame. In some embodiments, when the anatomical support is fixed, at least a portion of the force applied to the hard tissue is diverted from the soft tissue in the anatomical structure to the damper by transferring the force from the hard tissue through the force - directing frame to the damper, whereby the damper absorbs the diverted portion of the force and, as a result, limits the internal forces applied by the hard tissue to the soft tissue. In some embodiments, the force - directing frame includes a plurality of separate force - directing elements spaced apart from each other by dampers and extending between adjacent ones of the separate force - directing elements.

[0019] Other aspects provided herein are methods of suppressing trauma to a subject's anatomical structure when the anatomical structure is subjected to force, the method including the step of securing an anatomical support to the subject, where the anatomical support includes at least one force - orientation frame and at least one damper engaged with the force - orientation frame to absorb force from the force - orientation frame, and the force - orientation frame is relatively stiffer than the damper. In some embodiments, the method further includes the step of redirecting, by the force - orientation frame, at least a portion of the force applied to hard tissue in the anatomical structure to soft tissue in the anatomical structure by transferring the force from the hard tissue through the force - orientation frame to the damper, whereby the damper absorbs the redirected portion of the force, resulting in limiting the internal force exerted on the soft tissue by the hard tissue. In some embodiments, the anatomical support is secured to the subject externally and non - invasively.

[0020] <Incorporation by reference> All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference to the extent that each individual publication, patent, or patent application is specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth exemplary embodiments, and the accompanying drawings.

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] In certain aspects, wearable articles incorporating a rate-sensitive material are disclosed herein for providing protection without sacrificing freedom of movement. A spinal support device or support element configured according to the present disclosure reduces muscle fatigue by supporting the head and neck in lateral movement and flexion and by absorbing rotational energy between lateral movement / flexion of the head and neck during impacts, blows, or any acceleration greater than that which the subject can generate on their own. The support element is configured to increase resistance and energy absorption in accordance with the degree of applied force.

[0023] In some embodiments, the wearable article includes a force-orienting frame including a plurality of frame elements and is formed and dimensioned to be anatomically complementary to a body region of a subject. The subject for which the wearable article is used is preferably a vertebrate, more preferably a mammal, and most preferably a human. Thus, wearable articles according to the principles elucidated in the present disclosure include not only humans but also, for example, without limitation, hoofed animals such as sheep, goats, horses, donkeys, and camels, reptiles, amphibians, companion animals such as dogs and cats, and other pets such as birds and rodents. The wearable articles according to the present disclosure may be incorporated into protective gear worn by military and police animals such as dogs and horses, as well as humans. The wearable articles disclosed herein can preferably be used in both human and veterinary applications without the need for surgical implantation.

[0024] In some embodiments, the rate-sensitive material is coupled to the frame, and at least one fastener is (directly or indirectly) coupled to the frame and is suitable for securing the wearable article to the subject. A wide variety of fasteners can be used, including, but not limited to, one or more of a harness, a strap, incorporation into the article, etc. In the case of a harness or strap, these may be removable or may be permanently attached. Preferably, the wearable article is secured externally, i.e., outside the subject's body, and non-invasively, i.e., there is no surgery or implantation of elements into the subject's body, although embodiments where all or part of the support is implanted are also contemplated. As noted above, the wearable article can be anatomically complementary to the body region in which it is used.

[0025] In some embodiments, the wearable article includes an engagement surface for engaging the body region, and the engagement surface may be a continuous surface or a discontinuous surface. The engagement surface may include channels and / or protrusions to facilitate airflow. The shape of the engagement surface is complementary to the contour of the surface of the anatomical structure of the body region to which the wearable article is secured. For example, if the body region is the neck and sternocleidomastoid muscle, the wearable article may have an elongated channel that receives the neck and then widens at the bottom to accommodate the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Similarly, a wearable article for the elbow joint may be formed to engage the distal upper arm, anterior elbow, olecranon, and proximal forearm, or portions thereof, and may include an engagement surface suitable for such purpose. These are merely examples of body regions in which the wearable articles described herein can be used and are not intended to be limiting. For example, but not limited to, the wearable articles according to the present disclosure may be suitable for supporting all or part of either the head or the neck, in combination with the neck, torso, spine, one or both shoulders, one or both elbows, one or both wrists, one or both hands, one or both hips, one or both knees, one or both ankles, and / or one or both feet.

[0026] When secured by a fastener, in certain embodiments, the wearable article is configured to the location of the bodily region with which it is in close morphological engagement. For example, one or more layers of clothing that are sufficiently thin and form-fitting, including protective clothing, may be sandwiched between the bodily region and the wearable article without preventing a close morphological engagement between the bodily region and the wearable article. Further, the term "close morphological engagement" includes gaps (e.g., discontinuous engagement surfaces) in the engagement between the wearable article and the bodily region, as long as there is sufficient engagement to enable effective delivery of force from the bodily region to the wearable article, for example for ventilation or mobility.

[0027] In some embodiments, the frame elements of the force alignment frame form at least one deformable region within the frame; i.e., a region of the frame that can deform in response to forces applied to the frame. This deformation can be achieved, for example but not limited to, by the elasticity / flexibility of all or part of the relevant frame members, including regions of reduced thickness that function as integral hinges, by movement by conventional hinges from one frame element to another, by one frame element slidably engaged with another frame element, by combinations thereof, or by other suitable techniques. In some embodiments, the force alignment frame is a single unitary piece, or alternatively, includes a plurality of discrete frame elements that are connected to each other, spaced apart from each other, or combined (e.g., some frame elements may be connected to other frame elements and some frame elements may not be connected to other frame elements).

[0028] In some embodiments, the frame element is configured to redirect at least a portion of the internal strain forces within the body region to the deformable region via the frame element when the wearable article is secured to the body region; the force transfer is achieved by a close conformal engagement between the wearable article and the body region. The term "internal strain forces" refers to the movement of anatomical structures relative to each other during movement of the body, such as during flexion, extension, and rotation of joints, of bones, cartilage, muscles, and other soft tissues. The internal strain forces may be the result of externally applied forces, internal forces generated by the muscle tissue of the body region, or a combination of both internal and external forces. For example, an athlete or soldier may be subjected to external forces due to ballistic impacts that cause movement of their body, or internal forces when reacting to sound and suddenly changing direction, or both internal and external forces when attempting to maintain balance during contact sports (such as American football, rugby, or martial arts), or during actual close combat, hand-to-weapon fighting, or weapon-to-weapon fighting.

[0029] In some embodiments, the rate-sensitive material is disposed at least within the deformable region, and the rate-sensitive material attenuates the internal strain forces deflected by the deformation of the rate-sensitive material within the deformable region. In effect, the deformable region that includes the rate-sensitive material functions as a “shock-absorbing zone” that absorbs some of the forces (internal, external, or both) that would otherwise be applied to the body region. The particular rate-sensitive material used, its density, and its thickness depend on how the wearable article is used (e.g., the nature of the activity) and the body region where the wearable article may be used, and may further depend on the characteristics of the individual subject (e.g., height, weight, and other factors, etc.). Further, rate-sensitive materials of different types, thicknesses, and densities may be used in different deformable regions or within a single deformable region (e.g., laminated or arranged in a deformable array), and the properties of the rate-sensitive material may be further adjusted, for example, by applying a suitable coating or laminate to the surface of the rate-sensitive material to adjust the surface tension of the rate-sensitive material. In some embodiments, the wearable article includes a monolithic mass of rate-sensitive material, and the frame element may cover over or be set into the rate-sensitive material to form a force-orienting frame and define the deformable region. In other embodiments, separate, discrete individual portions of the rate-sensitive material may be disposed in the deformable region.

[0030] In some embodiments, the exact shape, location, and configuration of the deformable region will depend on the particular use for which the wearable article is used and / or the body region being supported. In one preferred embodiment, the wearable article is not anatomically limited. One preferred approach is to recreate, mimic, emulate, or conform to an arrangement or group of anatomical structures such as, for example, all or part of either the head and neck in combination with one or both of the neck, torso, spine, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, hips, knees, ankles, and / or feet. By recreating, mimicking, emulating, or conforming to an arrangement of anatomical structures, the wearable article, through intimate morphological engagement with the body region, diverts at least some of the internal distortion forces away from vulnerable soft tissues and, strategically, directs the diverted forces into the deformable region where those forces can be attenuated, absorbed, or dissipated by the rate-sensitive material. In some such embodiments, the frame elements may correspond to hard tissues such as bone and / or cartilage, and the deformable region including the rate-sensitive material may correspond to soft tissues such as muscle and connective tissue. In such embodiments, the frame elements may be aligned with the hard tissues that transfer forces, and the deformable region including the rate-sensitive material may be positioned in alignment with those soft tissues of the body region that are vulnerable to injury and undergo deformation when subjected to internal distortion forces. In some examples, alignment between the frame elements and the hard tissues and / or between the deformable region and the vulnerable soft tissues is not necessary as long as the wearable article diverts at least some of the internal distortion forces away from the vulnerable soft tissues and strategically directs the diverted forces into the deformable region. In any case, the configuration of the wearable article preferably allows the wearer to move the associated body region through substantially normal ranges of motion (e.g., flexion, extension, rotation). In some embodiments, the primary protection provided by the wearable article results from diverting internal distortion forces into the deformable region where the properties of the rate-sensitive material can be utilized rather than from substantial restrictions on the range of motion.

[0031] As noted above, the rate-sensitive material can be a material whose resistance to an applied force increases with an increase in the force. In some embodiments, the wearable article according to the present disclosure affects the compressible / expandable / viscoelastic properties of the rate-sensitive material. By selecting a rate-sensitive material appropriate for the activity in which the wearable article is used, the wearable article can be configured such that when an internal distortion force is applied at a rate expected for that activity, the rate-sensitive material offers little resistance to the internal distortion force that is diverted. Thus, the wearable article will offer little resistance to the wearer's normal movements during the activity. At moments of high energy (e.g., sudden hyperextension, acceleration, deceleration resulting from impacts, etc.), the internal distortion forces are applied at a much higher rate. When some of those higher rate internal distortion forces are diverted into the deformable region, they encounter much greater resistance from the rate-sensitive material contained therein. The effect of this greater resistance is the braking or absorption of the diverted internal distortion force, which can result in the stabilization of movements or joint articulations that are known to cause trauma. For example, without limitation and without promising any particular utility, it is contemplated that a properly designed wearable article according to the present disclosure can assist in the prevention or reduction of whiplash, reduction of fatigue, reduction of the effects of applied G-forces (e.g., for aircraft passengers), provision of passive stabilization, provision of load offset, provision of lateral resistance, provision of front and rear resistance, improvement and stabilization of posture, stabilization and fixation of trauma, and prevention of anti-conversion sprains.

[0032] Some preferred embodiments are anatomically unrestricted, while other embodiments are anatomically restricted, i.e., they can impose substantial limitations on the wearer's normal range of motion for the body part at risk. Anatomically restricted embodiments can be advantageous, for example, in the stabilization of trauma and postoperative applications, or in the prevention of neck fatigue (e.g., for pilots).

[0033] In particular, the performance of the wearable article disclosed herein does not depend solely on the properties of the rate-sensitive material, but rather on the interaction between the rate-sensitive material and the force-orienting frame; however, in some cases, the wearable article may be constructed in accordance with the principles described herein using a conventional elastic material instead of the rate-sensitive material. Further, the force-orienting frame can take a wide variety of forms as long as it functions to dissipate energy by distributing force to specific regions of the rate-sensitive material (or elastic material). For example, the force-orienting frame may include or be composed of one or more regions of a thin film (which may be a single body or a composite structure) having appropriate force-orienting characteristics and laminated, adhered, or otherwise fixed to the rate-sensitive material (or elastic material). The term "energy-absorbing material" is used herein to encompass both the rate-sensitive material and conventional elastic materials.

[0034] As noted above, in certain embodiments, the deformable region that includes the rate-sensitive material functions as a "shock-absorbing zone" that absorbs some of the force (internal, external, or both) that would otherwise be applied to the body region. In some embodiments, the frame element controls the surface of the rate-sensitive material, converting what would otherwise be a bending motion into compression, where the rate-sensitive material is most effective at force absorption / braking. In particular, the frame element may be made of a stiffer material, for example, stiffer than the rate-sensitive material, and the surface of the frame element can compress the rate-sensitive material so as to support the location and degree to which the rate-sensitive material absorbs energy by the shape and configuration of the frame element. For example, the frame element may be rigid or semi-rigid if it is sufficiently stiffer than the rate-sensitive material to effectively control the compression of a particular rate-sensitive material in view of the force that is expected to be applied. The properties of the frame element (e.g., rigidity) and the properties of the rate-sensitive material (e.g., density) depend on the activity in which the wearable article is used. A stiffer frame element and a higher density rate-sensitive material are used for high-intensity sports / activities (e.g., hockey, football, military, motor sports), and a less stiff frame element and a lower density rate-sensitive material may be used for low-intensity applications (e.g., trauma recovery, self-acceptance, neck / joint fatigue or overexertion relief, etc.). In certain applications, the energy-absorbing material in one or more of the deformable regions can function as a resistive joint of connectivity (as described below).

[0035] In some embodiments, one or more of the frame elements include protrusions, layers, or outer surfaces that extend over the deformation regions to provide additional protection (e.g., impact protection). For example, a rigid foam or rubber material may be provided around the knees, elbows, or other joints. The wearable article described herein may include or incorporate one or more additional layers to provide additional functionality. For example, the additional layer may provide padding for impact protection, cut protection, protection against projectiles (e.g., a layer of para-aramid synthetic fibers such as those sold under the trademark Kevlar®), electrical insulation, or comfort. Optionally, the additional layer may be interchangeable so that a single-core wearable article may be suitable for use in different activities (e.g., a single custom-fitted wearable article for the cervical spine may be removably interengageable with both a pad / protective portion for American football and a pad / protective portion for ice hockey). In some embodiments, the additional layer may incorporate gel-filled or liquid-filled chambers to provide protection and / or cushioning against impacts. The innermost layer may also be provided to improve the close conformal engagement of the wearable article with the body region. As a typical combination of layers used in a wearable article such as within a support element, an outer layer of rigid foam, rubber, or plastic material, an inner or central layer of a rate-sensitive material whose viscosity increases in response to an increase in force (e.g., a non-Newtonian substance suspended in a foam matrix), and an inner layer of soft foam or pad to help protect the surface of the wearer's tissue that contacts the support element and / or the wearable article may be mentioned.

[0036] Optionally, an electronic sensor (e.g., an optical sensor, a force sensor, or others) may be incorporated into the wearable article according to the present disclosure. For example, a suitable accelerometer may be used as the force sensor. When electronic sensors are used, they may be connected (e.g., wired) to an on-board computer or on-board data storage device, or to a transmitter (e.g., a wireless communication, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth transmitter) that can communicate wirelessly with a computing device (e.g., a smartphone or tablet).

[0037] In various aspects, the wearable articles described herein enable a method of restricting harmful motion. This method includes diverting at least a portion of the internal strain forces within the body region through a wearable article fixed to the body region of the subject to a velocity-sensitive material disposed within at least one deformable region within the frame of the wearable article, and weakening or absorbing the internal strain forces by deformation of the velocity-sensitive material within the at least one deformable region.

[0038] A particular exemplary wearable article in the form of a spinal support device (which can be incorporated into the wearable articles described herein as a support element) is described here as just one example, and it is understood that the teachings of the present disclosure are not limited to spinal support devices but can be applied to articles for a wide range of anatomical structures.

[0039] Referring now to FIGS. 1 - 13, these figures generally show a first exemplary spinal support device indicated by reference numeral (100). The spinal support device shown in FIGS. 1 - 13 is one exemplary implementation of the wearable articles according to the present disclosure and serves as an article for the anatomical structure, in this case, the neck / back / spine.

[0040] The spinal support device (100) includes a cervical support portion (102), an upper spinal support portion (104), and a lower spinal support portion (106). The cervical support portion (102) is connected to the upper end (108) of the upper spinal support portion (104), and the lower spinal support portion (106) extends from the lower end (110) of the upper spinal support portion (104). The upper spinal support portion (104) and the lower spinal support portion (106) may be formed as a single unit as a single element, or may be formed as two parts connected to each other (each of which may consist of sub-parts).

[0041] When worn by a human subject (not shown in FIGS. 1 - 13), both the upper spinal support portion (104) and the lower spinal support portion (106) extend from the C7 vertebra to at least the L1 vertebra on the human spine, and, as can be seen, the spinal support device (100) exhibits a contour that fits the curvature of the human back. Thus, as best seen in FIG. 6, the upper spinal support portion (104) and the lower spinal support portion (106) are adapted to conform to the curvature of the human spine and, in use, will be fixed in position on the wearer's spine as further described below. The inner contour of the spinal support device (100) forms an engagement surface that conforms to the outer contour of the back and neck.

[0042] The upper end (108) of the upper spinal support (104) extends from the back to the abdominal position on a human subject and includes a biomechanically rigid trapezius grapnel (112) adapted to engage the human trapezius muscle. As used herein, the term "biomechanically rigid" means rigid enough to transmit substantially all applied forces, rather than absorb forces by deformation. In this sense, the term "biomechanically rigid" means rigid in the same sense as the bones of the skeleton, and thus the term "biomechanically rigid" does not exclude some flexibility. The entire upper spinal support (104) may be biomechanically rigid, or only the trapezius grapnel (112) may be biomechanically rigid. Optionally, the upper spinal support (104) may be configured such that the trapezius grapnel (112) is biomechanically rigid and the rigidity of the upper spinal support (104) decreases (e.g., flexibility increases) towards its distal end (110). In a preferred embodiment, the lower spinal support (106) is substantially more flexible than the upper spinal support (104).

[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper end (108) of the upper spinal support (104) is generally Y-shaped, and the trapezius grapnel (112) includes opposed trapezius support arms (114) that flare outwardly and a spinal support arm (116) disposed between the trapezius support arms (114). A slot (118) is sandwiched between the spinal support arm (116) and the trapezius support arms (114). The trapezius support arms (114) are adapted to engage the human trapezius muscle while allowing forces to be carried from the cervical support (102) to the trapezius muscle or more extensive torso, thereby stabilizing the spinal support device (100). The mechanism used to secure the upper spinal support (104) and the lower spinal support (106) to the wearer's spine also preserves the trapezius grapnel (112) engaged with the wearer's trapezius muscle. The Y-shape is merely one exemplary shape of the trapezius grapnel (112), and other suitable shapes may also be used.

[0044] As best seen in FIGS. 10-13, the cervical support portion (102) includes a generally C-shaped biomechanically rigid C6 vertebral support (120), a generally C-shaped biomechanically rigid C4 vertebral support (122), and a generally C-shaped biomechanically rigid atlas support (124). When the spinal support device (100) is worn by a human subject, the C6 vertebral support is positioned and arranged to support the human C6 vertebra from the back, the C4 vertebral support is positioned and arranged to support the human C4 vertebra from the back, and the atlas support (124) is positioned and arranged to support the human C1 and C2 vertebrae from the back.

[0045] Both the upper spinal support portion (104) and the lower spinal support portion (106) together form a force orientation frame of the wearable article, and the trapezius support arm (114), the spinal support arm (116), the C6 vertebral support (120), the C4 vertebral support (122), and the atlas support (124) are its frame elements. As can be seen, the force orientation frame formed by the upper spinal support portion (104) and the lower spinal support portion (106) is formed and dimensioned to be anatomically complementary to the body region, in this case a human, but the back and neck of the subject.

[0046] The C6 vertebral support (120), the C4 vertebral support (122), and the atlas support (124) are arranged at regular intervals from each other and are joined together by respective coupling resistive joints formed by coupling resistive dampers extending between them. The term "coupling resistive damper" means an element or set of elements that can function as a coupling sliding joint between two parts when sandwiched between them, allowing limited relative angular movement (flexion / extension) and rotational movement of one of those parts relative to the other, while at the same time resisting the force of such movement so as to be able to apply a braking / slowing effect to such movement, and "coupling resistive joint" refers to a joint that includes a "coupling resistive damper". The C6-C4 coupling resistive damper extends between the C6 vertebral support (120) and the C4 vertebral support (122) to form a C6-C4 coupling resistive joint (126) therebetween, and the C4-atlas coupling resistive damper extends between the C4 vertebral support (122) and the atlas support (124) to form a C4-atlas coupling resistive joint (128) therebetween. The cervical portion (102) is joined to the upper end (108) of the upper spinal support portion (104) by a coupling resistive damper of the upper cervical vertebrae that extends between the upper end (108) of the upper spinal support portion and the C6 vertebral support (120) and forms a coupling resistive joint (130) of the upper cervical vertebrae. Thus, a plurality of dampers engage with a force orientation frame formed by the upper spinal support portion (104) and the lower spinal support portion (106) in order to absorb the force therefrom. As can be seen in the figure, the force orientation frame (the upper spinal support portion (104) and the lower spinal support portion (106)) and the dampers (the coupling resistive joints (126)(128)(130)) are formed to be anatomically complementary to the anatomical structure of the subject, in this case the human back and upper spine, and are arranged relative to each other. This anatomical structure includes hard tissues (vertebrae) and soft tissues (e.g., muscles, intervertebral discs).

[0047] In the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-13, the C6-C4 articulation resistive joint (126), the C4 atlas articulation resistive joint (128), and the upper cervical spine articulation resistive joint (130) are separate joints formed from separate pieces of energy absorbing material. Thus the force alignment frame includes a plurality of separate force alignment elements (temporal muscle grappler (112), C6 spine support (120), C4 spine support (122), and atlas support (124)) spaced apart from one another by dampers (articulation resistive joints (130)(126)(128)) extending between adjacent force alignment elements. In the illustrated embodiment, the C6-C4 articulation resistive joint (126) is a generally C-shaped element extending between the upper end of the C6 spine support (120) and the lower end of the C4 spine support (122), and the C4 atlas articulation resistive joint (128) is a generally C-shaped element extending between the upper end of the C4 spine support (122) and the lower end of the atlas support (124). The upper cervical spine articulation resistive joint (130) conforms to the shape of the temporal muscle grappler (112) and extends both above and below it. More specifically, the upper cervical spine articulation resistive joint (130) is ventral to the upper spinal support (104), extends beyond below the slot (118), and extends over above the temporal muscle support arm (114) and the spinal support arm (116). Beyond the upper end (108) of the upper spinal support (104), the upper cervical spine articulation resistive joint (130) converges to form an almost annular collar (132) extending to the lower end of the C6 spine support (120). In the illustrated embodiment, the material forming the upper cervical spine articulation resistive joint (130) also extends downward along the ventral surface of the spinal support device (100) to the lower end (140) of the lower spinal support (106). In other embodiments, the material forming the upper cervical spine articulation resistive joint may not extend far downward; for example, the material may extend only to the lower end of the upper spinal support.

[0048] The energy-absorbing substances used to form the resistive joints for the C6-C4 connection (126), the resistive joint for the C4 atlas connection (128), and the resistive joint for the upper cervical vertebra connection (130) may be, for example, an elastomeric material such as those described herein or a suitable force-responsive polymer. Thus, in one embodiment of the exemplary spinal support device (100) shown in FIGS. 1-13, an amount of rate-sensitive substance is coupled to the force-directed frame (upper spinal support portion (104) and lower spinal support portion (106)) to form the resistive joints for connection (126)(128)(130). In this particular embodiment, these resistive joints for connection (126)(128)(130) are deformable regions where the rate-sensitive substance is disposed.

[0049] The relative positions of the trapezius grappler (112), C6 vertebral support (120), C4 vertebral support (122), and atlas support (124) with the connective resistive joints (126)(128)(130) enable the cervical support portion (102) and the upper spine support portion (104) at its upper end (108) to mimic the natural connections of the human spine. At the same time, the structure provides resistance to the acting forces that cause flexion / extension / rotation of the spine (e.g., from a ball or another player that impacts the head and / or body), thereby reducing the angular acceleration / rotational acceleration (whiplash) of the head and neck from impacts to the head or body. Specifically, the energy-absorbing substances forming the connective resistive joints (126)(128)(130) provide a progressively increasing resistance to deformation. The deformation may be compression, tension, or a combination (depending on the nature of the movement, a part of a particular connective resistive joint may be compressed while the other part may be put under tension). When the connective resistive joints are formed from an elastomeric material, the resistance to deformation increases as the displacement increases, and when the connective resistive joints are formed from a force-responsive polymer, the resistance to deformation increases with the increase in the acting force. Since the relative movement of the trapezius grappler (112), C6 vertebral support (120), C4 vertebral support (122), and atlas support (124) results in the deformation of the connective resistive joints (126)(128)(130), the connective resistive joints (126)(128)(130) provide a progressively increasing resistance towards the limits of the movement range, which in turn provides mechanical resistance to whiplash-related and concussion-related movements (e.g., braking / deceleration). Thus, the frame elements (trapezius support arms (114), spine support arms (116), C6 vertebral support (120), C4 vertebral support (122), and atlas support (124)) divert at least a part of the internal strain forces within the spine through the frame elements to the deformable regions (connective resistive joints (126)(128)(130)), whereby the energy-absorbing substances are configured to weaken the diverted internal strain forces by the deformation of the energy-absorbing substances within the deformable regions.

[0050] To couple the movement of the subject's head to the spinal support device (100), the spinal support device (100) is provided with at least one helmet incorporation element pivotally attached to the atlas support (124). In the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-13, the spinal support device (100) is provided with a single generally C-shaped helmet incorporation element (134). The atlas support (124) is pivotally nested within the helmet incorporation element (134) such that the helmet incorporation element (134) can pivot up and down relative to the atlas support (124) within a limited range of pivotal movement. In the illustrated embodiment, the helmet incorporation element (134) is coupled to the atlas support (124) by opposing pivot pins (136); appropriate bushings and / or bearings (not shown) may be associated with the pivot pins (136).

[0051] In use, a helmet (not shown) is coupled to the helmet incorporation element (134) such that movement of the helmet during flexion and extension of the head causes a corresponding movement of the helmet incorporation element (134); preferably, the helmet may be releasably coupled to the helmet incorporation element (134). For example, one or more tethers (not shown) may extend from the helmet incorporation element (134) to secure the helmet incorporation element (134) to the helmet (e.g., via a snap fit or other fastener), and the rear portion of the helmet may be configured to engage the helmet incorporation element (134). In such an embodiment, movement of the helmet during flexion of the head moves the helmet incorporation element (134) by the tension applied via the tether, and movement of the helmet during extension of the head moves the helmet incorporation element (134) by the rear portion of the helmet pushing on the helmet incorporation element (134). In other embodiments, the helmet incorporation element (134) may be rigidly coupled to the helmet such that the helmet and the helmet incorporation element (134) move in concert.

[0052] When flexion and extension of the head are within the range of motion limits of the helmet integration element (134) relative to the atlas support (124), the helmet integration element (134) can pivot freely relative to the atlas support (124). Thus, the range of motion limits is selected to correspond to the normal or "safe" range of flexion and extension to maintain freedom of movement. When flexion or extension of the head moves beyond the normal or "safe" range, the pivoting motion of the helmet integration element (134) relative to the atlas support (124) exceeds the range of motion limits. This engages the helmet integration element (134) with the atlas support (124), such that further flexion / extension of the head moves the helmet integration element (134) and the atlas support in concert, and further movement is resisted by the articulating resistive joint (128) of the C4 atlas (and optionally other articulating resistive joints (126)(130)).

[0053] A helmet used in conjunction with the spinal support device described herein is typically particularly suitable for connection to its helmet integration element, while different types of helmets may be provided for different activities, and it is contemplated that each such helmet is similarly suitable for connection to the helmet integration element. Thus, for example, there may be different helmets for football, hockey, skateboarding, alpine sports, or other activities, and each such helmet is suitable for connection to the same type of helmet integration element. In such embodiments, a single spinal support device may be used for multiple activities by disconnecting one helmet from the helmet integration element and then connecting a different helmet to the helmet integration element.

[0054] The spinal support device (100) may be fixed to the back of the subject's torso in various ways. For example, in one embodiment, a harness (not shown in FIGS. 1-13) may be used. The harness may include opposing fixed straps (not shown in FIGS. 1-13) that extend between the upper end (108) of the upper spinal support portion (102) (particularly the spinal support arm (116)) and the Y-shaped lower end (140) of the lower spinal support portion (106) to attach the spinal support device (100) to the subject's back. Thus, the fixed straps are suitable for fixing the upper and lower spinal support portions to the human back in alignment with the spine. In another embodiment, the upper spinal support portion (104) and the lower spinal support portion (106) may be incorporated into the back of a torso article such as a vest, compression shirt, etc. Thus, the harness is suitable for externally and non-invasively fixing a wearable article (the spinal support device (100)) to a human, is positioned in body regions, in this case the back and neck, and the engagement surface closely engages morphologically with the surface contours of the back and neck, so that forces are transferred from the hard tissue (vertebrae) to the force orientation frame (the upper spinal support portion (102) and the lower spinal support portion (106)). When the spinal support device (100) is fixed in such a manner, at least a portion of the force applied to the hard tissue (vertebrae) redirects the force from the hard tissue through the force orientation frame to the damper, thereby diverting the force from the soft tissue (e.g., muscles, intervertebral discs) to the damper (the connective resistive joints (126)(128)(130)), whereby the damper absorbs the portion of the transferred force and limits the internal forces exerted by the hard tissue on the soft tissue.

[0055] Referring now to FIGS. 14 - 26, these generally depict a second exemplary spinal support device, indicated generally by reference numeral (200). The exemplary spinal support device (200) shown in FIGS. 14 - 26 is similar to the first exemplary spinal support device (100) shown in FIGS. 1 - 13, and like elements are indicated by like reference numerals except that the prefix is “2” instead of “1”. Thus, the cervical support portion of the second exemplary spinal support device (200) is indicated by reference numeral (202), and the upper spinal support portion of the second exemplary spinal support device (200) is indicated by reference numeral (204). The second exemplary spinal support device (200) first differs from the first exemplary spinal support device (100) in that instead of separate joints formed from separate pieces of energy absorbing material, cohesive damping elements forming the C6 - C4 cohesive resistance joint (226), the C4 - atlas cohesive resistance joint (228), and the upper cervical spine cohesive resistance joint (230) are formed from at least one single - layer of energy absorbing material extending from the splenius capitis (212) along the cervical support portion (202).

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, one or more layers (242) of energy absorbing material are disposed ventral to the upper spinal support (204) and pass preferentially from directly above the lower end (240) of the lower spinal support (206) to the upper spinal support (204) and then along the trapezius grappler (212) and then extend along the ventral side of the cervical support (202) to the atlas support (224). The energy absorbing material need not extend as far downward as shown in the illustrated embodiment, but must extend far enough downward to perform a binding resistive joint function. At the junction between the upper end (208) of the upper spinal support (204) and the C6 spinal support (220), the layer (242) of energy absorbing material converges to form an almost circular collar (232) that forms part of the binding resistive joint (230) of the upper spinal cervical vertebrae and continues along the ventral side of the cervical support (202). The C6-C4 binding resistive joint (226) is formed by the portion of the layer (242) of energy absorbing material that projects dorsally between the C6 spinal support (220) and the C4 spinal support (222), and the C4-atlas binding resistive joint (228) is formed by the portion of the layer (242) of energy absorbing material that projects dorsally between the C4 spinal support (122) and the atlas support (124). The energy absorbing material may be, for example, an elastomeric material or a force reactive polymer. When multiple layers (242) are provided, the layers may be the same, similar, or different energy absorbing materials.

[0057] Referring now to FIGS. 27-37, a third exemplary spinal support device, generally designated by reference numeral (300), is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The third exemplary spinal support device (300) is another exemplary implementation of a wearable article constructed in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0058] As best seen in FIGS. 27 - 29, the third spinal support device (300) includes a biomechanically stiff trapezius grapnel (312) that extends upwardly and is adapted to engage the human trapezius muscle from a dorsal position to a ventral position, an annular cervical support portion (302) that is connected to and supported by the trapezius grapnel (312), and a harness (395) (see FIGS. 36 and 37). As used herein, the term "biomechanically stiff" means sufficiently firm to transfer most of an applied force while absorbing a small portion of the applied force by deformation. In this sense, the term "biomechanically stiff" means stiff in the same sense that thick fibrous cartilage is stiff, and the term "biomechanically stiff" implies less rigidity (more flexibility) than the term "biomechanically rigid". The trapezius grapnel (312) may be made of, for example, silicon, rubber, or a suitable polymeric material.

[0059] The quasi-circular shape of the cervical support (302), best seen in FIG. 31, enables it to support the cervical portion of the subject's neck as shown in FIGS. 27-29. The cervical support (302) includes a series of biomechanically rigid spinal supports (340) and a series of cohesive resistive dampers (342). The biomechanically rigid spinal supports (340), such as the trapezius grapnels (312), may be made of, for example, silicon, rubber, or a suitable polymeric material, may be the same material used for the trapezius grapnels (312), or may be a different material. The spinal supports (340) are stiffer than the material used for the cohesive resistive dampers (342). The cohesive resistive dampers (342) may be formed from, for example, an elastomeric material or a suitable force-responsive polymer. The spinal supports (340) are spaced apart from each other by cohesive resistive joints formed by the cohesive resistive dampers (342). Each of the spinal supports (340) is a frame element that forms part of a force-orienting frame and is anatomically complementary to the human cervical vertebrae, including hard tissue (vertebrae) and soft tissue (e.g., muscles, intervertebral discs) as can be seen in the figures. These frame elements (spinal supports (340)) form deformable regions within the frame, i.e., the space between the spinal supports (340) and the energy-absorbing material that constitutes the cohesive resistive dampers (342) is disposed within these deformable regions. In particular, one of the cohesive resistive dampers (342) extends between each adjacent pair of spinal supports (340) such that the spinal supports (340) alternate with the cohesive resistive joints formed by the cohesive resistive dampers (342). Thus, the cohesive resistive dampers (342) engage the force-orienting frame including the spinal supports (340) to absorb force therefrom. As can be seen in FIGS. 27-29, the distal cohesive resistive damper (342), i.e., the cohesive resistive damper (342) that is furthest from the trapezius grapnels (312) compared to the other cohesive resistive dampers (342), is further distal from the trapezius grapnels (312) than the distal spinal support (340), i.e., the spinal support (340) that is furthest from the trapezius grapnels (312) compared to the other spinal supports (340).

[0060] As described in further detail below, the harness (395) (see FIGS. 36 and 37) is mechanically coupled to the mitral valve grasper and maintains the engagement of the mitral valve grasper with the human mitral valve, thereby being suitable for being comfortably fixed to the human torso to maintain the correct anatomical placement of the third spinal support device (300).

[0061] As best seen in FIG. 30, in a typical third spinal support device (300), the coupling resistive damper (342) is formed by a ridge (344) on a unitary collar member (346) formed from an energy absorbing material, and the distal coupling resistive damper (342) forms the cranial end (347) of the unitary collar member (346). The unitary collar member (346) may be formed from, for example, an elastomeric material or a suitable force-reactive polymer. In the illustrated embodiment, the ridge (344) includes a longitudinal gap (348) that divides each coupling resistive damper into a plurality of separate coupling resistive elements (350). The longitudinal gap (348) provides flexibility, stretch, and coupling of the collar member and, in the illustrated embodiment, extends beyond the ridge to the underlying base (352) of the unitary collar member (346). The spinal support (340) is disposed in a channel (354) that extends longitudinally between the ridges (344). Thus the force alignment frame includes a plurality of separate force alignment elements (spinal supports (340)) spaced apart from one another by coupling resistive dampers (342) that extend between adjacent ones of the separate force alignment elements, and the unitary collar member (346) also includes a recessed region (356) at its caudal end (358), e.g., the end opposite the cranial end (347), that receives the trapezius grappler (312). Thus, the unitary collar member (346) includes a distal coupling resistive damper (342) that extends from the trapezius grappler (312) at the caudal end (358) of the unitary collar member (346) and forms the cranial end (347) of the unitary collar member (346). Additional coupling resistive dampers (342) are formed between the trapezius grappler (312) and the proximal spinal support (340), i.e., the spinal support (340) closest to the trapezius grappler (312) as compared to the other spinal supports (312).

[0062] The use of a single-piece color member (346) to form an integrally coupled resistive damper (342) represents only one exemplary embodiment. In other embodiments, the color member and the integrally coupled resistive damper may be separate or distinct (e.g., non-single-piece) components. For example, the integrally coupled resistive damper may include a separate piece that is coupled or otherwise secured to the color member.

[0063] As can be seen in FIGS. 27-29, the compliant resistive joints formed by the spinal support (340) and the compliant resistive dampers (342) are sized and positioned dorsal to respective alternating human vertebrae (360). As shown in FIGS. 27-29, the C1 vertebra (atlas) is denoted by reference numeral (360A), the C2 vertebra is denoted by reference numeral (360B), the C3 vertebra is denoted by reference numeral (360C), the C4 vertebra is denoted by reference numeral (360D), the C5 vertebra is denoted by reference numeral (360E), the C6 vertebra is denoted by reference numeral (360F), the C7 vertebra is denoted by reference numeral (360G), and the T1 vertebra is denoted by reference numeral (360H). Embodiments of the third exemplary spinal support device (300) may be provided in many different sizes to accommodate individuals of different ages, heights, sizes, and genders. For a given size of the spinal support device (300), the exact alignment of the spinal support (340) and the compliant resistive joints formed by the compliant resistive dampers (342) with the vertebrae (360) depends on many factors including the size of the wearer's trapezius muscle and the length of the wearer's neck. Thus, for spinal support devices (300) of the same size, the alignment may shift relatively cranially or caudally from one subject to another. FIGS. 27 and 28 show a relatively more cranial alignment where the spinal support (340) is aligned and positioned to support the C2 vertebra (360B), the C4 vertebra (360D), and the C6 vertebra (360F) at the back, and the compliant resistive joints formed by the compliant resistive dampers (342) are aligned and positioned to support the C3 vertebra (360C), the C5 vertebra (360E), and the C7 vertebra (360G) at the back.FIG. 29 shows a relatively more caudal alignment where the spinal support (340) is aligned and positioned to support the C3 vertebra (360C), C5 vertebra (360E), and C7 vertebra (360G) in the back, and the compliant resistive joint formed by the compliant resistive damper (342) is aligned and positioned to support the C4 vertebra (360D), C6 vertebra (360F), and T1 vertebra (360H) in the back.

[0064] In both the relatively more cranial alignment (Figs. 27 and 28) and the relatively more caudal alignment (Fig. 29), the relative positions of the commissural resistive joint formed by the mitral valve grappler (312), the spinal support (340), and the commissural resistive damper (342) enable the cervical support portion (302) to mimic the native joints of the human spine. Similar to the first and second exemplary spinal support devices (100)(200), the commissural resistive joint formed by the commissural resistive damper (342) increases its resistance as it undergoes deformation that increases in response to the forces acting to cause flexion / extension / rotation of the spine, and as a result, can reduce the angular / rotational acceleration (whiplash) of the head and neck from impacts to the head or body. Thus, the frame elements (the spinal support (340) and the flange portion (270) described below) are configured to divert at least a portion of the internal strain forces within the cervical spine through the frame elements to the deformable regions (the commissural resistive damper (342) in addition to the commissural resistive flange portion (368)). The energy-absorbing material forming the commissural resistive damper (342) and the commissural resistive flange (368) weakens the internal strain forces diverted by the deformation of the rate-sensitive material. Thus, when the third spinal support device (300) is secured onto the wearer's neck, at least a portion of the force applied to the hard tissue (vertebrae) is diverted from the soft tissue (e.g., muscles, intervertebral discs) by transferring the force through the force-orienting frame (the spinal support (340) and the flange portion (270)) to the dampers (the commissural resistive damper (342) and the commissural resistive flange portion (368)), whereby the dampers absorb a portion of the transferred force and as a result limit the internal force of the force applied to the soft tissue by the hard tissue.

[0065] To couple the movement of the subject's head to the third spinal support device (300), the third spinal support device (300) further includes an atlas support flange (362) that is mechanically coupled to and supported by a cervical support portion (302) distal to the sternocleidomastoid grappler (312). The atlas support flange (362) is disposed on the skull at the cranial end (347) of the collar member (346) and extends outwardly at the back such that when the third exemplary spinal support device (300) is worn, the atlas support flange (362) is generally aligned with the wearer's atlas bone (360A) and is sandwiched between the wearer's occipital bone (364) and a distal coupling resilient damper (342). The atlas support flange (362) provides a mechanical coupling between the wearer's occipital bone (364) and the distal coupling resilient damper (342) such that when the wearer's head moves (e.g., pivots) at the back due to an impact or the like, energy is transferred from the wearer's skull through the atlas support flange (362) to the distal coupling resilient damper (342) and thus to the cervical support portion (302). In some embodiments, for sports where a helmet is not worn, the atlas support flange (362) may directly engage the wearer's head; in other embodiments, for sports where a helmet is worn, the atlas support flange (362) may engage the helmet, for example, at the base on the back side of the helmet. The atlas support flange (362) may have different sizes or shapes depending on its intended use. For example, as shown in FIGS. 32A and 32B, the atlas support flange (362) (FIG. 32A) intended for use in hockey may have a smaller volume than that intended for use in American / Canadian football (FIG. 32B). The atlas support flange (362) enables the third exemplary spinal support device to be used with a standard unmodified helmet.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, as best seen in FIGS. 32A and 32B, the atlas support flange (362) includes an adhesive resistant flange portion (368) and a semi-rigid elastic flange portion (370), and when the atlas support flange (362) engages the cervical support portion (302), the semi-rigid elastic flange portion (370) is sandwiched between the adhesive resistant flange portion (368) and the distal adhesive resistant damper (342). The adhesive resistant flange portion (368) may be made of the same material as the collar member (346), such as an elastomeric material or a suitable force-responsive polymer. The semi-rigid elastic flange portion (270) may be made of, for example, a suitable flexible polymer. The semi-rigid elastic flange portion (270) is also a frame element and aids in the transfer of energy from the skull or helmet to the distal adhesive resistant damper (342) via the atlas support flange (262). The adhesive resistant flange portion (368) also provides a progressively increasing resistance to deformation and as a result can provide additional mechanical resistance to whip-related and concussion-related motions (e.g., braking / deceleration).

[0067] As shown in FIG. 30, in the exemplary embodiment, the atlas support flange (362) is incorporated into and extends outwardly from a liner (372) disposed on the innermost surface of the cervical support portion (302) such that, in use, the liner (372) is positioned between the wearer's neck and the cervical support portion (302). In the exemplary embodiment, the liner includes a frame (373) (FIG. 30) and a plurality of spaced apart resilient members (374) laminated within an envelope of breathable mesh (376) (see FIGS. 32A and B; the breathable mesh envelope (376) is not shown in FIGS. 30 and 31 for clarity of illustration). The space between the breathable mesh (376) and the resilient members (374) promotes air flow along the subject's neck to improve comfort when wearing the spinal support device (300). In a preferred embodiment, as shown in the figures, the atlas support flange (362), which includes both a bonding resistant flange portion (268) and a semi-rigid resilient flange portion (370), is generally L-shaped in cross-section and includes a dependency brace (378) forming portion of the liner (372) and is enclosed within the breathable mesh (376) along the resilient members (374). In a preferred embodiment, the liner (372) and thus the atlas support flange (362) are selectively engageable and releasable with the cervical support portion (302) and, to assist in fitting the spinal support device (300) to the subject, the liner (372) may be provided with different thicknesses by use of the resilient members (374) and dependency braces of a desired thickness. The liner (372) may engage and then disengage from the cervical support portion (302) in a number of ways including, among other things, friction and / or pressure between the wearer's neck and the cervical support portion (302), or a positive engagement mechanism such as a hook-and-loop fastener or snap fastener. Thus, the spinal support device (300) has an engagement surface that conforms to the outer surface contour of the subject's neck.

[0068] Referring now to FIGS. 33 - 35, in a preferred embodiment, the spinal support device (300) further includes an elastic C - shaped retainer (380) that engages a single - piece collar member (346). The retainer (380) helps return the cervical support portion (302) to a neutral quasi - circular shape following distortion from movement or the like by the wearer. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer (380) includes a curved central - opening shield - shaped frame (382) having two outwardly extending arms (384), and two outer H - frames (386), wherein the cross - bars (388) of the two outer H - frames (386) are connected to the arms (384) of the central - opening shield - shaped frame (382) by fasteners (390) such as rivets. The fasteners (390) extend through the arms (384) of the central - opening shield - shaped frame (382), through the cross - bars (388) of the outer H - frames (386), and through the single - piece collar member (346). The retainer (380) may be made of, for example, a suitable flexible polymer. As shown in FIGS. 30 and 33, the retainer (380), the spinal support (340), and the single - piece collar member (346) may be laminated between inner and outer layers (392)(394) of fabric, cloth, or similar material so as to provide the cervical support portion (302) in the outer sheath. In the illustrated embodiment, the lamination between the inner and outer layers (392)(394) secures the sternocleidomastoid grapnels (312) and other spinal supports (312) in position on the single - piece collar member (346), and a layer of thermoplastic polyurethane resin (TPU) is coated on the outer surface of the outer sheath formed by the inner and outer layers (392)(394) to provide additional structural reinforcement. Other techniques such as adhesives or bond formation may also be used to secure the sternocleidomastoid grapnels (312) and other spinal supports (312) on the single - piece collar member (346).

[0069] As noted above, the third spinal support device (300) further includes a harness (395) (not shown in FIG. 30; see FIGS. 36 and 37), which is fixed to the cervical support portion (302) to preserve the exact anatomical placement of the third spinal support device (300). Thus, the harness (395) serves as a fastener suitable for externally and non-invasively securing the wearable article (spinal support device (300)) to the subject in alignment with the cervical vertebrae that conform closely in form to the surface contour of the neck, such that forces are transferred from the hard tissue (vertebrae) to the force orientation frame (vertebral support (340) and flange portion (270)). Like the first and second exemplary spinal support devices (100)(200), the third exemplary spinal support device (300) may be incorporated into a torso article such as a vest, compression shirt, etc. For example, as shown in FIGS. 36 and 37, the cervical support portion (302) is formed from TPU and the harness (395) is laminated to or otherwise suitably secured to a shirt (396) or similar article. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the harness (395) is fixed to the cervical portion (302) by stitching, for example, to an outer sheath formed by inner and outer layers (392)(394) (FIG. 30), and further structural reinforcement is provided by bonding the harness to a layer of TPU disposed on the outer surface of the outer sheath. In other embodiments, the harness may be made from other suitable materials. Further, the harness design shown, which forms loops across the chest and under the arms and between the shoulder blades so as to encircle the torso, is merely an exemplary harness configuration and any suitable harness configuration providing a comfortable attachment to the torso may be used.

[0070] The spinal support device (300) preferably includes a throat band (397) extending across the aperture (398) of the cervical support portion. For example, the throat band (397) may be sewn or otherwise secured to an outer sheath formed by inner and outer layers (392)(394) of material, and may be stretchable or otherwise elastic, or may take the form of a strap with a buckle or other fastener. In some embodiments, for example, if the spinal support device (300) is intended for use in ice hockey, the throat band (397) and the inner and outer layers (392)(394) may be made of a suitable cut-resistant material. For example, certain sports may require throat protection that meets certain cut-resistant criteria.

[0071] Referring now to FIGS. 38 - 48B, these illustrate other exemplary wearable articles in the form of a fourth exemplary spinal support device (400). In the fourth exemplary spinal support device (400), the force alignment frame (402) is formed by two spaced curved frame elements, namely a cranial frame element (404A) and a caudal frame element (404B), which are formed and dimensioned to be anatomically complementary to the front and side portions of the human neck (e.g., the cervical region). The frame elements (404A)(404B) are coupled to an amount of rate-sensitive material in the form of a single-piece quasi-circular collar member (408), which is also formed and dimensioned to be anatomically complementary to the front and side portions of the human neck. Specific exemplary techniques for coupling the frame elements (404A), (404B) to the rate-sensitive material (406) are further described below.

[0072] The frame elements (404A) (404B) form three deformable regions (410A) (410B) (410C) within the force - oriented frame (402), and the rate - sensitive material (406) is disposed within the deformable regions (410A) (410B) (410C). The upper deformable region (410A) is formed above (skull side) the skull frame element (404A), the lower deformable region (404B) is formed below (caudal side) the caudal frame element (404B), and the intermediate deformable region (410C) is formed between the skull frame element (404A) and the caudal frame element (404B). The portions of the rate - sensitive material (406) that form the color member (408) are disposed within each of the upper deformable region (410A), the lower deformable region (404B), and the intermediate deformable region (410C). When the fourth exemplary spinal support device (400) is secured to a subject's neck, the frame elements (404A) (404B) redirect at least a portion of the internal strain forces within the neck, through one or both of the frame elements (404A) (404B), to one or more of the upper deformable region (410A), the lower deformable region (404B), and the intermediate deformable region (410C). The rate - sensitive material (406) in the upper deformable region (410A), the lower deformable region (404B), and / or the intermediate deformable region (410C) thus attenuates the internal strain forces redirected by the deformation of the rate - sensitive material (406).

[0073] As shown in FIGS. 40 and 41, the fourth exemplary spinal support device (400) is externally and non - invasively secured to a subject by a fastener including a compression shirt (420) having an integrated harness (422), positioned and closely conformably engaged with the neck, and this configuration is further described below.

[0074] Referring now to FIGS. 38 and 39, in a fourth exemplary spinal support device (400), the force alignment frame (402) and the rate sensitive material (406) are enclosed within an envelope (430) formed by a molded foam overlay (432) and a dorsal liner (434) formed from a suitable fibrous material (e.g., a stretch fabric sold under the trade name Lycra®) and securable to the overlay (432) by sewing or other suitable techniques. The use of the overlay (432) allows the dorsal liner (434) to conform to the shape of the color member (408) without using "tenting" of the fibrous material; in other embodiments, the foam overlay may be omitted and the color member (408) may be molded directly onto the fabric layer. The overlay (432) may provide some additional structure and / or impact protection depending on the material, but the primary functionality of the spinal support device (400) is provided by the cooperation of the force alignment frame (402) and the rate sensitive material (406). The fourth exemplary spinal support device (400) may be secured to the compression shirt (420) by a bond as shown in FIG. 39, by an overlock as shown in FIG. 39A, by a coverstitch as shown in FIG. 39B, or by any other suitable technique.

[0075] Reference is now made to FIGS. 42 - 48B. As best seen in FIGS. 42 - 45, in a preferred embodiment, a fourth exemplary spinal support device (400) further includes an abdominal liner (440) that extends across an opening in the collar member (408) and is secured to the compression shirt (420). In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth exemplary spinal support device (400) is suitable for use in ice hockey and the abdominal liner (440) is a cut-resistant liner. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the ventral liner (440) includes an intermediate layer (442) of elastic fabric (e.g., Lycra®) secured to the dorsal liner (434) and an outer layer (444) of elastic fabric secured to the overlay (432), and a layer of cut-resistant fabric (446) conforming to applicable adjustments is disposed between the intermediate layer (442) and the outer layer (444) and secured to the overlay (432). The inner layer (442) and the outer layer (444) may each be separate pieces as shown in FIG. 46A, or may be formed from a single piece folded over the cut-resistant fabric (446) as shown in FIG. 46B.

[0076] As noted above, a fourth exemplary spinal support device (400) includes a compression shirt (420) that is secured by fasteners and has an integrated harness (422). As best seen in FIGS. 42-45 and 47-48B, the fasteners further include opposing adjustment straps (450) that are secured to both an overlay (432) in addition to a cut-resistant fabric (446). As shown in FIG. 47, the adjustment straps (450) cross the subject's chest, and the ends of the adjustment straps (450) may be adjustably attached to the integrated harness (422) of the compression shirt (420) by mating hook-and-loop fastener material (452), such as that sold under the Velcro® trademark. FIGS. 48A and 48B each show an exemplary structure for the adjustment strap (450), and the compression shirt (420) and integrated harness (422). As shown in FIG. 48A, in an exemplary embodiment, each adjustment strap (450) includes a laminate (454) formed from three layers of stretch fabric (e.g., Lycra®) bonded together by a TPU layer sandwiched between fabric layers, with hook or loop fabric patches (456) joined to the adjustment strap (450) ends by a TPU film layer (458) of corresponding size. As shown in FIG. 48B, the harness (422) includes a TPU overlay (460) joined to the fabric of the compression shirt (420), and hook or loop fabric patches (462) (mates to the hook or loop fabric patches (456) on the adjustment strap (450)) joined to the TPU overlay (460) by a TPU film layer (464) of corresponding size. In some examples, the adjustment straps (450) enable the spinal support device to fit comfortably on the subject's neck and / or torso. In some examples, a comfortable fit of the spinal support device provides support to the head, neck, and / or spine without the need for a spinal support device connected to a helmet.

[0077] Referring now to FIGS. 49 - 54B, these illustrate two exemplary methods for forming the frame elements (404A) (404B) and the color member (408) of the velocity sensitive material (406), and for connecting them together. In each case, the frame elements (404A) (404B) are overmolded onto an outer layer (470) comprising an elastic fabric having a TPU film (e.g., Lycra®); the outer layer is replaced with an overlay (432). The outer layer (470) having the overmolded frame elements (404A) (404B) is then placed in a mold, and a dorsal liner (434) comprising an elastic fabric having a TPU film (e.g., Lycra®) is also placed in the mold. Next, the velocity sensitive material (406) is added to the mold and molded into the color member (408). FIGS. 49, 51, and 53 are included as references to indicate the positions of the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 50A, 50B, 52A, 52B, 53A, and 53B.

[0078] FIGS. 50A, 52A, and 54A show a first arrangement where the frame elements (404A) (404B) are formed from high density polyurethane foam and are generally solid in cross-section along their length; FIGS. 50B, 52B, and 54B show a second arrangement where the frame elements (404A) (404B) are formed from TPU having a generally channel steel cross-section over their length.

[0079] FIGS. 55 - 57 show alternative structures for the compression shirt (420), the incorporated harness (422), and the adjustment strap (450).

[0080] Figures 58 - 60 show alternative structures for the compression shirt (420), the incorporated harness (422), and the adjustment strap (450) of the spinal support device (400) of FIG. 38. In some examples, the spinal support device (400) includes a cervical support device or a neck support device, an adjustment strap (450), and an incorporated harness (422). In some examples, the spinal support device (400) is a cervical support device or a neck support device, or includes these, and does not include the adjustment strap (450) and / or the incorporated harness (422). FIG. 58 provides a front perspective view of the spinal support device (400) having the compression shirt (420), the incorporated harness (422), and the adjustment strap (450). FIG. 59 provides a rear perspective view of the spinal support device (400) having the compression shirt (420), the incorporated harness (422), and the adjustment strap (450). FIG. 60 provides a front view and a rear view of the spinal support device (400) having the compression shirt (420), the incorporated harness (422), and the adjustment strap (450). The spinal support devices shown in FIGS. 58 - 60 may be variants of the spinal support device of FIG. 38. In some cases, the spinal support device includes a neck spinal support portion, such as a color as shown, for example, in FIGS. 58 - 60. In some examples, the spinal support device includes a spinal support portion that can support one or more regions other than the cervical vertebrae to complement the neck spinal support portion. The spinal regions include the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral regions. The spinal support portion may include an upper spinal support portion and a lower spinal support portion. In some examples, the spinal support portion extends along the back or spine of the subject. In some examples, the spinal support portion extends along at least a part, a majority, or the entire length of the back or spine of the subject. The spinal support portion may extend along at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, or 99% of the entire length of the spine on the back of the subject. In some examples, the spinal support portion extends along a partial length of the back or spine of the subject. In some examples, while the neck spinal support portion protects at least the cervical part of the spine, the spinal support portion of the spine protects one or more of the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral regions.For example, in some instances, the spinal support portion protects the thoracic region of the spine. In some instances, the spinal support portion protects the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spine. In some instances, the spinal support portion protects the thoracic, flank, and sacral regions of the spine. In some instances, the spinal support portion provides a partial spinal support, such as an upper spinal support or a central spinal support. In some instances, the spinal support portion provides a full spinal support. For example, the harness (422) may include a spinal support portion that extends along the back of a subject wearing the harness. The spinal support portion may be disposed below the neck support portion. In some instances, the spinal support portion may be connected, attached, and / or incorporated into the neck support portion of the spinal support device. Alternatively, the spinal support portion may be separated from the neck support portion and instead be connected, attached, and / or incorporated into the harness itself. In some instances, the spinal support portion is separated from both the neck support portion and the harness and instead includes its own fasteners for fitting or wearing by the subject. In some instances, the spinal support device does not include a spinal support portion. For example, the spinal support device (400) shown in FIGS. 58 - 60 includes a neck support portion, a harness, and adjustment straps.

[0081] In some instances, the harness design shown in the drawings depicts loops that cross the chest, pass under the arms, cross the flanks, and pass between the shoulder blades so as to surround the torso to provide a snug fit to the torso. The harness (422) may include loops that cross the chest, pass under the arms, and pass between the shoulder blades so as to surround the torso. The harness (422) may include loops that cross the center and / or lower back as shown in FIG. 59, which are often incorporated into or connected to a spinal support portion disposed vertically along the spine. In some instances, the harness is separable from a collar and / or a compression shirt. In some instances, the harness is not separable from a collar and / or a compression shirt. In some instances, the harness includes an elastomeric overlay. In some instances, the harness includes an overlay of thermoplastic polyurethane resin (TPU).

[0082] In some examples, the TPU includes a polyester TPU, a polyether TPU, a polycaprolactone TPU, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the TPU includes an aromatic TPU, an aliphatic TPU, or any combination thereof. The TPU is a block copolymer composed of hard blocks (e.g., consisting of a chain extender and isocyanate) and soft blocks (e.g., consisting of a polyol and isocyanate). Adjusting the relative ratio of the hard blocks and the soft blocks enables the production of TPUs with varying physical properties. In some examples, the harness is attached, connected, adhered, or incorporated into a compression shirt (or a garment such as a shirt, jacket, or sweater) by lamination. In some examples, the harness is laminated onto the compression shirt. In some examples, the harness is laminated onto one or more layers of a material (e.g., Lycra) laminated onto the shirt. In some examples, the harness includes one or more openings (e.g., gaps in the harness material) (465) to provide flexion and / or mobility. For example, in some instances, the harness includes a TPU configured to resist stretching. The harness can include one or more openings (465) at the rear to enable forward flexion and / or a maximum range of motion. In some examples, the harness includes one or more openings (465) at the front to enable rearward flexion and / or a maximum range of motion.

[0083] Figures 58 - 60 also show an integrated harness (422) having at least one flank adjustment strap (455) incorporated into or attached to a compression shirt (420). In some examples, the at least one flank adjustment strap (455) is secured to an overlay (432) with a cut - resistant fabric (446). As shown in Figure 58, the flank adjustment strap (455) crosses or diagonally crosses the flank of the subject, and the ends of the flank adjustment strap are adjustably attached to the integrated harness (422) on the compression shirt (420) by mating with a hook - and - loop material (452) such as that sold under the trademark Velcro®. Figure 60 shows typical structures for two flank adjustment straps and for the compression shirt (420) and integrated harness (422), respectively. In some examples, the flank adjustment strap (455) is attached to a harness as shown in Figure 59. Thus, the flank adjustment strap (455) can secure the entire spinal support system (e.g., spinal support device, harness, and compression shirt) to the subject and maintain the spinal support device, such as the collar in Figure 58, in place, effectively balancing the tension of the front and rear of the harness around the subject. For example, the strap allows the subject to properly secure the device in the appropriate area with a comfortable tension defined by the subject. In some examples, the flank adjustment strap (455) is sewn to the harness and / or compression shirt. In some examples, the flank adjustment strap is attached along the dorsal (rear) side of the harness towards one end and along the abdominal (front) side of the harness towards the other end using Velcro®. In some examples, the flank adjustment strap is attached without using Velcro®, for example, with a buckle or the like.

[0084] In some embodiments, the spinal support device does not require specific structural elements to provide support and / or stability. For example, in some instances, the spinal support device does not include an exoskeleton and / or wearable article. In some examples, the spinal support device does not include hinge points. In some examples, the spinal support device is not attached to a helmet. In some examples, the spinal support device does not include a compression shirt or is not attached to a compression shirt. In some examples, the spinal support device does not include a harness or is not attached to a harness. In some examples, the spinal support device is coupled to a harness that is not incorporated into a shirt or other clothing. In some examples, the harness is worn over a shirt or other clothing (e.g., a compression shirt). In some examples, the spinal support device does not include adjustment straps.

[0085] In FIGS. 61A - 62C, exemplary first compression articles are provided herein. FIG. 61A shows a front view of an exemplary first compression article according to some embodiments. FIG. 61B shows a back view of the exemplary first compression article of FIG. 61A. FIG. 61C shows a side view of the exemplary first compression article of FIG. 61A. FIG. 61D shows a detailed front view of the exemplary first compression article of FIG. 61A. FIG. 61E shows a detailed back view of the exemplary first compression article of FIG. 61A. FIG. 61F shows a detailed side view of the exemplary first compression article of FIG. 61A.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 61A - 62C, an exemplary first compression article (6100) includes a base layer (6120), compression elements, and support elements. As shown, the support elements support a neck support (6101), leg supports (6102), shin supports (6103), and a spinal support (6104). As shown, the compression elements include a chest compression portion (6105), shoulder compression portions (6106), elbow compression portions (6107), leg compression portions (6108), knee compression portions (6109), shin compression portions (6110), ankle compression portions (6111), and waist compression portions (6112). In some embodiments, the compression article (6100) further includes gripping elements (not shown) on the inner surface of the base layer of the article.

[0087] As can be seen, a typical first compression article (6100) includes one neck support (6101), two leg supports (6102), two shin supports (6103), one spine support (6104), one chest compression part (6105), two shoulder compression parts (6106), two elbow compression parts (6107), two leg compression parts (6108), two knee compression parts (6109), two shin compression parts (6110), two ankle compression parts (6111), one waist compression part (6112), and one base layer (6120). As used herein, support and support element have the same meaning and are used interchangeably. Articles including any combination of the foregoing support elements are contemplated herein. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a typical first compression article (6100) includes one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more of each of the neck support (6101), leg support (6102), shin support (6103), spine support (6104), chest compression part (6105), shoulder compression part (6106), elbow compression part (6107), leg compression part (6108), knee compression part (6109), shin compression part (6110), ankle compression part (6111), waist compression part (6112), gripping elements, or any combination thereof.

[0088] In some embodiments, at least one of the support element and the compression element is permanently or removably attached to the substrate (6120). In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is laminated or printed adjacent to the substrate. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is removably attached to the substrate (6120). In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is removably attached to the inner surface of the substrate (6120). In some embodiments, at least one of the support element and the compression element is attached to the outer surface of the substrate (6120). In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is removably attached to the substrate (6120) by a fastener, optionally, the fastener includes a strap, buckle, hook-and-loop fastener, zipper, button, hook, eyelet, lace, magnet, clamp, clip, screw, bolt, nut, tie, or any combination thereof.

[0089] In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the substrate (6120), and the gripping element is formed of cloth, thread, wood, fiberglass, carbon fiber, metal, polymer, gel, foam, composite, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the polymer includes a thermoplastic polyurethane resin, silicone, polyester, spandex, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least two of the support element, the compression element, the substrate (6120), and the gripping element are formed of the same material. In some embodiments, at least two of the support element, the compression element, the substrate (6120), and the gripping element are formed of different materials.

[0090] In some embodiments, at least one of the compression elements comprises a polymeric material or a composite material. In some embodiments, at least one of the compression elements comprises silicon, nylon, Lycra, rubber, neoprene, vinyl, polyurethane, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one of the support elements comprises an elastic polymer. In some embodiments, at least one of the support elements comprises a gel, a foam, a non-Newtonian fluid, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the foam comprises a non-Newtonian fluid. In some embodiments, the foam comprises a shear-thickening non-Newtonian fluid. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian foam is contained within a pouch. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian fluid is contained within a pouch. In some embodiments, the non-Newtonian fluid comprises a shear-thickening non-Newtonian fluid. In some embodiments, at least one of the support elements comprises a non-Newtonian foam and a non-Newtonian fluid. In some embodiments, at least one of the support elements comprises a Newtonian foam material disposed between the body surface of the subject and the non-Newtonian material.

[0091] Non-Newtonian substances or rate-sensitive substances do not follow Newton's law of viscosity and have a viscosity that is proportional to the rate of shear at that instant or previously. Non-Newtonian substances are generally classified as shear-thinning or shear-thickening non-Newtonian substances, and the viscosity of shear-thinning or shear-thickening non-Newtonian substances decreases and increases, respectively, under shear. The magnitude of the factor by which the viscosity of a fluid changes due to shear stress is called the power-law number, where shear-thinning non-Newtonian substances exhibit a power-law number greater than 1, and shear-thickening non-Newtonian substances exhibit a power-law number less than 1. Further, non-Newtonian substances can be classified as non-Newtonian fluids or non-Newtonian solids, which exist as fluids or solids, respectively, under shear stresses below zero. In some embodiments, solid non-Newtonian substances can be easily incorporated into wearable articles.

[0092] In some embodiments, the force-responsive material or velocity-sensitive substance includes a foam material and a dilatant (e.g., a non-Newtonian fluid). In some embodiments, the force-responsive material includes a foam matrix. In some embodiments, the foam matrix is made of a soft elastic polymer. Examples of elastic polymers include polyurethane, polybutadiene, chloroprene, polychloroprene, neoprene, isobutylene and isoprene copolymers, styrene-butadiene rubber copolymers, butadiene acrylonitrile copolymers, ethylene-propylene copolymers, polyacrylic acid rubber, epichlorohydrin, fluorine rubber, perfluoroelastomer, polyether block amide, ethylene vinyl acetate, polysulfide rubber, and elastolefin. In some embodiments, the foam matrix includes a solid foam polymer. In some embodiments, the foam matrix includes a synthetic polymer. In some embodiments, the dilatant is dispersed within the foam matrix. In some embodiments, the dilatant is present in at least about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, or about 80% volume percent (v / v) of the foam matrix. In some embodiments, polyborodimethylsiloxane is present in at most about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, or about 80% volume percent (v / v) of the foam matrix.

[0093] Typical force-responsive materials or rate-sensitive substances that include non-Newtonian fluids are urethane foams that include polyborodimethylsiloxane. In some embodiments, the force-responsive material includes foam materials such as urethane foams and dilatants. In some embodiments, the dilatant is a polymer-based substance such as polyborodimethylsiloxane. In some embodiments, the polyborodimethylsiloxane is present in a foam matrix at a volume percent (v / v) of at least about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, or about 60%. In some embodiments, the polyborodimethylsiloxane is present in a foam matrix at a volume percent (v / v) of at most about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, or about 60%.

[0094] In some embodiments, the dilatant includes colloidal silica particles suspended in polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, the particulate silica is suspended at a volume percent (v / v) of at least about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, or about 80%. In some embodiments, the particulate silica is suspended at a volume percent (v / v) of at most about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, or about 80%.

[0095] Preferably, the rate-sensitive substance is a solid material (the term "solid" includes foams), but the use of non-solid rate-sensitive substances is also contemplated. For example, a liquid rate-sensitive substance may be enclosed in a package that is impermeable to the liquid and used in a wearable article according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the solid rate-sensitive substance includes a foam matrix having a dispersion expander.

[0096] In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer (6120) comprises two or more layers. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer (6120) is permanent, water resistant, stain proof, hypoallergenic, antibacterial, self-healing, heat resistant, friction resistant, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer (6120) is formed of a polymeric material or a synthetic material.

[0097] In some embodiments, at least one support element is configured to provide the wearer with stress relief, load transfer, fatigue reduction, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one support element is configured to provide resistance to at least one movement of the wearer's muscles, joints, or bones, where the resistance increases as the movement increases. In some embodiments, at least one support element is configured to apply a force to at least one of the wearer's muscles, joints, or bones through a full or partial range of motion of the wearer in one or more degrees of freedom. In some embodiments, the force includes a continuous force, a proportional force, a derived force, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one of the proportional force and the derived force is based on the linear position, angular position, velocity, or acceleration of the wearer's bones, muscles, or joints. In some embodiments, the muscles include the biceps, triceps, deltoids, forearms, thighs, calves, trapezius, glutes, neck, chest, obliques, upper back, lower back, or abs. In some embodiments, the joints include the ankles, knees, hips, spine, wrists, elbows, or shoulders. In some embodiments, the bones include the ankles, knees, hips, spine, wrists, elbows, shoulders, tibias, fibulas, arms, necks, or ribs. In some embodiments, the neck support includes a quasi-circular collar member that anatomically complements the wearer's neck. In some embodiments, the neck support includes an elastomeric material or a force-responsive polymer disposed around the back and sides of the wearer's neck. In some embodiments, at least one of the neck support, spine support, leg support, or shin support includes a groove. In some embodiments, at least one of the neck support, spine support, leg support, and shin support includes a plurality of grooves, including 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more grooves. In some embodiments, two or more of the plurality of grooves have equal sizes or shapes. In some embodiments, two or more of the plurality of grooves have unequal sizes or shapes. In some embodiments, the grooves are configured to bend or fold along a set line, arch, or plane.In some embodiments, the groove is configured to impede or suppress the wearer's movement in one or more degrees of freedom. In some embodiments, at least one compression element is configured to provide stress support, load transfer, fatigue reduction, or any combination thereof to the wearer. In some embodiments, at least one compression element is configured to lack force on the wearer's muscles, bones, or joints. In some embodiments, at least one compression element is configured to apply force to the wearer's muscles, bones, or joints over a full or partial range of motion of the muscles, bones, or joints. In some embodiments, the force includes a continuous force, a proportional force, a derived force, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one of the proportional force and the derived force is based on the linear position, angular position, velocity, or acceleration of the wearer's bones, muscles, or joints. In some embodiments, the muscles include the biceps, triceps, deltoids, forearms, thighs, calves, trapezius, glutes, neck, chest, or abs. In some embodiments, the joints include the ankles, knees, hips, spine, wrists, elbows, or shoulders. In some embodiments, the bones include the ankles, knees, hips, spine, wrists, elbows, shoulders, tibias, fibulas, arms, necks, or collar bones. In some embodiments, the article further includes a harness secured to at least one support element. In some embodiments, the harness is incorporated into the base layer. In some embodiments, the harness is laminated or printed adjacent to the base layer. In some embodiments, the article further includes at least one adjustable tension element. In some embodiments, at least one adjustable tension element includes at least one of a chest tension element, an abdominal tension element, a waist tension element, a thigh tension element, or a shin tension element. In some embodiments, at least one adjustable tension element includes a strap, a fastener, a buckle, a hook-and-loop fastener, a zipper, a button, a hook, a guide, a lace, a magnet, a clamp, a clip, a screw, a bolt, a nut, a tie, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the article is a shirt, a pair of pants, or a full body suit.In some embodiments, the base layer is bilaterally symmetric.

[0098] Illustrated in FIGS. 61A - 62E is a typical first compression article (6100) that includes a base layer (6120) having an inner surface and an outer surface. In some embodiments, the inner surface has a first coefficient of friction (μ1) with respect to the body surface of a subject. In some embodiments, the base layer (6120) has a first modulus of elasticity (E1). In some embodiments, at least one compression element has a second modulus of elasticity (E2) that is greater than E1.

[0099] As seen in FIGS. 61A, 61D, and 61E, the neck support (6101) is configured to support the neck of a subject. In some embodiments, the neck support (6101) is configured to maintain continuous contact with the subject's neck over a full or partial range of neck motion. In some embodiments, the neck support (6101) is configured to apply a force to the subject's neck over a full or partial range of neck motion. In some embodiments, the neck support (6101) is configured to apply a continuous force, a proportional force, or a derived force to the subject's spine. In some embodiments, the force applied to the subject by the neck support (6101) corresponds to at least one of the linear or angular position, velocity, and acceleration of the subject's neck. In some embodiments, the neck support (6101) contacts, or is rigidly or flexibly coupled to, at least one of the spine support (6104), the chest compression portion (6105), the shoulder compression portion (6106), and the base layer (6120). In some embodiments, the neck support (6101) includes one or more independent portions, where two or more of the independent portions are permanently or removably coupled. In some embodiments, two or more independent portions are rigidly or flexibly coupled to each other.

[0100] In some embodiments, at least one support element includes a neck support device. In some embodiments, the neck support device includes a neck support body (6101). In some embodiments, the neck support device includes a non-Newtonian material incorporated into a base layer by at least one laminate. In some embodiments, the neck support device includes an inner mesh liner disposed within the base layer that contacts the wearer's neck.

[0101] In some embodiments, the neck support (6101) has a uniform thickness in at least one of the radial and linear directions. In some embodiments, the neck support (6101) has a non-uniform thickness. In some embodiments, the neck support (6101) is bilaterally symmetric. As seen in FIG. 61E, the neck support (6101) may include one or more grooves (6101a). In some embodiments, one or more grooves (6101a) are configured to bend or fold along a set line, arch, or plane. In some embodiments, one or more grooves (6101a) are configured to impede movement of the neck in one or more directions. In some embodiments, two or more of the grooves (6101a) have equal size or shape. In some embodiments, two or more of the grooves (6101a) have unequal size or shape. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6101a) is generally parallel to the cross-section of the subject. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6101a) extends radially around the neck of the subject. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6101a) extends radially and normally around the neck of the subject. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6101a) terminates at the end of the neck support (6101). In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6101a) terminates without intersecting the end of the neck support (6101). As seen in FIG. 61E, the neck support (6101) includes four grooves (6101a). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the neck support (6101) includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more grooves.

[0102] As seen in FIGS. 61B and 61E, the spinal support (6104) is configured to support the subject's spine. In some embodiments, the spinal support (6104) is configured to maintain continuous contact with the subject's spine over a full or partial range of spinal motion. In some embodiments, the spinal support (6104) is configured to apply a force to the subject's spine over a full or partial range of spinal motion. In some embodiments, the spinal support (6104) is configured to apply a continuous force, a proportional force, or a derived force to the subject's spine. In some embodiments, the force applied to the subject by the spinal support (6104) corresponds to at least one of the linear or angular position, velocity, and acceleration of the subject's spine. In some embodiments, the spinal support (6104) contacts, or is rigidly or flexibly coupled to, at least one of the neck support (6101), the chest compression portion (6105), the shoulder compression portion (6106), the waist compression portion (6112), and the base layer (6120). In some embodiments, the spinal support (6104) includes one or more independent portions, where two or more of the independent portions are permanently or removably coupled. In some embodiments, two or more of the independent portions are rigidly or flexibly coupled to each other.

[0103] In some embodiments, the spinal support (6104) has a uniform thickness in at least one of the radial and linear directions. In some embodiments, the spinal support (6104) has a non-uniform thickness. In some embodiments, the spinal support (6104) is bilaterally symmetric. As seen in FIG. 61E, the spinal support (6104) may include one or more grooves (6104a). In some embodiments, one or more grooves (6104a) are configured to bend or fold along a set line, arch, or plane. In some embodiments, one or more grooves (6104a) are configured to impede the movement of the spine in one or more directions. In some embodiments, two or more of the grooves (6104a) have equal sizes or shapes. In some embodiments, two or more of the grooves (6104a) have unequal sizes or shapes. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6104a) is generally parallel to the cross-section of the subject. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6104a) extends radially around the spine of the subject. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6104a) extends radially and normally around the spine of the subject. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6104a) terminates at the end of the spinal support (6104). In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6104a) terminates without intersecting the end of the spinal support (6104). As seen in FIG. 61E, the spinal support (6104) includes four grooves (6104a). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the spinal support (6104) includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more grooves.

[0104] As shown in FIGS. 61A - C, the leg support (6102) of the first exemplary compression article is configured to protect at least one of the subject's leg and the underlying hip bone. In some embodiments, the leg support (6102) is configured to maintain continuous contact with the subject's leg over a full or partial range of leg motion. In some embodiments, the leg support (6102) is configured to apply force to the subject's leg over a full or partial range of leg motion. In some embodiments, the force applied to the subject by the leg support (6102) corresponds to at least one of the linear or angular position, velocity, and acceleration of the subject's leg. In some embodiments, the leg support (6102) contacts, or is rigidly or flexibly coupled to, at least one of the spinal support (6104), the leg support (6103), the waist compression portion (6108), the knee compression portion (6109), the leg compression portion (6112), and the substrate (6120). In some embodiments, the leg support (6102) includes one or more independent portions, where two or more of the independent portions are permanently or removably coupled. In some embodiments, two or more of the independent portions are rigidly or flexibly coupled to each other.

[0105] In some embodiments, the leg support (6102) has a uniform thickness in at least one of the radial and linear directions. In some embodiments, the leg support (6102) has a non - uniform thickness. In some embodiments, the leg support (6102) is bilaterally symmetric. In some embodiments, the leg support (6102) includes a left thigh support and a right thigh support configured to be used on the left and right sides of the subject, respectively. In some embodiments, the left thigh support is equal to the right thigh support. In some embodiments, the left thigh support is equal to the mirror image of the right thigh support with respect to one or more planes.

[0106] As shown in FIGS. 61A-C, the tibial support (6103) is configured to protect the tibia of the subject and at least one of the underlying leg bones. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) is configured to maintain continuous contact with the subject's tibia over a full or partial range of tibial motion. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) is configured to apply a force to the subject's tibia over a full or partial range of tibial motion. In some embodiments, the force applied to the subject by the tibial support (6103) corresponds to at least one of the linear or angular position, velocity, and acceleration of the subject's tibia. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) contacts, or is rigidly or flexibly coupled to, at least one of the spinal support (6104), the femoral support (6103), the ankle compression portion (6111), the knee compression portion (6109), the tibial compression portion (6112), and the substrate (6120). In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) includes one or more independent portions, where two or more of the independent portions are permanently or removably coupled. In some embodiments, two or more of the independent portions are rigidly or flexibly coupled to each other.

[0107] In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) has a uniform thickness in at least one of the radial and linear directions. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) has a non-uniform thickness. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) is bilaterally symmetric. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) includes a left tibial support and a right tibial support configured to be used on the left and right sides of the subject, respectively. In some embodiments, the left tibial support is equal to the right tibial support. In some embodiments, the left tibial support is equal to the mirror image of the right tibial support with respect to one or more planes.

[0108] As shown in FIGS. 61A - C, the tibial support (6103) is configured to protect the tibia of the subject and at least one of the underlying leg bones. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) is configured to maintain continuous contact with the subject's tibia over a full or partial range of tibial motion. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) is configured to apply a force to the subject's tibia over a full or partial range of tibial motion. In some embodiments, the force applied to the subject by the tibial support (6103) corresponds to at least one of the linear or angular position, velocity, and acceleration of the subject's tibia. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) contacts, or is rigidly or flexibly coupled to, at least one of a spinal support (6104), a femoral support (6103), an ankle compression portion (6111), a knee compression portion (6109), a tibial compression portion (6112), and a substrate (6120). In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) includes one or more independent parts, where two or more of the independent parts are permanently or removably coupled. In some embodiments, two or more of the independent parts are rigidly or flexibly coupled to each other.

[0109] In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) has a uniform thickness in at least one of a radial and a linear direction. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) has a non - uniform thickness. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) is bilaterally symmetric. In some embodiments, the tibial support (6103) includes a left tibial support and a right tibial support configured to be used on the left and right sides of the subject, respectively. In some embodiments, the left tibial support is equal to the right tibial support. In some embodiments, the left tibial support is equal to the mirror image of the right tibial support with respect to one or more planes.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 61C, a typical first compression article (6100) includes a chest compression portion (6105), a shoulder compression portion (6106), an elbow compression portion (6107), a leg compression portion (6108), a knee compression portion (6109), a shin compression portion (6110), a toe compression portion (6111), and a waist compression portion (6112).

[0111] As shown in FIG. 61C, the chest compression portion (6105) is configured to maintain at least one of the position and pressure of the first compression article (6100) relative to the chest of the subject. In some embodiments, the chest compression portion (6105) is configured to maintain at least one of the position and pressure of the neck support (6101) relative to the neck of the subject, the spine support (6104) relative to the spine of the subject, or both. In some embodiments, the chest compression portion (6105) is configured to maintain continuous contact with the chest of the subject over a full or partial range of chest motion. In some embodiments, the chest compression portion (6105) is configured to apply force to the chest of the subject over a full or partial range of chest motion. In some embodiments, the force applied to the subject by the chest compression portion (6105) corresponds to at least one of the linear position or angular position, velocity, and acceleration of the chest of the subject. In some embodiments, the chest compression portion (6105) contacts, or is rigidly or flexibly coupled to, at least one of the spine support (6104), the neck support (6101), and the base layer (6120).

[0112] As shown in FIGS. 61A and C, the chest compression portion (6105) is configured to surround the right shoulder, left shoulder, and neck of the subject. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the chest compression portion (6105) is configured around at least one of the right shoulder, left shoulder, and neck of the subject. In each of FIGS. 61A and C, the chest compression portion (6105) is divided and joined under and over each shoulder of the subject. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the chest compression portion (6105) is continuous from under to over each shoulder of the subject or is divided into multiple portions over each shoulder of the subject.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 61C, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is configured to maintain at least one of the position and pressure of the first compression article (6100) against the subject's shoulder. In some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is configured to maintain continuous contact with the subject's shoulder over a full range or a partial range of shoulder motion. In some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is configured to apply a force to the subject's shoulder over a full range or a partial range of shoulder motion. In some embodiments, the force applied to the subject by the shoulder compression portion (6106) corresponds to at least one of the linear position or angular position, velocity, and acceleration of the subject's shoulder.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 61C, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is configured around at least a portion of the subject's right or left shoulder. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is configured around at least one of the subject's right shoulder, left shoulder, and neck. In some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is continuous. In some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is bifurcated and rejoins at least once. In some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) includes a left shoulder compression portion (6106) and a right shoulder compression portion (6106) configured to be used on the subject's left and right shoulders, respectively. In some embodiments, the left shoulder compression portion (6106) is equal to the right shoulder compression portion (6106). In some embodiments, the left shoulder compression portion (6106) is equal to the mirror image of the right shoulder compression portion (6106) with respect to one or more planes.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 61C, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is configured to maintain at least one of the position and pressure of the first compression article (6100) with respect to the shoulder of the subject. In some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is configured to maintain continuous contact with the subject's shoulder over a full range or a partial range of shoulder motion. In some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is configured to apply a force to the subject's shoulder over a full range or a partial range of shoulder motion. In some embodiments, the force applied to the subject by the shoulder compression portion (6106) corresponds to at least one of the linear position or angular position, velocity, and acceleration of the subject's shoulder.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 61C, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is configured around at least a part of the right shoulder or the left shoulder of the subject. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is configured around at least one of the right shoulder, left shoulder, and neck of the subject. In some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is continuous. In some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) is bifurcated and merges at least once. In some embodiments, the shoulder compression portion (6106) includes a left shoulder compression portion (6106) and a right shoulder compression portion (6106) configured to be used on the left shoulder and the right shoulder of the subject, respectively. In some embodiments, the left shoulder compression portion (6106) is equal to the right shoulder compression portion (6106). In some embodiments, the left shoulder compression portion (6106) is equal to the mirror image of the right shoulder compression portion (6106) with respect to one or more planes.

[0117] FIGS. 62A-C show the adjustable tension regions of a typical first compression article. FIG. 62A shows a front view of the adjustable tension region of the typical first compression article of FIG. 61A according to some embodiments. FIG. 62B shows a rear view of the adjustable tension region of the typical first compression article of FIG. 61A according to some embodiments. FIG. 62C shows a side view of the adjustable tension region of the typical first compression article of FIG. 61A according to some embodiments.

[0118] A typical first compression article (6100) including a chest tensioner (6201), an abdominal tensioner (6202), a waist tensioner (6203), a leg tensioner (6204), and an ankle tensioner (6205) is shown in FIGS. 62A - C. As can be seen, the typical first compression article (6100) may include one chest tensioner (6201), one abdominal tensioner (6202), one waist tensioner (6203), two leg tensioners (6204), and two ankle tensioners (6205). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the typical first compression article (6100) includes one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten, or more of each of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205).

[0119] In some embodiments, at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) is permanently attached to at least one of the neck support (6101), leg support (6102), shin support (6103), spine support (6104), chest compression part (6105), shoulder compression part (6106), elbow compression part (6107), leg compression part (6108), knee compression part (6109), shin compression part (6110), ankle compression part (6111), waist compression part (6112), and base layer (6120). In some embodiments, at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) is removably attached to at least one of the neck support (6101), leg support (6102), shin support (6103), spine support (6104), chest compression part (6105), shoulder compression part (6106), elbow compression part (6107), leg compression part (6108), knee compression part (6109), shin compression part (6110), ankle compression part (6111), waist compression part (6112), and base layer (6120). In some embodiments, at least a portion of at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) is attached to the first compression article (6100).

[0120] In some embodiments, at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) includes a belt, band, strap, hook-and-loop fastener, buckle, rope, string, hook, abdominal binder, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) is configured to be adjusted to fit the body by the subject and has one or more adjustable lengths or diameters. In some embodiments, at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) is elastic. In some embodiments, at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) is rigid.

[0121] In some embodiments, at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) is made of cloth, thread, wood, fiberglass, carbon fiber, metal, polymer, gel, foam, composite, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) is made of the same material. In some embodiments, at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) is made of different materials.

[0122] In some embodiments, at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) is configured to apply a continuous force, an adjustable proportional force, or a derived force to the body of the subject. In some embodiments, at least one of the chest tensioner (6201), abdominal tensioner (6202), waist tensioner (6203), leg tensioner (6204), and ankle tensioner (6205) is configured to apply a continuous force, a proportional force, or a derived force to the body of the subject through at least one degree of freedom of partial or full range of motion of the subject.

[0123] Provided herein with respect to FIGS. 63A-C is a second exemplary compression article. FIG. 63A shows a front view of an exemplary second compression article according to some embodiments. FIG. 63B shows a side view of an exemplary second compression article according to some embodiments. FIG. 63C shows a rear view of an exemplary second compression article according to some embodiments.

[0124] As shown in FIGS. 63A-C, the second exemplary compression article (6100) includes a base layer (6120) and at least one gripping element (not shown). In some embodiments, the at least one gripping element includes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more gripping elements. In some embodiments, the gripping element includes at least one of a shoulder gripping element, an arm gripping element, a forearm gripping element, a chest gripping element, a rib gripping element, a leg gripping element, a shin gripping element, a knee gripping element, a collar gripping element, a buttock gripping element, a hip gripping element, a neck gripping element, a wrist gripping element, and an ankle gripping element.

[0125] In some embodiments, the gripping element is configured to contact the body of the subject, where the gripping element has a second coefficient of friction (μ2) with respect to the body surface, and the second coefficient of friction (μ2) is greater than the first coefficient of friction (μ1). In some embodiments, at least one gripping element is configured to apply at least one of a vertical force and a tangential force on the body surface of the wearer. In some embodiments, at least one gripping element is configured to apply at least one of a vertical force and a tangential force on the body surface of the wearer to prevent substantial displacement of the article across the wearer's skin. In some embodiments, at least one gripping element includes a surface texture configured to apply a tangential force on the body surface of the wearer.

[0126] The gripping element can provide a traction force to the inner surface of the article to prevent slipping or displacement when worn on the body of the subject. In some embodiments, the gripping element is made of a material having a coefficient of friction with the skin that is relatively greater than the coefficient of friction of the base layer. The gripping element provides an important function of preserving the optimal positioning of the support element to protect and / or support the corresponding tissue of the subject wearing the article (e.g., a neck support element or a neck / spinal support device). For example, an article that substantially displaces while being worn by the subject can result in a situation where a neck support element that protects the neck has shifted from its arrangement and is no longer properly positioned near the subject's neck. Thus, the neck support element may no longer provide the desired protection from trauma, such as in the case of a sudden impact or acceleration to the subject's head. Therefore, the gripping element provides more than just a comfortable fit, but is actually an important mechanism for improving the corresponding function of the support element. This innovative combination of the gripping element and the support element results in an excellent article for providing support and / or protection when worn by the subject.

[0127] Other aspects provided herein are methods for forming an article wearable by a subject, the method comprising: providing a substrate having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface has a first coefficient of friction (μ1) with respect to the body surface of the subject, and the substrate has a first modulus of elasticity (E1); connecting at least one gripping element to the inner surface of the substrate, wherein the at least one gripping element is configured to contact the body of the subject, and the at least one gripping element has a second coefficient of friction (μ2) with respect to the body surface, and μ2 is greater than μ1; connecting at least one compression element to the substrate, wherein the at least one compression element has a second modulus of elasticity (E2) greater than E1; and connecting to the substrate at least one support element comprising a non-Newtonian material.

[0128] In some embodiments, the method further comprises laminating or printing the compression element or the gripping element adjacent to the substrate. In some embodiments, the printing step is 3D printing. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is non-removably attached to the substrate. In some embodiments, at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is removably attached to the substrate. In some embodiments, the at least one support element comprises a neck support. In some embodiments, the neck support comprises a quasi-annular collar member that anatomically complements the wearer's neck. In some embodiments, the neck support comprises an elastomeric material or a force-responsive polymer disposed around the back and sides of the wearer's neck. In some embodiments, the at least one support element comprises a spinal support comprising at least one groove configured to bend or fold along a set line, arch, or plane.

[0129] Other aspects provided herein are methods for attaching an article (6100) to a subject's body, the method comprising: providing an article comprising a base layer (6200), at least one gripping element (6300), at least one compression element, and at least one support element; and attaching the article to the subject's body. In some embodiments, the base layer (6200) has an inner surface and an outer surface. In some embodiments, the inner surface has a first coefficient of friction (μ1) with respect to the subject's body surface. In some embodiments, the base layer (6200) has a first modulus of elasticity (E1). In some embodiments, at least one gripping element (6300) is coupled to the inner surface of the base layer (6200). In some embodiments, at least one gripping element (6300) is configured to contact the subject's body. In some embodiments, at least one gripping element (6300) has a second coefficient of friction (μ2) with respect to the body surface. In some embodiments, μ2 is greater than μ1. In some embodiments, at least one compression element is coupled to the base layer (6200). In some embodiments, at least one compression element has a second modulus of elasticity (E2) that is greater than E1. In some embodiments, at least one support element comprises a non-Newtonian material. In some embodiments, at least one support element is coupled to the base layer (6200). In some embodiments, the inner surface and at least one gripping element (6300) contact the subject's body surface.

[0130] In some embodiments, when attached to a subject's body, at least one gripping element (6300) contacts the subject's body surface such that the article slides at most 5 centimeters, 4 centimeters, 3 centimeters, 2 centimeters, or 1 centimeter. In some embodiments, when attached to a subject's body, at least one gripping element (6300) contacts the subject's body surface such that the article slides at most 20°, 15°, 10°, 5°, or 1° around a point on the subject's body. In some embodiments, when attached to a subject's body, at least one gripping element (6300) contacts the subject's body surface such that the article slides in a first direction at most about 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 5%, or 1% of the length of the gripping element (6300) in the first direction. In some embodiments, when attached to a subject's body, at least one support element provides stress relief, load transfer, fatigue reduction, or any combination thereof to the subject. In some embodiments, when attached to a subject's body, the non-Newtonian material of at least one support element includes: a first viscosity (v1) that allows unrestricted movement by the subject when an action applies a first force (F1) to the at least one support element; and a second viscosity (v2) that restricts movement by the subject when an action applies a second force (F2) to the at least one support element, where F2 is greater than F1 and v2 is greater than v1. In some embodiments, when attached to a subject's body, at least one support element provides resistance to at least one movement of the subject's muscle, joint, or bone, where the resistance increases as the force of the movement increases. In some embodiments, when attached to a subject's body, at least one support element applies a force to at least one of the subject's muscle, joint, or bone over a full or partial range of motion in one or more degrees of freedom. In some embodiments, when attached to a subject's body, at least one compression element provides stress support, load transfer, fatigue reduction, or any combination thereof to the subject.In some embodiments, when attached to a subject's body, at least one compression element is configured to apply force to the wearer's muscle, bone, or joint over a full or partial range of motion of the muscle, bone, or joint.

[0131] Shown in FIGS. 64A-E are exemplary third compression articles. FIG. 64A shows a front view of an exemplary long-sleeved third compression article according to some embodiments. FIG. 64B shows a front view of an exemplary sleeveless third compression article according to some embodiments. FIG. 64C shows a detailed front view of the exemplary third compression article of FIG. 64A according to some embodiments. FIG. 64D shows a back view of the exemplary third compression article of FIG. 64A according to some embodiments. FIG. 64E shows a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary third compression article of FIG. 64A according to some embodiments.

[0132] In FIGS. 64A-C, an exemplary third compression article (6400) includes a base layer (6420), at least one gripping element (6410), and a neck support (6430). In some embodiments, the at least one gripping element (6400) includes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10, or more gripping elements (6410). In some embodiments, the gripping element (6410) includes at least one of a shoulder gripping element, an arm gripping element, a forearm gripping element, a chest gripping element, a rib gripping element, a leg gripping element, a shin gripping element, a knee gripping element, a collar gripping element, a gluteal gripping element, a hip gripping element, a neck gripping element, a wrist gripping element, and an ankle gripping element.

[0133] In some embodiments, the gripping element (6410) is configured to contact the body of the subject, where the gripping element has a second coefficient of friction (μ2) with respect to the body surface, and the second coefficient of friction (μ2) is greater than the first coefficient of friction (μ1). In some embodiments, at least one gripping element (6410) is configured to apply at least one of a vertical force and a tangential force onto the body surface of the wearer. In some embodiments, at least one gripping element (6410) is configured to apply at least one of a vertical force and a tangential force onto the body surface of the wearer to prevent substantial displacement of the article across the wearer's skin. In some embodiments, at least one gripping element (6410) includes a surface texture configured to apply a tangential force onto the body surface of the wearer.

[0134] As shown in FIG. 64A, a second exemplary compression article (6400) may include a long-sleeved second compression article (6400). In some embodiments, the long-sleeved second compression article (6400) is configured for use in winter sports and / or full-body contact sports. Alternatively, in FIG. 64A, the second exemplary compression article (6400) may include a short-sleeved second compression article (6400). In some embodiments, the short-sleeved second compression article (6400) is configured for use in summer sports and / or reduced-contact sports.

[0135] As shown in FIGS. 64A - E, the neck support (6430) is configured to support the subject's neck. In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) is configured to maintain continuous contact with the subject's neck over a full or partial range of neck motion. In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) is configured to apply a force to the subject's neck over a full or partial range of neck motion. In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) is configured to apply a continuous force, a proportional force, or a derived force to the subject's spine. In some embodiments, the force applied to the subject by the neck support (6430) corresponds to at least one of the linear position or angular position, velocity, and acceleration of the subject's neck. In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) includes a cervical support device.

[0136] In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) is permanently attached to the base layer (6420). In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) is laminated or printed adjacent to the base layer. In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) is removably attached to the base layer (6420). In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) is removably attached to the inner surface of the base layer (6420). In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) is attached to the outer surface of the base layer (6420).

[0137] In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) includes one or more independent parts, where two or more of the independent parts are permanently or removably connected. In some embodiments, two or more independent parts are rigidly or flexibly connected to each other.

[0138] In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) has a uniform thickness in at least one of the radial and linear directions. In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) has a non-uniform thickness. In some embodiments, the neck support (6430) is bilaterally symmetric.

[0139] As seen in FIG. 64C, the neck support (6430) may include one or more grooves (6431). In some embodiments, one or more grooves (6431) are configured to bend or fold along a set line, arch, or plane. In some embodiments, one or more grooves (6431) are configured to impede neck movement in one or more directions. In some embodiments, two or more of the grooves (6431) have equal size or shape. In some embodiments, two or more of the grooves (6431) have unequal size or shape. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6431) is generally parallel to the cross-section of the subject. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6431) extends radially around the subject's neck. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6431) extends radially and normally around the subject's neck. In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6431) terminates at an end of the neck support (6101). In some embodiments, at least one of the grooves (6431) terminates without intersecting an end of the neck support (6430). As seen in FIG. 61E, the neck support (6430) includes four grooves (6431). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the neck support (6430) includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more grooves (6431).

[0140] As shown in FIG. 64C, one or more neck compression elements (6441)(6442) may be included. In some embodiments, the neck compression elements (6441)(6442) are permanently attached to the neck support (6430), the base layer (6420), or both. In some embodiments, the neck compression elements (6441)(6442) are removably attached to the neck support (6430), the base layer (6420), or both. In some embodiments, the neck compression elements (6441)(6442) are configured to adjust the baseline tension of the neck support (6430) for the user. In FIG. 64C, the neck compression elements (6441)(6442) include two neck compression elements (6441)(6442). Alternatively, the neck compression elements (6441)(6442) include 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10, or more neck compression elements (6441)(6442). In FIG. 64C, the neck compression elements (6441)(6442) include a fastener such as a surface fastener. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the neck compression elements (6441)(6442) include straps, buckles, zippers, buttons, hooks, guides, laces, magnets, clasps, clips, screws, bolts, nuts, ties, or any combination thereof.

[0141] In some embodiments, in FIG. 64E, the neck support (6430) includes a neck support (6433) surrounding a non-Newtonian form (6434) and a liner (6435) attached to the neck support (6433). In some embodiments, the neck support (6433) is formed of a laminated like material. In some embodiments, the neck support (6433) is permanently attached to the non-Newtonian form (6434) and the liner (6435). In some embodiments, the neck support (6433) is removably attached to the non-Newtonian form (6434) and the liner (6435). In some embodiments, the liner (6435) includes a mesh liner.

[0142] The devices, articles, systems, and methods of the present disclosure may be combined with, or modified by, other devices, systems, or methods, such as those disclosed in PCT / CA2016 / 051296, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0143] <Terms and Definitions> Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Any reference to "or" in this specification is intended to encompass "and / or" unless specifically stated otherwise. Unless otherwise noted, as used in this specification and the claims, the terms "about" and "substantially" refer to a variation of + / - 1%, + / - 2%, + / - 3%, + / - 4%, + / - 5%, + / - 6%, + / - 7%, + / - 8%, + / - 9%, + / - 10%, + / - 11%, + / - 12%, + / - 14%, + / - 15%, or + / - 20% or less, depending on the embodiment.

[0144] As used herein, the term "rate-sensitive material" refers to a material whose resistance to an applied force depends on the rate at which the force is applied, and more specifically, a material whose resistance to an applied force increases as the application of the force becomes faster. The term "rate-sensitive material" includes materials described as having "rate-dependent", "non-Newtonian", and / or "non-linear properties", such as viscoelastic foams, for example.

[0145] As used herein, the term "anatomically complementary" refers to a structure or shape that is suitable for receiving, or is received on, a body region, and which is used to engage and support the body region.

[0146] As used herein, the term "friction" refers to the force that resists the relative motion of substances or surfaces sliding against each other. Friction can refer to any of dry friction, fluid friction, lubricated friction, surface friction, and internal friction.

[0147] As used herein, the term "coefficient of friction" refers to a dimensionless scalar value that indicates the ratio between the frictional forces between two substances or surfaces and the force pressing them together. For example, a low coefficient of friction indicates a low amount of friction between two surfaces compared to the force pressing them together (e.g., ice on a linoleum surface). The coefficient of friction can refer to static friction or kinetic friction. Different substances can be compared based on their respective coefficient of friction values compared to a common surface or substance. For example, a polyester substance and a silicon substance can be compared based on their coefficient of friction against the skin of a subject.

[0148] As used herein, the term "close morphological engagement" refers to the shaping of a portion and is an engagement sufficient to enable the effective transfer of force from a body region to a wearable article without requiring direct physical contact between the wearable article and the body region.

[0149] As used herein, the term "anatomically unrestricted" means that when a wearable article is secured by close tissue-distributed engagement over a body region of interest, the wearable article enables the body region to move in its substantially normal range of motion.

[0150] As used herein, the terms "lower" and "upper" are used in this specification in their anatomical sense and are synonymous with "cephalad" (toward the head) and caudal (toward the buttocks), respectively.

[0151] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown and described herein, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, modifications, and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the present invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the present invention described herein may be utilized in practicing the present invention. Although a human spinal support device has been described and illustrated as an example of a wearable article and an article configured in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, these principles are not limited to spinal support devices, and it should be understood that wearable articles and articles may be adapted to other body regions and / or other subjects without departing from the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An article wearable by a subject, the article comprising: a) a base layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface has a first coefficient of friction (μ1) with respect to the body surface of the subject, and the base layer has a first modulus of elasticity (E1); b) at least one gripping element connected to the inner surface of the base layer, wherein the at least one gripping element is configured to contact the body of the subject and has a second coefficient of friction (μ2) with respect to the body surface, and the second coefficient of friction (μ2) is greater than the first coefficient of friction (μ1); c) at least one compression element connected to the base layer, the at least one compression element having a second modulus of elasticity (E2) greater than the first modulus of elasticity (E1); and d) at least one support element connected to the base layer and including a neck support element containing a non-Newtonian material. The article further comprising: wherein the non-Newtonian material includes a force-reactive polymer containing a dilatant; the neck support element: i) is configured to fit closely in shape with the neck of the subject; and ii) is dimensioned to extend to the occipital bone of the subject; the neck support element includes a single body surrounding the force-reactive polymer and is configured to increase resistance in response to an increase in the degree of the acting force. An article.

2. The article according to claim 1, wherein the at least one gripping element is a plurality of gripping elements arranged on the inner surface of the base layer in a manner that limits or reduces sliding movement across the body surface.

3. The at least one compression element of the article according to claim 1 comprises at least one of: a) a chest compression element; b) a shoulder compression element; c) an elbow compression element; d) a thigh compression element; e) a knee compression element; f) a shin compression element; g) an ankle compression element; and h) a waist compression element. The article according to claim 1.

4. The at least one support element of the article according to claim 1 comprises at least one of: a) a neck support element; b) a thigh support element; c) a shin support element; and d) a spinal support element. The article according to claim 1.

5. The article according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is removably or non-removably attached to the base layer. ​ **Claim 6**: At least one of the support element, the compression element, and the gripping element is removably attached to the base layer by a fastener, and optionally, the fastener includes a strap, buckle, hook-and-loop fastener, zipper, button, hook, guide, lace, magnet, clamp, clip, screw, bolt, nut, tie, or any combination thereof, the article according to claim 5. **Claim 7**: At least one of the support element, the compression element, the gripping element, and the base layer has a modulus of elasticity of from about 0.01 GPa to about 15 GPa, the article according to claim 1. **Claim 8**: The at least one gripping element, the at least one compression element, or the base layer is formed from a polymeric material or a composite material, the article according to claim 1. **Claim 9**: The at least one support element includes an elastic polymer, the article according to claim 1. **Claim 10**: The at least one support element includes a gel, foam, non-Newtonian fluid, or any combination thereof, the article according to claim 1. **Claim 11**: The foam includes a shear thickening non-Newtonian fluid, the article according to claim 10. **Claim 12**: The non-Newtonian fluid is confined within a pouch, the article according to claim 10. **Claim 13**: The at least one support element includes a Newtonian foam material disposed between the body surface of the subject and the non-Newtonian material, the article according to claim 10. **Claim 14**: The at least one gripping element includes a surface texture configured to apply a tangential force on the body surface of the wearer, the article according to claim 1. **Claim 15**: The at least one support element is configured to provide resistance to at least one movement of a muscle, joint, or bone of the wearer, wherein the resistance increases as the force of the movement increases, the article according to claim 4. **Claim 16**: The at least one support element is configured to apply a force to at least one of a muscle, joint, or bone of the wearer through a full range or partial range of motion of the wearer in one or more degrees of freedom, the article according to claim 4. **Claim 17**: The neck support includes a quasi-circular collar member that anatomically complements the neck of the wearer, the article according to claim 4. Item according to claim 4, wherein the neck support comprises an elastomeric material or a force-responsive polymer disposed around the rear and side portions of the wearer's neck. Item according to claim 1, further comprising a harness secured to the at least one support element, wherein the harness is incorporated into the base layer, and optionally, the harness is laminated or printed adjacent to the base layer. Item according to claim 1, wherein the item is a shirt, a pair of trousers, or a full body bodysuit.

21. The at least one support element includes a neck support element dimensioned to fit closely with the shape of the subject's neck, the neck support element includes a single body surrounding a force-responsive polymer, and is configured to increase resistance in response to an increase in the degree of the acting force. Item according to claim 1.

22. An item wearable by a subject, the item comprising: a base layer having an inner surface and an outer surface; a neck support element coupled to the base layer and dimensioned to fit closely with the shape of the subject's neck; the neck support element includes a single body surrounding a force-responsive polymer including a non-Newtonian fluid; and is configured to increase resistance in response to an increase in the degree of the acting force; wherein the neck support element (i) fits closely with the shape of the subject's neck, and (ii) is dimensioned to extend to the occipital bone of the subject. Item.

23. An item wearable by a subject, the item comprising: a base layer having an inner surface and an outer surface; a support element coupled to the base layer; the support element includes a single body surrounding a force-responsive polymer foam matrix including a shear-thickening non-Newtonian fluid having a viscosity that increases to increase resistance in response to an increase in the degree of the acting force; wherein the neck support element (i) fits closely with the shape of the subject's neck, and (ii) is dimensioned to extend to the occipital bone of the subject. Item.

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