Personal Impact Protection System

Abstract

A personal impact protection system (5) is disclosed that includes a plurality of individual wearable inflatable items (1-4) configured to be worn on or around respective portions of a user's body (11). The system (5) further includes at least one inflator (7) configured to generate a flow of inflation gas to inflate the inflatable items (1-4) when worn by the user (11), and a control system (8, 9, 18, 19) operatively connected to the or each inflator (7) and configured to actuate the or each inflator (7) in response to an activation signal and according to an inflation characteristic selected from a group of possible inflation characteristics including: i) inflation of all of the inflatable items (1-4), ii) inflation of some but not all of the inflatable items (1-4), and iii) inflation of a single one of the inflatable items (1-4). A control system (8, 9, 18, 19) is configured to select the inflation characteristics in response to at least one of the actuation signal and a determination of which of the inflatable items (1-4) is being worn by a user (11).

Description

[[TECHNICAL FIELD]]

[0001] The present invention relates to a personal impact protection system. More specifically, the present invention relates to a personal impact protection system comprising a plurality of individual wearable inflatable items. [[BACKGROUND ART]]

[0002] It has been previously proposed to provide a personal impact protection system configured to be worn by a user and comprising an airbag or other inflatable item. In such a system, it is premised that the airbag is intended to be inflated when the system detects that the user may fall or is about to fall, collide with a car, motorcycle, bicycle or the like, or may be injured by colliding with an object or obstacle. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, inflation of the airbag provides a cushioning effect that absorbs impact energy, thereby being intended to reduce the possibility of injury to the user in the event of a fall or a collision with an obstacle or object. Therefore, this general type of personal impact protection system is considered useful for providing protection to vulnerable road users (VRUs), such as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, scooter riders and the like.

[0003] The aforementioned types of personal impact protection systems that have been proposed so far have proven to be somewhat cumbersome and restrictive to wear, while also exhibiting limited flexibility in their inflation characteristics. For example, such systems typically feature a single airbag that is often very large and bulky, and are often designed to provide effective impact protection only against very specific types of fall or collision situations. Other systems that have been proposed may also provide a large inflatable airbag as part of an inflatable suit, configured to provide effective impact protection against a very wide range of potential impacts. In such configurations, the airbag is often very large to ensure effective protection over a large portion of the user's body, resulting in the need for a very large volume of inflation gas, and therefore a particularly large inflator. This inflator can be cumbersome, especially considering that inflators must generally be provided in combination with an electronically controlled unit and battery. Furthermore, such proposals often suffer from the problem of time-consuming inflation due to the large volume of the airbag.

[0004] This invention was devised in consideration of the above. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0005] According to the present invention, a personal impact protection system is provided, the personal impact protection system comprising: a plurality of individual wearable inflatable items configured to be worn on or around different parts of a user's body; at least one inflator configured to generate a flow of inflation gas to inflate the inflatable items when worn by the user; and a control system operably connected to the inflator or each of the inflator and configured to activate the inflator or each of the inflator in response to an activation signal and according to an inflation characteristic selected from a group of possible inflation characteristics, including i) inflation of all of the inflatable items; ii) inflation of some but not all of the inflatable items; and iii) inflation of a single item among the inflatable items, the control system being configured to select the inflation characteristic in response to at least one of the activation signal and a determination of which of the inflatable items is worn by the user.

[0006] In some embodiments, it is proposed that the inflator or at least one of the inflators may be provided in the form of a two-stage inflator of a type configured to provide two separate stages of inflation.

[0007] Conveniently, the system is modular and comprises several attachable inflatable items to which the user can select one or more items to attach, and at least one of the control system and algorithms is configured to determine which of the inflatable items is attached and to select the inflation characteristics accordingly.

[0008] In some embodiments, the control system comprises the inflator or at least one controller operably connected to each inflator and configured to implement an operating algorithm.

[0009] Optionally, the control system includes at least one gyro sensor configured to generate the activation signal in response to the detection of an angular velocity exceeding a predetermined threshold.

[0010] In some embodiments, the personal impact protection system comprises a single controller.

[0011] Optionally, the personal impact protection system comprises a single inflator, and each inflatable item is fluidly connectable to the single inflator to receive a flow of expansion gas from the inflator according to the operating algorithm.

[0012] In some embodiments, the plurality of inflatable items include a primary inflatable item that includes a single inflator and is configured to receive expansion gas directly from the inflator.

[0013] The primary inflatable item may be configured to be worn on or around the user's torso.

[0014] Conveniently, the plurality of inflatable items include at least one secondary inflatable item, which is releasably fluid-connectable to the primary inflatable item in order to receive an indirect flow of expanding gas from the single inflator through the primary inflatable item when connected to the primary inflatable item.

[0015] A secondary inflatable item, or each secondary inflatable item, may be configured to be worn on or around a part of the user's body selected from the group including the user's head, arms, legs, feet, hands, and waist.

[0016] In some embodiments, the secondary expansion item or each of the secondary expansion items may be releasably fluid-connected to the primary expansion item by respective flow connectors forming part of the control system, and the flow connector or each flow connector may be equipped with a switchable pressure relief valve, which may be configured to switch the pressure relief valve between an operable state and a non-operable state depending on whether each of the secondary expansion items is fluid-connected to the primary expansion item. The pressure relief valve or each pressure relief valve may, in its operable state, be configured to exhaust the primary expansion item to the atmosphere in response to an expansion pressure in the primary expansion item that exceeds a predetermined threshold, and may, in its non-operable state, be configured not to exhaust the primary expansion item.

[0017] The connector or each of the connectors may optionally be configured to: i) switch its respective pressure relief valve from an operational state to an operational state when each of the secondary expansion items is connected to the primary expansion item; and ii) switch its respective pressure relief valve from an operational state to an operational state when each of the secondary expansion items is disconnected from the primary expansion item.

[0018] Conveniently, the control system may comprise a single controller configured to implement the operating algorithm, the controller being configured to i) operate the inflator in accordance with the operating algorithm, and ii) detect the connection and disconnection of the secondary inflatable item to the primary inflatable item or each secondary inflatable item, and to control the switching of each pressure relief valve or each pressure relief valve between the operational state and the operational state in response to such detection.

[0019] The primary inflatable item may include a primary controller configured to operate the inflator according to the operating algorithm, and it is proposed that the secondary inflatable item or each secondary inflatable item includes its own secondary controller. The secondary controller or each secondary controller may be configured to detect the connection and disconnection of each secondary inflatable item to the primary inflatable item and, in response to such detection, control the switching of each pressure relief valve between the operational state and the operational state.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present invention, it is proposed that each inflatable item may be equipped with its own inflator, and that each inflatable item is configured to receive expansion gas directly from its own inflator.

[0021] In some embodiments, the system may comprise a single controller configured to be operably connected to each inflator and to implement the operating algorithm. The single controller may be provided as part of one of the inflatable items.

[0022] Alternatively, an embodiment is envisioned in which each inflatable item is equipped with its own controller, and each controller is operably connected to its own inflator.

[0023] It is proposed that each inflatable item may be equipped with its own gyro sensor configured to generate its own operating signal in response to the detection of angular acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold.

[0024] Wearable inflatable items may take the form of clothing.

[0025] The attachable inflatable item may include or consist of an inflatable airbag. The airbag or each airbag may be formed from a flexible fabric material, and it is suggested that before deployment, each airbag be tightly rolled and / or folded into its respective airbag package.

[0026] Wearable inflatable items can take on a variety of different forms. For example, one or more wearable inflatable items can take the form of a helmet, hat, cap, vest, jacket, shirt, elbow pads, knee pads, belt, harness, backpack or rucksack, shoes, socks, gloves, trousers or pants, leggings, leg sleeves, arm sleeves, collar, harness, wristband, etc.

[0027] In some embodiments, it is proposed that the personal impact protection system may be configured to be controlled by a computer device, such as a smartphone or tablet device, or a smartwatch. In such a proposal, the computer device may be worn or carried by the user of the personal impact protection system. For example, one or more of the wearable inflatable garments may have pockets or pouches for receiving a smartphone or tablet device. The computer device, such as a smartphone, may form part of the system's control system, and optionally form a controller or one such controller. In such a proposal, it is assumed that an accelerometer in the smartphone may represent the aforementioned gyro sensors, or at least one of the aforementioned gyro sensors, and the smartphone may be configured to generate the activation signal. The smartphone or other type of computer device may be configured to run a software application configured to control the personal impact protection system, and it is assumed that it may be configured to wirelessly transmit the activation signal to a receiver forming part of the control system, for example. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0028] In order that the present invention may be more readily understood and further features thereof may be appreciated, embodiments of the present invention are described herein by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] [Figure 1] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a plurality of wearable inflatable items forming part of a personal impact protection system that allows a user to select items to be worn. [Figure 2] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a user wearing a plurality of wearable inflatable items selected from the items shown in Fig. 1, wherein the worn items are connected to form a system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram similar to Fig. 2, but showing a user wearing a larger number of wearable inflatable items selected from the items shown in Fig. 1 to form a larger system. [Figure 4] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a flow connector associated with a primary inflatable item and configured for releasable fluid connection to a secondary inflatable item, wherein the secondary inflatable item is shown detached from the primary inflatable item. [Figure 5] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram generally corresponding to Fig. 4, but showing the secondary inflatable item connected to the primary inflatable item. [Figure 6] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram similar to Fig. 3, but showing a user wearing a wearable inflatable item forming part of a system according to a modified embodiment. [Figure 7] Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a user wearing a plurality of inflatable wearable items forming a system according to a further embodiment. [Figure 8] Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram similar to Fig. 7, but showing a user wearing a plurality of inflatable wearable items forming a system according to a modified embodiment. [Figure 9] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a user wearing a plurality of inflatable wearable items forming part of a system according to another further embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram similar to Figure 9, but it shows a user wearing multiple inflatable attachable items that form a system according to a modified embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0030] Next, aspects and embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. Further aspects and embodiments will be obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0031] Figure 1 shows several individual wearable inflatable items 1-4, each of which comprises a known type of inflatable airbag and is configured to form part of a modular personal impact protection system 5 according to the present invention. More specifically, it should be understood that each of the wearable inflatable items 1-4 is configured to be worn by a user of system 5 either on or around any part of the user's body. While four specific wearable inflatable items 1-4 are illustrated and described herein from the outset, it should be understood that it is proposed that the system of the present invention may comprise more or fewer than four wearable inflatable items.

[0032] As will be described in more detail below, a particular set of wearable inflatable items 1-4 shown in Figure 1 includes a primary inflatable wearable item 1 and several secondary inflatable wearable items 2-4. In the illustrated embodiment, the primary inflatable wearable item 1 takes the form of a vest, and the secondary wearable inflatable items include a helmet 2 and a pair of knee pads 3, 4. However, it should be understood that individual inflatable wearable items can take various different or alternative forms. For example, it is proposed that system 5 of the present invention may include individual wearable items that take the form of a helmet, hat, cap, vest, jacket, shirt, elbow pads, knee pads, belt, harness, backpack or rucksack, shoes, socks, gloves, trousers or pants, leggings, leg sleeves, arm sleeves, collar, harness, wristband, or any other suitable type of clothing. Furthermore, any of the aforementioned clothing or items can take the form of a primary inflatable wearable item. The illustrated embodiment, which includes a vest, helmet, and a pair of knee pads, is provided as just one example.

[0033] Figure 1 shows various attachable inflatable items 1-4 (hereinafter simply referred to as "inflatable items" for convenience) in their normal configuration before inflation, and inflatable items 1-4 generally resemble their respective types of normal clothing. The inflatable airbag of each inflatable item 1-4 is initially supplied in a tightly rolled and / or folded package and is concealed behind the fabric or other cover provided as part of the inflatable item. As will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, the airbag of each inflatable item is configured to inflate upon activation, thereby piercing the item's cover (e.g., through a tear seam, etc.) and achieving a deployment position substantially outside the clothing's cover, providing impact protection to the user of the system.

[0034] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the primary inflatable item 1 includes an actuator unit 6 which itself comprises an inflator 7, such as a gas generator of a known type, and a controller 8 which may be provided in the form of an electronic control unit (ECU). It is proposed that the ECU may include a battery, preferably a rechargeable battery. Although Figure 1 shows the inflator 7 and controller 8 combined in a single actuator unit 6, it should be understood that variations are conceivable in which the inflator 7 and controller 8 may be optionally provided as separate units at different locations on the inflatable item 1. The controller 8 forms part of a control system and is operably connected to the inflator 7 and configured to actuate the inflator 7 in response to an actuation signal and according to an actuation algorithm. The actuation algorithm may be embodied in software executed by the controller 8, or (at least partially) embodied in software executed on an external device, as described below. It will be understood that the inflator 7 is configured to generate a large amount of expansion gas when actuated, direct the expansion gas into the internal volume of the airbag of the primary inflatable item 1, thereby inflating the primary inflatable item 1. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the actuation unit 6 further comprises a gyro sensor configured to generate the aforementioned actuation signal in response to the detection of angular acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold indicating a high probability of the user being subjected to impact. In other embodiments, it is proposed that the actuation unit 6 may comprise two or more gyro sensors. In addition, or alternatively, the actuation unit 6 may comprise one or more accelerometers configured to generate an actuation signal in response to the detection of linear acceleration in one or more directions exceeding a predetermined threshold indicating a high probability of the user being subjected to impact. Providing one or more gyro sensors and / or accelerometers can provide a more robust or accurate response to motion and can provide a backup function in case of failure of any of the components.

[0035] In other respects, the primary expansion type item 1 further comprises a plurality of flow connectors 9, which will be described in more detail below. It should be understood that each of the flow connectors 9, together with the controller 8, forms part of the control system described above.

[0036] In the configuration shown in Figure 1, the primary inflatable item 1 is provided with three such flow connectors 9, each flow connector 9 configured to facilitate a releasable fluid connection between the airbags of the respective secondary inflatable items 2-4 and the airbag of the primary inflatable item 1. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the primary inflatable item 1 may be provided with a greater number of flow connectors 9 to facilitate a releasable fluid connection between a greater number of secondary inflatable items and the primary inflatable item.

[0037] In contrast to the primary inflatable item 1, the secondary inflatable items 2-4 do not have an operating unit 6, and in fact do not have an inflator 7 or controller 8. However, each of the secondary inflatable items 2-4 is provided with a flexible inflation hose 10, each hose 10 is in fluid communication with the airbag of each inflatable item 2-4, extends from there, and terminates at its free end with an end connector (not shown). Each end connector is configured to be releasably connected to one of the flow connectors 9 on the primary inflatable item 1.

[0038] Referring to Figure 2, we see that user 11 is wearing two inflatable items selected from the group of inflatable items 1-4 shown in Figure 1. Specifically, it shows that user 11 has chosen to wear primary inflatable item 1 in the form of a vest and secondary inflatable item 2 in the form of a helmet. Therefore, please note that user 11 in Figure 2 is not wearing either secondary inflatable items 3 or 4, which are provided in the form of knee pads. The inflation hose 10 of helmet 2 is shown fluidly connected to one of the flow connectors 9 provided on primary inflatable item 1, so that the airbags of the two worn inflatable items are fluidly connected to each other. The other two flow connectors 9 are not connected to any hoses.

[0039] As described above, the personal impact protection system 5 is intended to be modular and comprises several inflatable wearable items 1-4, which the user 11 can select which items to wear. Figure 2 shows a user wearing only two of the full set of inflatable and available items, but in other situations, the user may instead choose to wear three or more of the inflatable items, for example, as shown in Figure 3, which shows the user 11 wearing all four inflatable items 1-4 shown in Figure 1. The user's specific selection of items to wear may be based, for example, on the activities the user intends to perform while wearing the personal impact protection system 5.

[0040] Therefore, Figure 3 shows a user 11 wearing not only the primary inflatable item 1 in the form of a vest and the secondary inflatable item 2 in the form of a helmet, but also both the further secondary inflatable items 3 and 4 in the form of knee pads. As noted, the inflation hoses 10 of each knee pad 3 and 4 are shown fluidly connected to their respective flow connectors 9 provided on vest 1, so that the airbags of each knee pad 3 and 4 are fluidly connected to the airbags of vest 1. It is assumed that the user can choose to connect the hoses 10 to the flow connectors 9 before putting on some or all of the inflatable items, or after putting on the items, whichever the user finds more convenient.

[0041] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, it should be noted that regardless of the number of inflatable items 1-4 that user 11 chooses to wear, user 11 must wear at least primary inflatable item 1 for system 5 to be operational. This is because primary inflatable item 1 is the only inflatable item equipped with an inflator 7 or controller 8. Furthermore, regardless of the number of inflatable items 1-4 that the user chooses to wear, it will be understood that the single inflator 7 of primary inflatable item 1 functions to supply expansion gas not only directly to primary inflatable item 1 itself when in operation, but also indirectly to each secondary inflatable item 2-4 connected via the expansion hose 10. Thus, it is assumed that the inflator 7 is configured to generate a sufficient amount of expansion gas when in operation to properly inflate all of the inflatable items 1-4 provided as part of the system, and as a result, all of the inflatable items can be properly inflated if user 11 chooses to wear all of them.

[0042] Therefore, in the illustrated example, a single inflator 7 is configured to supply enough gas to inflate not only the vest 1 but also the helmet 2 and both knee pads 3, 4, ensuring sufficient inflation gas is supplied to the entire system 5 if the user chooses to wear all of the inflatable items 1-4 in the system. However, if user 11 chooses not to wear all of the provided inflatable items 1-4, for example, if user 11 chooses to wear only the vest 1 and helmet 2 as shown in Figure 2, the amount of gas produced by the inflator 7 will be greater than the amount required to inflate only the vest 1 and helmet 2. Without a pressure release device, this situation could cause over-inflation of the vest 1 and helmet 2, potentially reducing the effectiveness of providing impact protection to the user, and in extreme cases, there is a risk of one or both airbags rupturing. Therefore, as described below, each flow connector 9 of the control system is specifically configured to vent the airbag of the primary inflatable item 1 (i.e., the vest) if the inflation hoses 10 of the secondary inflatable items 2-4 are not connected and the inflation pressure in the airbag exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0043] Figure 4 schematically shows one of the flow connectors 9 provided on a primary inflatable item 1. Figure 4 shows a flow connector disconnected from the inflation hose 10 of an adjacent secondary inflatable item 3 shown in the illustration, and thus represents a situation applicable to the two lower flow connectors 9 shown in Figure 2 to which the secondary inflatable item is not connected. The flow connector 9 is shown in Figure 4 fixed to the airbag of the primary inflatable item 1. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the flow connector 9 may be located at the end of a short hose fluid-connected to the airbag, with some distance from the airbag, thereby allowing for a more convenient position of the flow connector 9 relative to the user's body.

[0044] The flow connector 9 has an internal flow conduit 12 extending from a flow inlet 13, which is in fluid communication with the airbag, to an exhaust outlet 14 via a pressure relief valve 15. The pressure relief valve 15 is shown in Figure 4 in an operational state that is normally closed to block the flow conduit 12 and thus prevent the flow of expansion gas from the airbag of the primary inflatable item 1 to the exhaust opening 14. However, the pressure relief valve 15 is configured to open in response to the upstream fluid pressure, i.e., the expansion pressure in the airbag of the primary inflatable item, exceeding a predetermined threshold, thereby opening the flow conduit between the flow inlet 13 and the exhaust outlet 14, and thereby allowing the expansion gas to be exhausted from the primary inflatable item 1 through the exhaust outlet 14 to the ambient atmosphere 16, as indicated by the flow arrows shown in Figure 4. It is also proposed that the pressure relief valve 15 be configured to close, for example, then in response to the upstream fluid pressure, i.e., the expansion pressure in the airbag of the primary inflatable item 1, falling below a predetermined threshold, thereby preventing the expansion gas from being exhausted from the primary inflatable item 1.

[0045] As is understood, the predetermined threshold expansion pressure at which the pressure relief valve 15 opens is assumed to be set to an appropriate level to: i) ensure sufficient expansion of the primary expansion item 1 in the absence of a connected secondary expansion item 3, and thus provide sufficient shock protection to the user 11; and ii) ensure that the primary expansion item 1 (and any secondary expansion items connected thereto) does not expand to a dangerously excessive degree. In some embodiments, it is proposed that the pressure relief valve 15 may be adjustable so that its predetermined threshold can be adjusted.

[0046] Referring to Figure 5, the same flow connector 9 is shown in an alternative configuration in which the end connector of the expansion hose 10 of the secondary expansion item 3 is connected to the flow connector 9. Specifically, the end connector of the expansion hose 10 is shown to be mechanically and fluidly connected to the expansion outlet 17 provided on the flow connector 9.

[0047] The flow connector 9 may be configured to mechanically switch the pressure relief valve 15 from its operational state shown in Figure 4 to a non-operational state where the flow conduit 12 is blocked upstream of the flow control valve 15, as shown in Figure 5, by connecting the end connector of the expansion hose 10 to the expansion outlet 17. However, alternatively, in other embodiments, the flow connector 9 may be equipped with a sensor that senses the connection of the expansion hose 10 to the expansion outlet 17, and the controller 8 may be configured to detect the connection (and in practice, also the disconnection) of the expansion hose 10 to the expansion outlet 17 and, in response to such detection, control the switching of the pressure relief valve 15 between its operational and non-operational states. In yet another embodiment, it has been proposed that each secondary expansion item 2-4 may be provided with a secondary controller (not shown), which is configured to detect the connection and disconnection of each secondary expansion item 2-4 to the primary expansion item 1 in the manner described above and, in response to such detection, control the switching of each pressure relief valve between its operational and non-operational states.

[0048] Therefore, as can be understood from Figure 5, when the expansion hose 10 is connected to the flow connector 9, the pressure relief valve 15 is rendered inoperable by fluidically separating it from the airbag of the primary inflatable item 1, and as a result, the primary inflatable item 1 can no longer be vented into the ambient atmosphere 16. Also, as can be understood, when the expansion hose 10 is connected to the flow connector 9 as shown, a flow path is opened through the expansion hose 3 from the airbag of the primary inflatable item 1 to the secondary inflatable item 3, and the operation of the inflator 7 on the primary inflatable item 1 functions to inflate the connected secondary inflatable item 3 indirectly, as well as directly inflate the primary inflatable item 1. Disconnecting the expansion hose 10 from the flow connector 9 closes the expansion outlet 17 and reopens the flow conduit 12 to the pressure relief valve 15, thereby returning the pressure relief valve 15 to its operational state as shown in Figure 4, thereby restoring the possibility of the primary inflatable item 1 being vented into the ambient atmosphere 16 if its expansion pressure reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0049] Considering Figures 2 and 3 in particular, the control system comprising the controller 8 and the flow connector 9 is: i) All inflation of inflatable items (for example, all inflation of vest 1, helmet 2, and both knee pads 3 and 4 worn in Figure 3), ii) Not all but some of the inflatable items will inflate (for example, only the vest 1 and helmet 2 shown in Figure 2 will inflate, while the two knee pads 3 and 4 that are not worn will not inflate), iii) The system is configured to select an inflation characteristic from a group of possible inflation characteristics, which include inflation of a single item among the inflatable items (for example, inflation of only vest 1 when the user is wearing only vest 1 and not helmet 2 or knee pads 3, 4, although this is not shown in the diagram).

[0050] As understood, the installed inflatable items, or each inflatable item, is inflated by expansion gas generated by a single inflator 7 under the control of a single controller 8. If none of the flow connectors 9 are connected to a secondary inflatable item, the pressure relief valves 15 of those particular flow connectors 9 are set to an operational state to allow the expansion gas to be released from the primary inflatable item 1 to the atmosphere 16 when the expansion pressure in the primary inflatable item 1 reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold. Furthermore, if any of the flow connectors 9 are connected to a secondary inflatable item, the pressure relief valves of those flow connectors 9 are set to an operational state to prevent the primary inflatable item 1 from being released to the atmosphere 16, and instead direct the expansion gas to its respective secondary inflatable item.

[0051] In some embodiments, it is proposed that the controller 9 may be further configured to select appropriate inflation characteristics in response to activation signals generated by the gyro sensor. For example, the controller 8 may be configured to determine from the activation signals how or in what direction the user 11 may fall, or how or in what direction the user 11 may collide with the surrounding environment (e.g., the inside of a car, or in another example, a road or pavement), and to select an appropriate number and selection of inflatable items 1-4 to be inflated in order to provide the user 11 with an appropriate level of protection. If the controller 8 selects an inflation characteristic that requires one or more of the installed inflatable items 1-4 not to inflate, it is proposed that the controller 8 electrically switches the corresponding flow connector 9 or the pressure relief valve 15 of each corresponding flow connector 9 from its inoperable state to its operational state, regardless of whether the flow connector 9 is connected to the inflation hose 10 of the secondary inflatable item, thereby fluidically separating each inflation hose 10 from the airbag of the primary inflatable item 1.

[0052] Referring now to Figure 6, a modified version of the personal impact protection system 5 described above, worn by user 11, is shown. In particular, it can be seen that user 11 is shown wearing all of the inflatable items 1-4 provided within the system 5, namely the primary inflatable item in the form of vest 1, the secondary inflatable item in the form of helmet 2, and the secondary inflatable items in the form of knee pads 3 and 4. User 11 is also shown wearing a so-called "smartwatch" 18 of a known type. In addition, Figure 6 schematically shows a so-called "smartphone" of a similarly known type, which can be replaced by a tablet or other similar external computer device. It is assumed that the smartphone 19 may be carried by user 11, for example, in a pocket provided in one of the worn inflatable items (e.g., vest 1), or alternatively, in a pocket of the user's own conventional clothing.

[0053] In some embodiments of the present invention, it is proposed that an external device, such as the illustrated smartwatch 18 or smartphone 19, may, in combination with the controller 8 and the flow connector 9, form part of the control system of the personal impact protection system 5. Accordingly, it is proposed that the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 may be configured to run a software application that implements the aforementioned operating algorithm.

[0054] As is understood, modern smartphones and smartwatches commonly include one or more accelerometers or gyroscopes. Therefore, in some embodiments, it is proposed that the integrated accelerometer or gyroscope of the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 can form part of a control system and thus be used to generate the aforementioned activation signal in response to the detection of linear or angular acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold indicating that the user is likely to experience an impact. In such embodiments, the controller 7 of the primary inflatable item 1 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19, for example, via the Bluetooth protocol. However, as is understood, other wireless protocols may be used instead to provide communication between the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19. In this type of embodiment, it is assumed that the system may be configured to activate the inflator 8 in response to the reception of an activation signal wirelessly emitted by the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19. Alternatively, it is proposed that the controller 7 may be configured to communicate with an external device via a wired connection, for example, in the form of a Lightning cable or a USB cable.

[0055] In some modifications of the present invention, it is proposed that the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 may be configured to run a software application that allows the user to exercise some control over the operating characteristics of the system 5. For example, the software application may present the user with a variety of different activities (such as cycling, walking, cross-country hiking, or mountain climbing), each having slightly different operating characteristics such as different response times, inflation rates, or other characteristics. The software application may also present the user 11 with the option to temporarily disable the system 5.

[0056] Referring now to Figure 7, a user 11 is shown wearing several inflatable items 1-4 that form at least part of a personal impact protection system according to another embodiment. For convenience, user 11 is shown wearing inflatable items with a configuration substantially similar to that shown in Figures 1-6, and thus including a vest 1, a helmet 2, and a pair of knee pads 3, 4. User 11 is also shown wearing all of the available inflatable items provided within the system 5. However, it should be understood that, in the same manner as described above, user 11 may instead wear fewer inflatable items, or may actually wear additional or alternative inflatable items if provided as part of the system 5.

[0057] A key difference between System 5 shown in Figure 7 and System 5 described above with reference to Figures 1-6 is that in System 5 of Figure 7, each inflatable item 1-4 comprises its own unit 6, each comprising an inflator 7, such as a gas generator of a known type, and a controller 8, which may be provided in the form of an electronic control unit (ECU). Figure 1 shows the inflator 7 and controller 8 of each inflatable item 1-4 combined into a single respective actuator unit 6, but it should be understood that variations are conceivable in which the inflator 7 and controller 8 of each inflatable item may be optionally provided as separate units at different locations on each inflatable item 1. As understood, each controller 8 forms part of a control system, is operably connected to each inflator 7, and is configured to actuate the inflator 7 in response to an actuation signal, according to an actuation algorithm, in substantially the same manner as described above with reference to the embodiments in Figures 1-6.

[0058] Therefore, as can be understood, another important difference between system 5 shown in Figure 7 and system 5 described above with reference to Figures 1-6 is that in the system of Figure 7, each airbag of inflatable items 1-4 is configured to receive inflation gas directly from its respective inflator 7. Thus, all the airbags of the various inflatable items 1-4 in the system are fluidically separated from one another. Furthermore, it is proposed that the inflator 7 of each individual inflatable item 1-4 be configured to produce a predetermined amount of inflation gas appropriate for the inflatable volume of each airbag when activated. Thus, for example, vest 1, which has a relatively large inflatable volume, has a larger inflator than, for example, helmet 2 and each knee pad 3, 4, which have relatively small inflatable volumes, and it is proposed that the inflator of vest 1 produce a larger amount of inflation gas when activated than the inflators of the smaller inflatable items in system 5.

[0059] Each inflatable item 1-4 may be equipped with its own accelerometer or gyroscope, configured to generate its own activation signal in response to the detection of local linear or angular acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold indicating that the respective part of the user's body around or near the inflatable item is likely to be subjected to impact. The accelerometer or gyroscope of each inflatable item 1-4 may be incorporated within its respective actuator unit 6 or located at other positions on the inflatable item.

[0060] Referring now to Figure 8, a modified version of the personal impact protection system 5 shown in Figure 7 is shown. In particular, it can be seen that user 11 is shown wearing all of the inflatable items 1-4 provided in system 5, namely vest 1, helmet 2, and both knee pads 3, 4. User 11 is also shown wearing a smartwatch 18, and Figure 8 also shows a smartphone 19. Thus, system 5 shown in Figure 8 is somewhat similar to that shown in Figure 6 in the sense that it can incorporate a smartwatch 18 and / or a smartphone 19. As can be understood again, the smartphone 19 can be carried by user 11, for example, in a pocket provided in one of the inflatable items being worn (e.g., vest 1), or alternatively, in a pocket of the user's own conventional clothing.

[0061] It is proposed that an external device, such as the illustrated smartwatch 18 or smartphone 19, may, in combination with the controller 8, form part of the control system of the personal impact protection system 5. Therefore, it is proposed that the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 may be configured to run a software application implementing the aforementioned activation algorithm. The integrated accelerometer or gyroscope sensor of the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 may also be part of the control system and may therefore be used to generate an activation signal in response to the detection of linear or angular acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold indicating a high probability of impact on the user. In such embodiments, the controller 8, or at least one of the controllers 8, may be configured to communicate wirelessly with (and / or with each other or with the main ECU) the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 (and / or with each other or with the main ECU), for example, via the Bluetooth protocol. However, as understood, other wireless protocols may be used instead to provide communication between the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19. In this type of embodiment, it is assumed that the system may be configured to activate each inflator 7 in response to i) the reception of a main operating signal wirelessly transmitted by a smartwatch 18 and / or a smartphone 19, and ii) the reception of check signals from each local accelerometer or gyroscope sensor.

[0062] In some variations of the proposal shown in Figure 8, it is proposed that the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 may be configured to run a software application that allows the user to exercise some control over the operating characteristics of system 5. For example, the software application could present the user with a variety of different activities (such as cycling, walking, cross-country hiking, or mountain climbing), each having slightly different operating characteristics such as different response times, expansion speeds, or other properties. The software application could also present the user 11 with the option to temporarily disable system 5. These types of functions may be provided even if the internal gyro sensor of the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 is not used as part of the control system.

[0063] Referring now to Figure 9, a user 11 is shown wearing several inflatable items 1-4 that form at least part of a personal impact protection system according to another embodiment. For convenience, user 11 is again shown wearing inflatable items with a configuration substantially similar to that shown in Figures 1-6, and thus including a vest 1, a helmet 2, and a pair of knee pads 3, 4. User 11 is also shown wearing all of the available inflatable items provided within the system 5. However, it should be understood that, in the same manner as described above in relation to the system shown in Figure 7, user 11 may instead choose to wear fewer inflatable items, or additional or alternative inflatable items if provided as part of the system 5.

[0064] A key difference between System 5 shown in Figure 9 and System 5 described above with reference to Figure 7 is that in System 5 of Figure 9, the controller 8 is provided for only one of the inflatable items. In the particular configuration shown, Best 1 can be considered to have the only controller 8 of System 5 and therefore represent the primary inflatable item of System 5, while the other inflatable items 2-4 of the system represent secondary inflatable items that lack their own controllers. The controller 8 may be provided as part of an actuator unit 6 in the form of an electronic control unit (ECU), similar to those described above in reference to the embodiments of Figures 1-6. Also, in common with the configurations described above with reference to Figures 1-6, the actuator unit 6 of the primary inflatable item 1 also includes an inflator 7, such as a gas generator of a known type, to which the controller 8 is operably connected. Nevertheless, it should be understood that in the modified embodiments of the embodiment shown in Figure 9, it is assumed that the inflator 7 and controller 8 may be provided as separate units at different locations on the primary inflatable item 1, at the discretion of the user. It is generally advantageous, but not essential, for the single controller 8 of the system to be located on a vest 1 or similar garment intended to be worn around the user's torso. It should also be noted that the single controller 8 may instead be located on another inflatable item of the system.

[0065] In the specific example shown in Figure 9, each secondary inflatable item of System 5, including helmet 2 and knee pads 3 and 4, is provided with its own inflator 7, but without a controller. The inflators 7 of each secondary inflatable item 2-4 may have substantially the same or identical configuration as the inflator 7 of primary inflatable item 1. Nevertheless, a single controller 8 provided on primary inflatable item 1 is operably connected to the inflators 7 of each secondary inflatable item 2-4. This connection may be wired, and as a result, the operating cable (not shown) of each secondary inflator 7 may be electrically connected by the user 11 to the operating unit 6 of primary inflatable item 1, i.e., the controller 8, when the various inflatable items 1-4 are fitted. Alternatively, it is suggested that the controller 8 may be wirelessly connected to each of the other inflators 7, for example, by their respective Bluetooth connections. In a modified version of the present invention, it is proposed that the controller 8 may have a proximity sensing configuration configured to detect the inflator 7 of each secondary inflatable item 2-4 and wirelessly connect to it when each inflator 7 is within a predetermined range indicating that each secondary inflatable item 2-4 is installed by the user 11 in addition to the primary inflatable item 1.

[0066] As can be understood, the system in Figure 9 is similar to the system in Figure 7 in that each airbag of inflatable items 1-4 is again configured to receive inflation gas directly from its own dedicated inflator 7. Thus, all the airbags of the various inflatable items 1-4 in system 5 of Figure 9 are fluidly separated from one another. Furthermore, it is proposed that the inflator 7 of each individual inflatable item 1-4 be configured to produce a predetermined amount of inflation gas appropriate for the inflatable volume of each airbag when activated. Thus, for example, vest 1, which has a relatively large inflatable volume, has a larger inflator than, for example, helmet 2 and each knee pad 3, 4, each of which has a relatively small inflatable volume, and it is proposed that the inflator of vest 1 produce a larger amount of inflation gas when activated than the inflators of the smaller inflatable items in system 5.

[0067] It is proposed that the primary inflatable item 1 may include a gyro sensor configured to generate an actuation signal in response to the detection of acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold indicating that the user is likely to be subjected to impact. The gyro sensor may be incorporated within the actuator unit 6 of the primary inflatable item 1, or it may be located elsewhere on the primary inflatable item 1.

[0068] Referring to Figure 9, it should be noted that regardless of the number of inflatable items 1-4 that user 11 chooses to wear, user 11 must wear at least primary inflatable item 1 for system 5 to be operational. This is because primary inflatable item 1 is the only inflatable item equipped with controller 8.

[0069] Referring now to Figure 10, a modified version of the personal impact protection system 5 shown in Figure 9 is shown. In particular, it can be seen that user 11 is shown wearing all of the inflatable items 1-4 provided in system 5, namely vest 1, helmet 2, and both knee pads 3, 4. User 11 is also shown wearing a smartwatch 18, and in Figure 10, a smartphone 19 is also shown. Thus, system 5 shown in Figure 10 is somewhat similar to that shown in Figure 8 in the sense that it can incorporate a smartwatch 18 and / or a smartphone 19. As can be understood again, the smartphone 19 may be carried by user 11, for example, in a pocket provided in one of the inflatable items being worn (e.g., vest 1), or alternatively, in a pocket of the user's own conventional clothing.

[0070] It is proposed that an external device, such as the illustrated smartwatch 18 or smartphone 19, may, in combination with the controller 8, form part of the control system of the personal impact protection system 5. Accordingly, it is proposed that the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 may be configured to run a software application implementing the aforementioned actuation algorithm. The integrated gyro sensor of the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 may also be part of the control system and may therefore be used to generate an actuation signal in response to the detection of angular acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold indicating that the user is likely to experience an impact. In such embodiments, the controller 8 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19, for example, via the Bluetooth protocol. However, as understood, other wireless protocols may be used instead to provide communication between the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19. In this type of embodiment, it is assumed that the system may be configured to actuate each inflator 7 in response to i) the reception of a main actuation signal wirelessly emitted by the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19, and ii) the reception of check signals from the respective local gyro sensors.

[0071] In some variations of the proposal shown in Figure 10, it is proposed that the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 may be configured to run a software application that allows the user to exercise some control over the operating characteristics of system 5 in the same manner as proposed above in relation to the configuration shown in Figure 8. For example, the software application could present the user 11 with a variety of different activities (such as cycling, walking, cross-country hiking, or mountain climbing), each having slightly different operating characteristics such as different response times, expansion speeds, or other characteristics. The software application could also present the user 11 with the option to temporarily disable system 5. These types of functions may be provided even if the internal gyro sensor of the smartwatch 18 and / or smartphone 19 is not used as part of the control system.

[0072] Features disclosed in the above description or in the following claims or accompanying drawings, relating to means for performing a disclosed function in a particular form or to methods or processes for obtaining the disclosed results as appropriate, may be used individually or in any combination of such features to realize the present invention in its various forms.

[0073] While the present invention has been described in relation to the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art if this disclosure is given. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments of the invention shown above are illustrative and not limiting. Various modifications to the described embodiments can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0074] To avoid any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purpose of improving the reader's understanding. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.

[0075] Any section headings used herein are for structural purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the subject matter described herein.

[0076] Throughout this Specified Specification, including the following claims, unless otherwise interpreted in context, the words “have,” “comprise,” and “include,” as well as variations such as “having,” “comprises,” “comprising,” and “including,” are understood to include the integer or step or group of integers or steps described, but not to exclude any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0077] It should be noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural nouns unless the context should otherwise indicate otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as “about” one particular value and / or “about” another particular value. Where such ranges are expressed, an alternative embodiment includes one particular value and / or another particular value. Similarly, where a value is expressed as an approximation by the use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that a particular value forms an alternative embodiment. The term “about” in relation to numerical values ​​is optional and means, for example, + / - 10%.

[0078] The terms “preferred” and “preferably” are used herein to refer to embodiments of the invention that may offer particular benefits under certain circumstances. However, it should be understood that other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or different circumstances. Therefore, the enumeration of one or more preferred embodiments does not mean or imply that other embodiments are unhelpful, nor is it intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of this disclosure or from the claims.

Claims

1. A personal impact protection system (5) comprising a plurality of individual wearable inflatable items (1-4) configured to be worn on or around different parts of a user's body (11), and at least one inflator (7) configured to generate a flow of expansion gas to inflate the inflatable items (1-4) when worn by the user (11), wherein the system is operably connected to the inflator (7) or each of the inflator (7) and, in response to an activation signal, the inflator ( ) 7) or characterized by a control system (8, 9, 18, 19) configured to operate each of the inflators (7), wherein the control system (8, 9, 18, 19) is configured to select one of the inflation characteristics in response to at least one of the operating signal and a determination of which of the inflatable items (1-4) is fitted by the user (11), and the system (5) comprises several of the fitted inflatable items (1-4) which are modular and which the user (11) can select one or more items (1-4) to fit, and at least one of the control system (8, 9, 18, 19) and the operating algorithm is configured to determine which of the inflatable items (1-4) is fitted and to select the inflation characteristic accordingly. Personal impact protection system (5).

2. The personal impact protection system (5) according to claim 1, wherein the control system (8, 9, 18, 19) comprises at least one controller (8) operably connected to the inflator (7) or each of the inflators (7) and configured to implement the operating algorithm.

3. The personal impact protection system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control system (8, 9, 18, 19) comprises at least one gyro sensor configured to generate the activation signal in response to the detection of an angular velocity exceeding a predetermined threshold.

4. The personal impact protection system (5) according to claim 2, wherein the system (5) comprises a single controller (8).

5. A personal impact protection system (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a single inflator (7), wherein each of the inflatable items (1 to 4) is fluidly connectable to the single inflator (7) to receive a flow of expansion gas from the inflator (7) according to the operating algorithm.

6. The personal impact protection system (5) according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of inflatable items (1 to 4) include a primary inflatable item (1) which includes the single inflator (7) and is configured to receive expansion gas directly from the inflator (7).

7. The personal impact protection system (5) according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of inflatable items (1-4) include at least one secondary inflatable item (2-4), and the secondary inflatable item (2-4) or each of the secondary inflatable items (2-4) is releasably fluid-connectable to the primary inflatable item (1) to receive an indirect flow of expanding gas from the single inflator (7) via the primary inflatable item (1) when connected to the primary inflatable item (1).

8. Personal impact protection system (5) according to claim 7, wherein the secondary expansion items (2-4) or each of the secondary expansion items (2-4) are releasably fluid-connected to the primary expansion item (1) by respective flow connectors (9) that form part of the control system (8, 9, 18, 19), the flow connectors (9) or each of the flow connectors (9) are equipped with respective switchable pressure relief valves (15), and the pressure relief valves (15) are configured to switch between an operable state and a non-operable state depending on whether each of the secondary expansion items (2-4) is fluid-connected to the primary expansion item (1), the pressure relief valves (15) or each of the pressure relief valves (15) are configured, in the operable state, to exhaust the primary expansion item (1) to the atmosphere (16) in response to an expansion pressure in the primary expansion item (1) that exceeds a predetermined threshold, and in the non-operable state, to not exhaust the primary expansion item (1).

9. The personal impact protection system (5) according to claim 8, wherein the connector (9) or each of the connectors (9) is configured to: i) switch its respective pressure relief valve (15) from the operational state to the operational state when each of the secondary inflatable items (2-4) is connected to the primary inflatable item (1); and ii) switch its respective pressure relief valve (15) from the operational state to the operational state when each of the secondary inflatable items (2-4) is disconnected from the primary inflatable item (1).

10. The personal impact protection system (5) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the control system (8, 9, 18, 19) comprises a single controller (8) configured to implement the operating algorithm, the controller (8) configured to i) operate the inflator (7) in accordance with the operating algorithm, and ii) detect the connection and disconnection of the secondary inflatable items (2-4) or each secondary inflatable item (2-4) to the primary inflatable item (1), and in response to the detection, control the switching of each pressure relief valve (15) or each pressure relief valve (15) between the operational state and the inoperable state.

11. The personal impact protection system (5) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the primary inflatable item (1) comprises a primary controller (8) configured to operate the inflator (7) according to the operating algorithm, the secondary inflatable items (2-4) or each of the secondary inflatable items (2-4) comprises its own secondary controller, and the secondary controller or each of the secondary controllers is configured to detect the connection and disconnection of each of the secondary inflatable items (2-4) to the primary inflatable item (1), and to control the switching of each of the pressure relief valves (15) between the operational state and the operational state in response to the detection.

12. The personal impact protection system (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each of the inflatable items (1 to 4) comprises its own inflator (7), and each inflatable item (1 to 4) is configured to receive inflation gas directly from its own inflator (7).

13. The personal impact protection system (5) according to claim 12, wherein the system (5) comprises a single controller (8) operably connected to each inflator (7) and configured to implement the operating algorithm.

14. The personal impact protection system (5) according to claim 12, wherein each inflatable item (1-4) is provided with its own controller (8), and each controller (8) is operably connected to its own inflator (7).

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