Energy distributing suspicion of impact plate

Abstract

A protective suit to protect a wearer from ballistics and explosives. The protective suit comprises a base garment, an armor plate, and a plurality of shocks coupled to an interior surface of the base garment opposite to the armor plate.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 18 / 332,567, entitled “Progressive Stiffness Energy Distributing Suspension of Impact Plate,” filed Jun. 9, 2023, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63 / 265,254, entitled “Modular Selectively Positionable Support Systems,” filed on Dec. 10, 2021, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63 / 386,819, entitled “Adjustable Impact Diffusion,” filed on Dec. 9, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63 / 386,828, entitled “Articles Evidencing Long-Felt Unmet Need, Industry Skepticism, and Surprising Results,” filed on Dec. 9, 2022.BACKGROUNDField of the Disclosure

[0002] Aspects of the disclosure relate in general to protective functional garments and accessories. Aspects include an apparatus, system, and method of using impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) that include impact mitigating support spacers configured to facilitate dissipation of impact energy.Description of the Related Art

[0003] Military personnel may carry various equipment. For example, members of field units may carry 50 or more pounds of equipment. Some personnel may carry greater than 80 pounds of equipment. Equipment may, for example, be carried in packs. For example, some personnel may wear backpacks, front packs, and / or side packs.

[0004] In some cases, military personnel may also wear body armor on duty. The body armor may include a protective armor designed to stop physical attacks. There are, for example, regular non-plated body armor for moderate to substantial protection, and hard-plate reinforced body armor. For example, a combat soldier may wear a protective vest with a rigid plate made of steel or other shock absorbent, energy dissipating, and / or energy absorbing materials to protect against physical attack (e.g., ballistic projectiles).

[0005] Hard body armor plates are graded by the militaries and defense departments worldwide and by organizations such as the National Institutes of Justice (NIJ) in the United States, and are meant to depict a specific graded plate's efficacy against a certain range of ammunition.

[0006] “Ballistic performance” here is defined as the hard amor plates ability to protect the wearer from a ballistic round, specifically how much force is transmitted from the ballistic round to the wearer's body.

[0007] “Injury” to the wearer is defined as the size of Backface Deformation or Backface Signature of the hard armor plate. The smaller the Backface Deformation or Backface Signature, the less significant the wearer's injuries are.

[0008] Different military branches and / or units may carry various equipment and / or be specialized for various environments. For example, marine-based units may carry some equipment. Paratrooper units may have other equipment. Tank units may have other equipment. Police personnel may have yet other equipment.SUMMARY

[0009] Embodiments include a system, apparatus, device, method to provide a protective suit.

[0010] In one embodiment, the protective suit comprises a base garment, a first armor plate, and a first plurality of shocks. The first armor plate covers at least part of the outer surface of the base garment. The first plurality of shocks is coupled to an interior surface of the base garment opposite to the first armor plate. Each of the first plurality of shocks has an individual volume of between 30 cm3 and 150 cm3, and an aggregate volume of the plurality of shocks is 150 cm3 and 550 cm3.

[0011] In another embodiment, a protective suit comprises a base garment, a first armor plate, and a first plurality of pockets. The first armor plate covers at least part of the outer surface of the base garment. The first plurality of pockets is on an interior surface of the base garment opposite to the first armor plate. Each of the first plurality of pockets configured to accommodate a shock with an individual volume of between 30 cm3 and 150 cm3, and an aggregate volume of the plurality of pockets is 150 cm3 and 550 cm3.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary impact dissipating protective garment employed in an illustrative use-case scenario.

[0013] FIGS. 2A-2E are schematic diagrams depicting various embodiments of an exemplary impact mitigating suspension spacers.

[0014] FIGS. 3A-3F depict exemplary experimental results of a rigid impact plate with and without support of exemplary impact mitigating suspension spacers as described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E.

[0015] FIG. 3G and FIG. 3H depict exemplary experimental results of a rigid impact plate with different impact mitigating suspension spacers configurations as disclosed at least with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E.

[0016] FIGS. 4A-4D depict various exemplary shapes of shocks.

[0017] FIG. 5A, 5B, and FIG. 5C depict exemplary embodiments of shocks.

[0018] FIG. 6 depicts perspective views of an exemplary shocks.

[0019] FIG. 7 depicts a front view, a back view, and a side view, respectively, of the exemplary shocks with reference to FIG. 6.

[0020] FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B, and FIG. 8C depict embodiments of shocks having various embodiments of support protrusions.

[0021] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B depict an exemplary extended shock.

[0022] FIG. 10 depicts an exemplary IDPG configured to selectively couple and position shocks.

[0023] FIG. 11 depicts exemplary shocks releasably coupled to the exemplary garment as described with reference to FIG. 10.

[0024] FIG. 12 depicts exemplary shocks and exemplary extended shocks in an illustrative use-case.

[0025] FIG. 13, FIG. 14, FIG. 15, FIG. 16, FIGS. 17A-17B depict an exemplary impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) in an illustrative use-case.

[0026] FIG. 18 are schematic diagrams depicting one embodiment of an exemplary shock for attachment to the interior surface of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0027] FIG. 19 are schematic diagrams depicting impact dissipating protective garment showing exemplary impact mitigating support spacers attached to the inside surface of the IDPG.

[0028] FIG. 20 are schematic diagrams depicting another embodiment of an exemplary impact mitigating suspension spacers for attachment to the interior surface of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0029] FIG. 21 is an alternate embodiment of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0030] FIG. 22 is a front view of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0031] FIG. 23 is a side view of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0032] FIG. 24 is an enhanced view of a shock placement within the impact dissipating protective garment of FIG. 23.

[0033] FIG. 25 is a ¾ rear-view of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0034] FIG. 26 is a rear view of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0035] FIGS. 27A-27D are views of armor plate front / back.

[0036] FIGS. 28A-D are views of a shock embodiment.

[0037] FIGS. 29-31 depict cross sections of various shock embodiments.

[0038] FIGS. 31-32 depict alternate shock embodiment shapes.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] In one aspect of the disclosure relates to impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) including impact mitigating support spacers configured to facilitate dissipation of impact energy. Impact mitigating support spacers may also be referred to as “spacers” or “shocks.” Embodiments improve the ballistic performance of hard body armor, such as metal plates and laminated ceramic plates, including their predecessors and derivatives; more specifically that the invention reduces Backface Deformation (BFS) or Backface Signature (BFD) of hard body armor plates that have been struck by a round of ammunition and this consequently reduces the injury to the wearer of the body armor in the unfortunate event of being shot. Backface Deformation and Backface Signature are interchangeable descriptions of how much the back of the hard body armor, the side of the plate that is against the wearer's body, deforms due to the ammunition round entering the plate directly behind the plate's “entry wound.”

[0040] In an illustrative example, an IDPG includes a base garment and multiple spacers releasably and adjustably coupled to the base garment. In operation, for example, a wearer may wear protective armor having an armor plate to cover at least part of the base garment. For clarity, “hard body armor” refers to the metal and ceramic plates that combat troops, law enforcement and other security forces wear to protect themselves from shots fired in anger. These plates are commonly worn in “plate carriers” or Modular Scalable Vests (MSV) designed to carry the plates and tools needed by the warfighters, police and security guards. For example, at least some of the shocks are adjustably positioned to suspend the armor plate at four distinctive points around a periphery of the armor plate. In some implementations, at least 50% of the armor plate is separated from the wearer by an air gap. Various embodiments may advantageously mitigate impact power transferred to the wearer by dissipating excess energy at the suspended armor plate and at the shocks.

[0041] Another aspect of the disclosure includes include flexible shocks such that relative motion towards the living body may advantageously be reduced. Some embodiments, for example, may include progressively stiff shocks to advantageously minimize impact transferred to the wearer. For example, some embodiments may advantageously deform a penetrating projectile to prevent complete penetration of the armor plate to protect the wearer. In some implementations, for example, an IPDG and shocks system may, for example, advantageously deform a penetrating projectile to reduce total penetration distance after impact, even if an armor plate is breached (e.g., reducing or preventing injury to a wearer and / or nearby living bodies). Some embodiments may, for example, include protrusions that buckle upon receiving an impact larger than a predetermined threshold to advantageously dissipate energy received at the shocks.

[0042] Apparatus and associated methods relate to impact-dissipating protective garments having selectively positionable spacers. In an illustrative example, a shock may be configured with concentric rings of support protrusions separated by concentric channels. The channels may, for example, be in fluid communication by apertures in the concentric rings of support protrusions. The shocks may be releasably and selectively positioned on a base garment. In some embodiments the shocks may be releasably and selectively positioned on a harness. The harness may include a handle configured to support substantially all of a human's weight and associated body-worn equipment. In some embodiments multiple shocks may be assembled into an outer shell. In some embodiments the shocks may be configured of a lightweight material such as airbags and / or foam. Various embodiments may advantageously increase the comfort of emergency and / or military personnel in deployment suits of substantial weight.

[0043] To aid understanding, this document is organized as follows. First, to help introduce discussion of various embodiments, an impact dissipating protective garment is introduced with reference to FIG. 1. Second, that introduction leads into a description with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E of some exemplary embodiments of shocks. Third, with reference to FIGS. 3A-3F, this disclosure turns to a review of experimental data and a discussion of surprising results using the shocks. Fourth, with reference to FIGS. 4A-9B, the discussion turns to exemplary embodiments that illustrate detailed features of exemplary shocks. Fifth, and with reference to FIG. 10-12, this document describes exemplary apparatus and methods useful for releasably and adjustably coupling the shocks to the IDPG. Sixth, the disclosure introduces an exemplary impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) with reference to FIGS. 13-17B. Finally, the document discusses further embodiments, exemplary applications and aspects relating to position adjustable impact mitigating spacers and protective garments.

[0044] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary impact dissipating protective garment (IDPG 100) employed in an illustrative use-case scenario. In this example, a wearer 105 (e.g., a police officer, a military personnel) is wearing the IDPG 100. The IDPG 100 includes, as shown in this front view, four shocks (shocks 110) coupled to the IDPG 100 (e.g., releasably coupled). The shocks 110 are supporting a rigid plate 115. For example, the rigid plate 115 may be an armor plate in a bulletproof vest. For example, the rigid plate 115 may be made of steel. For example, the rigid plate 115 may be made of graphene. For example, the rigid plate 115 may be made of composite materials.

[0045] As shown, the IDPG 100 further includes coupling members 120 to couple the shocks 110 to an outer face of the IDPG 100. In some implementations, the coupling members 120 may include a fastener having, for example, mating surfaces. For example, a first mating surface may be fixedly coupled to the IDPG 100. For example, a second mating surface may be releasably coupled to the shocks 110. In various implementations, the shocks 110 may be adjustably coupled to the coupling member 120 along the first mating surface.

[0046] In this example, the shocks 110 suspends the rigid plate 115 such that an air gap is created between the outer face of the IDPG 100 and the rigid plate 115. The shocks 110, for example, may support the rigid plate 115 such that the rigid plate 115 may naturally hang over a living body of the wearer 105. In some implementations, the shocks 110 may support the rigid plate 115 at four points at the peripheral of the rigid plate 115. Various exemplary implementations of support contact by the shocks 110 are described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E.

[0047] In various implementations, the IDPG 100 may reduce an impact to the wearer 105 when a projectile (e.g., a bullet) hits the rigid plate 115. As shown in this example, a bullet 125 is hitting the rigid plate 115 at an impact site 130. For example, upon impact, the bullet 125 may transmit a forward momentum perpendicular to an outer surface of the rigid plate 115. At the impact site 130, for example, because of the air gap between the outer face of the IDPG 100 and the rigid plate 115, the impact from bullet 125 is distributed dissipated 360° around the impact site 130 as shown by the arrows around the impact site 130 in FIG. 1. In some examples, some of the dissipated energy may be transmitted to the shocks 110. In some implementations, total energy transmitted to the four shocks 110 may be less than 50% of energy transmitted by the momentum transmitted at the impact site 130. For example, exemplary testing (e.g., as disclosed at least with reference to FIGS. 3A-3H) demonstrates that illustrative implementations advantageously reduce energy (as measured by reduction in back face signature) by 20-84%.

[0048] For example, various embodiments suspending an impact plate around a periphery of the plate may advantageously reduce direct impact to a living body wearing the impact plate (e.g., by reducing or preventing deformation of the impact plate from directly impacting the living body). As disclosed herein, embodiments suspending an impact plate around a periphery of the plate may, for example, advantageously and surprisingly alter a deformation of the plate upon impact by a projectile. For example, a depth of penetration may advantageously be reduced (e.g., which may advantageously reduce direct injury to the living body). For example, an area of penetration (e.g., an area of the impact plate responding to the impact) may be dramatically increased (e.g., 2×, 4×, 10×, greater than 10×) when the plate is peripherally supported. The increase area of penetration may, for example, correspond to a dramatic increase in energy dissipated by the plate during impact (e.g., via inelastic, permanent deformation of the plate). For example, depth of penetration times area of penetration may be proportional to energy dissipated through permanent deformation. Accordingly, by way of example and not limitation, implementations peripherally suspending the impact plate may advantageously reduce, dissipate, and / or distribute energy transferred to the human.

[0049] As shown, the shocks 110 may include protrusions 140 extending orthogonal to a base of the shocks 110. In some implementations, the protrusions 140 may be progressively stiff. As shown in a side view in FIG. 1, after the bullet 125 impacted the rigid plate 115, represented by an arrow 145, the protrusions 140 may be configured to buckle. Buckling may, for example, advantageously absorb energy received at the shocks 110. Buckling may, for example, extend the distribution of energy across the shocks and so to the wearer's body. For example, the shocks may reduce a pressure felt by the human such as, by way of example and not limitation, by reducing force per area and / or force per time per area. In some implementations, the shocks 110 may be deformed after receiving the impact energy. In some implementations, the protrusions 140 may flex relative to the base of the shocks 110 to advantageously dissipate energy and / or progressively increase resistance to displacement of the plate 115 towards the wearer. The protrusions 140 may, by way of example and not limitation, reduce or eliminate chafing of a user during normal wear. For example, in some implementations, lateral stiffness of protrusions of the shocks may be different than compressive stiffness (e.g., orthogonal to a surface of the wearer's body). This differential stiffness may, for example, advantageously be configured such that the armor (e.g., plate 115) may move relative to the body during normal wear without rubbing the body repeatedly. Such implementations may, for example, advantageously reduce tissue damage due to rubbing.

[0050] In some implementations, the shocks 110 may also be made with flexible material. For example, the shocks 110 may include a material of Shore A 45-60. In some examples, the shocks 110 may include a material of Shore A 55-90. In some implementations, the shocks 110 may, upon receiving a force Fr, the shocks 110 may flex around the rigid plate 115 (e.g., conform to a surface of the rigid plate 115). The flexure may, for example, advantageously progressively increase area of contact of the rigid plate 115 with the shocks 110. For example, progressively increasing area of contact may advantageously dissipate more energy. Accordingly, some embodiments may advantageously reduce energy transmitting to the wearer 105.

[0051] In this example, the rigid plate 115 may, after receiving an impact of the bullet 125, be deformed by a depth d as shown by a deformed plate 150. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3F, d may be reduced when shocks 110 is deployed to support the rigid plate 115. In this example, the bullet 125 may be deformed by the rigid plate 115. The suspension of the periphery of the plate 115 may, for example, advantageously enable a greater amount of material of the plate 115 to be engaged in absorbing energy of the bullet 125. For example, a consistent air gap between the rigid plate 115 and the wearer may advantageously enable the rigid plate 115 to distribute the impact energy of the bullet 125 such as, for example, by internal shear stresses and / or tensile stresses distributed across substantially an entirety of the rigid plate.

[0052] Substantially an entirety of the plate may, for example, be at least 50% of the surface area of the plate facing the wearer. Substantially an entirety may, for example, be at least 75% of the surface area of the plate. Substantially an entirety may, for example, be at least 90% of the surface area of the plate.

[0053] In some examples, the deflection and / or deformation of the plate 150 may decrease a rate of energy transfer from the bullet 125 to the rigid plate 115 and / or the wearer 105. For example, the deflection of the rigid plate 115 to the deformed plate 150 may extend a duration of energy transfer. The decrease rate of energy transfer may, for example, reduce penetrating ability of the bullet 125.

[0054] Without being bound to a particular theory, flexure and / or deformation of the rigid plate 115 may, for example, advantageously reduce penetration of the bullet 125 through the rigid plate 115. Accordingly, for example, the bullet 125 may deform from a penetrating shape at the leading edge to a blunter shape. For example, due to effective dissipation of kinetic energy of the bullet 125, the rigid plate 115 may be more likely to stop the bullet 125 by deforming it into a less penetrating shape. For example, without being bound to a particular theory, by increasing a duration of energy transfer, the IDPG 100 may advantageously slow a rate of travel of the bullet 125 into and / or through the rigid plate 115 below a threshold at which material is stripped from a leading edge of the bullet 125. Accordingly, for example, the bullet 125 may collapse on itself (e.g., the trailing edge may continue to travel faster than the leading edge momentarily), which may, for example, advantageously transform the leading edge of the bullet 125 from a penetration geometry to a blunter (e.g., ‘stopping’) geometry that spreads the energy transfer across a greater surface area of the rigid plate 115. Such implementations may, for example, advantageously reduce penetration and save lives.

[0055] FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, FIG. 2C, FIG. 2D and FIG. 2E are schematic diagrams depicting various embodiments of exemplary shocks. As shown in FIG. 2A, a rigid plate 205 is supported by four shocks 210. For example, the shocks 210 may include a substantially circular base. For example, the shocks 210 may be cone shaped that may include a wider base proximal to a base garment (e.g., the IDPG 100) and a narrower top distal to the base garment. For example, the shocks 210 may be substantially cylindrical. In this example, the rigid plate 205, is a round cornered rectangular plate. The rigid plate 205 may be a sharp cornered rectangular plate as shown in FIGS. 2B-2E. Other shapes (e.g., triangular, square, pentagon, hexagon, eclipse, ‘shield’ shape) of the rigid plate 205 may also be possible in some implementations. In each of the depicted configurations, a corresponding plate (e.g., rigid) is suspended by the shocks at a minimum of four points around the periphery of the plate.

[0056] In some implementations, the shocks 210 may suspend the rigid plate 205 such that at least half of a surface area facing a living body of a wearer (e.g., the wearer 105) does not directly nor indirectly contact the wearer. For example, suppose the surface area of the rigid plate 205 is RRP. For example, the surface area of top surfaces of the shocks 210 overlapping the rigid plate 205 is Rshocks. In some implementations, a suspended (hanging) surface area of the rigid plate 205 may beR suspend=R RP-R shocks>R RP / 2

[0057] For example, the suspended surface area, separated from the wearer by an air gap, may advantageously dissipate energy transferred from a projectile (e.g., the bullet 125) to the rigid plate 205 upon an impact of the projectile. Accordingly, for example, the wearer 105 may receive less energy from the impact. For example, the IDPG 100 may advantageously prevent sores and / or chafing of the wearer 105.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 2B, the shocks 210 is used to suspend a rectangular rigid plate 215. For example, the rectangular rigid plate 215 may have a different shape from the rigid plate 205. In some implementations, as shown in FIG. 1, the shocks 210 may advantageously be adjustable in position relative to the IDPG 100 to support various shapes of the rigid plate 115. In this example, the shocks 210 is fully covered by the rectangular rigid plate 215. However, for example, ifR suspend=R RP-R shocks>R RP / 2,

[0059] the suspension of the rectangular rigid plate 215 may also be effective in dissipating impact energy from a projectile.

[0060] the suspension of the rectangular rigid plate 215 may also be effective in dissipating impact energy from a projectile.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 2C-2D, the rectangular rigid plate 215 is supported by two extended shocks 220. As shown, the extended shocks 220 supports the rectangular rigid plate 215 in two exemplary orientations as shown in FIG. 2C-2D. For example, as depicted, four peripheral points of the rectangular rigid plate 215 may be supported to facilitate effective dissipation of impact energy. For example, geometries shown in FIG. 2C and FIG. 2E may be advantageously used for wearers with extra breast tissue. The shocks 210 and / or shocks 220 may advantageously be placed for a specific wearer to create a substantially consistent (e.g., having at least a predetermined minimum air gap thickness) air gap between the wearer's body and the back surface of the plate (e.g., rigid plate 205, rectangular rigid plate 215). The shocks may, for example, advantageously be placed to maintain an air gap thickness regardless of body surface geometry. In some implementations, other orientations and arrangements may also be possible. For example, as shown in FIG. 2E, the shocks 210 and the extended shocks 220 are used to support the rectangular rigid plate 215. Further discussion of various embodiments of the extended shocks 220 is described with reference to FIG. 11.

[0062] In the depicted example, each plate is supported by shocks at four points of contact around the periphery of the plate. Some implementations may, for example, have exactly four points of contact (e.g., individual shocks, multiple contact points along a single longitudinally extending spacer). Some implementations may, for example, have at least four points of contact (e.g., a continually extending spacers may be configured to have at least two points of contact but may also contact, for example, substantially continuously along a length of the shock). In some implementations, for example, at least four and / or only four points of contact may be at least at each corner of a rigid plate.

[0063] In various implementations, a functional garment (e.g., the IDPG 100) may include position-adjustable shocks (e.g., the shocks 110, the shocks 210, the extended shocks 220). For example, the position-adjustable shocks may be configured to be at least partially covered by a rigid plate (e.g., the rigid plate 115, the rigid plate 205, the rectangular rigid plate 215) having an impact-receiving surface. For example, the position adjustable shocks may be positioned around a periphery of the rigid plate such that at least four points of the rigid plate are supported by the shock. In some implementations, at least 50% of the impact-receiving surface area may be separated from a living body wearing the functional garment by an air gap.

[0064] FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, FIG. 3C, FIG. 3D, FIG. 3E, and FIG. 3F depict exemplary experimental results of a rigid impact plate with and without support of exemplary shocks as described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E. As shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, two ballistic test results on a APM2 protective plate are shown. FIG. 3A shows a ballistic test result on an APM2 protective plate 305 without shocks support. FIG. 3B shows a ballistic test result on an APM2 protective plate 310 with shocks support. As shown, an impact crater of the protective plate 305 is 11.6 mm and an impact crater of the 310 is 30.4 mm. For example, the shocks 110 suspending the rigid plate 115 may efficiently facilitate spreading an energy transmitted at a projectile impact to a wider area.

[0065] FIGS. 3C-3D show exemplary deformation data from a ballistic test of a torso plate (e.g., the protective plate 310) with shock absorbers (FIG. 3C), and a ballistic test of a standalone torso plate (FIG. 3D). For example, the shock absorbers may be the shocks 110 as described with reference to FIG. 1. As shown, deformation data 315 in FIG. 3C with respect to different ammunition used are less than corresponding deformation data 320 in FIG. 3D. For example, the deformation data 315, 320 may suggest that the depth d after an impact of a project is reduced when the shocks 110 are used.

[0066] FIGS. 3E-3F show exemplary projectiles after ballistic tests of a torso plate (e.g., the protective plate 310) with shock absorbers (FIG. 3E), and a ballistic test of a standalone torso plate (FIG. 3F). As shown in FIG. 3E, after impact, a projectile 325 is deformed to be blunt. In contrast, a projectile 330 is kept largely its original shape with relatively little deformation compared to the projectile 325. In some implementations, the IDPG 100 may advantageously mitigate penetration power of the projectile by deforming the projectile. For example, the shocks may advantageously prevent complete penetrations of an armor plate to protect the wearer.

[0067] FIG. 3G and FIG. 3H depict exemplary experimental results of a rigid impact plate with different shocks configurations as disclosed at least with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E. FIG. 3G depicts results 350 of a ballistic impact test in which a projectile was shot at a test dummy with a rigid impact plate having shocks beneath it. A back face signature (e.g., related to an amount of deformation and / or damage created on a backside of a piece of armor after an impact) created by each of 3 test shots is shown by BFS 355. The first two test shots were made with 5 shocks (one at each corner under the rigid plate, and one in the center) distributed under the rigid plate (e.g., as disclosed at least with reference to FIG. 12). The third test shot was made with 4 shocks (one at each corner under the rigid plate, such as shown in FIG. 1, with the plate suspended by the four corners to create a continuous air gap between the plate and the dummy over greater than 50% of the area of the back surface area of the plate).

[0068] As shown by the BFS 355 results, the deformation (in millimeters) dropped to about one-third of the previous deformation. Additionally, as shown by the notes 360, the first two tests (SHOT NO. 1 and SHOT NO. 2) resulted in the projectile penetrating the rigid armor and stopping the shoot pack (behind the dummy). In the third test (SHOT NO. 3), with continuous air gap over greater than 50% of the back surface area of the plate, the projectile did not penetrate the armor. Accordingly, the results demonstrate the surprising result that a person who would have died with 5 shocks (bullet penetrated) would have likely survived with the rigid plate suspended over 4 shocks (bullet did not penetrate). The test personnel expressed amazement at the results. While expecting the results demonstrated in shots 1 and 2, they were completely surprised by the result in shot 3, and performed additional testing, the results of which are shown in FIG. 3H.

[0069] FIG. 3H demonstrates results of additional shots of the test described with respect to FIG. 3G, with the shocks distributed as described for shot 3. As can be seen, no penetration of the armor by the projectile was noted. The damage to the rigid plate, shown by BFS 370 results, are consistent with the third shot, remaining one-third to one-half of the deformation resulting from the shocks configuration described with respect to shots 1 and 2 of the test described with respect to FIG. 3G. Accordingly, experimental results demonstrate surprising results achieved by the shocks distributed around the periphery (e.g., at four distinct contact points) to create a continuous air gap (e.g., greater than 50% of the surface area of the back of the plate) between the rigid plate and the body.

[0070] FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, FIG. 4C, and FIG. 4D depict various exemplary shapes of shocks. As shown in FIG. 4A, a shock 405 with a curved top surface (e.g., a convex curved shape shocks) is used to suspend the rigid plate 115. In FIG. 4B, a shock 410 includes a flat surface. In various implementations, the flat top surface and straight edges may be easier to manufacture. In some examples, different shapes of shocks may provide different performance and durability against impacting projectiles. As shown in FIG. 4C, a disk like shocks 415 is used. For example, the shocks 415 may be made with very flexible and / or elastic material with a durometer less than Shore A 50. In some implementations, a shock 415 may be made with a durometer less than Shore A 65 (e.g., configured for equipment support). In various examples, different internal structures of the shocks may be included.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 4D, a honey cone structured shocks 420 is used to suspend the rigid plate 115. For example, the honey cone structure may advantageously absorb shock and reduce sore upon impact. In various implementations, the shocks 405, 410, 415, 420 may be progressively stiff upon impact such that impact energy is dissipated within the shocks before transmitting to a wearer (e.g., the wearer 105).

[0072] FIG. 5A, 5B, and FIG. 5C depict exemplary embodiments of a shocks. As shown in FIG. 5A-5B, a shock 500 and a shock 505 may, for example, be configured to couple to the base garment (e.g., the IDPG 100). For example, the shocks 500 may, for example, be formed of silicone. The shocks 505 may, for example, be made of polyurethane. In some implementations, some shocks may be made of recycled plasticized Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Various embodiments may, for example, have a density and / or stiffness (e.g., Shore durometer) selected according to targeted support and / or comfort goals. For example, a stiffer material may be selected to support heavier weight. In some embodiments a softer material may be selected to provide increased cushioning.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 5C, the shocks 505 is flexible. In some implementations, the shocks 505 may flex upon receiving an impact energy. For example, the flexing of the shocks 505 around a rigid plate may advantageously dissipate energy from transferring to a wearer of the IDPG 100. In some implementations, the shocks 505 may deform (e.g., elastically, in shear, and / or destructively) along an axis orthogonal to the wearer 105 such that relative motion towards the living body is reduced.

[0074] FIG. 6 depicts perspective views of an exemplary shocks 600. For example, the shocks 600 may be the shocks 500 or the shocks 505 as described with reference to FIGS. 5A-5C. As shown, the shocks 600 includes a center protrusion 605. Protrusions 610 extend substantially orthogonal to a base of the shocks 600. As depicted, the protrusions 610 are arranged in subsequent concentric rings. Each ring is separated by concentric channels 615. Each ring of protrusions 610 is fenestrated by radial channels 620. The radial channels 620 connect the concentric channels 615. Accordingly, airflow may be maintained across a plane parallel to the base of the shocks 600. The shocks 600 may, for example, space an outer garment and / or pack from a user, thereby maintaining airflow. In some embodiments, the protrusions 610 may flex to provide impact absorbance and / or motion of an external garment and / or pack. For example, the protrusions 610 may flex relative to the base of the shocks 600 and reduce or eliminate chafing of a user. As depicted, the shocks 600 includes an outer ring 625.

[0075] FIG. 7 depicts a front view, a back view, and a side view of the exemplary shocks with reference to FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 7, the shocks 600 includes apertures 705 through the base of the shocks 600. The apertures 705 may, for example, slidingly receive a coupling member (e.g., the coupling members 120) configured to releasably couple the shocks 600 to a receiving surface (e.g., the IDPG 100).

[0076] The shocks 600 is provided, in an end view with a monotonically decreasing profile relative to increasing radius from the center protrusion 605. As depicted in FIG. 7, a profile 710 of the shocks 600 may be a convex curve relative to the base. For example, the convex curve of the profile 710 may advantageously transmit a load engaging some upper portion of a protrusion 610 towards a center of the base.

[0077] FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B, and FIG. 8C depict exemplary embodiments of a shocks having various embodiments of support protrusions. As shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, top views of various shocks embodiments are shown. As shown in FIG. 8A, a shock 800 includes concentric rings of discontinued protrusions 805. As shown in FIG. 8B, a square shock 810 includes “finger” like protrusions 815. For example, the protrusions 815 may be independent and coaxial in shape. As shown in FIG. 8C, a polygonal shock 820 is depicted. In this example, the shocks 820 includes holes 825 and ribs 830. For example, the holes 825 may advantageously facilitate air flow between the wearer 105 and the shocks 820 to improve comfort. The ribs 830, for example, may be buckled upon receiving an impact energy above a predetermined impact threshold (e.g., 100 foot-pound, 500 foot-pound, 1000 foot-pound).

[0078] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B depict an exemplary extended shock. An extended shocks (an EMS 900) includes a center region 910 and two outer regions 915. The center region 910 may, for example, be taller than the outer regions 915. As depicted, each region is domed (e.g., according to the profile 710), such that an overall side profile of the EMS 900 is domed.

[0079] FIG. 10 depicts an exemplary IDPG 100 configured to selectively couple and position shocks 110. The IDPG 100 includes a base garment 1005. The base garment 1005 is provided in the back with vertical coupling modules 1010 and a horizontal coupling module 1015. In some implementations, a base of the shocks 110 may include a smooth surface against the outer surface of the base garment. For example, at impact, the smooth surface does not deform such that an impact energy transferred to the living body is evenly distributed among an entire surface area of the smooth surface.

[0080] In some embodiments, coupling modules may include magnets. In some embodiments coupling modules (e.g., the vertical coupling modules 1010, horizontal coupling module 1015) may include snaps. In some embodiments coupling modules may include hooks and / or loops (e.g., hook-and-loop strip, fastener strips).

[0081] FIG. 11 depicts exemplary shocks releasably coupled to the exemplary garment as described with reference to FIG. 10. As shown, a front of the base garment 1005 includes vertical coupling modules 1105. The shocks 110 are coupled to the coupling modules 1105 by coupling members 1110 passed through the apertures 705 and releasably coupled to the vertical coupling modules 1105.

[0082] FIG. 12 depicts exemplary shocks and exemplary extended shocks in an illustrative use-case. As depicted, at least the two outer regions 915 may be provided with apertures such as disclosed at least with reference to the apertures 705. Each of the outer regions 915 may be coupled by corresponding coupling members 1110 to the vertical coupling modules 1105. As depicted, the EMS 900 may advantageously span across coupling modules. For example, the EMS 900 may span front or back vertical coupling modules to form a chest support. As depicted, the EMS 900 may be configured as a back support. In the depicted example, the EMS 900 may be configured as shoulder support. In some embodiments, as depicted, the EMS 900 may be configured as a lumbar support. In some embodiments, the EMS 900 may be selectively positioned to support a pack and / or other gear as discussed further below with reference to FIGS. 13-17.

[0083] FIG. 13, FIG. 14, FIG. 15, FIG. 16, and FIG. 17 depict an exemplary impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) in an illustrative use-case. As shown in FIG. 13, an MSPSS 1300 on a (model) user 1305 includes a base garment 1005. A harness 1310 is disposed over the base garment 1005. Modular shocks 1315 are releasably coupled to the harness 1310. The modular shocks 1315 are positioned to support a pack 1320 spaced away from the user 1305. The modular shocks 1315 may, for example, cushion the pack 1320. The pack 1320 may, for example, hold equipment.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 14, the harness 1310 is releasably coupled by fasteners 1405. As depicted, the fasteners 1405 are snap buckles. For example, the fasteners 1405 may be operated by a user to cross the harness 1310 (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 14) across the chest and / or around the waist.

[0085] The modular shocks 1315 may, for example, be cushioned. The modular shocks 1315 may, for example, include air-filled compartments (e.g., airbags). In some embodiments, the modular shocks 1315 may include silicon pads. In some embodiments the modular shocks 1315 may include urethane pads.

[0086] As depicted in FIG. 14, the base garment 1005 includes multiple coupling modules 1410. Each coupling module 1410 may, for example, be configured to selectively and releasably couple one or more modular shocks 1315 directly to the base garment 1005. As shown in FIG. 15, the harness 1310 crosses in the back and then crosses under the arms. The harness 1310 under the arms is coupled to a handle 1505 (see, for example, FIG. 3).

[0087] As depicted in an exemplary scenario 1600 in FIG. 16, the handle 1505 may, for example, be used to carry the user 1305 by the harness 1310. For example, in an emergency, the user 1305 may be retrieved by another person 1605 via the handle 1505 of the harness 1310. As an illustrative example, a user 1305 may be wounded in a combat scenario. The other person 1605 may grab the handle 1505 and drag the user 1305 out of danger. Accordingly, various embodiments may advantageously increase safety.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 17A, in a close-up view of the modular shocks 1315, each of the modular shocks 1315 is provided with two sleeves 1710 (e.g., straps sewed to the back of the shock). The harness 1310 may be passed through one or more of the sleeves 1710. For example, the sleeves 1710 may releasably and slidably couple the modular shock 1315 to the harness 1310. In some embodiments multiple harness straps may be passed through the sleeves 1710 of a given shock. For example, the modular shock 1315 may be used to couple two or more straps of the harness 1310. A position of the modular shock 1315 may, for example, be adjusted by sliding the harness 1310 through the sleeves 1710.

[0089] As depicted in FIG. 17B, the modular shock 1315 includes a coupling module 1715. For example, the coupling module 1715 may include hook and / or loop fabric. The coupling module 1715 may, for example, be used to releasably couple the modular shock 1315 to the base garment 1005. For example, a user 1305 may position the harness 1310 and / or the modular shocks 1315 in a desired configuration (e.g., for maximum support and / or comfort) and releasably couple the modular shocks 1315 to the base garment 1005 by engaging the coupling module(s) 1715 to corresponding coupling module(s) 1410.

[0090] As depicted in FIGS. 13-17B, the modular shock 1315 may be constructed of a shell. For example, the shell may be fabric. In some embodiments a fabric shell may be configured to receive multiple shocks. The shell may be configured to support multiple shocks in a predetermined spatial relationship. In the depicted example, the modular shock 1315 may be configured to receive multiple individual shocks 1720, as shown in the right view of FIG. 17B. The shock 1720 may correspond, by way of example and not limitation, to a shock 110 or an EMS 900 (disclosed at least with reference to FIGS. 1-9). In some implementations, the modular shocks 1315 may be a combination of the shocks 110 and / or the EMS 900. For example, the modular shocks 1315 may include the shocks 110 and / or the EMS 900 fitted into a pocket (as depicted). In some examples, the modular shocks 1315 may be a standalone EMS 900 without a container shell. In some embodiments, the shock 1720 may correspond to at least a portion of an airbag. In some embodiments the shock 1720 may correspond to at least a portion of a foam pad.

[0091] Although various embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, other embodiments are possible.

[0092] In some implementations, the wearer 105 may be other living bodies. For example, the IDPG 100 may be deployed on dogs on duty of security missions or policing missions. In various implementations, the IDPG 100 may advantageously protect and reduce damage to the living body wearing the IDPG 100.

[0093] Although an exemplary system has been described with reference to FIG. 1, other implementations may be deployed in other industrial, scientific, medical, commercial, and / or residential applications.

[0094] In some embodiments, a garment, harness, and / or modular shock may, for example, be hydrophobic. Such embodiments may, for example, advantageously repel and / or shed water. Such embodiments may, for example, advantageously reduce or eliminate additional weight after wetting of the user wearing the garment, harness, and / or shock(s). In an illustrative example, a user carrying heavy packs (e.g., a special operation military personnel) may be carrying greater than 70 pounds of gear and have to go through rain or a body of water. Hydrophobic garment, harness, and / or modular shock may advantageously prevent additional weight being added by the water.

[0095] In some embodiments, the harness, garment, and / or shock may be fire retardant. For example, such embodiments may advantageously prevent fire from spreading due to incendiaries (e.g., gunfire, shrapnel). For example, if a plane goes down or a user is shot, fire retardant construction may prevent the harness, garment, and / or shock from melting to or burning on the user's body. In some embodiments, for example, a fire-retardant coating may be applied to a shock.

[0096] In some embodiments, the base garment may be omitted. For example, the harness 1310 may be used without the base garment. In some embodiments the base garment 1005 may, for example, be used without the harness 1310.

[0097] In some embodiments, by way of example and not limitation, the base garment 1005 may, for example, be configured as a compression garment. For example, the base garment 1005 may apply compression to the wearer. The compression may, for example, advantageously distribute a force of impact of a projectile striking a wearer (e.g., impact reduced by a bullet proof vest may be advantageously distributed by the compression garment).

[0098] In some implementations, a shock may be configured to be strategically placed to transfer force to a target body region. For example, the shocks may be placed to reduce or prevent transfer of impact energy to a sensitive region of a living body. For example, the shocks may be placed to transfer force to energy dissipating musculature and / or skeletal tissue.

[0099] In some implementations, a shocks system may be disposed peripherally to an expanse of material (e.g., rigid plate, soft body armor) to suspend the material to create a continuous air gap behind at least 50% of the material. In some implementations, for example, the air gap may be continuous across at least 40% of a surface area of the material facing a living body wearing the material. In some examples, the air gap may be continuous across at least 30% of the surface area facing the living body.

[0100] In some implementations, shocks may be distributed peripherally to target impact regions to create multiple air gap regions under a single material (e.g., plate, gear, garment). Each air gap may, for example, be centered around an expected incoming force (e.g., impact).

[0101] Although various embodiments have been described with reference to rigid armor, other embodiments are possible. For example, some embodiments may be configured to suspend soft armor (e.g., para-aramid woven armor). The armor may, for example, include tensile elements (e.g., tensile threads in a radial pattern, metal straps and / or other reinforcement) to distribute a force of impact across the armor ‘plate’ (e.g., fabric expanse) to shocks. In some implementations, multiple suspension regions may be provided.

[0102] In some implementations, shocks may be configured to support, by way of example and not limitation, sports gear. In some examples, shocks may be configured to support carried gear (e.g., backpacks). The shocks may, for example, advantageously suspend the carried gear for comfort and / or to reduce injury (e.g., from falling). In some implementations, shocks may be configured to support construction safety equipment (e.g., helmets).

[0103] In some implementations, shocks may be configured to protect extremities (e.g., arms, legs, head). For example, shocks may be configured around the periphery of a potential impact region. A protective covering (e.g., rigid plate, soft protective covering) may be suspended over the shocks. In some implementations, the shocks and protective covering system may include a base garment. In some implementations, the system may be configured for airflow and / or weight distribution (e.g., creating an air gap without a particular potential impact region).

[0104] In some implementations, a custom configuration may be provided. For example, an ideal impact dissipation location(s) of a living body (e.g., a species, a gender, an individual) may be determined. In some implementations, a scan of the body may be performed (e.g., optical, ultrasound, radiographic, magnetic). In some implementations, an impact receiving structure (e.g., rigid plate, soft body armor) may be determined. Once a target impact dissipation location is determined, a minimum impact transfer surface area may be determined. A maximum rate of energy transfer may, for example, be determined. shocks may, for example, be configured (e.g., geometry, footprint, elasticity, stiffness) to meet the predetermined impact transfer surface area and / or the maximum rate of energy transfer. A garment may, for example, be configured based on the shocks(s) and / or the target impact dissipation locations. For example, the garment may have predetermined coupling locations of the shocks. In some implementations, for example, visual indicia may be applied to the garment based on customized target impact locations for a specific person.

[0105] For example, a computer system may take in parameters (e.g., type of living body, age, gender, height, weight, body scan information, armor type) and automatically determine placement and / or shocks characteristics. For example, the computer system may advantageously select one or more predetermined shocks based on the inputs. The computer system may, for example, apply a machine learning model trained on historical data (e.g., shocks locations, shocks characteristics, armor type, living body characteristics, impact outcomes, test results) to determine the shocks configuration and / or placement. The computer system may, for example, generate visual indicia based on the shocks configuration (e.g., selection of predetermined shocks) and / or target locations on the living body. Accordingly, for example, a wearer may quickly put on a customized shocks configuration for their body.

[0106] In some embodiments a modular shock may, for example, be constructed of polyester. In various embodiments, a (modular) shock may, for example, be formed of an insulated material. In some embodiments, the modular shock may be constructed of a foam. For example, in some embodiments, the modular shocks 1315 may include foam shocks and / or an air pouch inside a (fabric) shell. Such embodiments may, for example, advantageously provide minimal additional weight. The outer (fabric) shell may, for example, be selectively closable such that the inner shock core may be replaced (e.g., according to a planned excursion and / or user preferences). In some implementations, the modular shocks 1315 may include shocks of different materials.

[0107] In some embodiments, a modular shock may, for example, be constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) product. For example, some embodiments may be constructed of silicone.

[0108] Various embodiments may include an upper body support collar. For example, some embodiments may provide a collar with a relatively high-density modular shock. For example, the modular shock for the collar may be of a higher density for the collar than shocks positioned about the rest of the body. The collar may, for example, be configured to be positioned substantially at least on an upper portion of each of the vertical coupling modules 1105 on the front of the body and passing behind the user's neck corresponding substantially to the horizontal coupling module 1015.

[0109] In some embodiments, by way of example and not limitation, the upper body support collar may be implemented on a bomb suit. For example, distribution of weight in a modern bomb suit may be highest from the waist up and around the back of the wearer. The upper body support collar may, for example, provide a dense collar and a (square) support shock that supports some of the weight. The upper body support collar may space some of the weight upwards off of the user's arms (e.g., the shoulders). Accordingly, such embodiments may advantageously increase a range of motion of a wearer's arms by about 8 inches.

[0110] In some embodiments, shocks may be pre-chilled. For example, a typical deployment duration in an explosive suit may be about 1 hour. A shock material (e.g., for making the shocks 110 or the EMS 900) may be temperature responsive. For example, the shock material may be configured such that it may be chilled to at least 32° F. In some embodiments, temperature-responsive material may include TPU. In some embodiments, the temperature-responsive material may retain flexibility (e.g., the material may still be able to be rolled, compressed, and / or folded) in a chilled (e.g., <32° F.) state. Such embodiments may, for example, increase comfort of a user during deployment in a heavy and / or occlusive suit. In various such embodiments, deployment duration without overheating a user may be advantageously extended by, by way of example and not limitation, 10-15 minutes.

[0111] In various embodiments a shock may, for example, be instrumented. For example, at least one sensor may be embedded in a shock. A cavity may be formed in the shock in some embodiments. For example, a cavity may be formed in the center protrusion 805. A cavity may, for example, be formed in a bottom (base) surface of the shocks 110. Sensors may, for example, be configured to detect heart rate. In some embodiments sensors may be configured to detect breath sounds.

[0112] In some embodiments, electronic attachments may be embedded. Electric conduits may be provided in the base garment 1005. The sensors may be releasably coupled. For example, pluggable connectors may be operated by a user to attach two or more connectors. In some embodiments, connection may be made automatically by bringing couplers of the sensor(s) in the shock and the conduit on the base garment into electrical communication when the shock is releasably coupled to the base garment. In some embodiments, sensor(s) may, for example, be wirelessly coupled to one or more computing unit(s).

[0113] In some embodiments, a communication unit may be embedded in a shock. For example, the shocks may be configured to be shoulder-mounted (e.g., as disclosed at least with reference to FIG. 12). In some embodiments, the communication unit may include a sensor. The sensor(s) may detect audio. In some embodiments the sensor may be configured to detect jaw motion without audio. A connected communication unit may determine words corresponding to the jaw motion and generate one or more corresponding signals (e.g., corresponding to text, audio). The communication unit may transmit one or more signals. Some such embodiments may advantageously enable communication without audible sound, which may, for example, increase user safety in a combat and / or stealth situation.

[0114] In various embodiments, some bypass circuit implementations may be controlled in response to signals from analog or digital components, which may be discrete, integrated, or a combination of each. Some embodiments may include programmed, programmable devices, or some combination thereof (e.g., PLAs, PLDs, ASICs, microcontroller, microprocessor), and may include one or more data stores (e.g., cell, register, block, page) that provide single or multi-level digital data storage capability, and which may be volatile, non-volatile, or some combination thereof. Some control functions may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or a combination of any of them.

[0115] Computer program products may contain a set of instructions that, when executed by a processor device, cause the processor to perform prescribed functions. These functions may be performed in conjunction with controlled devices in operable communication with the processor. Computer program products, which may include software, may be stored in a data store tangibly embedded on a storage medium, such as an electronic, magnetic, or rotating storage device, and may be fixed or removable (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, thumb drive, CD, DVD).

[0116] Although an example of a system, which may be portable, has been described with reference to the above figures, other implementations may be deployed in other processing applications, such as desktop and networked environments.

[0117] Temporary auxiliary energy inputs may be received, for example, from chargeable or single use batteries, which may enable use in portable or remote applications. Some embodiments may operate with other DC voltage sources, such as batteries, for example. Alternating current (AC) inputs, which may be provided, for example from a 50 / 60 Hz power port, or from a portable electric generator, may be received via a rectifier and appropriate scaling. Provision for AC (e.g., sine wave, square wave, triangular wave) inputs may include a line frequency transformer to provide voltage step-up, voltage step-down, and / or isolation.

[0118] In some implementations, one or more user-interface features may be custom configured to perform specific functions. Various embodiments may be implemented in a computer system that includes a graphical user interface and / or an Internet browser. To provide for interaction with a user, some implementations may be implemented on a computer having a display device. The display device may, for example, include an LED (light-emitting diode) display. In some implementations, a display device may, for example, include a CRT (cathode ray tube). In some implementations, a display device may include, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display). A display device (e.g., monitor) may, for example, be used for displaying information to the user. Some implementations may, for example, include a keyboard and / or pointing device (e.g., mouse, trackpad, trackball, joystick), such as by which the user can provide input to the computer.

[0119] In various implementations, the system may communicate using suitable communication methods, equipment, and techniques. For example, the system may communicate with compatible devices (e.g., devices capable of transferring data to and / or from the system) using point-to-point communication in which a message is transported directly from the source to the receiver over a dedicated physical link (e.g., fiber optic link, point-to-point wiring, daisy-chain). The components of the system may exchange information by any form or medium of analog or digital data communication, including packet-based messages on a communication network. Examples of communication networks include, e.g., a LAN (local area network), a WAN (wide area network), MAN (metropolitan area network), wireless (e.g., cellular, direct satellite communication, satellite network, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) and / or optical networks, the computers and networks forming the Internet, or some combination thereof. Other implementations may transport messages by broadcasting to all or substantially all devices that are coupled together by a communication network, for example, by using omni-directional radio frequency (RF) signals. Still other implementations may transport messages characterized by high directivity, such as RF signals transmitted using directional (i.e., narrow beam) antennas or infrared signals that may optionally be used with focusing optics. Still other implementations are possible using appropriate interfaces and protocols such as, by way of example and not intended to be limiting, USB 2.0, Firewire, ATA / IDE, RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, 802.11 a / b / g, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, IrDA, FDDI (fiber distributed data interface), token-ring networks, multiplexing techniques based on frequency, time, or code division, or some combination thereof. Some implementations may optionally incorporate features such as error checking and correction (ECC) for data integrity, or security measures, such as encryption (e.g., WEP) and password protection.

[0120] In various embodiments, the computer system may include Internet of Things (IoT) devices. IoT devices may include objects embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and network connectivity which enable these objects to collect and exchange data. IoT devices may be in-use with wired or wireless devices by sending data through an interface to another device. IoT devices may collect useful data and then autonomously flow the data between other devices.

[0121] Various examples of modules may be implemented using circuitry, including various electronic hardware. By way of example and not limitation, the hardware may include transistors, resistors, capacitors, switches, integrated circuits, other modules, or some combination thereof. In various examples, the modules may include analog logic, digital logic, discrete components, traces and / or memory circuits fabricated on a silicon substrate including various integrated circuits (e.g., FPGAs, ASICs), or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, the module(s) may involve execution of preprogrammed instructions, software executed by a processor, or some combination thereof. For example, various modules may involve both hardware and software.

[0122] In an illustrative aspect, a protective suit may, for example, include a base garment, multiple shocks releasably coupled to an outer surface of the base garment, and a protective armor including an armor plate covering at least part of the base garment. At least some of the shocks may, for example, be adjustably positioned to suspend a region of the armor plate at four or more points around a periphery of the region. The suspended region may, for example, include at least 50% of an area of an inner surface of the armor plate. The suspended region may, for example, be separated from the living body by a continuous air gap. The suspended region may, for example, be configured such that, upon impact by a projectile colliding with the armor plate, impact power transferred from the projectile is redistributed across the suspended region of armor plate before being transmitted to the living body via the shocks supporting the armor plate.

[0123] The protective suit may, for example, include a first side of a fastener strip fixed coupled to the outer surface of the base garment. Each of the shocks may, for example, include at least two apertures configured to be releasably coupled to a second side of a fastener strip, such that each of the shocks is adjustably and releasably coupled along the first side of the fastener strip on the outer surface of the base garment. The fastener strip may, for example, include a hook-and-loop strip.

[0124] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include a wider bottom surface area at a proximal end to the outer surface of the base garment. The bottom surface area may be at least 4 square inches.

[0125] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include a cone shape.

[0126] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include protrusions extending orthogonal to a base of the shock. Each protrusion may be configured such that, when a projectile impacts the armor plate such that an impact force is exerted at the shocks supporting the armor plate under impact, a stiffness of the shocks in a direction orthogonal to the inner surface of the armor plate progressively increases as the protrusions are compressed.

[0127] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include a smooth surface against the outer surface of the base garment, wherein, at impact, the smooth surface does not deform such that an impact energy transferred to the wearer is distributed among an entire surface area of the smooth surface.

[0128] The shocks may, for example, include concentric rings of protrusions separated by concentric channels. The channels may be in fluid communication by apertures in the concentric rings of protrusions.

[0129] The shocks supporting the armor plate may be configured to deflect, upon receiving kinetic energy transferred from the impact at the armor plate, against the back of the armor plate such that motion of the plate relative to the wearer is reduced.

[0130] The shocks may, for example, include recycled plasticized polyvinyl chloride. The shocks may be of a material having a durometer between Shore A 45 to Shore A 60. The shocks may, for example, include silicone. The shocks may, for example, include polyurethane.

[0131] In an illustrative aspect, a functional garment may, for example, include multiple shocks releasably coupled to an outer surface of a functional garment. At least some of the shocks may, for example, be adjustably positioned to suspend a region of the armor plate by at least four points around a periphery of the suspended region, such that an inner surface of the armor plate covers at least part of the outer surface of the functional garment, wherein the suspended region comprises at least 50% of an area of the inner surface of the armor plate and is separated from a living body of a wearer by an air gap such that, upon impact by a projectile colliding with the armor plate, impact power transferred from the projectile is redistributed across the suspended region of armor plate before being transmitted to the living body via the shocks supporting the armor plate.

[0132] The functional garment may, for example, include a first side of a fastener strip fixed coupled to the outer surface of the functional garment. Each of the shocks may, for example, include at least two apertures configured to be releasably coupled to a second side of a fastener strip, such that each of the shocks is adjustably and releasably coupled along the first side of the fastener strip on the outer surface of the functional garment. The fastener strip may, for example, include a hook-and-loop strip.

[0133] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include a wider bottom surface area at a proximal end to the outer surface of the functional garment. The bottom surface area may be at least 4 square inches. The shocks may, for example, include a cone shape.

[0134] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include protrusions extending orthogonal to the living body. Each protrusion may be configured such that, when a projectile impacts the armor plate, wherein an impact force is exerted orthogonal to the living body at the shocks supporting the armor plate under impact, a stiffness of the shocks in a direction orthogonal to the inner surface of the armor plate progressively increases as the protrusions are compressed.

[0135] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include a smooth surface against the outer surface of the functional garment, wherein, at impact, the smooth surface does not deform such that an impact energy transferred to the living body is distributed among an entire surface area of the smooth surface.

[0136] The shocks may, for example, include concentric rings of protrusions separated by concentric channels. The channels may be in fluid communication by apertures in the concentric rings of protrusions.

[0137] The shocks supporting the armor plate may be configured to deflect, upon receiving kinetic energy transferred from the impact at the armor plate, against the back of the armor plate such that motion of the plate relative to the wearer is reduced.

[0138] The shocks may, for example, include plasticized polyvinyl chloride. The shocks may, for example, include recycled material. The shocks may be made from a material having a durometer between Shore A 45 to Shore A 60. The shocks may, for example, include silicone. The shocks may, for example, include polyurethane. The shocks may, for example, include multiple shock materials.

[0139] The shocks may, for example, include at least one elongated shock configured to engage at least two contact points.

[0140] The at least four points of contact may, for example, include four distinct points of contact.

[0141] The base garment may, for example, include a harness. The shocks may be releasably coupled to the harness. The harness may, for example, include a handle configured to support a weight of the living body.

[0142] At least one of the shocks may, for example, include multiple shock modules.

[0143] The at least one of the shocks may, for example, include a housing. The shock modules may be disposed in the housing such that the shock modules are releasably coupled to the garment by the housing.

[0144] Moving to FIGS. 18-20, orientation of the shocks aids in the dispersion of impact energy. As shown in the related filings from which this patent application continues. shocks have a base area and a tapered top which allows for the dispersion of energy radiatively where contact under compression where compression initially contacts with the center of the shocks and a compression increases a larger area of the shocks is engaged making the shocks capable of radially dispersing energy as compression is increased.

[0145] The standoff nature of the shocks positions the impact dissipating protective garment 1800 away front the wears body which allows the IDPG to flexibly disperse energy of ballistic impact hence allowing projectile to be slowed by the compressive flexing of the IDPG.

[0146] In this embodiment the shocks 1810 are constructed from an energy dispersive material 1820 with the addition of a spacing material 1820 used to hold the shocks in place against the inside surface of the IDPG.

[0147] As shown, the IDPG 1900 further includes coupling members 1920 to couple the shocks 1810 to an outer face of the IDPG 1900. In some implementations, the coupling members 1920 may include a fastener having, for example, mating surfaces. For example, a first mating surface may be fixedly coupled to the IDPG 100. For example, a second mating surface may be releasably coupled to the shocks 110. In various implementations, the shocks 110 may be adjustably coupled to the coupling member 120 along the first mating surface.

[0148] Orientation of the shocks is important to the dispersion of impact energy. As shown in the related filings from which this patent application continues, the shocks have a base area and a tapered top which allows for the dispersion of energy radiatively. Under compression, the contact initially starts at the center of the shocks and as compression increases, a larger area of the shocks is engaged, making the shocks capable of radially dispersing energy as compression is increased.

[0149] The standoff nature of the shocks positions the impact dissipating protective garment away from the wearer's body, allowing the IDPG to flexibly disperse the energy of ballistic impact. This configuration enables the projectile to be slowed by the compressive flexing of the IDPG.

[0150] In this embodiment, the shocks are constructed from an energy dispersive material, with the addition of a spacing material used to hold the shocks in place against the inside surface of the IDPG. The shocks, for example, attached to the IDPG may support the rigid plate such that it naturally hangs over the living body of the wearer.

[0151] In various implementations, the IDPG can reduce an impact to the wearer when a projectile (e.g., a bullet) hits the rigid plate. The air gap between the outer face of the IDPG and the rigid plate allows the impact from a bullet to be distributed dissipated around the impact site. Some of the dissipated energy may be transmitted to the shocks, where the total energy transmitted may be significantly reduced.

[0152] Suspending an impact plate around its periphery may advantageously reduce direct impact to the body by altering the deformation of the plate upon impact. This can reduce the depth of penetration and increase the area of penetration, which corresponds to a dramatic increase in energy dissipated by the plate. By increasing the duration of energy transfer, the IDPG may slow the bullet's rate of travel into or through the rigid plate, reducing the bullet's penetrating ability.

[0153] The shocks may include a filler material used to present a flat surface allowing protrusions that extend orthogonal to the base of art in the parent patent herein, which may be progressively stiff and configured to buckle upon impact. Buckling may absorb energy received at the shocks, extending the distribution of energy across the shocks and to the wearer's body. This can reduce pressure felt by the human, minimizing force per area or per time per area.

[0154] In some implementations, the shocks may also be made with flexible material to advantageously reduce energy transmission to the wearer, such as a material of Shore A 45-60 or Shore A 55-90. Upon receiving a force, the shocks may flex around the rigid plate, progressively increasing the area of contact and dissipating more energy. In these cases

[0155] After receiving an impact, the rigid plate may be deformed, with the shocks enabling more of the plate material to engage in absorbing energy. A consistent air gap between the rigid plate and the wearer allows the rigid plate to distribute impact energy via internal shear and tensile stresses. The plate's deflection and deformation may decrease the rate of energy transfer, reducing the bullet's penetrating ability.

[0156] The flexure and deformation of the rigid plate can advantageously reduce bullet penetration, transforming the bullet's leading edge into a blunter shape. By increasing the duration of energy transfer, the IDPG may slow the bullet's travel rate, enabling the rigid plate to stop the bullet by deforming it into a less penetrating shape. This transformation spreads energy transfer across a greater surface area, reducing penetration and potentially saving lives.

[0157] In this example, the shocks suspend the rigid plate such that an air gap is created between the outer face of the IDPG and the rigid plate. The shocks, for example, may support the rigid plate such that the rigid plate may naturally hang over a living body of the wearer. In some implementations, the shocks may support the rigid plate at four points at the peripheral of the rigid plate. Various exemplary implementations of support contact by the shocks are described with reference to FIG. 19.

[0158] In various implementations, the IDPG may reduce an impact to the wearer when a projectile (e.g., a bullet) hits the rigid plate. In this example, a bullet is hitting the rigid plate at an impact site. For example, upon impact, the bullet may transmit a forward momentum perpendicular to an outer surface of the rigid plate. At the impact site, for example, because of the air gap between the outer face of the IDPG and the rigid plate, the impact from bullet is distributed dissipated 360° around the impact site. In some examples, some of the dissipated energy may be transmitted to the shocks. In some implementations, total energy transmitted to the four shocks may be less than 50% of energy transmitted by the momentum transmitted at the impact site.

[0159] For example, implementations advantageously reduce energy (as measured by reduction in back face signature) by 20-84%.

[0160] For example, various embodiments suspending an impact plate with attached shocks as described herein around a periphery of the plate may advantageously reduce direct impact to a living body wearing the impact plate (e.g., by reducing or preventing deformation of the impact plate from directly impacting the living body). As disclosed herein, embodiments suspending an impact plate around a periphery of the plate may, for example, advantageously and surprisingly alter a deformation of the plate upon impact by a projectile. For example, a depth of penetration may advantageously be reduced (e.g., which may advantageously reduce direct injury to the living body). For example, an area of penetration (e.g., an area of the impact plate responding to the impact) may be dramatically increased (e.g., 2×, 4×, 10×, greater than 10×) when the plate is peripherally supported. The increase area of penetration may, for example, correspond to a dramatic increase in energy dissipated by the plate during impact (e.g., via inelastic, permanent deformation of the plate). For example, the depth of penetration times area of penetration may be proportional to energy dissipated through permanent deformation. Accordingly, by way of example and not limitation, implementations peripherally suspending the impact plate may advantageously reduce, dissipate, and / or distribute energy transferred to the human.

[0161] As shown in FIG. 20, the embodiment shocks 2000 may include protrusions extending orthogonal to a base of the shocks functioning as the energy absorbing element 2030 however within the shocks 100 made up at least one secondary material 2020. In some shocks implementations, the internal boundary between the stabilizing filler 2020 includes protrusions as shown in the parent patents that may be progressively stiff. As shown in the side view SECTION A-A in FIG. 18, the shocks 1810 includes an energy absorption standoff layer with the parent patents including protrusions which is layered with at least one secondary material used to flatten the surface of the energy absorbing material layered such that it can be oriented consistent with FIG. 18. Buckling may, for example, advantageously absorb energy received at the shocks. Buckling may, for example, extend the distribution of energy across the shocks and so to the wearer's body. For example, the shocks may reduce a pressure felt by the human such as, by way of example and not limitation, by reducing force per area and / or force per time per area. In some implementations, the shocks 1810 may be deformed after receiving the impact energy. In some implementations, the protrusions may flex relative to the base of the shocks 1810 to advantageously dissipate energy and / or progressively increase resistance to displacement of the plate towards the wearer. The protrusions within the layers of the shocks 1810 may, by way of example and not limitation, reduce or eliminate chafing of a user during normal wear. For example, in some implementations, lateral stiffness of protrusions of the shocks may be different than compressive stiffness (e.g., orthogonal to a surface of the wearer's body). This differential stiffness may, for example, advantageously be configured such that the armor (e.g., plate) may move relative to the body during normal wear without rubbing the body repeatedly. Such implementations may, for example, advantageously reduce tissue damage due to rubbing.

[0162] In some implementations, the shocks 1810 may also be made with flexible material. For example, the shocks 1810 may include a material of Shore A 45-60. In some examples, the shocks 1810 may include a material of Shore A 55-90. In some implementations, the shocks 1810 may, upon receiving a force FI, the shocks 1810 may flex around the rigid plate (e.g., conform to a surface of the rigid plate). The flexure may, for example, advantageously progressively increase area of contact of the rigid plate with the shocks 1810. For example, progressively increasing area of contact may advantageously dissipate more energy. Accordingly, some embodiments may advantageously reduce energy transmitting to the wearer.

[0163] In this example, the rigid plate may, after receiving an impact of the bullet, be deformed by a depth d as shown by a deformed plate. For example, it may be reduced when shocks 110 is deployed to support the rigid plate.

[0164] Referring now to FIG. 20, in various embodiments, the material used to displace the energy absorption element is simply a gap or compressed gas 2040 as shown in FIG. 3. In one embodiment (FIG. 20, Embodiment A) the energy absorption material 2030 is housed in a surrounding shell of material 2020 which can be selected from polymers, non-Newtonian materials and other materials engineered to fail at a predetermined pressure.

[0165] In an alternate embodiment (FIG. 20, Embodiment B) the energy absorption material 2030 is housed in a capping shell of material 2020 which can be selected from polymers, non-Newtonian materials and other materials engineered to fail at a predetermined pressure.

[0166] Moving to FIG. 21, FIG. 21 depicts an alternate embodiment of an impact dissipating protective garment. In one embodiment, the protective suit comprises a base garment, an armor plate front 4400, and a plurality of shocks 3000. The garment shown is a vest, but it is understood by those familiar with the art that other garments are possible. The impact dissipating protective garment may also have an armor plate back 4600. The armor plate front 4400 covers at least part of the outer surface of the base garment. The plurality of shocks 3000 is coupled to an interior surface of the base garment opposite to the armor plate front 4400. Another plurality of shocks 3000 may be coupled to the interior surface of the base garment opposite the armor plate back 4600.

[0167] The armor plates may be metal plates, laminated ceramic plates and the like.

[0168] The composition of shocks is described in greater depth below.

[0169] As shown in a front view of FIG. 22, impact dissipating protective garment has an armor plate front 4400, and a set of shocks 3000. From experimental testing, it was determined that having a single large shock opposite to an armored plate did not work. It was found that set of four to six shocks per armored plate worked well, depending upon the application. Having shocks with an individual volume of between 30 cm3 and 150 cm3, and an aggregate volume of the plurality of shocks is 150 cm3 and 550 cm3 worked well, as it improved energy dissipation. Some embodiments of impact dissipating may have differing number of shocks, such as two to eight shocks, or having shocks with an individual volume between 20 cm3 and 180 cm3 with an aggregate volume of 180 cm3 and 750 cm3 may also be useful.

[0170] FIG. 23 is a side view of an impact dissipating protective garment, showing an armor plate front 4400, armor plate rear 4600, and a plurality of shocks 3000 fixed to the interior of the base garment.

[0171] FIG. 24 is an enhanced view of a shock placement within the impact dissipating protective garment of FIG. 23. From this vantage point, we can see that a rear interior layer (pocket) 3900 encapsulates the shock 3000, and an armor plate containment pocket 3950 holds the armor plate rear 4600.

[0172] Moving to FIG. 25, a ¾ rear-view of the impact dissipating protective garment is shown. The impact dissipating protective garment can be seen with the base garment, with armor plate containment pocket 3950 in both the front and back of the base garment, configured to contain an armor plate front (not shown) and an armor plate rear 4600. The front interior layer 3850 is configured with pockets to contain a first (front) plurality of shocks, while a rear inner layer 3900 is similarly configured to contain a second (rear) plurality of shocks. FIG. 26 shows the same garment from the front.

[0173] Moving to FIGS. 27A-27D, the armor plate front 4400 or the armor plate rear 4600 may have a ribbon of foams 3650 and ribbon of foams cross section 3700 that are made of shock absorbing foam of specific durometer, possibly combined with other shock absorbing foams of a different durometer, and in some instances also combined with a shock absorbing bladder of gas that may surround the ribbon of foam, lie underneath foam, or encapsulate the foam.

[0174] The dimensions of the ribbons vary. The length is defined by the outer circumference of the armor plate 4400 / 4600, which depends on the level of ballistic protection the body armor is designed to withstand, and the soldier's size. Typically, the ribbon may be 0.8 cm to 3 cm thick, 6 cm to 12 cm wide with an aggregate volume of 150 cm3 and 550 cm3. A suitable ribbon size may be derived from testing specific ranges, ammunition, grades, firearms and soldier function.

[0175] FIGS. 28A-28D show embodiments of a shock 3000, while FIGS. 29, 30 and 31 depict various cross-sections of various chock embodiments 3000. The shocks 3000 themselves are structures that are made of shock absorbing foam of specific durometer, combined with other shock absorbing foams of a different durometer, and in some instances also combined with a shock absorbing bladder of gas, be surrounded by the bladder of gas, lie around it or encapsulate the foam itself.

[0176] In some embodiments, the shock 3000 comprises layers of shock absorbing foam 3500, a cage 3400 structure of foam to support the weight of the armor plate, or a cage 3400 structure of foam to support the armor plate with a pressurized airtight bladder 3100.

[0177] In embodiments with layers of shock absorbing foam 3500, each foam is chosen to balance one foam's ability to absorb kinetic energy produced by a ballistic round impacting the body armor, which may utilize non-Newtonian foam, an anergy absorbing foam, or synthetic rubber or elastomer.

[0178] The non-Newtonian foam may include:

[0179] All varieties of Poron, Poron XRD from Rogers Corporation,

[0180] Smartflex from G-Form,

[0181] D30® Aero, AeroMax & Decell, also known as “D30 Foam,”

[0182] Deflexion from Dow Corning,

[0183] AiroFoam® (Mous),

[0184] S-FOAM (Manera),

[0185] Shear-Thickening Fluid (STF)-Filled Foams,

[0186] Pseudoplastic or thixotropic foams (e.g., CHEMGUARD® NFF-331),

[0187] Foams made from or stabilized by non-Newtonian polymer solutions (e.g., Aculyn™22, Aculyn™33),

[0188] and the like.

[0189] Energy absorbing foam may include:

[0190] Polyvinyl alcohol foam,

[0191] Ethylene vinyl acetate foam,

[0192] Polyethylene foam,

[0193] Thermoplastic Foams (e.g., Worbla),

[0194] Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) Foam (e.g., Plastazote, Volara),

[0195] Polyurethane foam such as Last-a-Foam®, PUR,

[0196] Expanded polystyrene such as EPS72,

[0197] Expanded Polypropylene,

[0198] Duocel Aluminum foam,

[0199] Urethane viscoelastic foam (Confor® and equivalent),

[0200] Polyvinyl chloride foam,

[0201] Polymethacrylimide foam,

[0202] Styrene acrylonitrile foam,

[0203] Silicon foam,

[0204] Impaxx Foam (Dow Industries),

[0205] and the like.

[0206] A cage 3400 of foam is configured support the weight of the hard body armor, plate carrier and warfighters equipment, with another foam chosen specifically for its ability to absorb the kinetic energy of a ballistic round.

[0207] In alternate embodiments, a cage 3400 of foam chosen to support the weight of the hard body armor, plate carrier and warfighters equipment, with a pressurized and airtight bladder 3100. The airtight bladder 3100 contains gas (such as oxygen or a noble gas, such as helium or argon) which is designed to rupture at approximately 6.5-7.25 bar, and a layer of another foam chosen specifically for its ability to absorb the kinetic energy of a ballistic round. The airtight bladder 3100 may be made of any suitable material, such as synthetic rubbers and elastomers, thermoplastics, polymers, fabrics and composites, coated or laminated fabrics, including but not limited to:

[0208] Butyl Rubber,

[0209] EPDM ((Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer),

[0210] Nitrile (NBR),

[0211] Neoprene,

[0212] Viton,

[0213] Silicone Rubber,

[0214] HNBR (Hydrogenated Nitrile),

[0215] Polyurethane (PU / TPU),

[0216] PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride),

[0217] Polyethylene,

[0218] Polypropylene,

[0219] Fluoropolymers,

[0220] Nylon,

[0221] Polyester,

[0222] Canvas, and / or

[0223] Kevlar / Ballistic Nylon.

[0224] FIGS. 31-32 depict alternate triangular shock embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 31 depicts a shock made solely of layers of foam 3500, while FIG. 31 depicts a shock made of foam 3500 and an alternate foam composition 3550. An alternate foam composition may be any foam or foams that are “graded” by either mechanical layering or by using a molding process or similar to create different durometers, densities or shock absorption properties in different depths of the foam.

[0225] The previous description of the embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure. The various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without the use of inventive faculty. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0039]In one aspect of the disclosure relates to impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) including impact mitigating support spacers configured to facilitate dissipation of impact energy. Impact mitigating support spacers may also be referred to as “spacers” or “shocks.” Embodiments improve the ballistic performance of hard body armor, such as metal plates and laminated ceramic plates, including their predecessors and derivatives; more specifically that the invention reduces Backface Deformation (BFS) or Backface Signature (BFD) of hard body armor plates that have been struck by a round of ammunition and this consequently reduces the injury to the wearer of the body armor in the unfortunate event of being shot. Backface Deformation and Backface Signature are interchangeable descriptions of how much the back of the hard body armor, the side of the plate that is against the wearer's body, deforms due to the ammunition round entering the plate directly behind the plate's “entry ...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 18 / 332,567, entitled “Progressive Stiffness Energy Distributing Suspension of Impact Plate,” filed Jun. 9, 2023, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63 / 265,254, entitled “Modular Selectively Positionable Support Systems,” filed on Dec. 10, 2021, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63 / 386,819, entitled “Adjustable Impact Diffusion,” filed on Dec. 9, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63 / 386,828, entitled “Articles Evidencing Long-Felt Unmet Need, Industry Skepticism, and Surprising Results,” filed on Dec. 9, 2022.BACKGROUNDField of the Disclosure

[0002] Aspects of the disclosure relate in general to protective functional garments and accessories. Aspects include an apparatus, system, and method of using impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) that include impact mitigating support spacers configured to facilitate dissipation of impact energy.Description of the Related Art

[0003] Military personnel may carry various equipment. For example, members of field units may carry 50 or more pounds of equipment. Some personnel may carry greater than 80 pounds of equipment. Equipment may, for example, be carried in packs. For example, some personnel may wear backpacks, front packs, and / or side packs.

[0004] In some cases, military personnel may also wear body armor on duty. The body armor may include a protective armor designed to stop physical attacks. There are, for example, regular non-plated body armor for moderate to substantial protection, and hard-plate reinforced body armor. For example, a combat soldier may wear a protective vest with a rigid plate made of steel or other shock absorbent, energy dissipating, and / or energy absorbing materials to protect against physical attack (e.g., ballistic projectiles).

[0005] Hard body armor plates are graded by the militaries and defense departments worldwide and by organizations such as the National Institutes of Justice (NIJ) in the United States, and are meant to depict a specific graded plate's efficacy against a certain range of ammunition.

[0006] “Ballistic performance” here is defined as the hard amor plates ability to protect the wearer from a ballistic round, specifically how much force is transmitted from the ballistic round to the wearer's body.

[0007] “Injury” to the wearer is defined as the size of Backface Deformation or Backface Signature of the hard armor plate. The smaller the Backface Deformation or Backface Signature, the less significant the wearer's injuries are.

[0008] Different military branches and / or units may carry various equipment and / or be specialized for various environments. For example, marine-based units may carry some equipment. Paratrooper units may have other equipment. Tank units may have other equipment. Police personnel may have yet other equipment.SUMMARY

[0009] Embodiments include a system, apparatus, device, method to provide a protective suit.

[0010] In one embodiment, the protective suit comprises a base garment, a first armor plate, and a first plurality of shocks. The first armor plate covers at least part of the outer surface of the base garment. The first plurality of shocks is coupled to an interior surface of the base garment opposite to the first armor plate. Each of the first plurality of shocks has an individual volume of between 30 cm3 and 150 cm3, and an aggregate volume of the plurality of shocks is 150 cm3 and 550 cm3.

[0011] In another embodiment, a protective suit comprises a base garment, a first armor plate, and a first plurality of pockets. The first armor plate covers at least part of the outer surface of the base garment. The first plurality of pockets is on an interior surface of the base garment opposite to the first armor plate. Each of the first plurality of pockets configured to accommodate a shock with an individual volume of between 30 cm3 and 150 cm3, and an aggregate volume of the plurality of pockets is 150 cm3 and 550 cm3.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary impact dissipating protective garment employed in an illustrative use-case scenario.

[0013] FIGS. 2A-2E are schematic diagrams depicting various embodiments of an exemplary impact mitigating suspension spacers.

[0014] FIGS. 3A-3F depict exemplary experimental results of a rigid impact plate with and without support of exemplary impact mitigating suspension spacers as described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E.

[0015] FIG. 3G and FIG. 3H depict exemplary experimental results of a rigid impact plate with different impact mitigating suspension spacers configurations as disclosed at least with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E.

[0016] FIGS. 4A-4D depict various exemplary shapes of shocks.

[0017] FIG. 5A, 5B, and FIG. 5C depict exemplary embodiments of shocks.

[0018] FIG. 6 depicts perspective views of an exemplary shocks.

[0019] FIG. 7 depicts a front view, a back view, and a side view, respectively, of the exemplary shocks with reference to FIG. 6.

[0020] FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B, and FIG. 8C depict embodiments of shocks having various embodiments of support protrusions.

[0021] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B depict an exemplary extended shock.

[0022] FIG. 10 depicts an exemplary IDPG configured to selectively couple and position shocks.

[0023] FIG. 11 depicts exemplary shocks releasably coupled to the exemplary garment as described with reference to FIG. 10.

[0024] FIG. 12 depicts exemplary shocks and exemplary extended shocks in an illustrative use-case.

[0025] FIG. 13, FIG. 14, FIG. 15, FIG. 16, FIGS. 17A-17B depict an exemplary impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) in an illustrative use-case.

[0026] FIG. 18 are schematic diagrams depicting one embodiment of an exemplary shock for attachment to the interior surface of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0027] FIG. 19 are schematic diagrams depicting impact dissipating protective garment showing exemplary impact mitigating support spacers attached to the inside surface of the IDPG.

[0028] FIG. 20 are schematic diagrams depicting another embodiment of an exemplary impact mitigating suspension spacers for attachment to the interior surface of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0029] FIG. 21 is an alternate embodiment of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0030] FIG. 22 is a front view of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0031] FIG. 23 is a side view of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0032] FIG. 24 is an enhanced view of a shock placement within the impact dissipating protective garment of FIG. 23.

[0033] FIG. 25 is a ¾ rear-view of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0034] FIG. 26 is a rear view of an impact dissipating protective garment.

[0035] FIGS. 27A-27D are views of armor plate front / back.

[0036] FIGS. 28A-D are views of a shock embodiment.

[0037] FIGS. 29-31 depict cross sections of various shock embodiments.

[0038] FIGS. 31-32 depict alternate shock embodiment shapes.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] In one aspect of the disclosure relates to impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) including impact mitigating support spacers configured to facilitate dissipation of impact energy. Impact mitigating support spacers may also be referred to as “spacers” or “shocks.” Embodiments improve the ballistic performance of hard body armor, such as metal plates and laminated ceramic plates, including their predecessors and derivatives; more specifically that the invention reduces Backface Deformation (BFS) or Backface Signature (BFD) of hard body armor plates that have been struck by a round of ammunition and this consequently reduces the injury to the wearer of the body armor in the unfortunate event of being shot. Backface Deformation and Backface Signature are interchangeable descriptions of how much the back of the hard body armor, the side of the plate that is against the wearer's body, deforms due to the ammunition round entering the plate directly behind the plate's “entry wound.”

[0040] In an illustrative example, an IDPG includes a base garment and multiple spacers releasably and adjustably coupled to the base garment. In operation, for example, a wearer may wear protective armor having an armor plate to cover at least part of the base garment. For clarity, “hard body armor” refers to the metal and ceramic plates that combat troops, law enforcement and other security forces wear to protect themselves from shots fired in anger. These plates are commonly worn in “plate carriers” or Modular Scalable Vests (MSV) designed to carry the plates and tools needed by the warfighters, police and security guards. For example, at least some of the shocks are adjustably positioned to suspend the armor plate at four distinctive points around a periphery of the armor plate. In some implementations, at least 50% of the armor plate is separated from the wearer by an air gap. Various embodiments may advantageously mitigate impact power transferred to the wearer by dissipating excess energy at the suspended armor plate and at the shocks.

[0041] Another aspect of the disclosure includes include flexible shocks such that relative motion towards the living body may advantageously be reduced. Some embodiments, for example, may include progressively stiff shocks to advantageously minimize impact transferred to the wearer. For example, some embodiments may advantageously deform a penetrating projectile to prevent complete penetration of the armor plate to protect the wearer. In some implementations, for example, an IPDG and shocks system may, for example, advantageously deform a penetrating projectile to reduce total penetration distance after impact, even if an armor plate is breached (e.g., reducing or preventing injury to a wearer and / or nearby living bodies). Some embodiments may, for example, include protrusions that buckle upon receiving an impact larger than a predetermined threshold to advantageously dissipate energy received at the shocks.

[0042] Apparatus and associated methods relate to impact-dissipating protective garments having selectively positionable spacers. In an illustrative example, a shock may be configured with concentric rings of support protrusions separated by concentric channels. The channels may, for example, be in fluid communication by apertures in the concentric rings of support protrusions. The shocks may be releasably and selectively positioned on a base garment. In some embodiments the shocks may be releasably and selectively positioned on a harness. The harness may include a handle configured to support substantially all of a human's weight and associated body-worn equipment. In some embodiments multiple shocks may be assembled into an outer shell. In some embodiments the shocks may be configured of a lightweight material such as airbags and / or foam. Various embodiments may advantageously increase the comfort of emergency and / or military personnel in deployment suits of substantial weight.

[0043] To aid understanding, this document is organized as follows. First, to help introduce discussion of various embodiments, an impact dissipating protective garment is introduced with reference to FIG. 1. Second, that introduction leads into a description with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E of some exemplary embodiments of shocks. Third, with reference to FIGS. 3A-3F, this disclosure turns to a review of experimental data and a discussion of surprising results using the shocks. Fourth, with reference to FIGS. 4A-9B, the discussion turns to exemplary embodiments that illustrate detailed features of exemplary shocks. Fifth, and with reference to FIG. 10-12, this document describes exemplary apparatus and methods useful for releasably and adjustably coupling the shocks to the IDPG. Sixth, the disclosure introduces an exemplary impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) with reference to FIGS. 13-17B. Finally, the document discusses further embodiments, exemplary applications and aspects relating to position adjustable impact mitigating spacers and protective garments.

[0044] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary impact dissipating protective garment (IDPG 100) employed in an illustrative use-case scenario. In this example, a wearer 105 (e.g., a police officer, a military personnel) is wearing the IDPG 100. The IDPG 100 includes, as shown in this front view, four shocks (shocks 110) coupled to the IDPG 100 (e.g., releasably coupled). The shocks 110 are supporting a rigid plate 115. For example, the rigid plate 115 may be an armor plate in a bulletproof vest. For example, the rigid plate 115 may be made of steel. For example, the rigid plate 115 may be made of graphene. For example, the rigid plate 115 may be made of composite materials.

[0045] As shown, the IDPG 100 further includes coupling members 120 to couple the shocks 110 to an outer face of the IDPG 100. In some implementations, the coupling members 120 may include a fastener having, for example, mating surfaces. For example, a first mating surface may be fixedly coupled to the IDPG 100. For example, a second mating surface may be releasably coupled to the shocks 110. In various implementations, the shocks 110 may be adjustably coupled to the coupling member 120 along the first mating surface.

[0046] In this example, the shocks 110 suspends the rigid plate 115 such that an air gap is created between the outer face of the IDPG 100 and the rigid plate 115. The shocks 110, for example, may support the rigid plate 115 such that the rigid plate 115 may naturally hang over a living body of the wearer 105. In some implementations, the shocks 110 may support the rigid plate 115 at four points at the peripheral of the rigid plate 115. Various exemplary implementations of support contact by the shocks 110 are described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E.

[0047] In various implementations, the IDPG 100 may reduce an impact to the wearer 105 when a projectile (e.g., a bullet) hits the rigid plate 115. As shown in this example, a bullet 125 is hitting the rigid plate 115 at an impact site 130. For example, upon impact, the bullet 125 may transmit a forward momentum perpendicular to an outer surface of the rigid plate 115. At the impact site 130, for example, because of the air gap between the outer face of the IDPG 100 and the rigid plate 115, the impact from bullet 125 is distributed dissipated 360° around the impact site 130 as shown by the arrows around the impact site 130 in FIG. 1. In some examples, some of the dissipated energy may be transmitted to the shocks 110. In some implementations, total energy transmitted to the four shocks 110 may be less than 50% of energy transmitted by the momentum transmitted at the impact site 130. For example, exemplary testing (e.g., as disclosed at least with reference to FIGS. 3A-3H) demonstrates that illustrative implementations advantageously reduce energy (as measured by reduction in back face signature) by 20-84%.

[0048] For example, various embodiments suspending an impact plate around a periphery of the plate may advantageously reduce direct impact to a living body wearing the impact plate (e.g., by reducing or preventing deformation of the impact plate from directly impacting the living body). As disclosed herein, embodiments suspending an impact plate around a periphery of the plate may, for example, advantageously and surprisingly alter a deformation of the plate upon impact by a projectile. For example, a depth of penetration may advantageously be reduced (e.g., which may advantageously reduce direct injury to the living body). For example, an area of penetration (e.g., an area of the impact plate responding to the impact) may be dramatically increased (e.g., 2×, 4×, 10×, greater than 10×) when the plate is peripherally supported. The increase area of penetration may, for example, correspond to a dramatic increase in energy dissipated by the plate during impact (e.g., via inelastic, permanent deformation of the plate). For example, depth of penetration times area of penetration may be proportional to energy dissipated through permanent deformation. Accordingly, by way of example and not limitation, implementations peripherally suspending the impact plate may advantageously reduce, dissipate, and / or distribute energy transferred to the human.

[0049] As shown, the shocks 110 may include protrusions 140 extending orthogonal to a base of the shocks 110. In some implementations, the protrusions 140 may be progressively stiff. As shown in a side view in FIG. 1, after the bullet 125 impacted the rigid plate 115, represented by an arrow 145, the protrusions 140 may be configured to buckle. Buckling may, for example, advantageously absorb energy received at the shocks 110. Buckling may, for example, extend the distribution of energy across the shocks and so to the wearer's body. For example, the shocks may reduce a pressure felt by the human such as, by way of example and not limitation, by reducing force per area and / or force per time per area. In some implementations, the shocks 110 may be deformed after receiving the impact energy. In some implementations, the protrusions 140 may flex relative to the base of the shocks 110 to advantageously dissipate energy and / or progressively increase resistance to displacement of the plate 115 towards the wearer. The protrusions 140 may, by way of example and not limitation, reduce or eliminate chafing of a user during normal wear. For example, in some implementations, lateral stiffness of protrusions of the shocks may be different than compressive stiffness (e.g., orthogonal to a surface of the wearer's body). This differential stiffness may, for example, advantageously be configured such that the armor (e.g., plate 115) may move relative to the body during normal wear without rubbing the body repeatedly. Such implementations may, for example, advantageously reduce tissue damage due to rubbing.

[0050] In some implementations, the shocks 110 may also be made with flexible material. For example, the shocks 110 may include a material of Shore A 45-60. In some examples, the shocks 110 may include a material of Shore A 55-90. In some implementations, the shocks 110 may, upon receiving a force Fr, the shocks 110 may flex around the rigid plate 115 (e.g., conform to a surface of the rigid plate 115). The flexure may, for example, advantageously progressively increase area of contact of the rigid plate 115 with the shocks 110. For example, progressively increasing area of contact may advantageously dissipate more energy. Accordingly, some embodiments may advantageously reduce energy transmitting to the wearer 105.

[0051] In this example, the rigid plate 115 may, after receiving an impact of the bullet 125, be deformed by a depth d as shown by a deformed plate 150. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3F, d may be reduced when shocks 110 is deployed to support the rigid plate 115. In this example, the bullet 125 may be deformed by the rigid plate 115. The suspension of the periphery of the plate 115 may, for example, advantageously enable a greater amount of material of the plate 115 to be engaged in absorbing energy of the bullet 125. For example, a consistent air gap between the rigid plate 115 and the wearer may advantageously enable the rigid plate 115 to distribute the impact energy of the bullet 125 such as, for example, by internal shear stresses and / or tensile stresses distributed across substantially an entirety of the rigid plate.

[0052] Substantially an entirety of the plate may, for example, be at least 50% of the surface area of the plate facing the wearer. Substantially an entirety may, for example, be at least 75% of the surface area of the plate. Substantially an entirety may, for example, be at least 90% of the surface area of the plate.

[0053] In some examples, the deflection and / or deformation of the plate 150 may decrease a rate of energy transfer from the bullet 125 to the rigid plate 115 and / or the wearer 105. For example, the deflection of the rigid plate 115 to the deformed plate 150 may extend a duration of energy transfer. The decrease rate of energy transfer may, for example, reduce penetrating ability of the bullet 125.

[0054] Without being bound to a particular theory, flexure and / or deformation of the rigid plate 115 may, for example, advantageously reduce penetration of the bullet 125 through the rigid plate 115. Accordingly, for example, the bullet 125 may deform from a penetrating shape at the leading edge to a blunter shape. For example, due to effective dissipation of kinetic energy of the bullet 125, the rigid plate 115 may be more likely to stop the bullet 125 by deforming it into a less penetrating shape. For example, without being bound to a particular theory, by increasing a duration of energy transfer, the IDPG 100 may advantageously slow a rate of travel of the bullet 125 into and / or through the rigid plate 115 below a threshold at which material is stripped from a leading edge of the bullet 125. Accordingly, for example, the bullet 125 may collapse on itself (e.g., the trailing edge may continue to travel faster than the leading edge momentarily), which may, for example, advantageously transform the leading edge of the bullet 125 from a penetration geometry to a blunter (e.g., ‘stopping’) geometry that spreads the energy transfer across a greater surface area of the rigid plate 115. Such implementations may, for example, advantageously reduce penetration and save lives.

[0055] FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, FIG. 2C, FIG. 2D and FIG. 2E are schematic diagrams depicting various embodiments of exemplary shocks. As shown in FIG. 2A, a rigid plate 205 is supported by four shocks 210. For example, the shocks 210 may include a substantially circular base. For example, the shocks 210 may be cone shaped that may include a wider base proximal to a base garment (e.g., the IDPG 100) and a narrower top distal to the base garment. For example, the shocks 210 may be substantially cylindrical. In this example, the rigid plate 205, is a round cornered rectangular plate. The rigid plate 205 may be a sharp cornered rectangular plate as shown in FIGS. 2B-2E. Other shapes (e.g., triangular, square, pentagon, hexagon, eclipse, ‘shield’ shape) of the rigid plate 205 may also be possible in some implementations. In each of the depicted configurations, a corresponding plate (e.g., rigid) is suspended by the shocks at a minimum of four points around the periphery of the plate.

[0056] In some implementations, the shocks 210 may suspend the rigid plate 205 such that at least half of a surface area facing a living body of a wearer (e.g., the wearer 105) does not directly nor indirectly contact the wearer. For example, suppose the surface area of the rigid plate 205 is RRP. For example, the surface area of top surfaces of the shocks 210 overlapping the rigid plate 205 is Rshocks. In some implementations, a suspended (hanging) surface area of the rigid plate 205 may beR suspend=R RP-R shocks>R RP / 2

[0057] For example, the suspended surface area, separated from the wearer by an air gap, may advantageously dissipate energy transferred from a projectile (e.g., the bullet 125) to the rigid plate 205 upon an impact of the projectile. Accordingly, for example, the wearer 105 may receive less energy from the impact. For example, the IDPG 100 may advantageously prevent sores and / or chafing of the wearer 105.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 2B, the shocks 210 is used to suspend a rectangular rigid plate 215. For example, the rectangular rigid plate 215 may have a different shape from the rigid plate 205. In some implementations, as shown in FIG. 1, the shocks 210 may advantageously be adjustable in position relative to the IDPG 100 to support various shapes of the rigid plate 115. In this example, the shocks 210 is fully covered by the rectangular rigid plate 215. However, for example, ifR suspend=R RP-R shocks>R RP / 2,

[0059] the suspension of the rectangular rigid plate 215 may also be effective in dissipating impact energy from a projectile.

[0060] the suspension of the rectangular rigid plate 215 may also be effective in dissipating impact energy from a projectile.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 2C-2D, the rectangular rigid plate 215 is supported by two extended shocks 220. As shown, the extended shocks 220 supports the rectangular rigid plate 215 in two exemplary orientations as shown in FIG. 2C-2D. For example, as depicted, four peripheral points of the rectangular rigid plate 215 may be supported to facilitate effective dissipation of impact energy. For example, geometries shown in FIG. 2C and FIG. 2E may be advantageously used for wearers with extra breast tissue. The shocks 210 and / or shocks 220 may advantageously be placed for a specific wearer to create a substantially consistent (e.g., having at least a predetermined minimum air gap thickness) air gap between the wearer's body and the back surface of the plate (e.g., rigid plate 205, rectangular rigid plate 215). The shocks may, for example, advantageously be placed to maintain an air gap thickness regardless of body surface geometry. In some implementations, other orientations and arrangements may also be possible. For example, as shown in FIG. 2E, the shocks 210 and the extended shocks 220 are used to support the rectangular rigid plate 215. Further discussion of various embodiments of the extended shocks 220 is described with reference to FIG. 11.

[0062] In the depicted example, each plate is supported by shocks at four points of contact around the periphery of the plate. Some implementations may, for example, have exactly four points of contact (e.g., individual shocks, multiple contact points along a single longitudinally extending spacer). Some implementations may, for example, have at least four points of contact (e.g., a continually extending spacers may be configured to have at least two points of contact but may also contact, for example, substantially continuously along a length of the shock). In some implementations, for example, at least four and / or only four points of contact may be at least at each corner of a rigid plate.

[0063] In various implementations, a functional garment (e.g., the IDPG 100) may include position-adjustable shocks (e.g., the shocks 110, the shocks 210, the extended shocks 220). For example, the position-adjustable shocks may be configured to be at least partially covered by a rigid plate (e.g., the rigid plate 115, the rigid plate 205, the rectangular rigid plate 215) having an impact-receiving surface. For example, the position adjustable shocks may be positioned around a periphery of the rigid plate such that at least four points of the rigid plate are supported by the shock. In some implementations, at least 50% of the impact-receiving surface area may be separated from a living body wearing the functional garment by an air gap.

[0064] FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, FIG. 3C, FIG. 3D, FIG. 3E, and FIG. 3F depict exemplary experimental results of a rigid impact plate with and without support of exemplary shocks as described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E. As shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, two ballistic test results on a APM2 protective plate are shown. FIG. 3A shows a ballistic test result on an APM2 protective plate 305 without shocks support. FIG. 3B shows a ballistic test result on an APM2 protective plate 310 with shocks support. As shown, an impact crater of the protective plate 305 is 11.6 mm and an impact crater of the 310 is 30.4 mm. For example, the shocks 110 suspending the rigid plate 115 may efficiently facilitate spreading an energy transmitted at a projectile impact to a wider area.

[0065] FIGS. 3C-3D show exemplary deformation data from a ballistic test of a torso plate (e.g., the protective plate 310) with shock absorbers (FIG. 3C), and a ballistic test of a standalone torso plate (FIG. 3D). For example, the shock absorbers may be the shocks 110 as described with reference to FIG. 1. As shown, deformation data 315 in FIG. 3C with respect to different ammunition used are less than corresponding deformation data 320 in FIG. 3D. For example, the deformation data 315, 320 may suggest that the depth d after an impact of a project is reduced when the shocks 110 are used.

[0066] FIGS. 3E-3F show exemplary projectiles after ballistic tests of a torso plate (e.g., the protective plate 310) with shock absorbers (FIG. 3E), and a ballistic test of a standalone torso plate (FIG. 3F). As shown in FIG. 3E, after impact, a projectile 325 is deformed to be blunt. In contrast, a projectile 330 is kept largely its original shape with relatively little deformation compared to the projectile 325. In some implementations, the IDPG 100 may advantageously mitigate penetration power of the projectile by deforming the projectile. For example, the shocks may advantageously prevent complete penetrations of an armor plate to protect the wearer.

[0067] FIG. 3G and FIG. 3H depict exemplary experimental results of a rigid impact plate with different shocks configurations as disclosed at least with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E. FIG. 3G depicts results 350 of a ballistic impact test in which a projectile was shot at a test dummy with a rigid impact plate having shocks beneath it. A back face signature (e.g., related to an amount of deformation and / or damage created on a backside of a piece of armor after an impact) created by each of 3 test shots is shown by BFS 355. The first two test shots were made with 5 shocks (one at each corner under the rigid plate, and one in the center) distributed under the rigid plate (e.g., as disclosed at least with reference to FIG. 12). The third test shot was made with 4 shocks (one at each corner under the rigid plate, such as shown in FIG. 1, with the plate suspended by the four corners to create a continuous air gap between the plate and the dummy over greater than 50% of the area of the back surface area of the plate).

[0068] As shown by the BFS 355 results, the deformation (in millimeters) dropped to about one-third of the previous deformation. Additionally, as shown by the notes 360, the first two tests (SHOT NO. 1 and SHOT NO. 2) resulted in the projectile penetrating the rigid armor and stopping the shoot pack (behind the dummy). In the third test (SHOT NO. 3), with continuous air gap over greater than 50% of the back surface area of the plate, the projectile did not penetrate the armor. Accordingly, the results demonstrate the surprising result that a person who would have died with 5 shocks (bullet penetrated) would have likely survived with the rigid plate suspended over 4 shocks (bullet did not penetrate). The test personnel expressed amazement at the results. While expecting the results demonstrated in shots 1 and 2, they were completely surprised by the result in shot 3, and performed additional testing, the results of which are shown in FIG. 3H.

[0069] FIG. 3H demonstrates results of additional shots of the test described with respect to FIG. 3G, with the shocks distributed as described for shot 3. As can be seen, no penetration of the armor by the projectile was noted. The damage to the rigid plate, shown by BFS 370 results, are consistent with the third shot, remaining one-third to one-half of the deformation resulting from the shocks configuration described with respect to shots 1 and 2 of the test described with respect to FIG. 3G. Accordingly, experimental results demonstrate surprising results achieved by the shocks distributed around the periphery (e.g., at four distinct contact points) to create a continuous air gap (e.g., greater than 50% of the surface area of the back of the plate) between the rigid plate and the body.

[0070] FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, FIG. 4C, and FIG. 4D depict various exemplary shapes of shocks. As shown in FIG. 4A, a shock 405 with a curved top surface (e.g., a convex curved shape shocks) is used to suspend the rigid plate 115. In FIG. 4B, a shock 410 includes a flat surface. In various implementations, the flat top surface and straight edges may be easier to manufacture. In some examples, different shapes of shocks may provide different performance and durability against impacting projectiles. As shown in FIG. 4C, a disk like shocks 415 is used. For example, the shocks 415 may be made with very flexible and / or elastic material with a durometer less than Shore A 50. In some implementations, a shock 415 may be made with a durometer less than Shore A 65 (e.g., configured for equipment support). In various examples, different internal structures of the shocks may be included.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 4D, a honey cone structured shocks 420 is used to suspend the rigid plate 115. For example, the honey cone structure may advantageously absorb shock and reduce sore upon impact. In various implementations, the shocks 405, 410, 415, 420 may be progressively stiff upon impact such that impact energy is dissipated within the shocks before transmitting to a wearer (e.g., the wearer 105).

[0072] FIG. 5A, 5B, and FIG. 5C depict exemplary embodiments of a shocks. As shown in FIG. 5A-5B, a shock 500 and a shock 505 may, for example, be configured to couple to the base garment (e.g., the IDPG 100). For example, the shocks 500 may, for example, be formed of silicone. The shocks 505 may, for example, be made of polyurethane. In some implementations, some shocks may be made of recycled plasticized Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Various embodiments may, for example, have a density and / or stiffness (e.g., Shore durometer) selected according to targeted support and / or comfort goals. For example, a stiffer material may be selected to support heavier weight. In some embodiments a softer material may be selected to provide increased cushioning.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 5C, the shocks 505 is flexible. In some implementations, the shocks 505 may flex upon receiving an impact energy. For example, the flexing of the shocks 505 around a rigid plate may advantageously dissipate energy from transferring to a wearer of the IDPG 100. In some implementations, the shocks 505 may deform (e.g., elastically, in shear, and / or destructively) along an axis orthogonal to the wearer 105 such that relative motion towards the living body is reduced.

[0074] FIG. 6 depicts perspective views of an exemplary shocks 600. For example, the shocks 600 may be the shocks 500 or the shocks 505 as described with reference to FIGS. 5A-5C. As shown, the shocks 600 includes a center protrusion 605. Protrusions 610 extend substantially orthogonal to a base of the shocks 600. As depicted, the protrusions 610 are arranged in subsequent concentric rings. Each ring is separated by concentric channels 615. Each ring of protrusions 610 is fenestrated by radial channels 620. The radial channels 620 connect the concentric channels 615. Accordingly, airflow may be maintained across a plane parallel to the base of the shocks 600. The shocks 600 may, for example, space an outer garment and / or pack from a user, thereby maintaining airflow. In some embodiments, the protrusions 610 may flex to provide impact absorbance and / or motion of an external garment and / or pack. For example, the protrusions 610 may flex relative to the base of the shocks 600 and reduce or eliminate chafing of a user. As depicted, the shocks 600 includes an outer ring 625.

[0075] FIG. 7 depicts a front view, a back view, and a side view of the exemplary shocks with reference to FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 7, the shocks 600 includes apertures 705 through the base of the shocks 600. The apertures 705 may, for example, slidingly receive a coupling member (e.g., the coupling members 120) configured to releasably couple the shocks 600 to a receiving surface (e.g., the IDPG 100).

[0076] The shocks 600 is provided, in an end view with a monotonically decreasing profile relative to increasing radius from the center protrusion 605. As depicted in FIG. 7, a profile 710 of the shocks 600 may be a convex curve relative to the base. For example, the convex curve of the profile 710 may advantageously transmit a load engaging some upper portion of a protrusion 610 towards a center of the base.

[0077] FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B, and FIG. 8C depict exemplary embodiments of a shocks having various embodiments of support protrusions. As shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, top views of various shocks embodiments are shown. As shown in FIG. 8A, a shock 800 includes concentric rings of discontinued protrusions 805. As shown in FIG. 8B, a square shock 810 includes “finger” like protrusions 815. For example, the protrusions 815 may be independent and coaxial in shape. As shown in FIG. 8C, a polygonal shock 820 is depicted. In this example, the shocks 820 includes holes 825 and ribs 830. For example, the holes 825 may advantageously facilitate air flow between the wearer 105 and the shocks 820 to improve comfort. The ribs 830, for example, may be buckled upon receiving an impact energy above a predetermined impact threshold (e.g., 100 foot-pound, 500 foot-pound, 1000 foot-pound).

[0078] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B depict an exemplary extended shock. An extended shocks (an EMS 900) includes a center region 910 and two outer regions 915. The center region 910 may, for example, be taller than the outer regions 915. As depicted, each region is domed (e.g., according to the profile 710), such that an overall side profile of the EMS 900 is domed.

[0079] FIG. 10 depicts an exemplary IDPG 100 configured to selectively couple and position shocks 110. The IDPG 100 includes a base garment 1005. The base garment 1005 is provided in the back with vertical coupling modules 1010 and a horizontal coupling module 1015. In some implementations, a base of the shocks 110 may include a smooth surface against the outer surface of the base garment. For example, at impact, the smooth surface does not deform such that an impact energy transferred to the living body is evenly distributed among an entire surface area of the smooth surface.

[0080] In some embodiments, coupling modules may include magnets. In some embodiments coupling modules (e.g., the vertical coupling modules 1010, horizontal coupling module 1015) may include snaps. In some embodiments coupling modules may include hooks and / or loops (e.g., hook-and-loop strip, fastener strips).

[0081] FIG. 11 depicts exemplary shocks releasably coupled to the exemplary garment as described with reference to FIG. 10. As shown, a front of the base garment 1005 includes vertical coupling modules 1105. The shocks 110 are coupled to the coupling modules 1105 by coupling members 1110 passed through the apertures 705 and releasably coupled to the vertical coupling modules 1105.

[0082] FIG. 12 depicts exemplary shocks and exemplary extended shocks in an illustrative use-case. As depicted, at least the two outer regions 915 may be provided with apertures such as disclosed at least with reference to the apertures 705. Each of the outer regions 915 may be coupled by corresponding coupling members 1110 to the vertical coupling modules 1105. As depicted, the EMS 900 may advantageously span across coupling modules. For example, the EMS 900 may span front or back vertical coupling modules to form a chest support. As depicted, the EMS 900 may be configured as a back support. In the depicted example, the EMS 900 may be configured as shoulder support. In some embodiments, as depicted, the EMS 900 may be configured as a lumbar support. In some embodiments, the EMS 900 may be selectively positioned to support a pack and / or other gear as discussed further below with reference to FIGS. 13-17.

[0083] FIG. 13, FIG. 14, FIG. 15, FIG. 16, and FIG. 17 depict an exemplary impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) in an illustrative use-case. As shown in FIG. 13, an MSPSS 1300 on a (model) user 1305 includes a base garment 1005. A harness 1310 is disposed over the base garment 1005. Modular shocks 1315 are releasably coupled to the harness 1310. The modular shocks 1315 are positioned to support a pack 1320 spaced away from the user 1305. The modular shocks 1315 may, for example, cushion the pack 1320. The pack 1320 may, for example, hold equipment.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 14, the harness 1310 is releasably coupled by fasteners 1405. As depicted, the fasteners 1405 are snap buckles. For example, the fasteners 1405 may be operated by a user to cross the harness 1310 (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 14) across the chest and / or around the waist.

[0085] The modular shocks 1315 may, for example, be cushioned. The modular shocks 1315 may, for example, include air-filled compartments (e.g., airbags). In some embodiments, the modular shocks 1315 may include silicon pads. In some embodiments the modular shocks 1315 may include urethane pads.

[0086] As depicted in FIG. 14, the base garment 1005 includes multiple coupling modules 1410. Each coupling module 1410 may, for example, be configured to selectively and releasably couple one or more modular shocks 1315 directly to the base garment 1005. As shown in FIG. 15, the harness 1310 crosses in the back and then crosses under the arms. The harness 1310 under the arms is coupled to a handle 1505 (see, for example, FIG. 3).

[0087] As depicted in an exemplary scenario 1600 in FIG. 16, the handle 1505 may, for example, be used to carry the user 1305 by the harness 1310. For example, in an emergency, the user 1305 may be retrieved by another person 1605 via the handle 1505 of the harness 1310. As an illustrative example, a user 1305 may be wounded in a combat scenario. The other person 1605 may grab the handle 1505 and drag the user 1305 out of danger. Accordingly, various embodiments may advantageously increase safety.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 17A, in a close-up view of the modular shocks 1315, each of the modular shocks 1315 is provided with two sleeves 1710 (e.g., straps sewed to the back of the shock). The harness 1310 may be passed through one or more of the sleeves 1710. For example, the sleeves 1710 may releasably and slidably couple the modular shock 1315 to the harness 1310. In some embodiments multiple harness straps may be passed through the sleeves 1710 of a given shock. For example, the modular shock 1315 may be used to couple two or more straps of the harness 1310. A position of the modular shock 1315 may, for example, be adjusted by sliding the harness 1310 through the sleeves 1710.

[0089] As depicted in FIG. 17B, the modular shock 1315 includes a coupling module 1715. For example, the coupling module 1715 may include hook and / or loop fabric. The coupling module 1715 may, for example, be used to releasably couple the modular shock 1315 to the base garment 1005. For example, a user 1305 may position the harness 1310 and / or the modular shocks 1315 in a desired configuration (e.g., for maximum support and / or comfort) and releasably couple the modular shocks 1315 to the base garment 1005 by engaging the coupling module(s) 1715 to corresponding coupling module(s) 1410.

[0090] As depicted in FIGS. 13-17B, the modular shock 1315 may be constructed of a shell. For example, the shell may be fabric. In some embodiments a fabric shell may be configured to receive multiple shocks. The shell may be configured to support multiple shocks in a predetermined spatial relationship. In the depicted example, the modular shock 1315 may be configured to receive multiple individual shocks 1720, as shown in the right view of FIG. 17B. The shock 1720 may correspond, by way of example and not limitation, to a shock 110 or an EMS 900 (disclosed at least with reference to FIGS. 1-9). In some implementations, the modular shocks 1315 may be a combination of the shocks 110 and / or the EMS 900. For example, the modular shocks 1315 may include the shocks 110 and / or the EMS 900 fitted into a pocket (as depicted). In some examples, the modular shocks 1315 may be a standalone EMS 900 without a container shell. In some embodiments, the shock 1720 may correspond to at least a portion of an airbag. In some embodiments the shock 1720 may correspond to at least a portion of a foam pad.

[0091] Although various embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, other embodiments are possible.

[0092] In some implementations, the wearer 105 may be other living bodies. For example, the IDPG 100 may be deployed on dogs on duty of security missions or policing missions. In various implementations, the IDPG 100 may advantageously protect and reduce damage to the living body wearing the IDPG 100.

[0093] Although an exemplary system has been described with reference to FIG. 1, other implementations may be deployed in other industrial, scientific, medical, commercial, and / or residential applications.

[0094] In some embodiments, a garment, harness, and / or modular shock may, for example, be hydrophobic. Such embodiments may, for example, advantageously repel and / or shed water. Such embodiments may, for example, advantageously reduce or eliminate additional weight after wetting of the user wearing the garment, harness, and / or shock(s). In an illustrative example, a user carrying heavy packs (e.g., a special operation military personnel) may be carrying greater than 70 pounds of gear and have to go through rain or a body of water. Hydrophobic garment, harness, and / or modular shock may advantageously prevent additional weight being added by the water.

[0095] In some embodiments, the harness, garment, and / or shock may be fire retardant. For example, such embodiments may advantageously prevent fire from spreading due to incendiaries (e.g., gunfire, shrapnel). For example, if a plane goes down or a user is shot, fire retardant construction may prevent the harness, garment, and / or shock from melting to or burning on the user's body. In some embodiments, for example, a fire-retardant coating may be applied to a shock.

[0096] In some embodiments, the base garment may be omitted. For example, the harness 1310 may be used without the base garment. In some embodiments the base garment 1005 may, for example, be used without the harness 1310.

[0097] In some embodiments, by way of example and not limitation, the base garment 1005 may, for example, be configured as a compression garment. For example, the base garment 1005 may apply compression to the wearer. The compression may, for example, advantageously distribute a force of impact of a projectile striking a wearer (e.g., impact reduced by a bullet proof vest may be advantageously distributed by the compression garment).

[0098] In some implementations, a shock may be configured to be strategically placed to transfer force to a target body region. For example, the shocks may be placed to reduce or prevent transfer of impact energy to a sensitive region of a living body. For example, the shocks may be placed to transfer force to energy dissipating musculature and / or skeletal tissue.

[0099] In some implementations, a shocks system may be disposed peripherally to an expanse of material (e.g., rigid plate, soft body armor) to suspend the material to create a continuous air gap behind at least 50% of the material. In some implementations, for example, the air gap may be continuous across at least 40% of a surface area of the material facing a living body wearing the material. In some examples, the air gap may be continuous across at least 30% of the surface area facing the living body.

[0100] In some implementations, shocks may be distributed peripherally to target impact regions to create multiple air gap regions under a single material (e.g., plate, gear, garment). Each air gap may, for example, be centered around an expected incoming force (e.g., impact).

[0101] Although various embodiments have been described with reference to rigid armor, other embodiments are possible. For example, some embodiments may be configured to suspend soft armor (e.g., para-aramid woven armor). The armor may, for example, include tensile elements (e.g., tensile threads in a radial pattern, metal straps and / or other reinforcement) to distribute a force of impact across the armor ‘plate’ (e.g., fabric expanse) to shocks. In some implementations, multiple suspension regions may be provided.

[0102] In some implementations, shocks may be configured to support, by way of example and not limitation, sports gear. In some examples, shocks may be configured to support carried gear (e.g., backpacks). The shocks may, for example, advantageously suspend the carried gear for comfort and / or to reduce injury (e.g., from falling). In some implementations, shocks may be configured to support construction safety equipment (e.g., helmets).

[0103] In some implementations, shocks may be configured to protect extremities (e.g., arms, legs, head). For example, shocks may be configured around the periphery of a potential impact region. A protective covering (e.g., rigid plate, soft protective covering) may be suspended over the shocks. In some implementations, the shocks and protective covering system may include a base garment. In some implementations, the system may be configured for airflow and / or weight distribution (e.g., creating an air gap without a particular potential impact region).

[0104] In some implementations, a custom configuration may be provided. For example, an ideal impact dissipation location(s) of a living body (e.g., a species, a gender, an individual) may be determined. In some implementations, a scan of the body may be performed (e.g., optical, ultrasound, radiographic, magnetic). In some implementations, an impact receiving structure (e.g., rigid plate, soft body armor) may be determined. Once a target impact dissipation location is determined, a minimum impact transfer surface area may be determined. A maximum rate of energy transfer may, for example, be determined. shocks may, for example, be configured (e.g., geometry, footprint, elasticity, stiffness) to meet the predetermined impact transfer surface area and / or the maximum rate of energy transfer. A garment may, for example, be configured based on the shocks(s) and / or the target impact dissipation locations. For example, the garment may have predetermined coupling locations of the shocks. In some implementations, for example, visual indicia may be applied to the garment based on customized target impact locations for a specific person.

[0105] For example, a computer system may take in parameters (e.g., type of living body, age, gender, height, weight, body scan information, armor type) and automatically determine placement and / or shocks characteristics. For example, the computer system may advantageously select one or more predetermined shocks based on the inputs. The computer system may, for example, apply a machine learning model trained on historical data (e.g., shocks locations, shocks characteristics, armor type, living body characteristics, impact outcomes, test results) to determine the shocks configuration and / or placement. The computer system may, for example, generate visual indicia based on the shocks configuration (e.g., selection of predetermined shocks) and / or target locations on the living body. Accordingly, for example, a wearer may quickly put on a customized shocks configuration for their body.

[0106] In some embodiments a modular shock may, for example, be constructed of polyester. In various embodiments, a (modular) shock may, for example, be formed of an insulated material. In some embodiments, the modular shock may be constructed of a foam. For example, in some embodiments, the modular shocks 1315 may include foam shocks and / or an air pouch inside a (fabric) shell. Such embodiments may, for example, advantageously provide minimal additional weight. The outer (fabric) shell may, for example, be selectively closable such that the inner shock core may be replaced (e.g., according to a planned excursion and / or user preferences). In some implementations, the modular shocks 1315 may include shocks of different materials.

[0107] In some embodiments, a modular shock may, for example, be constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) product. For example, some embodiments may be constructed of silicone.

[0108] Various embodiments may include an upper body support collar. For example, some embodiments may provide a collar with a relatively high-density modular shock. For example, the modular shock for the collar may be of a higher density for the collar than shocks positioned about the rest of the body. The collar may, for example, be configured to be positioned substantially at least on an upper portion of each of the vertical coupling modules 1105 on the front of the body and passing behind the user's neck corresponding substantially to the horizontal coupling module 1015.

[0109] In some embodiments, by way of example and not limitation, the upper body support collar may be implemented on a bomb suit. For example, distribution of weight in a modern bomb suit may be highest from the waist up and around the back of the wearer. The upper body support collar may, for example, provide a dense collar and a (square) support shock that supports some of the weight. The upper body support collar may space some of the weight upwards off of the user's arms (e.g., the shoulders). Accordingly, such embodiments may advantageously increase a range of motion of a wearer's arms by about 8 inches.

[0110] In some embodiments, shocks may be pre-chilled. For example, a typical deployment duration in an explosive suit may be about 1 hour. A shock material (e.g., for making the shocks 110 or the EMS 900) may be temperature responsive. For example, the shock material may be configured such that it may be chilled to at least 32° F. In some embodiments, temperature-responsive material may include TPU. In some embodiments, the temperature-responsive material may retain flexibility (e.g., the material may still be able to be rolled, compressed, and / or folded) in a chilled (e.g., <32° F.) state. Such embodiments may, for example, increase comfort of a user during deployment in a heavy and / or occlusive suit. In various such embodiments, deployment duration without overheating a user may be advantageously extended by, by way of example and not limitation, 10-15 minutes.

[0111] In various embodiments a shock may, for example, be instrumented. For example, at least one sensor may be embedded in a shock. A cavity may be formed in the shock in some embodiments. For example, a cavity may be formed in the center protrusion 805. A cavity may, for example, be formed in a bottom (base) surface of the shocks 110. Sensors may, for example, be configured to detect heart rate. In some embodiments sensors may be configured to detect breath sounds.

[0112] In some embodiments, electronic attachments may be embedded. Electric conduits may be provided in the base garment 1005. The sensors may be releasably coupled. For example, pluggable connectors may be operated by a user to attach two or more connectors. In some embodiments, connection may be made automatically by bringing couplers of the sensor(s) in the shock and the conduit on the base garment into electrical communication when the shock is releasably coupled to the base garment. In some embodiments, sensor(s) may, for example, be wirelessly coupled to one or more computing unit(s).

[0113] In some embodiments, a communication unit may be embedded in a shock. For example, the shocks may be configured to be shoulder-mounted (e.g., as disclosed at least with reference to FIG. 12). In some embodiments, the communication unit may include a sensor. The sensor(s) may detect audio. In some embodiments the sensor may be configured to detect jaw motion without audio. A connected communication unit may determine words corresponding to the jaw motion and generate one or more corresponding signals (e.g., corresponding to text, audio). The communication unit may transmit one or more signals. Some such embodiments may advantageously enable communication without audible sound, which may, for example, increase user safety in a combat and / or stealth situation.

[0114] In various embodiments, some bypass circuit implementations may be controlled in response to signals from analog or digital components, which may be discrete, integrated, or a combination of each. Some embodiments may include programmed, programmable devices, or some combination thereof (e.g., PLAs, PLDs, ASICs, microcontroller, microprocessor), and may include one or more data stores (e.g., cell, register, block, page) that provide single or multi-level digital data storage capability, and which may be volatile, non-volatile, or some combination thereof. Some control functions may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or a combination of any of them.

[0115] Computer program products may contain a set of instructions that, when executed by a processor device, cause the processor to perform prescribed functions. These functions may be performed in conjunction with controlled devices in operable communication with the processor. Computer program products, which may include software, may be stored in a data store tangibly embedded on a storage medium, such as an electronic, magnetic, or rotating storage device, and may be fixed or removable (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, thumb drive, CD, DVD).

[0116] Although an example of a system, which may be portable, has been described with reference to the above figures, other implementations may be deployed in other processing applications, such as desktop and networked environments.

[0117] Temporary auxiliary energy inputs may be received, for example, from chargeable or single use batteries, which may enable use in portable or remote applications. Some embodiments may operate with other DC voltage sources, such as batteries, for example. Alternating current (AC) inputs, which may be provided, for example from a 50 / 60 Hz power port, or from a portable electric generator, may be received via a rectifier and appropriate scaling. Provision for AC (e.g., sine wave, square wave, triangular wave) inputs may include a line frequency transformer to provide voltage step-up, voltage step-down, and / or isolation.

[0118] In some implementations, one or more user-interface features may be custom configured to perform specific functions. Various embodiments may be implemented in a computer system that includes a graphical user interface and / or an Internet browser. To provide for interaction with a user, some implementations may be implemented on a computer having a display device. The display device may, for example, include an LED (light-emitting diode) display. In some implementations, a display device may, for example, include a CRT (cathode ray tube). In some implementations, a display device may include, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display). A display device (e.g., monitor) may, for example, be used for displaying information to the user. Some implementations may, for example, include a keyboard and / or pointing device (e.g., mouse, trackpad, trackball, joystick), such as by which the user can provide input to the computer.

[0119] In various implementations, the system may communicate using suitable communication methods, equipment, and techniques. For example, the system may communicate with compatible devices (e.g., devices capable of transferring data to and / or from the system) using point-to-point communication in which a message is transported directly from the source to the receiver over a dedicated physical link (e.g., fiber optic link, point-to-point wiring, daisy-chain). The components of the system may exchange information by any form or medium of analog or digital data communication, including packet-based messages on a communication network. Examples of communication networks include, e.g., a LAN (local area network), a WAN (wide area network), MAN (metropolitan area network), wireless (e.g., cellular, direct satellite communication, satellite network, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) and / or optical networks, the computers and networks forming the Internet, or some combination thereof. Other implementations may transport messages by broadcasting to all or substantially all devices that are coupled together by a communication network, for example, by using omni-directional radio frequency (RF) signals. Still other implementations may transport messages characterized by high directivity, such as RF signals transmitted using directional (i.e., narrow beam) antennas or infrared signals that may optionally be used with focusing optics. Still other implementations are possible using appropriate interfaces and protocols such as, by way of example and not intended to be limiting, USB 2.0, Firewire, ATA / IDE, RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, 802.11 a / b / g, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, IrDA, FDDI (fiber distributed data interface), token-ring networks, multiplexing techniques based on frequency, time, or code division, or some combination thereof. Some implementations may optionally incorporate features such as error checking and correction (ECC) for data integrity, or security measures, such as encryption (e.g., WEP) and password protection.

[0120] In various embodiments, the computer system may include Internet of Things (IoT) devices. IoT devices may include objects embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and network connectivity which enable these objects to collect and exchange data. IoT devices may be in-use with wired or wireless devices by sending data through an interface to another device. IoT devices may collect useful data and then autonomously flow the data between other devices.

[0121] Various examples of modules may be implemented using circuitry, including various electronic hardware. By way of example and not limitation, the hardware may include transistors, resistors, capacitors, switches, integrated circuits, other modules, or some combination thereof. In various examples, the modules may include analog logic, digital logic, discrete components, traces and / or memory circuits fabricated on a silicon substrate including various integrated circuits (e.g., FPGAs, ASICs), or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, the module(s) may involve execution of preprogrammed instructions, software executed by a processor, or some combination thereof. For example, various modules may involve both hardware and software.

[0122] In an illustrative aspect, a protective suit may, for example, include a base garment, multiple shocks releasably coupled to an outer surface of the base garment, and a protective armor including an armor plate covering at least part of the base garment. At least some of the shocks may, for example, be adjustably positioned to suspend a region of the armor plate at four or more points around a periphery of the region. The suspended region may, for example, include at least 50% of an area of an inner surface of the armor plate. The suspended region may, for example, be separated from the living body by a continuous air gap. The suspended region may, for example, be configured such that, upon impact by a projectile colliding with the armor plate, impact power transferred from the projectile is redistributed across the suspended region of armor plate before being transmitted to the living body via the shocks supporting the armor plate.

[0123] The protective suit may, for example, include a first side of a fastener strip fixed coupled to the outer surface of the base garment. Each of the shocks may, for example, include at least two apertures configured to be releasably coupled to a second side of a fastener strip, such that each of the shocks is adjustably and releasably coupled along the first side of the fastener strip on the outer surface of the base garment. The fastener strip may, for example, include a hook-and-loop strip.

[0124] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include a wider bottom surface area at a proximal end to the outer surface of the base garment. The bottom surface area may be at least 4 square inches.

[0125] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include a cone shape.

[0126] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include protrusions extending orthogonal to a base of the shock. Each protrusion may be configured such that, when a projectile impacts the armor plate such that an impact force is exerted at the shocks supporting the armor plate under impact, a stiffness of the shocks in a direction orthogonal to the inner surface of the armor plate progressively increases as the protrusions are compressed.

[0127] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include a smooth surface against the outer surface of the base garment, wherein, at impact, the smooth surface does not deform such that an impact energy transferred to the wearer is distributed among an entire surface area of the smooth surface.

[0128] The shocks may, for example, include concentric rings of protrusions separated by concentric channels. The channels may be in fluid communication by apertures in the concentric rings of protrusions.

[0129] The shocks supporting the armor plate may be configured to deflect, upon receiving kinetic energy transferred from the impact at the armor plate, against the back of the armor plate such that motion of the plate relative to the wearer is reduced.

[0130] The shocks may, for example, include recycled plasticized polyvinyl chloride. The shocks may be of a material having a durometer between Shore A 45 to Shore A 60. The shocks may, for example, include silicone. The shocks may, for example, include polyurethane.

[0131] In an illustrative aspect, a functional garment may, for example, include multiple shocks releasably coupled to an outer surface of a functional garment. At least some of the shocks may, for example, be adjustably positioned to suspend a region of the armor plate by at least four points around a periphery of the suspended region, such that an inner surface of the armor plate covers at least part of the outer surface of the functional garment, wherein the suspended region comprises at least 50% of an area of the inner surface of the armor plate and is separated from a living body of a wearer by an air gap such that, upon impact by a projectile colliding with the armor plate, impact power transferred from the projectile is redistributed across the suspended region of armor plate before being transmitted to the living body via the shocks supporting the armor plate.

[0132] The functional garment may, for example, include a first side of a fastener strip fixed coupled to the outer surface of the functional garment. Each of the shocks may, for example, include at least two apertures configured to be releasably coupled to a second side of a fastener strip, such that each of the shocks is adjustably and releasably coupled along the first side of the fastener strip on the outer surface of the functional garment. The fastener strip may, for example, include a hook-and-loop strip.

[0133] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include a wider bottom surface area at a proximal end to the outer surface of the functional garment. The bottom surface area may be at least 4 square inches. The shocks may, for example, include a cone shape.

[0134] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include protrusions extending orthogonal to the living body. Each protrusion may be configured such that, when a projectile impacts the armor plate, wherein an impact force is exerted orthogonal to the living body at the shocks supporting the armor plate under impact, a stiffness of the shocks in a direction orthogonal to the inner surface of the armor plate progressively increases as the protrusions are compressed.

[0135] One or more of the shocks may, for example, include a smooth surface against the outer surface of the functional garment, wherein, at impact, the smooth surface does not deform such that an impact energy transferred to the living body is distributed among an entire surface area of the smooth surface.

[0136] The shocks may, for example, include concentric rings of protrusions separated by concentric channels. The channels may be in fluid communication by apertures in the concentric rings of protrusions.

[0137] The shocks supporting the armor plate may be configured to deflect, upon receiving kinetic energy transferred from the impact at the armor plate, against the back of the armor plate such that motion of the plate relative to the wearer is reduced.

[0138] The shocks may, for example, include plasticized polyvinyl chloride. The shocks may, for example, include recycled material. The shocks may be made from a material having a durometer between Shore A 45 to Shore A 60. The shocks may, for example, include silicone. The shocks may, for example, include polyurethane. The shocks may, for example, include multiple shock materials.

[0139] The shocks may, for example, include at least one elongated shock configured to engage at least two contact points.

[0140] The at least four points of contact may, for example, include four distinct points of contact.

[0141] The base garment may, for example, include a harness. The shocks may be releasably coupled to the harness. The harness may, for example, include a handle configured to support a weight of the living body.

[0142] At least one of the shocks may, for example, include multiple shock modules.

[0143] The at least one of the shocks may, for example, include a housing. The shock modules may be disposed in the housing such that the shock modules are releasably coupled to the garment by the housing.

[0144] Moving to FIGS. 18-20, orientation of the shocks aids in the dispersion of impact energy. As shown in the related filings from which this patent application continues. shocks have a base area and a tapered top which allows for the dispersion of energy radiatively where contact under compression where compression initially contacts with the center of the shocks and a compression increases a larger area of the shocks is engaged making the shocks capable of radially dispersing energy as compression is increased.

[0145] The standoff nature of the shocks positions the impact dissipating protective garment 1800 away front the wears body which allows the IDPG to flexibly disperse energy of ballistic impact hence allowing projectile to be slowed by the compressive flexing of the IDPG.

[0146] In this embodiment the shocks 1810 are constructed from an energy dispersive material 1820 with the addition of a spacing material 1820 used to hold the shocks in place against the inside surface of the IDPG.

[0147] As shown, the IDPG 1900 further includes coupling members 1920 to couple the shocks 1810 to an outer face of the IDPG 1900. In some implementations, the coupling members 1920 may include a fastener having, for example, mating surfaces. For example, a first mating surface may be fixedly coupled to the IDPG 100. For example, a second mating surface may be releasably coupled to the shocks 110. In various implementations, the shocks 110 may be adjustably coupled to the coupling member 120 along the first mating surface.

[0148] Orientation of the shocks is important to the dispersion of impact energy. As shown in the related filings from which this patent application continues, the shocks have a base area and a tapered top which allows for the dispersion of energy radiatively. Under compression, the contact initially starts at the center of the shocks and as compression increases, a larger area of the shocks is engaged, making the shocks capable of radially dispersing energy as compression is increased.

[0149] The standoff nature of the shocks positions the impact dissipating protective garment away from the wearer's body, allowing the IDPG to flexibly disperse the energy of ballistic impact. This configuration enables the projectile to be slowed by the compressive flexing of the IDPG.

[0150] In this embodiment, the shocks are constructed from an energy dispersive material, with the addition of a spacing material used to hold the shocks in place against the inside surface of the IDPG. The shocks, for example, attached to the IDPG may support the rigid plate such that it naturally hangs over the living body of the wearer.

[0151] In various implementations, the IDPG can reduce an impact to the wearer when a projectile (e.g., a bullet) hits the rigid plate. The air gap between the outer face of the IDPG and the rigid plate allows the impact from a bullet to be distributed dissipated around the impact site. Some of the dissipated energy may be transmitted to the shocks, where the total energy transmitted may be significantly reduced.

[0152] Suspending an impact plate around its periphery may advantageously reduce direct impact to the body by altering the deformation of the plate upon impact. This can reduce the depth of penetration and increase the area of penetration, which corresponds to a dramatic increase in energy dissipated by the plate. By increasing the duration of energy transfer, the IDPG may slow the bullet's rate of travel into or through the rigid plate, reducing the bullet's penetrating ability.

[0153] The shocks may include a filler material used to present a flat surface allowing protrusions that extend orthogonal to the base of art in the parent patent herein, which may be progressively stiff and configured to buckle upon impact. Buckling may absorb energy received at the shocks, extending the distribution of energy across the shocks and to the wearer's body. This can reduce pressure felt by the human, minimizing force per area or per time per area.

[0154] In some implementations, the shocks may also be made with flexible material to advantageously reduce energy transmission to the wearer, such as a material of Shore A 45-60 or Shore A 55-90. Upon receiving a force, the shocks may flex around the rigid plate, progressively increasing the area of contact and dissipating more energy. In these cases

[0155] After receiving an impact, the rigid plate may be deformed, with the shocks enabling more of the plate material to engage in absorbing energy. A consistent air gap between the rigid plate and the wearer allows the rigid plate to distribute impact energy via internal shear and tensile stresses. The plate's deflection and deformation may decrease the rate of energy transfer, reducing the bullet's penetrating ability.

[0156] The flexure and deformation of the rigid plate can advantageously reduce bullet penetration, transforming the bullet's leading edge into a blunter shape. By increasing the duration of energy transfer, the IDPG may slow the bullet's travel rate, enabling the rigid plate to stop the bullet by deforming it into a less penetrating shape. This transformation spreads energy transfer across a greater surface area, reducing penetration and potentially saving lives.

[0157] In this example, the shocks suspend the rigid plate such that an air gap is created between the outer face of the IDPG and the rigid plate. The shocks, for example, may support the rigid plate such that the rigid plate may naturally hang over a living body of the wearer. In some implementations, the shocks may support the rigid plate at four points at the peripheral of the rigid plate. Various exemplary implementations of support contact by the shocks are described with reference to FIG. 19.

[0158] In various implementations, the IDPG may reduce an impact to the wearer when a projectile (e.g., a bullet) hits the rigid plate. In this example, a bullet is hitting the rigid plate at an impact site. For example, upon impact, the bullet may transmit a forward momentum perpendicular to an outer surface of the rigid plate. At the impact site, for example, because of the air gap between the outer face of the IDPG and the rigid plate, the impact from bullet is distributed dissipated 360° around the impact site. In some examples, some of the dissipated energy may be transmitted to the shocks. In some implementations, total energy transmitted to the four shocks may be less than 50% of energy transmitted by the momentum transmitted at the impact site.

[0159] For example, implementations advantageously reduce energy (as measured by reduction in back face signature) by 20-84%.

[0160] For example, various embodiments suspending an impact plate with attached shocks as described herein around a periphery of the plate may advantageously reduce direct impact to a living body wearing the impact plate (e.g., by reducing or preventing deformation of the impact plate from directly impacting the living body). As disclosed herein, embodiments suspending an impact plate around a periphery of the plate may, for example, advantageously and surprisingly alter a deformation of the plate upon impact by a projectile. For example, a depth of penetration may advantageously be reduced (e.g., which may advantageously reduce direct injury to the living body). For example, an area of penetration (e.g., an area of the impact plate responding to the impact) may be dramatically increased (e.g., 2×, 4×, 10×, greater than 10×) when the plate is peripherally supported. The increase area of penetration may, for example, correspond to a dramatic increase in energy dissipated by the plate during impact (e.g., via inelastic, permanent deformation of the plate). For example, the depth of penetration times area of penetration may be proportional to energy dissipated through permanent deformation. Accordingly, by way of example and not limitation, implementations peripherally suspending the impact plate may advantageously reduce, dissipate, and / or distribute energy transferred to the human.

[0161] As shown in FIG. 20, the embodiment shocks 2000 may include protrusions extending orthogonal to a base of the shocks functioning as the energy absorbing element 2030 however within the shocks 100 made up at least one secondary material 2020. In some shocks implementations, the internal boundary between the stabilizing filler 2020 includes protrusions as shown in the parent patents that may be progressively stiff. As shown in the side view SECTION A-A in FIG. 18, the shocks 1810 includes an energy absorption standoff layer with the parent patents including protrusions which is layered with at least one secondary material used to flatten the surface of the energy absorbing material layered such that it can be oriented consistent with FIG. 18. Buckling may, for example, advantageously absorb energy received at the shocks. Buckling may, for example, extend the distribution of energy across the shocks and so to the wearer's body. For example, the shocks may reduce a pressure felt by the human such as, by way of example and not limitation, by reducing force per area and / or force per time per area. In some implementations, the shocks 1810 may be deformed after receiving the impact energy. In some implementations, the protrusions may flex relative to the base of the shocks 1810 to advantageously dissipate energy and / or progressively increase resistance to displacement of the plate towards the wearer. The protrusions within the layers of the shocks 1810 may, by way of example and not limitation, reduce or eliminate chafing of a user during normal wear. For example, in some implementations, lateral stiffness of protrusions of the shocks may be different than compressive stiffness (e.g., orthogonal to a surface of the wearer's body). This differential stiffness may, for example, advantageously be configured such that the armor (e.g., plate) may move relative to the body during normal wear without rubbing the body repeatedly. Such implementations may, for example, advantageously reduce tissue damage due to rubbing.

[0162] In some implementations, the shocks 1810 may also be made with flexible material. For example, the shocks 1810 may include a material of Shore A 45-60. In some examples, the shocks 1810 may include a material of Shore A 55-90. In some implementations, the shocks 1810 may, upon receiving a force FI, the shocks 1810 may flex around the rigid plate (e.g., conform to a surface of the rigid plate). The flexure may, for example, advantageously progressively increase area of contact of the rigid plate with the shocks 1810. For example, progressively increasing area of contact may advantageously dissipate more energy. Accordingly, some embodiments may advantageously reduce energy transmitting to the wearer.

[0163] In this example, the rigid plate may, after receiving an impact of the bullet, be deformed by a depth d as shown by a deformed plate. For example, it may be reduced when shocks 110 is deployed to support the rigid plate.

[0164] Referring now to FIG. 20, in various embodiments, the material used to displace the energy absorption element is simply a gap or compressed gas 2040 as shown in FIG. 3. In one embodiment (FIG. 20, Embodiment A) the energy absorption material 2030 is housed in a surrounding shell of material 2020 which can be selected from polymers, non-Newtonian materials and other materials engineered to fail at a predetermined pressure.

[0165] In an alternate embodiment (FIG. 20, Embodiment B) the energy absorption material 2030 is housed in a capping shell of material 2020 which can be selected from polymers, non-Newtonian materials and other materials engineered to fail at a predetermined pressure.

[0166] Moving to FIG. 21, FIG. 21 depicts an alternate embodiment of an impact dissipating protective garment. In one embodiment, the protective suit comprises a base garment, an armor plate front 4400, and a plurality of shocks 3000. The garment shown is a vest, but it is understood by those familiar with the art that other garments are possible. The impact dissipating protective garment may also have an armor plate back 4600. The armor plate front 4400 covers at least part of the outer surface of the base garment. The plurality of shocks 3000 is coupled to an interior surface of the base garment opposite to the armor plate front 4400. Another plurality of shocks 3000 may be coupled to the interior surface of the base garment opposite the armor plate back 4600.

[0167] The armor plates may be metal plates, laminated ceramic plates and the like.

[0168] The composition of shocks is described in greater depth below.

[0169] As shown in a front view of FIG. 22, impact dissipating protective garment has an armor plate front 4400, and a set of shocks 3000. From experimental testing, it was determined that having a single large shock opposite to an armored plate did not work. It was found that set of four to six shocks per armored plate worked well, depending upon the application. Having shocks with an individual volume of between 30 cm3 and 150 cm3, and an aggregate volume of the plurality of shocks is 150 cm3 and 550 cm3 worked well, as it improved energy dissipation. Some embodiments of impact dissipating may have differing number of shocks, such as two to eight shocks, or having shocks with an individual volume between 20 cm3 and 180 cm3 with an aggregate volume of 180 cm3 and 750 cm3 may also be useful.

[0170] FIG. 23 is a side view of an impact dissipating protective garment, showing an armor plate front 4400, armor plate rear 4600, and a plurality of shocks 3000 fixed to the interior of the base garment.

[0171] FIG. 24 is an enhanced view of a shock placement within the impact dissipating protective garment of FIG. 23. From this vantage point, we can see that a rear interior layer (pocket) 3900 encapsulates the shock 3000, and an armor plate containment pocket 3950 holds the armor plate rear 4600.

[0172] Moving to FIG. 25, a ¾ rear-view of the impact dissipating protective garment is shown. The impact dissipating protective garment can be seen with the base garment, with armor plate containment pocket 3950 in both the front and back of the base garment, configured to contain an armor plate front (not shown) and an armor plate rear 4600. The front interior layer 3850 is configured with pockets to contain a first (front) plurality of shocks, while a rear inner layer 3900 is similarly configured to contain a second (rear) plurality of shocks. FIG. 26 shows the same garment from the front.

[0173] Moving to FIGS. 27A-27D, the armor plate front 4400 or the armor plate rear 4600 may have a ribbon of foams 3650 and ribbon of foams cross section 3700 that are made of shock absorbing foam of specific durometer, possibly combined with other shock absorbing foams of a different durometer, and in some instances also combined with a shock absorbing bladder of gas that may surround the ribbon of foam, lie underneath foam, or encapsulate the foam.

[0174] The dimensions of the ribbons vary. The length is defined by the outer circumference of the armor plate 4400 / 4600, which depends on the level of ballistic protection the body armor is designed to withstand, and the soldier's size. Typically, the ribbon may be 0.8 cm to 3 cm thick, 6 cm to 12 cm wide with an aggregate volume of 150 cm3 and 550 cm3. A suitable ribbon size may be derived from testing specific ranges, ammunition, grades, firearms and soldier function.

[0175] FIGS. 28A-28D show embodiments of a shock 3000, while FIGS. 29, 30 and 31 depict various cross-sections of various chock embodiments 3000. The shocks 3000 themselves are structures that are made of shock absorbing foam of specific durometer, combined with other shock absorbing foams of a different durometer, and in some instances also combined with a shock absorbing bladder of gas, be surrounded by the bladder of gas, lie around it or encapsulate the foam itself.

[0176] In some embodiments, the shock 3000 comprises layers of shock absorbing foam 3500, a cage 3400 structure of foam to support the weight of the armor plate, or a cage 3400 structure of foam to support the armor plate with a pressurized airtight bladder 3100.

[0177] In embodiments with layers of shock absorbing foam 3500, each foam is chosen to balance one foam's ability to absorb kinetic energy produced by a ballistic round impacting the body armor, which may utilize non-Newtonian foam, an anergy absorbing foam, or synthetic rubber or elastomer.

[0178] The non-Newtonian foam may include:

[0179] All varieties of Poron, Poron XRD from Rogers Corporation,

[0180] Smartflex from G-Form,

[0181] D30® Aero, AeroMax & Decell, also known as “D30 Foam,”

[0182] Deflexion from Dow Corning,

[0183] AiroFoam® (Mous),

[0184] S-FOAM (Manera),

[0185] Shear-Thickening Fluid (STF)-Filled Foams,

[0186] Pseudoplastic or thixotropic foams (e.g., CHEMGUARD® NFF-331),

[0187] Foams made from or stabilized by non-Newtonian polymer solutions (e.g., Aculyn™22, Aculyn™33),

[0188] and the like.

[0189] Energy absorbing foam may include:

[0190] Polyvinyl alcohol foam,

[0191] Ethylene vinyl acetate foam,

[0192] Polyethylene foam,

[0193] Thermoplastic Foams (e.g., Worbla),

[0194] Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) Foam (e.g., Plastazote, Volara),

[0195] Polyurethane foam such as Last-a-Foam®, PUR,

[0196] Expanded polystyrene such as EPS72,

[0197] Expanded Polypropylene,

[0198] Duocel Aluminum foam,

[0199] Urethane viscoelastic foam (Confor® and equivalent),

[0200] Polyvinyl chloride foam,

[0201] Polymethacrylimide foam,

[0202] Styrene acrylonitrile foam,

[0203] Silicon foam,

[0204] Impaxx Foam (Dow Industries),

[0205] and the like.

[0206] A cage 3400 of foam is configured support the weight of the hard body armor, plate carrier and warfighters equipment, with another foam chosen specifically for its ability to absorb the kinetic energy of a ballistic round.

[0207] In alternate embodiments, a cage 3400 of foam chosen to support the weight of the hard body armor, plate carrier and warfighters equipment, with a pressurized and airtight bladder 3100. The airtight bladder 3100 contains gas (such as oxygen or a noble gas, such as helium or argon) which is designed to rupture at approximately 6.5-7.25 bar, and a layer of another foam chosen specifically for its ability to absorb the kinetic energy of a ballistic round. The airtight bladder 3100 may be made of any suitable material, such as synthetic rubbers and elastomers, thermoplastics, polymers, fabrics and composites, coated or laminated fabrics, including but not limited to:

[0208] Butyl Rubber,

[0209] EPDM ((Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer),

[0210] Nitrile (NBR),

[0211] Neoprene,

[0212] Viton,

[0213] Silicone Rubber,

[0214] HNBR (Hydrogenated Nitrile),

[0215] Polyurethane (PU / TPU),

[0216] PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride),

[0217] Polyethylene,

[0218] Polypropylene,

[0219] Fluoropolymers,

[0220] Nylon,

[0221] Polyester,

[0222] Canvas, and / or

[0223] Kevlar / Ballistic Nylon.

[0224] FIGS. 31-32 depict alternate triangular shock embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 31 depicts a shock made solely of layers of foam 3500, while FIG. 31 depicts a shock made of foam 3500 and an alternate foam composition 3550. An alternate foam composition may be any foam or foams that are “graded” by either mechanical layering or by using a molding process or similar to create different durometers, densities or shock absorption properties in different depths of the foam.

[0225] The previous description of the embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure. The various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without the use of inventive faculty. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0039]In one aspect of the disclosure relates to impact-dissipating protective garments (IDPGs) including impact mitigating support spacers configured to facilitate dissipation of impact energy. Impact mitigating support spacers may also be referred to as “spacers” or “shocks.” Embodiments improve the ballistic performance of hard body armor, such as metal plates and laminated ceramic plates, including their predecessors and derivatives; more specifically that the invention reduces Backface Deformation (BFS) or Backface Signature (BFD) of hard body armor plates that have been struck by a round of ammunition and this consequently reduces the injury to the wearer of the body armor in the unfortunate event of being shot. Backface Deformation and Backface Signature are interchangeable descriptions of how much the back of the hard body armor, the side of the plate that is against the wearer's body, deforms due to the ammunition round entering the plate directly behind the plate's “entry ...

Claims

1. A protective suit comprising:a base garment;a first armor plate covering at least part of the outer surface of the base garment;a first plurality of shocks coupled to an interior surface of the base garment opposite to the first armor plate, each of the first plurality of shocks having an individual volume of between 30 cm3 and 150 cm3, and an aggregate volume of the plurality of shocks is 150 cm3 and 550 cm3.

2. The protective suit of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of shocks is four to six shocks.

3. The protective suit of claim 2, wherein the each of the first plurality of shocks is 0.8 cm to 3 cm thick.

4. The protective suit of claim 3, wherein the each of the first plurality of shocks is 6 cm to 14 cm wide.

5. The protective suit of claim 4, wherein the each of the first plurality of shocks is 6 cm to 14 cm tall.

6. The protective suit of claim 5, wherein the shock comprises layers of shock absorbing foam.

7. The protective suit of claim 6, wherein the shock absorbing foam is non-Newtonian foam.

8. The protective suit of claim 7, wherein the non-Newtonian foam is uncompressed.

9. The protective suit of claim 8, wherein the shock absorbing foam is graded by either mechanical layering or using a molding process to create different durometers, densities or shock absorption properties.

10. The protective suit of claim 9, wherein the non-Newtonian foam comprises a shear-thickening fluid filled foam, pseudoplastic foam, thixotropic foam, or made from non-Newtonian polymer solutions.

11. The protective suit of claim 6, wherein the shock absorbing foam is energy absorbing foam.

12. The protective suit of claim 11, wherein the energy absorbing foam is a polyvinyl alcohol foam, ethylene vinyl acetate foam, polyethylene foam, thermoplastic foam, cross-linked polyethylene foam, polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene foam, expanded polypropylene foam, duocel aluminum foam, urethane viscoelastic foam, polyvinyl chloride foam, polymethacrylimide foam, or silicon foam.

13. The protective suit of claim 12, wherein the shock absorbing foam is graded by either mechanical layering or using a molding process to create different durometers, densities or shock absorption properties.

14. The protective suit of claim 6, wherein the shock further comprises an airtight bladder made of a synthetic rubber or elastomer.

15. The protective suit of claim 14, wherein the shock absorbing foam is graded by either mechanical layering or using a molding process to create different durometers, densities or shock absorption properties.

16. The protective suit of claim 6, wherein the shock absorbing foam is a combination of a non-Newtonian foam and an energy absorbing foam.

17. The protective suit of claim 16, further comprising:a second armor plate covering at least part of the outer surface of the base garment;a second plurality of shocks coupled to an interior surface of the base garment opposite to the second armor plate, each of the second plurality of shocks having an individual volume of between 30 cm3 and 150 cm3, and an aggregate volume of the plurality of shocks is 150 cm3 and 550 cm3.

18. The protective suit of claim 17, wherein the second plurality of shocks is four to six shocks, the each of the second plurality of shocks is 0.8 cm to 3 cm thick, 6 cm to 14 cm wide, and 6 cm to 14 cm tall.

19. The protective suit of claim 18, wherein 18 further comprising a ribbon made of shock absorbing foam, attached to a front side of the first armor plate.

20. A protective suit comprising:a base garment;a first armor plate covering at least part of the outer surface of the base garment;a first plurality of pockets on an interior surface of the base garment opposite to the first armor plate, each of the first plurality of pockets configured to accommodate a shock with an individual volume of between 30 cm3 and 150 cm3, and an aggregate volume of the plurality of pockets is 150 cm3 and 550 cm3.

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