U.S. patent application number 11/754981 was filed with the patent office on 2009-11-19 for antiballistic garment.
This patent application is currently assigned to THE BOARD OF REGENTS FOR OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY. Invention is credited to Donna Branson, John J. Frost, Bert Jacobson, Semra Peksoz, Diane Ricord.
Application Number | 20090282595 11/754981 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39738945 |
Filed Date | 2009-11-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090282595 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Branson; Donna ; et
al. |
November 19, 2009 |
Antiballistic Garment
Abstract
An antiballistic garment for protecting a user's torso and
shoulders comprises a front portion releasably coupled to a back
portion, the front and back portion both include soft armor, the
back portion includes shoulder and side panels which include soft
armor, the front and back portion have provisions for hard armor
plates. The antiballistic garment has a quick release mechanism
adapted to rapidly separate the front portion from the back
portion.
Inventors: |
Branson; Donna; (Stillwater,
OK) ; Peksoz; Semra; (Stillwater, OK) ; Frost;
John J.; (Alexandria, VA) ; Jacobson; Bert;
(Stillwater, OK) ; Ricord; Diane; (Stillwater,
OK) |
Correspondence
Address: |
R. Alan Weeks;Fellers, Snider, Blankenship,Bailey & Tippens, P.C
The Kennedy Building, 321 S. Boston Ave., Ste 800
Tulsa
OK
74103-3318
US
|
Assignee: |
THE BOARD OF REGENTS FOR OKLAHOMA
STATE UNIVERSITY
Stillwater
OK
|
Family ID: |
39738945 |
Appl. No.: |
11/754981 |
Filed: |
May 29, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60803465 |
May 30, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/2.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41H 1/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/2.5 |
International
Class: |
F41H 1/02 20060101
F41H001/02 |
Claims
1. An antiballistic garment comprising: a front portion comprising:
a body-facing front lining attached to an outside-facing front
cover, the front lining and front cover defining a front portion
soft armor compartment having a closeable opening operable for
insertion and removal of a soft armor insert into the front portion
soft armor compartment, the soft armor insert being constructed
from at least one layer of antiballistic fabric and being
releasably affixed inside the front portion soft armor compartment
by use of a fastening means; the front cover further comprising a
front hard antiballistic plate pocket, the front hard antiballistic
plate pocket having an opening in the front cover and having a
pocket body, the front hard antiballistic plate pocket further
having at least one vertical positioning strap to adjust the height
of a front hard antiballistic plate inserted into the front hard
antiballistic plate pocket; the front cover further comprising a
plurality of MOLLE webbing fixedly arranged in substantially
horizontal rows; the front lining comprising at least one groin
armor accessory fastener and a plurality of vent holes operable to
allow air and/or moisture to pass between the front lining and the
front cover; a back portion being releasably and adjustably coupled
to the front portion, the back portion comprising: a body-facing
back lining attached to an outside-facing back cover, the back
lining and back cover defining a back portion soft armor
compartment having a closeable opening operable for insertion and
removal of a soft armor insert into the back portion soft armor
compartment, the soft armor insert being constructed from at least
one layer of antiballistic fabric and being releasably affixed
inside the back portion soft armor compartment by use of a
fastening means; the back cover comprising a central portion and
outwardly extending side and shoulder panels; the central portion
comprising a back hard antiballistic plate pocket, the back hard
antiballistic plate pocket having an opening in the back cover and
having a pocket body, the pocket further having at least one
vertical positioning strap to adjust the height of a back hard
antiballistic plate inserted into the back hard antiballistic plate
pocket; the central portion further comprising a plurality of MOLLE
webbing fixedly arranged in substantially horizontal rows, and at
least one rescue-drag handle; the shoulder panels comprising
adjustable, releasable fastening means for attaching the shoulder
panels to the front portion; the shoulder panels further comprising
epaulette straps and rifle bolsters, the rifle bolsters having a
slip-resistant surface and a lipped edge; the side panels
comprising adjustable, releasable fastening means for attaching the
side panels to the front portion, and side hard antiballistic plate
pockets, each side hard antiballistic plate pocket further having
at least one vertical positioning strap to adjust the height of a
side hard antiballistic plate inserted into each side hard
antiballistic plate pocket; the side panels further comprising a
plurality of MOLLE webbing fixedly arranged in substantially
horizontal rows; the back lining comprising a contoured back
comfort pad which is removably coupled to the back lining of the
back portion, the contoured back comfort pad being operable to
provide cushioning and ventilation; the back lining further
comprising a plurality of vent holes operable to allow air and/or
moisture to pass between the back lining and back cover; a
circumferential adjustment comprised of a plurality of fastening
means being disposed between the front portion and the back portion
to allow the antiballistic garment to be adjusted to fit users of
different sizes; a quick-release mechanism operable to rapidly
decouple the back portion from the front portion, the quick-release
mechanism comprising: a plurality of quick-release links attached
to the front cover of the front portion; a plurality of
quick-release links attached to quick-release side interfaces, the
plurality of side interface quick-release links being releasably
intermeshed with the plurality of quick-release links on the front
cover, the side interfaces further comprising side interface
fastening means releasably attachable to the side panels of the
back portion; a plurality of quick-release links attached to
quick-release shoulder interfaces, the plurality of shoulder
interface quick-release links being releasably intermeshed with the
plurality of quick-release links on the front cover, the shoulder
interfaces further comprising shoulder interface fastening means
releasably attachable to the shoulder panels of the back portion;
load transfer system adapted to transfer loading of the
antiballistic garment from a user's shoulders to a user's waist,
the load transfer system comprising: a load-bearing belt adapted to
encircle a user's waist; at least one load support sleeve fixedly
attached to the central portion of the back cover and having a top
opening for receiving a load support member and a bottom opening
for passing a lower end of the load support member through the back
cover to the load-bearing belt, the load support member being
sufficiently rigid to transfer loading of the antiballistic garment
from a user's shoulders to a user's waist, the load support sleeve
comprising an adjustable load transfer strap attached to an upper
portion of the load support sleeve and the shoulder panels; and the
load-bearing belt having a padded portion and a protection portion
accommodated inside a belt cover, the load-bearing belt comprising
an adjustable strap and buckle attached to the belt cover, the
protection portion comprising a soft antiballistic armor insert and
the padded portion comprising a semi-circular lumbar pad extending
therefrom, the belt cover further comprising at least one load
support interface to communicate with the lower end of the load
support member.
2. The antiballistic garment of claim 1, wherein the side panels
and shoulder panels are separable from the back portion.
3. An antiballistic garment comprising: a front portion comprising
soft armor, the soft armor being constructed from multiple layers
of antiballistic fabric; a back portion being releasably and
adjustably coupled to the front portion, the back portion
comprising soft armor, the soft armor being constructed from
multiple layers of antiballistic fabric, the back portion further
comprising outwardly extending side and shoulder panels; the
shoulder panels comprising adjustable, releasable fastening means
for attaching the shoulder panel to the front portion; the side
panels comprising adjustable, releasable fastening means for
attaching the side panels to the front portion; and a quick-release
mechanism having a plurality of quick-release links incorporated
into the front portion and back portion, the quick-release
mechanism adapted to rapidly separate the front portion from the
back portion by removal of at least one quick-release cable.
4. The antiballistic garment of claim 3, further comprising a
plurality of quick-release links attached to a front cover of the
front portion.
5. The antiballistic garment of claim 4, further comprising
quick-release side interfaces, the quick-release side interfaces
comprising a plurality of quick-release links, the plurality of
side interface quick-release links being releasably intermeshed
with the plurality of quick-release links on the front cover, the
side interfaces further comprising side interface fastening means
releasably attachable to the side panels of the back portion.
6. The antiballistic garment of claim 4, further comprising
quick-release shoulder interfaces, the quick-release shoulder
interfaces comprising a plurality of quick-release links being
releasably intermeshed with the plurality of quick-release links on
the front cover, the shoulder interfaces further comprising
shoulder interface fastening means releasably attachable to the
shoulder panels of the back portion.
7. The antiballistic garment of claim 3, wherein the at least one
quick-release cable is a braided wire cable with a handle at a
first end for pulling the cable from the quick-release mechanism
and a fused tip at a second end to prevent the cable from
unraveling and to facilitate in threading the cable though a series
of quick-release links.
8. The antiballistic garment of claim 3, wherein the at least one
quick-release cable has a handle located along an edge of the front
cover and are covered by a protective flap which is attached to the
front cover to protect the quick-release mechanism from accidental
activation.
9. The antiballistic garment of claim 3, wherein the quick-release
link comprises a single hole for threading at least one
quick-release cable.
10. The antiballistic garment of claim 3, wherein the quick-release
link comprises at least two holes for threading at least two
quick-release cables.
11. The antiballistic garment of claim 3, wherein the quick-release
link comprises a transverse tab extending laterally from a body
defining at least one opening, the transverse tab being attachable
to fabric by stitching through the transverse tab.
12. The antiballistic garment of claim 3, wherein the quick-release
link is made from a material selected from the group consisting of
plastic, rubber, metal, ceramic and graphite composite.
13. The antiballistic garment of claim 3, the antiballistic garment
further comprising at least one hard antiballistic plate pocket,
the hard antiballistic plate pocket comprising a closeable opening
and a pocket body, the hard antiballistic plate pocket further
comprising at least one vertical positioning strap to adjust the
height of the hard antiballistic plate inserted into the hard
antiballistic plate pocket.
14. The antiballistic garment of claim 13, wherein the pocket body
includes a positioning strap attachment means, such that the
positioning strap may be attached at various locations on the
position strap attachment means.
15. The antiballistic garment of claim 14, wherein the positioning
strap attachment means is attached to the pocket body at an
angle.
16. The antiballistic garment of claim 13, wherein the hard
antiballistic plate pocket comprises at least two positioning strap
attachment means, such that the at least two positioning straps may
be crossed in front of or behind the hard antiballistic plate to
secure the hard antiballistic plate in the pocket body.
17. The antiballistic garment of claim 13, wherein the front
portion includes a front hard antiballistic plate pocket.
18. The antiballistic garment of claim 13, wherein the back portion
includes a back hard antiballistic plate pocket.
19. The antiballistic garment of claim 13, wherein at least one
side panel includes a side hard antiballistic plate pocket.
20. An antiballistic garment comprising: a front portion comprising
soft armor, the soft armor being constructed from multiple layers
of fabric; a back portion being releasably and adjustably coupled
to the front portion, the back portion comprising soft armor, the
soft armor being constructed from multiple layers of antiballistic
fabric, the back portion further comprising outwardly extending
side and shoulder panels; the shoulder panels comprising
adjustable, releasable fastening means for attaching the shoulder
panel to the front portion; the side panels comprising adjustable,
releasable fastening means for attaching the side panels to the
front portion; and a load transfer system integrated with the
antiballistic garment and adapted to transfer loading of the
antiballistic garment from a user's shoulders to a user's waist,
the load transfer system comprising a load-bearing belt adapted to
encircle the user's waist.
21. The antiballistic garment of claim 20, the load transfer system
further comprising at least one load support sleeve, wherein the at
least one load support sleeve is fixedly attached to the back
portion, the support sleeve having a top opening for receiving a
load support member and a bottom opening for passing a lower end of
the load support to the load-bearing belt.
22. The antiballistic garment of claim 21, the load transfer system
further comprising at least one load support member, wherein the at
least one load support member is sufficiently rigid to transfer
loading of the antiballistic garment from a user's shoulders to a
user's waist, the load support member being a generally flat and
narrow elongated member shaped to match the general profile of the
user's back.
23. The antiballistic garment of claim 21, wherein each of the at
least one load support sleeves comprises an adjustable load
transfer strap attached to the load support sleeve and the shoulder
panel of the back portion.
24. The antiballistic garment of claim 22, wherein the load-bearing
belt further comprises at least one load support interface to
communicate with the lower end of the load support member.
25. The antiballistic garment of claim 20, wherein the back portion
further comprises at least one rescue-drag handle, fixedly attached
to an upper end of the back portion, to facilitate transport of an
incapacitated user.
26. The antiballistic garment of claim 20, wherein the shoulder
panels further comprise epaulette straps which are each comprised
of a main strap and a cross strap, the main strap operable to
provide an attachment point for optional armored and non-armored
accessories, and the cross strap operable to partially retain the
main strap.
27. The antiballistic garment of claim 20, wherein the shoulder
panels further comprise rifle bolsters, the rifle bolsters having a
slip-resistant surface.
28. The antiballistic garment of claim 27, wherein the rifle
bolsters further comprise a raised lip around the slip-resistant
surface.
29. The antiballistic garment of claim 20, wherein the load-bearing
belt has a padded portion and a protection portion accommodated
inside a belt cover, the load-bearing belt comprising an adjustable
strap and buckle attached to the belt cover, the load-bearing belt
being encased within the back portion.
30. The antiballistic garment of claim 29, wherein the load-bearing
belt is separable from the back portion.
31. The antiballistic garment of claim 29, wherein the protection
portion of the load-bearing belt includes a soft armor insert.
32. The antiballistic garment of claim 29, wherein the padded
portion of the load-bearing belt includes at least one layer of
foam padding.
33. The antiballistic garment of claim 29, wherein the padded
portion of the load-bearing belt includes a semi-circular lumbar
pad extending from a top edge of the load-bearing belt.
34. The antiballistic garment of claim 20, wherein the back portion
further comprises a contoured back comfort pad which is removably
attached to a body-facing back lining of the back portion, the
contoured back comfort pad being operable to provide cushioning and
ventilation.
35. The antiballistic garment of claim 34, wherein the contoured
back comfort pad is comprised of a stretchable mesh cover with
moisture-wicking and ventilation, and having at least one layer of
foam padding.
36. The antiballistic garment of claim 34, wherein the contoured
back comfort pad includes a concave portion that is capable of
interfacing with a semi-circular lumbar pad extending from a top
edge of the load-bearing belt.
37. The antiballistic garment of claim 34, wherein the contoured
back comfort panel comprises at least one first foam layer that has
a raised-profile surface to allow passage of air, and wherein the
first foam layer raised-profile surface is oriented towards to the
user's body.
38. The antiballistic garment of claim 37, wherein the contoured
back comfort panel comprises at least on second foam layer that is
more rigid than the first foam layer, wherein the second foam layer
is oriented away from the user's body.
39. The antiballistic garment of claim 20, further comprising a
circumferential adjustment comprised of a plurality of fastening
means being disposed between the front portion and the back portion
to allow the antiballistic garment to be adjusted to fit users of
different sizes.
40. The antiballistic garment of claim 20, the quick-release
mechanism adapted to rapidly separate the front portion from the
back portion.
41. The antiballistic garment of claim 22, wherein the at least one
load support member is removable.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES
[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Ser. No.
60/803,465, which was filed May 30, 2006, and is hereby
incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The evolution of body armor for personal protection has
progressed greatly since body armor's early historical inceptions.
However, in recent years, new materials have been devised which
make significant improvements. Some materials such as soft,
fabric-based antiballistic material allow for greater flexibility
and wearability. Hard antiballistic plates such as those used to
provide protection against higher caliber weapons and fragmentary
explosive devices are becoming stronger and/or lighter by use of,
for example, ceramic or titanium.
[0003] The increased capabilities provided by these newer
protective elements allow designers to devise better tactical
solutions that are tailored to specific threat environments.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from
the following detailed description when read with the accompanying
figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard
practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale.
In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily
increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.
[0005] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an antiballistic
garment as worn by a user according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0006] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of an antiballistic
garment as worn by a user according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0007] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
front-facing side of a front portion of the antiballistic
garment;
[0008] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment showing a
front portion hard armor pocket;
[0009] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view along line 5-5 of FIG. 4 of
the front portion hard armor pocket;
[0010] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
body-facing side of a front portion of the antiballistic
garment;
[0011] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment showing a
front portion soft armor compartment;
[0012] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment showing a side
panel hard armor pocket;
[0013] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment showing the
rear-facing side of a back portion and associated hard armor
pocket;
[0014] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment showing the
body-facing side of a back portion;
[0015] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
body-facing side of a back portion showing various associated
components;
[0016] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an embodiment showing
assembly of a load transfer system;
[0017] FIGS. 13 and 14 are perspective views showing additional
assembly details for the load transfer system;
[0018] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
antiballistic garment after the quick release mechanism has been
activated;
[0019] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a
quick-release link;
[0020] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a
partially folded load-bearing belt; and
[0021] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a folded
load-bearing belt.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] The antiballistic garment described herein provides a
protective armor to the user's torso, including front, back, sides,
and shoulders. Provisions are included for further attachment of
protective armor to protect areas such as the arms, neck, legs and
groin.
[0023] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the antiballistic garment 100 is
illustrated as a sleeveless vest with neck and arm openings,
although the garment 100 may be implemented in other forms. The
exemplary antiballistic garment 100 generally has a front portion
102 covering the user's chest and belly, held in place by a back
portion 104. The back portion 104 covers the user's back, and has
extension panels 306 and 308 which cover the user's sides and
shoulders.
[0024] The front portion 102 has a front cover 106 that faces away
from the user's body and is generally stitched or otherwise
attached to a body-facing front lining 108 (shown in FIGS. 5-7)
which comes in contact with the user's torso. Other features of the
front portion 106 are described in detail below.
[0025] The back portion 104 has a back cover 300 that faces away
from the user's torso and is generally stitched or otherwise
attached to a body-facing back lining 302 (shown in FIG. 10) which
comes in contact with the user's torso. The back portion side and
shoulder extension panels 306 and 308 have releasable fasteners
which connect or fasten to the front portion 102. Thus, the front
portion 102 and the back portion 104 are connected together at the
sides and over the shoulders of the user. The back portion 104
further includes a load-bearing belt 312 (a portion thereof shown
in FIG. 1) that can be used to ease the weight and fatigue on the
user's shoulders. Details of the load-bearing belt 312 and the back
portion 104 are described below.
[0026] The antiballistic garment 100 can be donned by the user by
slipping the vest over the user's head--as if putting on a T-shirt.
Additionally, one or both of the sides can be opened to facilitate
donning of the garment 100.
[0027] A quick-release mechanism 114 shown in FIG. 1 is provided to
allow the user to rapidly disconnect the side and shoulder panels
306 and 308 from the front portion 102. After the quick-release
mechanism 114 is activated, the front portion and back portions
"break away" and fall from the user's torso. Details of the
quick-release mechanism 114 are provided below.
[0028] A more detailed description of the antiballistic garment 100
is now provided with reference generally to FIGS. 1 and 3-7. The
front cover 106 of the front portion 102 is preferably made from a
durable fabric, such as, for example, CORDURA (TM) nylon printed
with a camouflage pattern, though other patterns and suitable
fabrics may be used. The body-facing front lining 108 is preferably
made from ripstop nylon, though other patterns and suitable fabrics
may be used. The front cover 106 features Modular Lightweight
Load-Carrying Equipment (MOLLE) webbing 118 that substantially
spans the surface of the front cover 106 to provide attachment
points for optional equipment.
[0029] The MOLLE 118 comprises one or more strips of parallel
webbing attached to the antiballistic garment 100 at predetermined,
spaced locations. The MOLLE 118 may also be a generic woven Pouch
Attachment Ladder System (PALs) comprised of strips of spaced apart
horizontal webbing approximately once inch wide that are vertically
stitched to the front cover 106 at approximately one and one half
inch intervals.
[0030] Alternatively, the MOLLE 118 used on the front cover 106 of
the antiballistic garment 100 may comprise strips of webbing that
are offset and substantially placed adjacent one another without
significant spacing therebetween. The MOLLE webbing 118 may have a
camouflage pattern printed thereon.
[0031] FIG. 4 shows an exemplary embodiment of a front hard armor
pocket 116 shown in phantom. As shown in this embodiment, the front
hard armor pocket 116 is adapted to contain a front antiballistic
plate 120. In an exemplary embodiment, the front antiballistic
plate 120 is an Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert (ESAPI).
Other antiballistic plates are also contemplated for use in the
front hard armor pocket 116 and may include, but are not limited
to, standard SAPI, titanium, nano-fiber, composite, honeycomb,
ceramic and metallic armor plates.
[0032] The front hard armor pocket 116 has a closeable opening 122
and an inside surface 124. The closeable opening 122 may be shut
closed by a heavy duty zipper 126 or other forms of suitable
fasteners. Although the front hard armor pocket 116 may be used to
restrain and position the front antiballistic plate 120, additional
restraints and positioning means are disclosed herein.
[0033] As shown in FIG. 4, first and second straps 130 and 132 are
attached to the inside surface 124 of the front hard armor pocket
116. The first and second straps 130, 132 cross each other at a
general location 134 either in front of or behind the front
antiballistic plate 120. Strap attachment means 136 are included
for attaching each strap 130 and 132. The strap attachment means
136, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, are attached to the inside surface
124 of the front hard armor pocket 116 near the opening 122. Thus,
the first and second straps 130 and 132 extend towards the bottom
of the front hard armor pocket 116 around the front antiballistic
plate 120 and back to the strap attachment means 136 where they are
secured.
[0034] The attachment of the straps 130 and 132 with criss-cross
134 further restrain and position the front antiballistic plate
120. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the strap attachment means
136 comprise hook and loop tape stitched to a piece of webbing,
although other attachment means are contemplated such as buttons,
snaps, buckles, hooks, and the like.
[0035] As shown in FIG. 5, which is a cross-sectional view along
line 5-5 of FIG. 4, a free end 140 of each first or second strap
130 and 132 is releasably attachable at multiple locations on the
strap attachment means 136, thereby making the vertical position of
the front antiballistic plate 120 in the front hard armor pocket
116 adjustable, as shown by front antiballistic plate 120A in an
alternate vertical position. The height adjustment is accomplished
by looping the straps 130 and 132 around the front antiballistic
plate 120 and then pulling up on the free ends 140 before attaching
them.
[0036] The straps 130 and 132 may have a maximum length which
corresponds to the length required to allow the front antiballistic
plate 120 to be vertically positioned at the bottom of the front
hard armor pocket 116. Alternatively, one strap alone, or more than
two straps may be used to position and/or restrain the front
antiballistic plate 120. In addition, the straps and/or strap
attachment means 136 inside the front hard armor pocket 116 may be
attached at various other angles and/or positions inside the front
hard armor pocket 116.
[0037] Referring now to FIGS. 5-7, the front lining 108 of the
front portion 102 is shown with a front soft armor compartment 142
for containing a front soft armor insert 150. As most clearly shown
in FIGS. 5 and 7, the front soft armor compartment 142 is created
in the space between the front cover 106 and the front lining 108.
Inside the front soft armor compartment 142 are front soft armor
compartment attachment means 148 (shown in phantom lines) for
releasably securing the front soft armor insert 150. In this
embodiment, hook and loop fasteners are disposed on the inside
surface of the front lining 108 to function as the front soft armor
compartment attachment means 148. The front lining 108 may be
printed with a camouflage pattern and is preferably constructed of
ripstop nylon.
[0038] The front soft armor insert 150 is made of a plurality of
layers of a suitable ballistic material such as, but not limited
to, DYNEEMA, TWARON, KEVLAR, SPECTRA, ZYLON and materials to be
developed in the future. In addition, the front soft armor insert
150 has a shape that closely matches or correlates to that of the
front cover 106 and front lining 108. The front soft armor insert
150 is insertable into the front soft armor compartment 142 through
an opening 152, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The front soft armor
insert 150 includes hook and loop tape 154 disposed on its surface
which allows the insert 150 to be securely and releasably coupled
to mating hook and loop fasteners 148 inside the front soft armor
compartment 142. Opening 152 is formed in the front lining 108 and
is maybe shut closed by hook and loop fasteners, for example. The
front soft armor insert 150 may also be removed via the opening
152.
[0039] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, a first circumferential
adjustment device 144 is disposed near either side of the front
lining 108 and includes first and second fasteners 144A and 144B.
As shown in FIG. 6, the first circumferential adjustment first
fastener may comprise hook and loop tape 144A and the second
fastener may comprise adjustable buckles 144B. The hook and loop
tape 144A is generally stitched to the front lining 108 and the
adjustable buckles 144B are generally attached to quick-release
side interfaces 110 (described below). The hook and loop tape 144A
and adjustable buckles 144B provide for easy circumferential
adjustment of the antiballistic garment 100. The fasteners 144A and
144B of the first circumferential adjustment device 144 correspond
to and releasably and adjustably couple to corresponding fastening
means 422A and 422B on the side panels 306 of the back cover 300 as
described below in conjunction with FIG. 8.
[0040] Turning now to FIG. 6, groin plate attachment means 146 are
provided on the front lining 108. In this embodiment, the groin
plate attachment means 146 are constructed from short pieces of
webbing stitched to the front lining 108 in two places. The groin
plate attachment means 146 provide a convenient way to attach an
optional soft or hard armor groin protector. Alternatively, the
groin plate attachment means 146 may be used as an attachment
anchor for additional body armor accessories, such as for
additional leg or thigh protection.
[0041] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the front lining 108 may further
include a plurality of vent holes 160 appropriately spaced towards
the bottom of the front lining to allow air and/or moisture to
travel between the front cover 106 and the front lining 108.
[0042] Now turning generally to FIGS. 1-8, 15 and 16, the
quick-release mechanism 114 is described in further detail. The
quick-release mechanism 114 comprises a plurality of quick-release
links 164 that releasably intermesh to couple and decouple the
front portion 102 of the antiballistic garment 100 from the back
portion 104. Further, two primary components of the quick-release
mechanism 114 are the quick-release side interfaces 110 and
quick-release shoulder interfaces 112. The quick-release side
interfaces 110 provide an interface between the front portion 102
and back portion 104 at the sides of the user's torso. The
quick-release shoulder interfaces 112 provide an interface between
the front portion 102 and back portion 104 at the shoulders of the
user.
[0043] As shown in detail in FIG. 3, the quick-release side
interfaces 110 comprise first circumferential adjustment buckles
144B and quick-release links 164 attached to a portion of webbing
166. The quick-release side interfaces 110 provide a part of the
first circumferential adjustment 144 and cooperate with a second
circumferential adjustment 422 (shown in FIG. 8) to keep the
antiballistic garment 100 closed securely around the sides of the
user's torso. Thus, the quick-release side interfaces 110 securely,
but releasably and adjustably connect the front portion 102 to the
side panels 306 of the back portion 104 as described below in more
detail with reference to FIG. 8.
[0044] The buckles 144B may be attached to the webbing portion 166
by looping a piece of webbing around each buckle 162 and stitching
it in place. As shown in FIG. 6, upper and lower buckles 144B may
be used on each quick-release side interface 110.
[0045] The quick-release mechanism 114 further includes a plurality
of quick-release links 164 that may be quickly decoupled to
separate the front and back portions 102 and 104. Details of an
embodiment of the quick-release links 164 are described below with
reference to FIG. 16. The quick-release links 164 are attached to
the webbing portion 166 located on the front portion 102 of the
antiballistic garment 100. The quick-release side interfaces 110
form a primary component of the quick-release mechanism 114,
allowing rapid disconnection of the front portion 102 from the side
panels 306 of the back portion 104 as described below in
conjunction with FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 3, two quick-release
links 164 are positioned at each end of the two quick-release side
interfaces 110, although other quantities and configurations may be
used and are contemplated. In addition, the quick-release links 164
are spaced apart to allow an opposing, interleaved interface with
quick-release links 164 attached to the front cover 106.
[0046] Returning now to FIG. 3, the quick-release shoulder
interfaces 112 are shown in phantom lines as being generally
comprised of a fastening portion 184, a buckle 186 and
quick-release links 164. The quick-release shoulder interfaces 112
cooperate with the shoulder panels 308 (as illustrated in FIG. 9)
to keep the antiballistic garment 100 closed securely over the
shoulders of the user. Thus, the quick-release shoulder interfaces
112 securely, but releasably and adjustably, connect the front
portion 102 to the shoulder panels 308 of the back portion 104 as
described below in conjunction with FIG. 9.
[0047] The fastening portion 184 is attached to each quick-release
shoulder interface 112 and is preferably made from hook and loop
tape. The buckle 186 is attached to the quick-release shoulder
interface 112 by attaching one end of a webbing strap 192 and
adjustably threading the other end through the adjustable buckle
186. As shown in FIG. 3, a single adjustable buckle 186 is
preferably used on each quick-release shoulder interface 112,
although other fastening means and quantities are contemplated.
Each webbing strap 192 allows the buckle 186 to adjust in or out to
accommodate different sized users.
[0048] The quick-release links 164 are attached to an edge of the
quick-release shoulder interfaces 112. As shown in FIG. 3, an
embodiment of the antiballistic garment 100 has five quick-release
links 164 positioned along the edge of each quick-release shoulder
interface 112, although other quantities and configurations may be
used and are contemplated. The quick-release links 164 are spaced
apart to allow an opposing, interleaved interface with
quick-release links 164 attached to the front cover 106.
[0049] The quick-release mechanism 114, as shown generally in FIGS.
1-3, 15 and 16, is a mechanism that allows a person wearing the
antiballistic garment 100 to quickly separate and remove the front
and back portions 102 and 104 of the antiballistic garment 100 from
his/her body. The quick-release mechanism 114 may also be
conveniently activated by another person to remove the garment 100
from the user. The quick-release mechanism 114 includes a plurality
of quick-release links 164 fastened to the front cover 106 that
intermesh with a plurality of quick-release links 164 fastened to
the shoulder interface panels 112 and side interface panels 110
along a predetermined, generally rectangular, path 198 on the front
portion 102 of the antiballistic garment 100. As disposed along the
path 198, the plurality of quick-release links 164 form an inner
series of openings and an outer series of openings that are
operable to receive one or two cables. In particular, the plurality
of quick release links comprises cable-turn links 228 that are
generally disposed at the corners of the substantially rectangular
path 198, side-engaging links 230 to engage the quick-release side
interfaces 110, and shoulder-engaging links 232 disposed at the
shoulders to engage the quick-release shoulder interfaces 112.
[0050] In an embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, the plurality of
quick-release links 164 are releasably coupled together by first
and second quick-release cables 200 and 201. The cables 200 and 201
each has a handle 208 and 209, which are shown in FIG. 6 as loops
210 and 211 at the end of each cable 200 and 201. In this
embodiment, the cables 200 and 201 have been looped to form handles
208 and 209. Alternatively, the handles 208 and 209 may be a
separate construction made from fabric, rubber, plastic or the like
and attached to the cables.
[0051] In another embodiment, not explicitly shown, the
quick-release links may be pre-attached to a flexible strip of
fabric or webbing. The flexible strip is then attached to the front
cover 106, thereby facilitating manufacture and assembly of the
antiballistic garment 100.
[0052] The cables 200 and 201 may be constructed from braided
steel, each with a fused end to prevent unraveling and to
facilitate assembly of the quick-release mechanism 114. In the
embodiment shown in the figures, the handles 208 and 209 of cables
200 and 201 are preferably centrally located along the lower edge
216 of the front portion 102 and are covered by a handle cover flap
218. The handle cover flap 218 has a fastener 220 to keep the
handle cover flap 218 releasably closed, thereby preventing
unintended or unexpected activation of the quick-release mechanism
114. In one embodiment, the handle cover flap fastener 220 is a
hook and loop closure.
[0053] The quick-release mechanism 114 further comprises spaced
apart cable sleeves 222 that are attached to the front cover 106 to
protect and route the cables 200 and 201 of the quick-release
mechanism 114. Cable sleeves 222 conceal, protect and guide the
quick-release cables 200. In a further enhancement, the lower cable
sleeves 224 disposed along the lower edge 216 of the front cover
106 have reinforced openings 226 from which the cables and cable
handles extend to reduce pulling friction and prevent significant
wearing of the lower cable sleeve openings. The reinforced openings
226 are preferably made from metal grommets or other suitable
reinforcement. For example, the reinforced openings 226 may be
treated by singeing the fabric around the opening or by use of a
plastic grommet or other device to prevent wear of the lower cable
sleeve 224 and to facilitate quick-release of the cables 200 and
201. In an alternate embodiment, the cables 200 and 201 exit the
cable sleeve 224 at the two lower (or upper) corners of the front
cover 106, which would require the user to pull both cables with
both hands to actuate the quick-release mechanism. In another
alternate embodiment, only one cable is used having two fused ends
with a single handle disposed centrally at the lower edge of the
front cover 106.
[0054] To thread the quick-release mechanism 114, the end of a
first cable 200 is introduced into a reinforced opening 226 on a
lower cable sleeve 224. The first cable 200 is advanced through an
inner series of openings in the cable-turn quick-release link 228,
and then through the inner series of openings in the side-engaging
quick-release links 230 and the inner series of openings in the
side-interface quick-release links 164. The first cable 200 is then
advanced only through another inner series of openings in the
cable-turn quick-release link 228, then through the inner series of
openings in the shoulder-engaging quick-release links 232 and the
inner series of openings in the shoulder-interface quick-release
links 164.
[0055] A second cable 201 is similarly threaded, but in the
opposite direction and through the outer series of openings in the
plurality of quick-release links. The second cable 201 overlaps the
first cable 200 along the interleaved shoulder-engaging links 232
and shoulder-interface links 164. The ends of the cables 200 and
201 generally terminate after each cable is threaded through all of
the inner and outer series of openings in the shoulder-interface
links 164. Thus, the shoulder-interface quick-release 164 links are
secured by two cables--a first cable 200 and a second cable 201. By
doubling the cables 200 through the shoulder-interface
quick-release links 164, inadvertent activation of the
quick-release mechanism 114 is prevented.
[0056] Now turning to FIGS. 9-11, the back portion 104 is described
in further detail. The back portion 104 includes an outside-facing
back cover 300 which is generally stitched or otherwise attached to
a body-facing back lining 302. The back cover 300 generally has a
central portion 304, with side panels 306 and shoulder panels 308
extending therefrom. Referring now to FIG. 9, the central portion
304 of the back cover 302 is described.
[0057] The central portion 304 includes a back hard armor pocket
314 which is adapted to hold a back antiballistic plate 322. In
this exemplary embodiment, the back antiballistic plate 322 is an
ESAPI, but other types of antiballistic plates such as standard
SAPI, titanium, nano-fiber, composite, honeycomb, ceramic and
metallic plates may be used.
[0058] The back hard armor pocket 314 has a closeable opening 324
and an inside surface 326. The closeable opening 324 may be shut
closed by a heavy duty zipper 328, for example. Although the back
hard armor pocket 314 may be used to restrain and position the back
hard armor plate 322, additional restraints and positioning means
are disclosed herein.
[0059] As shown in FIG. 9, first and second straps 332 and 334 are
attached to the inside surface 326 of the back hard armor pocket
314 at an angle, such that the first and second straps 332 and 334
cross each other at a general location 336 either in front of or
behind the back hard armor plate 322. Strap attachment means 338
are used for attaching each strap 332 and 334. The strap fasteners
338 are attached to the inside surface 326 of the back hard armor
pocket 314 near the opening 324 at an angle. Thus, the first and
second straps 332, 334 extend towards the bottom of the back hard
armor pocket 314, around the back hard armor plate 322, and back to
the strap fasteners 338 where they are secured.
[0060] The angled attachment of the straps 332 and 334 with
criss-cross 336 enables further restraint and positioning of the
back hard armor plate 322. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the
fasteners 338 comprise hook and loop tape stitched to a piece of
webbing, although other attachment means are contemplated such as
buttons, snaps, buckles, hooks, and the like.
[0061] Free ends 342 of the first and second straps 332 and 334 are
releasably attachable at multiple locations on the strap fasteners
338, thereby making the vertical position or height of the back
hard armor plate 322 in the back hard armor pocket 314 adjustable.
The height adjustment is accomplished by looping the straps 332 and
334 around the back hard armor plate 322 and then adjusting the
attachment point of the free ends 342 on the fasteners 338.
[0062] The straps 332 and 334 may have a maximum length which
corresponds to the length required to allow the back hard armor
plates 322 to be vertically positioned at the bottom of the back
hard armor pocket 314. Alternatively, one strap or more than two
straps may be used to position and/or restrain the back hard
antiballistic plate 322. In addition, the straps 332 and 334 and/or
fasteners 338 may be attached at various other angles and/or
locations inside the back hard armor pocket 314.
[0063] The central portion 304 of the garment back portion 104
further includes a plurality of MOLLE 316 webbing which is attached
substantially horizontally to the back cover 300 and is usable for
attaching items and equipment to the antiballistic garment 100.
MOLLE 316 comprises one or more strips of parallel webbing attached
to back cover 300 of the antiballistic garment 100 at predetermined
spaced locations. The MOLLE 316 may also be generic woven PALs
comprised of strips of spaced apart horizontal webbing
approximately once inch wide that is vertically stitched to the
central portion 304 at approximately one and one half inch
intervals, for example.
[0064] Alternatively, the MOLLE 316 used on the back cover 300 of
the antiballistic garment 100 could also comprise strips of webbing
that are offset and substantially placed adjacent one another
without significant spacing therebetween. The back cover 300 and/or
MOLLE 316 are preferably made from a durable fabric, such as, for
example, CORDURA nylon printed with a camouflage pattern, though
other patterns and suitable fabrics may be used. In addition, any
or all of the antiballistic garment components may be printed with
or without any pattern.
[0065] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 9, a rescue-drag handle 318 is
disposed between the shoulder panels 308 near the top of the
central portion 304 of the back cover 300. The rescue-drag handle
318 according to one embodiment is made from nylon webbing and
stitched to the back cover 300. In other embodiments the
rescue-drag handle 318 may be fastened by other methods known in
the art, and may be made from other materials such as plastic,
rubber, leather, metal, and the like. The rescue drag handle 318
allows another person to more easily move the person wearing the
antiballistic garment 100 by grasping and pulling on the
rescue-drag handle 318.
[0066] Turning now to FIGS. 12-14, a load transfer system 320 is
shown incorporated into the central portion 304 of the garment back
cover 300. The load transfer system 320 comprises first and second
load support sleeves 344 and 345 and first and second load support
members 346 and 347 (only support member 346 is shown). Each load
support sleeve 344 and 345 is attached substantially vertically to
the back cover 300 and extends generally vertically between the
user's shoulder and waist. Each load support sleeve 344 and 345 is
operable to accommodate at least one load support member 346 and
347. The load support member 346 and 347 may be removed from the
load support sleeve 344 and 345 and may be replaced or adjusted by
the user. The exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 12 has a pair of
load support sleeves 344 and 345, but other embodiments may have
more or less load support sleeves and load supports depending on
requirements.
[0067] The load support sleeves 344 and 345 in the embodiment shown
are made from nylon webbing stitched to the central portion 304 of
the back cover 300 along the vertical edges and bottom horizontal
edge of the load support sleeves 344 and 345. Each load support
sleeve 344 and 345 has an opening 348 and 350 at the top for
receiving a load support member 346 and 347 and an internal opening
350 and 351 (not shown) at the bottom which communicate with the
space between the back cover 300 and back lining 302. The internal
openings 350 and 351 at the bottom of the load support sleeves 344,
345 allow the load supports 346 and 347 to pass through the back
cover 300 to contact the load-bearing belt 312 such that the weight
on the user's shoulders is at least partially transferred to the
user's waist.
[0068] As shown in FIG. 12, the load support member 346 is shown
separated from load support sleeve 344. Each load support member
346 and 347 is substantially rigid and sturdy and is disposed
substantially vertically in the back portion 104 within the load
support sleeves 344 and 345. The load supports 346 and 347 provide
lift of the antiballistic garment 100 off the user's shoulders to
allow for increase ventilation and to transfer the garment's weight
to the user's waist via the load-bearing belt 312. Details of the
load-bearing belt 312 are described below with references to FIGS.
17 and 18.
[0069] Each load support member 346 and 347 is preferably shaped to
the contour of the user's back as shown in FIG. 12, having a
slightly "S"-shaped contour. The load support member 346 may be
made from a metal or any suitable rigid and sturdy material.
[0070] Each load support member 346 and 347, when fully inserted,
has a lower end 352 supported by the load-bearing belt 312, and an
upper end 354 that is visible at the top of the load support sleeve
344 and 345, as shown in FIG. 13. The upper end 354 of each load
support member 346 and 347 is further integrated with the
antiballistic garment 100 by the use of a load support cover
356.
[0071] FIGS. 13 and 14 both show the load support cover 356 with a
retention strap 358. As shown in more detail in FIG. 14, the load
support cover 356 is designed to cover the exposed upper end 354 of
each load support member 346 and 347 and to allow a partial overlap
of the load support sleeve 344 over the load support cover 356. The
retention strap 358 is fixedly attached at one end to the load
support cover 356 and releasably attached at the other end also to
the load support cover 356. Thus, after the load support cover 356
is in place over each load support 346 and 347, the retention strap
358 is wrapped around a load transfer strap 400 and then releasably
attached back to the load support cover 356.
[0072] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the load
support cover 356 is made from nylon webbing and the retention
strap 358 is stitched on one end has and with a hook and loop tape
on the other end. The retention strap 358 includes a transverse
portion 360 with hook and loop tape as shown in FIG. 13, which
functions to prevent an accidental opening of the load support
cover 356. Other embodiments are also contemplated such as making
the load support sleeves 344 and 345 with an integral load support
cover.
[0073] As shown in FIG. 9, the load transfer system 320 is further
incorporated with the shoulder panels 308. The load transfer system
320 includes load transfer straps 400 with a first portion attached
to the load support sleeves 344 and 345. In the embodiment shown,
each load transfer strap 400 first portion includes an adjustable
buckle 402. A load transfer strap 400 second portion has a first
end attached to the shoulder panel 308 and a second end threaded
through the adjustable buckle 402.
[0074] When the antiballistic garment 100 is being worn by a user,
the load transfer straps 400 are operable to transfer loading or
weight between the shoulders and the waist of the user. Shortening
the load transfer strap 400 second portion by pulling downward on
the free end shifts the loading forward towards the user's
shoulders, while lengthening the load transfer strap 400 second
portion by lifting an edge of the adjustable buckle 402 shifts the
loading backwards towards the user's waist. The ability to offer
the user the flexibility transfer weight between the user's
shoulders and waist can reduce user fatigue over extended periods
of use.
[0075] FIG. 9 also shows the shoulder panels 308 of the back
portion 104. The shoulder panels 308 extend generally from the top
edge of the central portion 304 of the back cover 300, and
releasably connect the back portion 104 to the front portion 102
over the shoulders of the user. The shoulder panels 308 also
function to provide containment for soft armor and shoulder
padding, a slip-resistant surface for a rifle butt, and a way to
transfer loading and garment length adjustment.
[0076] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 there are generally two fastening
connections between each shoulder panel 308 and the quick-release
shoulder interfaces 112 of the front portion 102. In the exemplary
embodiment shown, a shoulder buckle 362 is attached to the shoulder
panel 308 on the top side and hook and loop tape is attached to the
back side of the shoulder panel 308 on the back lining 302 as
described below.
[0077] The shoulder buckle 362 is releasably coupled to mating
buckle 186 of the front portion quick-release shoulder interface
112. In other embodiments, the shoulder buckle 362 is attached by a
separate piece of webbing, or other fastening means. Alternately,
the shoulder panel 308 may be connected to the quick-release
shoulder interface 112 with a fastener other than a buckle.
[0078] As shown in FIG. 9, a rifle bolster 368 is attached to each
shoulder panel 308. The rifle bolster 368 provides a textured
slip-resistant surface for supporting a rifle butt as well as
additional support and strength in the shoulder panel 308. The
rifle bolster 368 may be made from suede, but other textured
fabric, fabric treatments and non-fabrics may be used including
leather, vinyl, rubber, silicon and the like. In addition, a
slightly protruding lip or edging 372 is provided around the
perimeter of the rifle bolster 368 to further stabilize and support
a rifle.
[0079] The shoulder panels 308 also include epaulettes 374, as
shown in FIG. 9. Each epaulette 374 has a main strap 376 with a
fixed first end and a releasably attachable second end. The
epaulette main strap 376 is generally aligned transversely to the
load transfer strap 400 and the first end is fixedly attached to
the shoulder panel 308 near the edge closest to the user's neck.
The main strap 376 travels under the load transfer strap 400, under
an epaulette cross strap 382, loops back over the load transfer
strap 400, and then the second end of the main strap 376 is
releasably attached to the main strap 376 by a fastening means.
[0080] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the fastening means is a
hook and loop tape. The epaulette cross strap 382 is generally
aligned transversely to the epaulette main strap 376 and is
stitched to the shoulder panel 308. A central lateral stitch across
the cross strap 382 divides the strap into two slots so that the
epaulette main strap 376 may be optionally positioned through
either slot for proper positioning and fit of optional armor for
the shoulders, upper back, arms, or the like attached to the
epaulette main strap.
[0081] The epaulette 374 may be formed without the cross strap 382,
or the cross strap 382 may be divided into more or less slots. In
the preferred embodiment, the epaulette main strap 376 and cross
strap 382 are made from webbing such as that used for the back
MOLLE 316.
[0082] Now referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the side panels 306 of the
antiballistic garment 100 are described. The side panels 306 extend
generally from the side edges of the central portion 304 of the
back cover 300 and cover the user's sides. The side panels 306
releasably connect the back portion 104 to the front portion 102
around the sides of the user's torso. Other functions of the side
panels 306 are to partially contain soft armor, provide garment
circumferential adjustment and provide additional hard
antiballistic plate support. The side panels 306 include second
circumferential adjustment 422, hard armor side pockets 424 and
MOLLE webbing 426.
[0083] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the second circumferential
adjustment 422 generally includes two fasteners 422A and 422B. In
the exemplary embodiment shown, hook and loop tape 422A and upper
and lower buckles 422B are attached to the side panel 306. The
upper and lower buckles 422B are attached to the side panel 306 by
use of a loop made from webbing. As shown in FIG. 2, the same
webbing used to form the side MOLLE 426 (described below) may
continuously extend to become a circumferential-size adjustable
strap 428 for the upper and lower buckles 422B.
[0084] The second circumferential adjustment hook and loop tape
422B which is disposed on the side panels 306, is releasably
coupled to the first circumferential adjustment hook and loop tape
144A attached to the front lining 108.
[0085] The second circumferential adjustment upper and lower
buckles 422B are releasably coupled to the first circumferential
adjustment buckles 144B of the front portion quick-release side
interfaces 110. In other embodiments, first or second
circumferential adjustments 144 and 422 may be releasably and
adjustably connected by only one, or more than two fasteners.
[0086] The side hard armor pocket 424 is shown in this embodiment
as a pocket for containing a side antiballistic plate 434. In an
exemplary embodiment, the side antiballistic plate 434 is an ESAPI.
Other antiballistic plates are also contemplated for use in the
side hard armor pocket 424 and may include, but are not limited to,
standard SAPI, titanium, nano-fiber, composite, honeycomb, ceramic
and metallic plates.
[0087] The side hard armor pocket 424 has a closeable opening 436
and an inside surface 438. The closeable opening 436 in this
embodiment is a side pocket flap 440 with a hook and loop tape
closure. Alternatively, a heavy duty zipper or other closure means
may be used. Although the side hard armor pocket 424 may be used to
restrain and position the side armor plate 434, additional
restraints and positioning means are disclosed herein. In addition,
the side hard armor pocket 424 may be used as a storage pocket, or
a secondary storage pocket may be included.
[0088] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8, a first end of
strap 442 is fixedly attached to the inside surface 438 of the side
hard armor pocket 424. A strap fastener 444 is included for
releasably attaching a second, free end 448 of the strap 442. The
strap fastener 444 shown in FIG. 8 is attached to the inside
surface 438 of the side hard armor pocket 424 near the opening 436.
Thus, the strap 442 extends towards the bottom of the side hard
armor pocket 424 around the side armor plate 434 and back to the
strap attachment means 444 where it is secured.
[0089] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the strap fastener 444
comprises a hook and loop tape stitched to a piece of webbing,
although other strap attachment means are contemplated such as
buttons, snaps, buckles, hooks, and the like. The free end 448 of
the strap 442 is releasably attachable at multiple locations,
thereby making the vertical position of the side armor plate 434 in
the side hard armor pocket 424 adjustable. The height adjustment is
accomplished by looping the strap 442 around the side armor plate
434 and then pulling up on the free end 448 before attaching
it.
[0090] The strap 442 has a maximum length which corresponds to the
length required to allow the side armor plate 434 to be vertically
positioned at the bottom of the side hard armor pocket 424. In an
additional embodiment, a second strap may be used in a similar
manner as that described for the back hard armor pocket 314. In a
further embodiment, the side armor plate 434 may be secured by
strap 442 and pocket flap 440 so that the top of the side armor
plate 434 is positioned above the closeable opening 436 of the side
hard armor pocket.
[0091] The side panel 306 also includes a plurality of MOLLE 426
webbing disposed substantially horizontally and is usable for
attaching items or equipment to the antiballistic garment 100. Side
MOLLE 426 comprises one or more strips of parallel webbing attached
to the antiballistic garment 100 at predetermined spaced locations.
The MOLLE 426 may also be a generic woven PALs comprised of strips
of spaced apart horizontal webbing approximately once inch wide
that is vertically stitched to the side panel 306 approximately one
and one half inch intervals.
[0092] Alternatively, the MOLLE 426 used on the side panel 306
could comprise strips of webbing that are offset and substantially
placed adjacent one another without significant spacing
therebetween. In another embodiment the side panels 306 and/or
shoulder panels 308 may be integral with, or separate from, the
back portion 104.
[0093] The antiballistic garment 100 further includes a
load-bearing belt 312 that cooperates with the load transfer system
320. Referring now generally to FIGS. 10 and 17-18, details of the
load-bearing belt 312 are described. The load-bearing belt 312
adjustably encircles the user's torso to stabilize the
antiballistic garment and to support the antiballistic garment's
weight transferred from the shoulders to the user's waist.
Internally, the load-bearing belt 312 preferably comprises one or
more layers of antiballistic soft armor 450 as well as one or more
types of foam and cushioning layers 452. Externally, the
load-bearing belt 312 has a cover 454, a buckle 456, an adjustable
strap 458 and load support interfaces 460.
[0094] As shown in FIG. 17, the load-bearing belt buckle 456 is
used to couple the first and second ends 462 and 464 of the
load-bearing belt 312 around the torso of the user. The buckle 456
may be quickly uncoupled to remove the antiballistic garment 100
from the user's body. The adjustable strap 458 is threaded through
the buckle 456 and is adjustable to lengthen or shorten the
load-bearing belt 312.
[0095] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the
load-bearing belt 312 has a contoured lumbar support portion 470
and protection portion 472. The lumbar portion 470 is preferably
half-moon shaped and extends upward from the top edge 474 of the
load-bearing belt 312.
[0096] The protection portion 472 of the load-bearing belt 312
includes one or more layers of the soft armor material 450. The
antiballistic soft armor layers 450 are disposed inside the belt
cover 454 in the protection portion 472 and may be made of a
plurality of layers of any suitable antiballistic material
including, but not limited to, DYNEEMA, TWARON, KEVLAR, SPECTRA,
and ZYLON. To increase user comfort, a soft felted antiballistic
material may be used
[0097] The load-bearing belt 312 also comprises one or more layers
of one or more types of foam or cushioning material in the
protection portion 472 to increase the comfort of the user. One or
more soft cushioning layers 452 used to provide a more cushioning
interface to the user's body. Multiple layers of different
cushioning properties may be used with the softest layers right
next to the user's body, for example. Additional cushioning
materials may be provided in regions of the load-bearing belt 312
where contact is made with the user's hip bones to further increase
the user's comfort level.
[0098] As shown in FIG. 17, at least one load support interface 460
is disposed on the cover 454 of the load-bearing belt 312 and is
operable to accommodate and support the lower ends 352 the load
support members 346 and 347. The load support interface 460
provides a non-slip surface and added support and wear resistance
for the lower ends 352 of the load support members 346 and 347.
[0099] FIG. 17 further shows how the load-bearing belt 312 may be
constructed from a single layout 476 that is folded along a
longitudinal fold line 478 before being incorporated into the space
between the back cover 300 and back lining 302. The back cover 300
and back lining 302 are stitched together around the edges except
for a narrow space 480 at the bottom edge of the back portion 104,
as shown in FIG. 10. The narrow opening space 480 is wide enough to
allow the adjustable webbing 458 to pass through, but not the
protection portion 472 of the load-bearing belt 312.
[0100] Optionally, a set of hook and loop fasteners (not shown) may
be attached or otherwise fastened to the load-bearing belt 312. A
soft armor insert 512 (FIG. 11) of the back portion 104 may be
inserted into the top open edge of the folded load-bearing belt
312. These hook and loop fasteners are operable to couple to
corresponding hook and loop fasteners disposed on the soft armor
insert 512 of the back portion 104. These hook and loop fasteners
couple the load-bearing belt 312 to the soft armor insert 512 so
that they are secured to one another and do not shift substantially
with respect to one another.
[0101] Now referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a contoured comfort pad
310 placed at the inside surface of the back portion 104 is
described. The contoured comfort pad 310 is a device that is
contoured to provide cushioning and support to the user's back and
is removably coupled to the back lining 302 of the back portion
104. The contoured comfort pad 310 is operable to provide
cushioning and ventilation. The contoured comfort pad 310 may
comprise a number of layers of materials, such as foam and other
types of materials with cushioning as well as moisture-wicking and
ventilation properties. The cushioning layers may include one or
more materials of different density to achieve the desired
cushioning properties.
[0102] As shown in FIG. 10, the outside cover 482 of the contoured
comfort pad 310 comprises a flexible mesh. A soft dimpled layer 484
is disposed at the interface of the user's body and at least one
additional resilient cushioning layer 486. Other combinations of
layers and constructions are contemplated.
[0103] FIG. 10 shows an exemplary shape for the contoured comfort
pad 310 having a concave lower end 488 designed to interface with
the lumbar portion 470 of the load-bearing belt 312, and side and
top edges 490 and 492 to interface with the user's shoulders and
upper back. FIG. 10 further shows how the load-bearing belt lumbar
portion 470 interfaces with the lower concave end 488 of the
contoured comfort pad 310.
[0104] The contoured comfort pad 310 is removably coupled to the
back lining 302 of the back portion 104. As shown in FIG. 11, the
outside surface 494 of the outside cover 310 of the contoured
comfort pad 310 has hook and loop tape attached at various
locations 498. This hook and loop tape 498 is connected to
corresponding hook and loop tape 522 stitched to the back lining
302. Additional webbing loops 496 are attached towards the upper
edge of the comfort pad back lining interface 494 to attach to
comfort pad attachment means 502 incorporated into the back lining
302. In an alternative embodiment the contoured comfort pad 310 has
a shape that is generally rectangular, but the contoured comfort
pad 310 may be designed with other shapes as needed.
[0105] Referring now to FIG. 11, the back lining 302 is shown with
a back soft armor compartment 500, comfort pad attachment means
502, communications routing means 504, shoulder length adjustment
506 and shoulder padding. The soft armor compartment 500 is created
in the space between the back cover 300 and the back lining 302.
Inside the soft armor compartment 500 are attachment means 510
(shown in phantom lines) for securing a back soft armor insert 512.
In this embodiment, hook and loop fasteners are disposed on the
inside surface of the back lining 302 to function as the attachment
means 510.
[0106] The back soft armor insert 512 is made of a plurality of
layers of any suitable antiballistic material including, but not
limited to, DYNEEMA, TWARON, KEVLAR, SPECTRA, and ZYLON. In
addition, the back soft armor insert 512 has a shape that closely
matches that of the back cover 300 and back lining 302. Thus, the
back soft armor insert 512 is shaped so that it substantially
covers the user's torso (back and sides) as well as shoulders.
Additional cushioning materials may be provided at selected regions
of the soft armor insert 512 such as over the tops of the
shoulders.
[0107] The soft armor insert 512 is introduced into the soft armor
compartment 500 through an opening 514. The back soft armor insert
512 may be oriented between the folded portions of the load-bearing
belt 312. The back soft armor insert 512 includes hook and loop
fasteners 516 disposed on its surface which allow it to be
securely, though releasably coupled to mating hook and loop
fasteners 510 inside the soft armor compartment 500. Opening 514 is
formed in the back lining 302 and has a releasably closeable edge.
As shown in FIG. 11, the releasably closeable edge of the opening
514 includes hook and loop tape as a closure means. The back soft
armor insert 512 may also be removed via the opening 514.
[0108] The back lining 302 includes a plurality of spaced apart
vent holes 520 towards the bottom of the back lining 302 to allow
air and/or moisture to be conveyed between the back lining 302 and
back cover 300.
[0109] The back lining 302 may be printed, at least partially, with
a camouflage pattern, and is preferably constructed of ripstop
nylon, though other patterns and suitable fabrics may be used.
[0110] As shown in FIG. 11, the back lining 302 has comfort pad
attachment means 502 which function to secure the contoured comfort
pad 310 to the back lining 302 of the back portion 104.
Specifically, the contoured comfort pad 310 hook and loop fasteners
498 are releasably attached to back lining hook and loop tape 522.
The webbing loops 496 of the contoured comfort pad 310 are
releasably coupled to comfort pad attachment means 502 which are
each comprised of a strap loop that is releasably closeable with
hook and loop tape, for example.
[0111] Communications routing means 504 are shown in FIG. 10
attached to the back lining 302. In this embodiment, the
communications routing means 504 are constructed from a short of
piece webbing stitched to the back lining 302 along both ends and
are operable to retain communications equipment wiring, and the
like. The communications routing means 504 provide the further
option of routing wires and cables to the right or left side of the
user depending on the user's preference.
[0112] Now referring to FIG. 11, the shoulder length adjustments
506 are shown attached to the back lining 302 opposite the shoulder
panels 308 of the back cover 300. As shown in the exemplary
embodiment in FIG. 11, the shoulder length adjustments 506 are made
from a piece of hook and loop tape, designed to secure the front
portion 102 to the back portion 104 along the shoulders, and also
provide garment length adjustment. Shoulder length adjustments 506
releasably and adjustably couple to the front cover quick-release
shoulder interfaces 112. Other fastening methods may also be used
such as snaps, and buttons, among others.
[0113] Shoulder padding is preferably included between the back
lining 302 and the shoulder panels 308 of the back cover 300. As
shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the back lining 302 includes a shoulder
padding pocket 524 for containing extra shoulder padding. FIG. 11
shows one embodiment of a padded shoulder insert 528 which is
constructed by adding a nylon cover around a cushioning material.
The padded shoulder insert 528 is contoured to follow the edges of
the back portion 104 where the back portion 104 interfaces with the
user's upper back, shoulder and collar bone areas. In one
embodiment the shoulder padding pocket 526 is closable with a hook
and loop fastener, or the like.
[0114] As shown in FIG. 15, activation of the quick-release
mechanism 114 is commenced by pulling the quick-release handles 208
and 209. Pulling the quick-release handles 208 and 209 causes the
cables to be pulled out of the inner and outer series of openings
in the plurality of quick-release links 164 to separate from one
another causing the front portion 102 of the antiballistic garment
100 to rapidly fall apart from the back portion 104. Thus, by using
the quick-release mechanism 114 and unbuckling the load-bearing
belt 312, the user can very quickly remove the antiballistic
garment 100. After the front and back portions 102 and 104 have
been separated by using the quick-release mechanism 114, the
quick-release side interfaces 110 remain attached to the back
portion side panels 306 and the quick-release shoulder interfaces
112 remain attached to the back portion shoulder panels 308.
[0115] As described above, the quick-release mechanism 114
comprises a plurality of quick-release links 164 disposed along the
path 198 at the interface of the front and back portions 102 and
104. As shown in FIG. 16, each quick-release link 164 may be
generally designed as a double-opening structure, having a body
portion 172 with a laterally projecting tab 174. Two generally
circular openings 176 and 178 are formed in the body portion 172.
The openings 176 and 178 are operable to provide two separate cable
paths for the quick-release cables 200 and 201 as they thread
through the quick-release shoulder interfaces 112. The openings 176
and 178 may have chamfered edges 180. The body portion 172 may have
a groove 182 disposed along a side thereof between the holes 176
and 178, although the quick-release link 164 may be constructed
without groove 182. The tab 174 projects, as shown in FIG. 16,
outwardly and transversely from the body portion 172, and generally
tangentially to openings 176 and 178. In particular, each
quick-release link 164 is attached by sandwiching the tab 174
between two pieces of fabric or webbing and then stitching
therethrough.
[0116] The quick-release link 164 is preferably made from an
injection molded plastic, but may also be made from an extrusion or
other manufacturing process known in the art. The quick-release
link 164 may also be made from other materials such as aluminum,
titanium, graphite composite, among others. In other embodiments,
the quick-release link may include a single opening large enough to
pass one or more quick-release cables. The quick-release link
openings may be non-circular and may be designed without a tab 174.
The quick-release link may be made from a material such as fabric,
such as a link constructed from webbing with or without reinforcing
grommets.
[0117] Depending on how the quick-release link 164 is disposed
along the path 198 and its orientation as it is fastened to the
front cover 106 or the interface panels, the openings of the links
may be a part of the inner series of openings or the outer series
of openings.
[0118] In addition to embodiments described herein, alternative
means of attaching fabric to fabric and components to fabric are
also contemplated such as using rivets, adhesive, hook and loop
tape, snaps, buttons, snaps, buckles, belts, ties, zippers, crimps,
grommets, staples, bands, and the like, among others.
[0119] Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been
described in detail, those skilled in the art should understand
that they may make various changes, substitutions and alterations
herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure. Accordingly, all such changes, substitutions and
alterations are intended to be included within the scope of the
present disclosure as defined in the following claims. In the
claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the
structures described herein as performing the recited function and
not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent
structures.
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