U.S. patent application number 11/931027 was filed with the patent office on 2012-07-05 for adjustably fitted protective apparel with rotary tension adjuster.
This patent application is currently assigned to ENVENTYS, LLC. Invention is credited to Daniel Lee BIZZELL, Kevin J. DAHLQUIST, Ian D. KOVACEVICH, Tom PHILPOTT.
Application Number | 20120167290 11/931027 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46379387 |
Filed Date | 2012-07-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120167290 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KOVACEVICH; Ian D. ; et
al. |
July 5, 2012 |
ADJUSTABLY FITTED PROTECTIVE APPAREL WITH ROTARY TENSION
ADJUSTER
Abstract
An article of adjustably fitted protective apparel includes a
vest and an adjustable tensioning system for selective tensioning
of the vest into a snug fit on a body of a wearer of the vest. The
adjustable tensioning system includes a rotary tension adjuster
disposed on the vest and including a housing and a first spool
disposed within the housing, and a tensioning line extends from the
housing. The tensioning line is attached directly or indirectly to
the vest. A portion of the tensioning line is configured to be
wound upon the first spool during manipulation of the rotary
tension adjuster in a first rotational direction thereof. Winding
of the portion of the first tensioning line draws together first
portions of the vest for providing a snug fit of the first
portions.
Inventors: |
KOVACEVICH; Ian D.;
(Charlotte, NC) ; DAHLQUIST; Kevin J.; (Charlotte,
NC) ; PHILPOTT; Tom; (Charlotte, NC) ;
BIZZELL; Daniel Lee; (Davidson, NC) |
Assignee: |
ENVENTYS, LLC
Charlotte
NC
|
Family ID: |
46379387 |
Appl. No.: |
11/931027 |
Filed: |
October 31, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11276400 |
Feb 27, 2006 |
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11931027 |
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11276357 |
Feb 24, 2006 |
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11276400 |
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11222549 |
Sep 9, 2005 |
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11276357 |
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11123900 |
May 6, 2005 |
7516914 |
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11222549 |
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11123942 |
May 6, 2005 |
7694354 |
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11222549 |
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11123900 |
May 6, 2005 |
7516914 |
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11276400 |
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11123942 |
May 6, 2005 |
7694354 |
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11123900 |
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60656335 |
Feb 25, 2005 |
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60656335 |
Feb 25, 2005 |
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60656335 |
Feb 25, 2005 |
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60608397 |
Sep 9, 2004 |
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60656335 |
Feb 25, 2005 |
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60608397 |
Sep 9, 2004 |
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60569304 |
May 7, 2004 |
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60656335 |
Feb 25, 2005 |
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60608397 |
Sep 9, 2004 |
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60569304 |
May 7, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
2/463 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16G 11/14 20130101;
A41D 13/0518 20130101; A41F 1/008 20130101; F41H 1/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/463 |
International
Class: |
A41D 13/05 20060101
A41D013/05 |
Claims
1. An article of adjustably fitted protective apparel, comprising:
(a) a vest; and (b) an adjustable tensioning system for selective
tensioning of the vest, comprising, (i) a rotary tension adjuster
disposed on the vest and including a housing and a first spool
disposed within the housing, and (ii) a first tensioning line
extending from the housing and coupled directly or indirectly to
the vest, a portion of the first tensioning line configured to be
wound upon the first spool during manipulation of the rotary
tension adjuster in a first rotational direction thereof, winding
of the portion of the first tensioning line on the first spool
drawing first portions of the vest together for providing a snug
fit of the first portions of the vest when worn; (c) wherein the
adjustable tensioning system further comprises a distribution
channel system through which the tensioning line extends, a first
distribution channel of the distribution channel system sheathing
the first tensioning line.
2. The article of protective apparel of claim 1, wherein the first
distribution channel comprises an elongate section that sheathes
the first tensioning line and an outrigger section that extends
from the elongate section to provide stability and support to the
elongate section during tensioning of the first tensioning
line.
3. The article of protective apparel of claim 1, wherein the first
distribution channel comprises a layer of material that is coupled
to a surface of the vest in overlapping relation to the first
tensioning line.
4. The article of protective apparel of claim 3, wherein the first
distribution channel further comprises a tubular member through
which the first tensioning line extends, the layer of material
overlapping the tubular member through which the first tensioning
line extends.
5. The article of protective apparel of claim 1, wherein the
distribution channel system includes a C-shaped section proximate a
side portion of the vest.
6. The article of protective apparel of claim 1, wherein the
distribution channel system includes a C-shaped section proximate a
shoulder portion of the vest.
7. The article of protective apparel of claim 1, wherein the first
tensioning line fully encircles a wearer of the vest by extending
from the rotary tension adjuster, passing through a left upper
torso distribution channel formed in a front portion of the vest,
passing through a left line spreader, passing through a
distribution channel formed in a back portion of the vest, passing
through a right line spreader, passing through a right upper torso
distribution channel formed in another front portion of the vest,
and returning to the rotary tension adjuster.
8. An article of adjustably fitted protective apparel, comprising:
(a) a vest; and (b) an adjustable tensioning system for selective
tensioning of the vest, comprising, (i) a rotary tension adjuster
disposed on the vest and including a housing and a first spool
disposed within the housing, and (ii) a first tensioning line
extending from the housing and coupled directly or indirectly to
the vest, a portion of the first tensioning line configured to be
wound upon the first spool during manipulation of the rotary
tension adjuster in a first rotational direction thereof, winding
of the portion of the first tensioning line on the first spool
drawing first portions of the vest together for providing a snug
fit of the first portions of the vest when worn; (c) wherein a
second tensioning line extends from the housing and is coupled
directly or indirectly to the vest, a portion of the second
tensioning line configured to be wound upon the first spool during
manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster in the first rotational
direction thereof, winding of the portion of the second tensioning
line on the first spool also drawing the first portions of the vest
together for providing a snug fit of the first portions of the vest
when worn, and wherein the first tensioning line comprises an upper
side torso tensioning line that extends from the rotary tension
adjuster toward a side portion of the vest, and wherein the second
tensioning line comprises a lower side torso tensioning line that
extends from the rotary tension adjuster toward the side portion
below and in spaced relation to the upper side torso tensioning
line.
9. The article of protective apparel of claim 8, wherein both the
upper side torso tensioning line and the lower side torso
tensioning line are coupled to the side portion of the vest by way
of a line spreader.
10. The article of protective apparel of claim 9, wherein the line
spreader is coupled to a back portion of the vest by a
quick-release buckle.
11. The article of protective apparel of claim 9, wherein the line
spreader comprises a rigid, elongate member that maintains a fixed
distance between opposed ends thereof, and wherein the upper and
lower side torso tensioning lines are coupled to the line spreader
at the respective opposed ends thereof, whereby bunching or
gathering of the vest about the midriff of the wearer is prevented
during tensioning of the side portion.
12. The article of protective apparel of claim 11, wherein the
upper and lower side torso tensioning lines comprise separate lines
that are coupled at opposite respective ends thereof to the line
spreader and to the rotary tensioner adjuster.
13. The article of protective apparel of claim 11, wherein the
upper and lower torso lines pass through the line spreader and
through distribution channels formed in the side portion of the
vest for coupling of the lines to a back portion of the vest.
14. The article of protective apparel of claim 8, wherein the upper
and lower side torso tensioning lines are respective portions of a
single line.
15. The article of protective apparel of claim 14, wherein the
single line forming the upper and lower side torso tensioning lines
slides freely through a channel defined by the line spreader.
16. The article of protective apparel of claim 15, wherein a first
end of the single line is fixedly attached to the rotary tension
adjuster and wherein a second end of the single line is spooled
within the rotary tension adjuster.
17. The article of protective apparel of claim 15, wherein opposite
ends of the single line both are spooled within the rotary tension
adjuster.
18. A method for adjustably tensioning an article of protective
apparel, comprising the step of manipulating a rotary tension
adjuster in a first rotational direction thereof to draw together
first sections of a vest.
19. The method of claim 18, further comprising the step of
manipulating the rotary tension adjuster in a second rotational
direction thereof opposite to the first rotational direction
thereof to draw together second sections of the vest.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein each step of manipulating the
rotary tension adjuster comprises manually rotating a dial of the
rotary tension adjuster.
Description
I. CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims
priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.120 to, U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 11/276,400, filed Feb. 27, 2006, which is a nonprovisional of,
and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) to, U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 60/656,335, filed Feb. 25, 2005,
and which '400 application is a continuation-in-part of: [0002] (1)
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/276,357, filed Feb. 24, 2006,
which published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US
2006/0185357, and which '357 application is a nonprovisional of
60/656,335, and further which '357 application is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/222,549, filed Sep. 9, 2005, which '549 application is a
nonprovisional of 60/656,335 and U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/608,397, and which '549 application a
continuation-in-part of each of: [0003] (A) U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 11/123,900 filed May 6, 2005, which published as U.S.
Patent Application Publication No. US 2005/0247813 A1, and which is
a nonprovisional of 60/656,335, 60/608,397, and U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 60/569,304, and [0004] (B) U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/123,942, filed May 6, 2005, which published
as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2006/0015988 A1, and
which is a nonprovisional of 60/656,335, 60/608,397, and
60/569,304; [0005] (2) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/123,900,
filed May 6, 2005, which published as U.S. Patent Application
Publication No. US 2005/0247813 A1, and which is a nonprovisional
of 60/656,335, 60/608,397, and 60/569,304; and [0006] (3) U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/123,942, filed May 6, 2005, which
published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US
2006/0015988 A1, and which is a nonprovisional of 60/656,335,
60/608,397, and 60/569,304. The entire disclosure of each of these
patent applications and patent application publications is hereby
incorporated herein by reference. The present patent application
further incorporates herein by reference U.S. Patent Application
Publication No. US 2007/0039085, which disclosure is identical to
that of the incorporated '400 application from which priority is
claimed.
II. COPYRIGHT STATEMENT
[0007] All of the material in this patent document is subject to
copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States
and of other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the
facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the
patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office
patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights
whatsoever.
III. BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0008] "Body armor" generally is understood to encompass an article
of protective clothing that provides a measure of protection
against projectiles fired from handguns, shotguns and rifles. Body
armor is typically worn by members of police forces, the military
personnel, and private security personnel. Body armor commonly is
referred to as a bulletproof vest; however, this may be a misnomer,
as the vests may provide little or no protection against rifle
ammunition or even against handgun ammunition fired from a
pistol-caliber carbine, depending upon the level of armor of the
vest. As used herein, the term "vest" is intended to refer to such
body armor. A generic example of such a vest is illustrated in FIG.
1.
[0009] Vests commonly are made from Kevlar.TM. material. Vests
further may be augmented with metal, such as steel or titanium;
ceramic; or polyethylene plates that provide additional protection
to vital areas above and beyond protection provided by Kevlar.TM.
material. Known as "trauma plates," this additional armor plating
has proven effective against bullets fired from handguns and some
rifles. Such vests have become standard in military use, as
advances in ballistic technology have rendered vests made only from
Kevlar.TM. materials generally ineffective. Titanium backing
typically is used.
[0010] In principal, a vest does not protect the wearer by
deflecting a bullet. Instead, the individual layers of material
catch the bullet and spread its force over a larger portion of the
body, deforming the round and stopping the bullet before it can
penetrate into the body. While a vest can prevent a bullet from
penetrating, the wearer could still receive blunt force trauma from
the momentum of the bullet, with results ranging from bruises to
serious internal injuries. Also, it offers little protection
against bladed weapons, such as knives or arrows, because these
weapons rely on penetration. Bullets, on the other hand, depend on
sharp impact, which is what the vest is designed to counter. To
protect against the latter form of attack, an outer surface of a
vest may be coated with tiny crystals of a sandpaper-like material
or placing a very thin plate of resin hardened glass-fiber sheet
between the Kevlar.TM. layers.
[0011] When worn, it is important for a vest to be disposed in snug
fit with the body of the wearer. The protection afforded by the
vest may be degraded if the vest is worn in a loose fit permitting
play between the vest and the body. On the other hand, a snug fit
may be less comfortable than a loose fit, and a wearer may prefer
the ability to alternate between a loose fit and a snug fit
depending on the currently perceived threat level.
[0012] A vest conventionally is secured onto the body of wearer in
a snug fit using straps having releasable fasteners. Such
releasable fasteners include hook-and-loop engagement elements,
such as Velcro.TM. fasteners, and/or quick-release buckles.
Furthermore, the straps themselves may be resilient. Dragone et al.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,373,582; Davis et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,797,140; and
Bachner, Jr. U.S. Pat. No. 6,047,399 collectively disclose such
representative straps and fasteners for vests, the entirety of each
patent of which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0013] Unfortunately, it can be cumbersome to loosen a vest into a
loose fit disposition, and/or to tighten a vest into a snug fit
disposition, for several reasons. First, loosening or tightening
the vest generally requires manipulation of two or more fasteners.
For example, the loosening of each side portion of a vest generally
requires the release of at least one fastener corresponding to each
side portion. The further loosening of the shoulders of the vest
similarly generally requires the release of at least one fastener
corresponding to each shoulder, if the vest can be loosened in the
shoulders at all. Second, access to the required fasteners may be
inhibited, such as by clothing if the vest is worn under one or
more garments. Access to the required fasteners also may require
access to different areas of the vest, including a right hand side
of the vest and a left hand side of the vest. Moreover, such access
may require the use of each hand as opposed to use of either just
the left or the right hand.
[0014] No known prior art garment solves the problems presented by
the foregoing. According to a Written Opinion prepared by the
Korean Intellectual Property Office, serving as the International
Searching Authority in International Patent Application No.
PCT/US2006/007080, which published as WO 2006/091976 A2 and the
entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference, Blauer U.S.
Pat. No. 3,973,275 discloses a garment which is comprised of
unitary panels of pliable material capable of stopping bullets from
most handguns; Howland et al. U.S. Pat. No. 6,543,055 discloses a
penetration resistant garment which includes a plurality of
light-weight, rigid, discrete penetration resistant sections
cooperating with and arranged relative to one another to provide a
flexible garment; and Shinwa JP 2000-320999 A discloses a body
guard jacket which is comprised of a front body member fixed to the
breast of a wearer and a rear body member fixed to the back of the
wearer, with the front body member comprising a front main body
part and front fixing parts, the pair of front fixing parts being
stopped with strings, the front main body part having a first
stopping member at a position corresponding to the abdomen of the
wearer, and the pair of front fixing parts comprising second and
third stopping members.
[0015] Accordingly, in view of the foregoing, it has been
recognized that a need exists for improvements in vests relating to
the selective tensioning of a vest and the selective loosening of a
vest. One or more such needs are met by one or more vests in
accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
IV. SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0016] The present invention includes many aspects and features. In
one aspect of the invention, an article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel includes a vest and an adjustable tensioning
system for selective tensioning of the vest.
[0017] In accordance with this aspect, the adjustable tensioning
system includes a rotary tension adjuster that is disposed on the
vest. The rotary tension adjuster includes a housing and a first
spool disposed within the housing. A first tensioning line extends
from the housing and is attached to the vest. A portion of the
first tensioning line is configured to be wound upon the first
spool during manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster in a first
rotational direction thereof, and winding of the portion of the
first tensioning line onto the first spool results in drawing of
first portions of the vest together for providing a snug fit of the
first portions of the vest when worn.
[0018] The attachment of the tensioning line to the vest may be
direct or indirect. For instance, the first tensioning line may be
attached indirectly to the vest by a quick-release buckle that is
attached to the vest.
[0019] The vest may comprise a ballistic vest having one or more
protective panels. The first tensioning line is flexible and
capable of conveying tension. Furthermore, the first tensioning
line may comprise a mono-filament material or a multi
multi-filament material. The first tensioning line further may be a
cable, and may be made from nylon.
[0020] In a feature, the first tensioning line extends from the
rotary tension adjuster and also returns to the rotary tension
adjuster.
[0021] In another feature, the adjustable tensioning system further
includes a second spool disposed within the housing and a second
tensioning line extending from the housing and attached directly or
indirectly to the vest. A portion of the second tensioning line is
configured to be wound upon the second spool during manipulation of
the rotary tension adjuster in a second rotational direction
thereof, and winding of the portion of the second tensioning line
on the second spool results in the drawing together of second
portions of the vest for providing a snug fit of the second
portions of the vest when worn.
[0022] With further regard to this feature, a third tensioning line
also may extend from the housing and be attached directly or
indirectly to the vest, and a portion of the third tensioning line
also may be configured to be wound upon the first spool during
manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster in the first rotational
direction thereof, whereby winding of the portion of the third
tensioning line on the first spool results in the drawing together
of third portions of the vest for providing a snug fit of the third
portions of the vest when worn.
[0023] Moreover, a fourth tensioning line also may extend from the
housing and be attached directly or indirectly to the vest, and a
portion of the fourth tensioning line may be configured to be wound
upon the second spool during manipulation of the rotary tension
adjuster in the second rotational direction thereof, whereby
winding of the portion of the fourth tensioning line on the first
spool results in the drawing of fourth portions of the vest
together for providing a snug fit of the fourth portions of the
vest when worn.
[0024] Additionally, the first and third tensioning lines may form
a continuous loop and the second and fourth tensioning lines may
form a continuous loop. The first portions of the vest may comprise
front and rear shoulder portions of the vest, the third portions of
the vest may comprise front and rear shoulder portions of the vest,
the second portions of the vest may comprise front and rear side
portions of the vest, and the fourth portions of the vest may
comprise front and rear side portions of the vest. The first and
third tensioning lines may be attached to the shoulder portions of
the vest, and the second and third tensioning lines may be attached
to the side portions of the vest.
[0025] In another feature of this aspect, the first tensioning line
is attached to a clip that is releasably fastened to an anchor
location out of a plurality of anchor locations that are located on
the vest. The plurality of anchor locations may be disposed along a
portion of the vest at increasing distances from the rotary tension
adjuster. These anchor locations further may be defined by a band
that is attached to the vest, and the band may be formed from an
elastic material and include elastic characteristics.
[0026] In still yet another feature of this aspect, the adjustable
tensioning system further comprises a second rotary tension
adjuster disposed on the vest from which a second tensioning line
extends. The second tensioning line is attached directly or
indirectly to the vest, and a portion of the second tensioning line
is configured to be wound upon a first spool of the second rotary
tension adjuster during manipulation of the second rotary tension
adjuster in a first rotational direction thereof, whereby the
winding of the portion of the second tensioning line on the second
spool results in the drawing of second portions of the vest
together for providing a snug fit of the second portions of the
vest when worn.
[0027] In another feature of this aspect, further manipulation of
the rotary tension adjuster permits separation of the first
portions of the vest, thereby providing a loose fit of the first
portions of the vest when worn.
[0028] In still yet another feature of this aspect, the rotary
tension adjuster is generally centered on a front portion of the
vest.
[0029] In another feature, the rotary tension adjuster is disposed
within a pocket of the vest. The pocket includes an opening through
with a dial of the rotary tension adjuster extends for manipulation
thereof by a wearer of the vest.
[0030] In still yet another feature of this aspect, the adjustable
tensioning system further includes a distribution channel system
through which the tensioning line extends. A first distribution
channel of the distribution channel system sheathes the first
tensioning line.
[0031] With further regard to this feature, the first distribution
channel may comprise an elongate section that sheathes the first
tensioning line and an outrigger section that extends from the
elongate section to provide stability and support to the elongate
section during tensioning of the first tensioning line. The first
distribution channel also may comprise a layer of material that is
attached to a surface of the vest in overlapping relation to the
first tensioning line and include a tubular member through which
the first tensioning line extends, with the layer of material
overlapping the tubular member in which the first tensioning line
extends. The distribution channel system further may includes
C-shaped sections proximate side portions of the vest and/or
proximate shoulder portions of the vest.
[0032] In another feature of this aspect, the first tensioning line
fully encircles a wearer of the vest by extending from the rotary
tension adjuster, passing through a left upper torso distribution
channel formed in a front portion of the vest, passing through a
left line spreader, passing through a distribution channel formed
in a back portion of the vest, passing through a right line
spreader, passing through a right upper torso distribution channel
formed in another front portion of the vest, and returning to the
rotary tension adjuster.
[0033] In still yet another feature, a second tensioning line
extends from the housing and is attached directly or indirectly to
the vest. A portion of the second tensioning line is configured to
be wound upon the first spool during manipulation of the rotary
tension adjuster in the first rotational direction thereof, whereby
winding of the portion of the second tensioning line on the first
spool also results in the drawing of the first portions of the vest
together for providing a snug fit of the first portions of the vest
when worn.
[0034] With further regard to this feature, the first tensioning
line also includes an upper side torso tensioning line that extends
from the rotary tension adjuster toward a side portion of the vest,
and wherein the second tensioning line comprises a lower side torso
tensioning line that extends from the rotary tension adjuster
toward the side portion below and in spaced relation to the upper
side torso tensioning line.
[0035] Furthermore, both the upper side torso tensioning line and
the lower side torso tensioning line may be attached to the side
portion of the vest by a line spreader. The line spreader may be
attached to a back portion of the vest by a quick-release buckle.
The line spreader also may comprises a rigid, elongate member that
maintains a fixed distance between opposed ends thereof, and the
upper and lower side torso tensioning lines may be attached to the
line spreader at respective opposed ends thereof, whereby bunching
or gathering of the vest about the midriff is prevented during
tensioning of the side portions.
[0036] The upper and lower side torso tensioning lines also may
comprise separate lines that are attached at opposite respective
ends thereof to the line spreader and to the rotary tensioner
adjuster; and the upper and lower torso lines may pass through the
line spreader and through distribution channels formed in the side
portions of the vest to attach to a back portion of the vest.
Alternatively, the upper and lower side torso tensioning lines are
respective portions of a single line; the single line forming the
upper and lower side torso tensioning lines may slide freely
through a channel defined by the line spreader; and an end of the
single line may be anchored to the rotary tension adjuster with the
opposite end being spooled within the rotary tension adjuster or
opposite ends of the single line both may be spooled within the
rotary tension adjuster.
[0037] In still yet another feature, the rotary tension adjuster is
selectively detachable and reattachable to a plurality of different
locations on a front portion of the vest. In this regard, the
adjustable tensioning system may include a base plate upon which
the rotary tension adjuster is mounted, the base plate may include
hook-and-loop fasteners, and the front portion of the vest may
include hook-and-loop fasteners that couple with the hook-and-look
fasteners of the base place for selective detachment and
reattachment of the base plate to the front portion of the vest at
different locations.
[0038] In another feature, the adjustable tensioning system
includes a joiner connecting the first tensioning line to a
plurality of tensioning belts, each tensioning belt being attached
to the vest. The joiner may link the first tensioning line to three
tensioning belts, and the first tensioning line may be attached to
the joiner for rotational movement of the joiner relative to the
first tensioning line at the location of the attachment.
[0039] In still another feature, the first tensioning line extends
from the rotary tension adjuster to a side portion of the vest and
is connected to an elastic cord that passes freely through loops
respectively attached to the front and rear side portions of the
vest, thereby defining serpentine configuration of the elastic
cord. The loops may be disposed in fixed spaced relation by a rigid
spreader bar for preventing bunching, gathering or migration of the
rear side portions of the vest during tensioning of the first
tensioning line.
[0040] In another aspect of the invention, an article of adjustably
fitted protective apparel includes a vest and a rotary tension
adjuster that draws within a housing of the rotary tension adjuster
a tensioning line during manipulation of the rotary tension
adjuster in a first rotational direction thereof. The apparel
further includes means for tensioning a portion of the vest into a
snug fit on a body of a wearer of the vest as a result of the
drawing, into the housing of the rotary tension adjuster, of the
tensioning line during manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster
in the first rotational direction thereof.
[0041] In a feature of this aspect, the rotary tension adjuster
further draws in to the housing thereof another tensioning line
during manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster in a second
rotational direction thereof; and the apparel further includes
means for tensioning the vest into a snug fit on a body of a wearer
of the vest as a result of the drawing, into the housing of the
rotary tension adjuster, of the other tensioning line during
manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster in the second
rotational direction thereof.
[0042] In yet another aspect of the invention, a method for
adjustably tensioning an article of protective apparel includes the
step of manipulating a rotary tension adjuster in a first
rotational direction thereof to draw together first sections of a
vest.
[0043] In a feature of this aspect, the method further includes the
step of manipulating the rotary tension adjuster in a second
rotational direction thereof opposite to the first rotational
direction thereof to draw together second sections of the vest.
Each step of manipulating the rotary tension adjuster preferably
comprises manually rotating a dial of the rotary tension
adjuster.
[0044] In addition to the aforementioned aspects and features of
the present invention, it should be noted that the present
invention further includes the various possible combinations of
such aspects and features.
[0045] Further applicability of adjustable tensioning systems in
accordance with embodiments of the present invention will become
apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It
should be understood that the detailed description and specific
examples, while setting forth one more preferred embodiments of the
invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are
not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
V. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0046] Further aspects, features, embodiments, and advantages of
the present invention will become apparent from the following
detailed description with reference to the drawings, wherein:
[0047] FIG. 1 is a generic example of a vest;
[0048] FIG. 2A is a front view of an article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel, worn by a user, according to a first embodiment
of the present invention;
[0049] FIG. 2B is a front view of the article of protective apparel
of FIG. 2A, still worn by a user, but shown with an outer cover
removed for clarity;
[0050] FIG. 2C is a front view of the article of protective apparel
of FIG. 2A, shown in an unworn disposition;
[0051] FIG. 3A is a side cross-sectional view of a portion of the
right side of the article of protective apparel of FIG. 2C, taken
along line 3-3;
[0052] FIG. 3B is a side cross-sectional view of a portion of the
right side of a variation of the article of protective apparel 10
of FIGS. 2A-C;
[0053] FIG. 3C is a side cross-sectional view of a portion of the
right side of another variation of the article of protective
apparel 10 of FIGS. 2A-C;
[0054] FIGS. 4A-4D are front views of an article of adjustably
fitted protective apparel according to a second embodiment of the
present invention;
[0055] FIGS. 5A and 5B are front views of an article of adjustably
fitted protective apparel according to a third embodiment of the
present invention;
[0056] FIG. 6 is a front view of the article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel of FIG. 5A;
[0057] FIG. 7 is a front view of an article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel 310 according to a fourth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0058] FIG. 8 is a front view of an article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel 410 according to a fifth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0059] FIG. 9 is a front view of an article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel 510 according to a sixth embodiment of the
present invention; and
[0060] FIG. 10 is a front view of an article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel 610 according to a seventh embodiment of the
present invention.
VI. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0061] As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by
one having ordinary skill in the relevant art ("Ordinary Artisan")
that the present invention has broad utility and application.
Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being
"preferred" is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated
for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may
be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a
full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. Moreover,
many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications,
and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the
embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the
present invention.
[0062] Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein
in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be
understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of
the present invention, and is made merely for the purposes of
providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention.
The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not
intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent
protection afforded the present invention, which scope is to be
defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not
intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present
invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found
herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.
[0063] Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of
steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are
illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be
understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may
be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order,
the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being
carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an
indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or
methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences
and orders while still falling within the scope of the present
invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent
protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by the
appended claims rather than the description set forth herein.
[0064] Additionally, it is important to note that each term used
herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand
such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein.
To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein--as understood
by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such
term--differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition
of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as
understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail.
[0065] Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein,
"a" and "an" each generally denotes "at least one," but does not
exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise.
Thus, reference to "a picnic basket having an apple" describes "a
picnic basket having at least one apple" as well as "a picnic
basket having apples." In contrast, reference to "a picnic basket
having a single apple" describes "a picnic basket having only one
apple."
[0066] When used herein to join a list of items, "or" denotes "at
least one of the items," but does not exclude a plurality of items
of the list. Thus, reference to "a picnic basket having cheese or
crackers" describes "a picnic basket having cheese without
crackers", "a picnic basket having crackers without cheese", and "a
picnic basket having both cheese and crackers." Finally, when used
herein to join a list of items, "and" denotes "all of the items of
the list." Thus, reference to "a picnic basket having cheese and
crackers" describes "a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the
picnic basket further has crackers," as well as describes "a picnic
basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has
cheese."
[0067] Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals
represent like components throughout the several views, protective
apparel having adjustable tensioning systems in accordance
preferred embodiments of the present invention are next described.
The following description of preferred embodiments is merely
exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the
invention, its application, or uses.
[0068] FIG. 2A is a front view of an article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel 10, worn by a user, according to a first
embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2B is a front view of the
article of protective apparel 10 of FIG. 2A, still worn by a user,
but shown with an outer cover 18 removed for clarity; FIG. 2C is a
front view of the article of protective apparel 10 of FIG. 2A,
shown in an unworn disposition; and FIG. 3A is a side
cross-sectional view of a portion of the right side of the article
of protective apparel 10 of FIG. 2C, taken along line 3-3. As
collectively shown therein, the illustrated article 10, often
generally referred to hereinafter as a bullet-proof vest, comprises
one or more protective panels 12, an inner cover 14, a middle cover
16, an outer cover 18, a channel distribution system 20 and an
adjustable tensioning system 30.
[0069] The adjustable tensioning system 30 comprises a rotary
tension adjuster 32 and a plurality of tensioning lines 34, 36,
while the channel distribution system 20 includes a plurality of
distribution channels 22. As illustrated, the end portions of each
tensioning line 34, 36 are spooled or otherwise gathered within the
rotary tension adjuster 32. Each tensioning line 34, 36 extends in
a continuous loop from the rotary tension adjuster 32 proximal the
sternum area of the vest 10, passes through various distribution
channels 22 formed or disposed in the front portion of the vest 10,
finally returning again to the rotary tension adjuster 32.
Manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster 32 in one sense effects
the withdrawing of portions of the tensioning lines from the
distribution channels 22 into the adjuster 32, thereby tightening
of the vest 10. Manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster 32 in
another sense effects the releasing of portions of the tensioning
lines 34, 36 from the adjuster 32, thereby loosening the vest
10.
[0070] As shown in FIG. 3A, the channels 22 of the channel
distribution system 20 preferably include a tubular member 24
disposed between a layer of material or sheath 26 and the middle
cover 16. The tensioning lines 34, 36 are routed through the
tubular members 24, thereby minimizing friction and snagging within
the body of the vest 10. The tubular members may be made of a
suitable flexible plastic material with relatively low frictional
characteristics and of a diameter to permit the tensioning lines to
be guided smoothly therethrough. The sheaths 26 may be made of
nylon or other suitable material and may be fastened to the middle
cover 16 using any appropriate means, including sewed seams,
hook-and-loop fasteners, gluing or cementing, or the like. Each
tensioning line 34, 36 is generally strong and capable of
supporting tension, is flexible and is capable of being wound about
a spool. Tensioning lines 34, 36 each may comprise a mono-filament
material or a multi-filament material and may be natural or
synthetic fibers. Alternately the tensioning lines 34, 36 may be
formed of one or more metals and, for example, may comprise cables.
Alternately the tensioning lines 34, 36 may be formed from
nylon.
[0071] Each distribution channel further may comprise an elongate
section, which sheathes the a tensioning line, as well as an
outrigger section 28, which extends from the elongate section to
provide stability and support to the elongate section during
tensioning of the lines.
[0072] Returning to FIGS. 2B and 2C, wherein the outer cover 18 has
been removed for clarity, gaps 38 in the distribution channels 22
may be readily observed. The gaps 38, which define separate
sections of both the tubular members 24 and the sheath 26, allow
the different sections of the distribution channels 22 to move
toward or away from each other, as appropriate, when the tensioning
lines 34, 36 are being tightened or loosened, respectively. In
other words, when a tensioning line 34, 36 is tightened, one
tubular member section 24 is allowed to move toward another section
24, and the corresponding sheath sections 26 are likewise allowed
to move toward each other.
[0073] Optionally, yoke portions of the vest 10 that extend from
the pectoral area, passing over the collar bone area, and toward
the shoulder blade area are constructed of extensible fabric that
is elasticized to stretch and retract to avoid bunching or
gathering of the material as the fit of the vest 10 is adjusted and
as the wearer of the vest 10 moves about. Similarly, side portions
of the vest 10 that extend from the frontal torso to the rear torso
passing over the ribs under the arms are optionally constructed of
extensible fabric. Thus, while protective front and back portions
of the vest 10 may each comprise woven carbon fiber ballistic
shield material that is not generally extensible, an adjustable and
comfortable fit is facilitated by the rotary tension adjuster 32,
multiple tensioning lines 34, 36, and extensible yoke and side
portions of the vest 10.
[0074] The distribution channels 22 formed in the front portion of
the vest 10 are made more apparent in FIG. 2C by the visibility of
the tensioning lines 34, 36. As illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 2C, a
first tensioning line 34 is routed from the rotary tension adjuster
32 up over a first shoulder of the wearer toward the upper back
section of the vest 10, then is routed back forward over the same
shoulder, down toward the upper chest, then back up to the second
shoulder of the wearer and again toward the upper back section of
the vest 10, then is routed back forward over the second shoulder
and back to the rotary tension adjuster 32. A second tensioning
line 36 is routed from the rotary tension adjuster 32 toward an
upper portion of a first side of the wearer's torso, around toward
the lower back of the wearer, then back around a lower portion of
the same side of the wearer's torso, across the lower stomach
region of the wearer to a lower portion of the second side of the
wearer's torso, and finally back around an upper portion of the
second side of the wearer's torso and back to the rotary tension
adjuster 32. However, it will be apparent that other routings may
be utilized, that other numbers of tensioning lines 34, 36 may be
utilized, and that other alternative features may be employed, such
as those described hereinbelow with regard to this and other
embodiments of the present invention, all without departing from
the scope of the present invention.
[0075] FIG. 3B is a side cross-sectional view of a portion of the
right side of a variation of the article of protective apparel 10
of FIGS. 2A-C. In this variation of the article of protective
apparel 10 of FIGS. 2A-2C, a first hook-and-loop layer 40 is
sandwiched between the middle cover 16 and the outer cover 18, and
the distribution channels are attached to the outer surface of the
first hook-and-loop layer 40. This may permit a user to selectively
adjust the location of the various distribution channel sections
22, each independently from the others. Still greater selectivity
may be provided by the additional variation of the article of
protective apparel 10 as shown in FIG. 3C. In this variation, the
distribution channel sections 22 may be attached to additional
hook-and-loop panels 42 which in turn may be selectively located on
the first hook-and-loop layer 40. Access to the distribution
channels 22 and the hook-and-loop materials may be facilitated by
providing a removable outer cover 18 or by providing access
openings and the like (not shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, but suitable
examples of which are shown with regard to other embodiments of the
present invention, described below). Alternatively, the
distribution channels may be welded or otherwise permanently
adhered to a surface of a layer of the vest in a predefined layout
on the surface.
[0076] The rotary tension adjuster 32 of a preferred embodiment of
the invention comprises one of the coplanar cranks disclosed in
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/276,357. Other rotary tension
adjusters or cranks 132 also may be used, including those of the
other incorporated references, such as the coaxial cranks disclosed
in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/129,900.
[0077] Although a complete description of such a dual-spool rotary
tension adjuster 32 is provided in the referenced patent
applications and thus is not provided herein, the rotary tension
adjuster 32 may be generally described as follows. Two spools
within the rotary tension adjuster 32 are driven to coil and
tension the respective lines 34, 36 by rotation of a disk-shaped
handle or dial 33 that is manually turned. Manual turning of the
dial 33 in a first rotational direction, for example clockwise,
drives (by geared engagement) a first spool to thereby coil and
tension one or more lines 34. Manual turning of the dial 33 in a
second rotational direction opposite the first rotational
direction, for example counter-clockwise, drives a second spool to
thereby coil and tension one or more other lines 36. A pair of
symmetric opposed end portions 35 of the rotary tension adjuster 32
are provided for releasing the spools to rotate freely. Each end
portion 35 corresponds to and releases a particular one of the two
spools of the rotary tension adjuster 32. The pressing by the user
of one of the end portions 35 releases a respective spool to rotate
freely, thereby releasing the tension in the respective line 34, 36
and allowing extension of the line 34, 36 from the rotary tension
adjuster 32.
[0078] FIGS. 4A-4D are front views of an article of adjustably
fitted protective apparel 110 according to a second embodiment of
the present invention. As with the first embodiment of FIGS. 2A-2C,
the article of protective apparel 110 comprises one or more
protective panels 12, an inner cover (not shown), an outer cover
18, a channel distribution system 120 and an adjustable tensioning
system 130. In this embodiment, the adjustable tensioning system
130 comprises a rotational tension adjuster 132 and a number of
tensioning lines 134. First end portions of the tensioning lines
134 are spooled or otherwise gathered within the rotational tension
adjuster 132. The tensioning lines 134 extend from the rotational
tension adjuster 132 proximal the sternum area of the vest 110 and
pass through distribution channels 122 formed in the front portion
of the vest. Second end portions of the tensioning lines 134 are
attached to anchor points 144 of the vest 110. As with the first
embodiment, manipulation of the rotational tension adjuster 132 in
one sense effects the withdrawing of portions of the tensioning
lines 134 into the adjuster 132, thereby tightening of the vest
110. Manipulation of the rotational adjuster 132 in another sense
effects the releasing of portions of the tensioning lines 134 from
the adjuster 132, thereby loosening the vest 110.
[0079] The distribution channels 122 formed in the front portion of
the vest 110 are made more apparent in FIGS. 4C and 4D by the
visibility of the tensioning lines 134. Six tensioning lines are
shown extending from the rotary tension adjuster in the illustrated
embodiment of the vest 110 though other embodiments according to
the present invention provide other numbers of tensioning lines 134
and other patterns of distribution channels 122. A respective
shoulder tensioning line 134 extends from the adjuster 132 and
toward each shoulder. A respective upper side torso tensioning line
134 extends from the adjuster 132 and toward each torso side
passing just below the pectoral muscle. A respective lower side
torso tensioning line 134 extends from the adjuster 132 and toward
each torso side just above the hip. Each tensioning line 134 is
optionally housed in a cable guide, rigid or flexible housing, or
other jacketing to minimize binding between the line 134 and the
vest 110.
[0080] Each tensioning line 134 is generally strong and capable of
supporting tension, is flexible and is capable of being wound about
a spool. Tensioning lines 134 each may comprise a mono-filament
material or a multi-filament material and may be natural or
synthetic fibers. Alternately the tensioning lines 134 may be
formed of one or more metals and, for example, may comprise cables.
Alternately the tensioning lines 134 may be formed from nylon.
[0081] Optionally, yoke portions of the vest 110 that extend from
the pectoral area, passing over the collar bone area, and toward
the shoulder blade area are constructed of extensible fabric that
is elasticized to stretch and retract to avoid bunching or
gathering of the material as the fit of the vest 110 is adjusted
and as the wearer of the vest 110 moves about. Similarly, side
portions of the vest 110 that extend from the frontal torso to the
rear torso passing over the ribs under the arms are optionally
constructed of extensible fabric. Thus, while protective front and
back portions of the vest 10 may each comprise woven carbon fiber
ballistic shield material that is not generally extensible, an
adjustable and comfortable fit is facilitated by the rotary tension
adjuster 132, multiple tensioning lines 134, and extensible yoke
and side portions of the vest 110. A side portion of the vest 110
is shown in a loosened configuration in FIGS. 4A and 4C and in a
tightened configuration in FIGS. 4B and 4D for comparison.
[0082] In FIGS. 4A-4D, the shoulder tensioning lines 134 that
extend from the rotary tension adjuster 132 and toward the
shoulders pass over the collar bone area, through channels 122
formed in the yoke portions of the vest 110, and are anchored to
upper portions (not shown) of the back portion of the vest 110.
Also shown, the upper and lower side torso tensioning lines 134
that extend from the rotary tension adjuster 132 and toward the
side portion of the vest 110 are attached to the side portion of
the vest 110 by way of a line spreader 146. The line spreader 146
maintains a distance between upper and lower side torso tensioning
134 lines, thereby preventing bunching or gathering of the vest 110
about the midriff as the wearer moves about.
[0083] In one variation of the vest 110 of FIGS. 4A-4D, the upper
and lower side torso tensioning lines 134 are respective separate
lines that are attached at opposite respective ends thereof to the
line spreader 146 and rotary tension adjuster 132. In this
variation, manipulation of the adjuster 132 effects adjustments of
separate upper side torso and lower side torso lines.
[0084] In another variation of the vest 110 of FIGS. 4A-4D, the
upper and lower side torso tensioning lines 134 are respective
portions of a single line that extends from the rotation tension
adjuster 132 sliding freely through the line spreader 146 and
returning to the adjuster 132. The single line 134 is optionally
anchored in a static sense to the rotary tension adjuster 132 at
one end (for example, the lower torso line) and is spooled or
otherwise gathered within the rotary tension adjuster 132 at the
opposite end (for example, the upper torso line) such that
manipulation of the adjuster 132 effects adjustments of the upper
side torso portion the and lower side torso portion of the single
line as the single line slides freely through the line spreader
146. Alternatively, the single line 134 is optionally spooled or
otherwise gathered within the rotary tension adjuster 132 at
respective upper torso and lower torso line ends that are each
adjusted as the rotary tension adjuster 132 is manipulated.
[0085] In yet another variation (not shown) of the vest 110 of
FIGS. 4A-4D, the upper and lower torso lines 134 pass through the
line spreader 146 and through channels 122 formed in the side
portions of the vest 110 and are attached or anchored to respective
side margins of the back portion of the vest 110.
[0086] In still another variation (not shown) of the vest 110 of
FIGS. 4A-4D, the left and right upper torso lines 134 are
respective portions of a single line that fully encircles the
wearer by extending from the rotary tension adjuster 132, passes
through a left upper torso channel 122 formed in the front portion
of the vest 110, passes through a left line spreader 146, passes
through a channel 122 formed in the back portion of the vest 110,
passes through a right line spreader 146, passes through a right
upper torso channel 122 formed in the front portion of the vest
110, and returns to the adjuster 132. Similarly, in this variation,
the left yoke line and right yoke line are similarly respective
portions of a single line 134 that fully encircles the wearer by
extending from the adjuster 132 and passes through a channel 122
formed in the upper back portion of the vest 110 and returns to the
adjuster 132.
[0087] Although not shown, it will be understood that the vest 110
may be donned under a shirt. An advantage of the placement of the
rotary tension adjuster 132, disposed along the axis defined by the
vertical line of buttons of the shirt, is apparent as the adjuster
132 is easily exposed for manipulation by reaching between buttons
or by releasing a minimum number of buttons of the shirt.
Manipulation of the adjuster 132 is thereby possible without
removing the shirt and without a need for un-tucking the shirt
(when the bottom of the shirt is tucked into pants). Thus the vest
110 can be worn discreetly and readily adjusted conveniently.
[0088] As illustrated, the rotary tension adjuster 132 may be of
the type described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/129,900.
However, other rotary tension adjusters 32 or cranks may also be
used, including those of the other incorporated references, such as
the coplanar cranks disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/276,357.
[0089] FIGS. 5A and 5B are front views of an article of adjustably
fitted protective apparel 210 according to a third embodiment of
the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a front view of the article of
adjustably fitted protective apparel 210 of FIG. 5A. In this
embodiment, four tension loops 234 extend from a rotary tension
adjuster 232 centrally located at the sternum area of the front of
the vest. Each loop 234 extends from the rotary tension adjuster
232 and through a respective clip 237. The clips 237 are each
removably attached to holed bands 239 attached to the vest 210.
Respective left and right yoke bands 239 extend from the front
pectoral areas to the back shoulder blade areas of the vest 210. As
shown in FIG. 6, a single waist band 239 passes across the lower
portion of the back of the vest 210 and has respective opposite
ends that extend beneath the arms along the ribs toward the
adjuster 232. Each band 239 provides a number of holes 241 for
receiving a clip 237 so that positioning each clip 237 serves as a
macro-adjustment or coarse adjustment of the fit of the vest 210 on
a wearer. Manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster 232 serves as
a micro-adjustment or fine adjustment of the fit of the vest 210 on
the wearer. Manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster 232 also
serves as a convenient adjustment of the fit of the vest 210
without more labor and intensive movement of the clips 239.
[0090] FIG. 7 is a front view of an article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel 310 according to a fourth embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, a receiving pocket 250 is
formed in the article for receiving a tension adjuster. One or more
apertures are defined in the pocket for extension there through of
control elements of a tension adjuster so that the tension adjuster
can be manipulated without removal from the pocket. Furthermore, in
this embodiment, yoke portions of the article comprise crossed
belts, for example woven nylon belts, that provide strength and
that are covered by fabric portions for comfort.
[0091] FIG. 8 is a front view of an article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel 410 according to a fifth embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, a rotary tension adjuster
assembly 460 is positionable upon a receiving area of the front of
the vest 410. The rotary tension adjuster assembly 460 includes a
rotary tension adjuster 432, a positionable base plate 462
constructed of see-through plastic, and a pair of joiners 464. The
positionable base plate 462 has attachment portions for removably
attaching the base plate 462 to the receiving area 460 of the front
of the vest 410. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving area
460 of the vest 410 comprises loop fabric and the attachment
portions of the positionable base plate 462 comprise hook fabric
for releasably engaging the loop fabric of the receiving area 460
in hook-and-loop engagement. Each joiner 464 links a tension line
(not shown) extending from the rotary tension adjuster 432 to
multiple tension belts 436. In the illustration embodiment, each
joiner 464 links a tension line to three tension belts 436.
Manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster 432 effects adjustment
of the tension belts 436 by way of the joiner 464 linking the belts
436 to a tension line that is directly adjusted by the
manipulation. Each tension belt 436 passes through a slot 466
formed in one or the other of the joiners 464 and releasably and
adjustably attaches to itself by way of hook-and-loop fabric areas
468 in hook-and-loop engagement. Each tension belt 464 is thereby
individually adjustable by way of adjustable self-engagement
serving as a macro-adjustment or coarse adjustment of the fit of
the vest 410 on a wearer. Manipulation of the rotary tension
adjuster 432 serves as a micro-adjustment or fine adjustment of the
fit of the vest 410 on the wearer. Further control may be provided
using additional hook-and-loop panels 470, placed on the shoulders,
hips or the like, and guide rings 472.
[0092] The rotary tension adjuster 432 in FIG. 8 optionally
comprises a rotary device for tensioning and releasably locking a
spooled cable. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,042,177 to Schoch,
titled "Rotary Closure for a Sports Shoe, Especially a Ski Shoe,"
which patent is hereby incorporated herein by reference, describes
such a rotary device. This rotary tension adjuster or crank 432 may
also be used in other embodiments of the invention disclosed
herein, and the cranks 32, 132, 232, 332, 432, 632 of those
embodiments may be used in the embodiment of FIG. 8.
[0093] FIG. 9 is a front view of an article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel 510 according to a sixth embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, a rotary tension adjuster
432 is positioned on the front of the vest 510 and a tension line
534 extends from each side (left and right) of the adjuster to a
respective serpentine side cord 536. The serpentine side cords 536
adjustably attach front and rear side portions of the vest 510. The
serpentine side cords 536 pass freely through loops 570 attached to
the front and rear side portions of the vest 510 in an alternating
serpentine fashion. Manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster 432
effects adjustment of the tension lines 534 which effect adjustment
of the serpentine side cords 536. The loops 570 of the rear side
portion of the vest 510 may be held spaced apart by a rigid arcuate
spreader bar (not shown) to prevent bunching, gathering and
migration of the sides of the vest 510.
[0094] FIG. 10 is a front view of an article of adjustably fitted
protective apparel 610 according to a seventh embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, which has many similarities
to that of FIGS. 4A-4D, provides a pair of rotary tension adjusters
632 to facilitate adjustments of shoulder tensioning lines 634
separately from adjustments of upper and lower side torso
tensioning lines 636. Quick-release buckles 680 are provided in
this embodiment releasably connecting line spreaders 646 to lower
side margins of the back of the vest 610. The quick-release buckles
680 allow the vest 610 to be donned and removed quickly and
conveniently as desired or as needed in an emergency situation.
When released, the quick-release buckles 680 also allow for the
vest 610 to be worn hanging from the shoulders by the yoke portions
of the vest 610 when the wearer is comfortable that a threat does
not exist and desires comfort, such as when enjoying a meal.
[0095] As stated with regard to one or more of the previous
embodiments of the present invention, it will be appreciated from
the foregoing that the control for the rotary tension adjuster is
easily accessed for manipulation such as, for example, by reaching
between buttons of a shirt or by releasing a minimum number of
buttons of the shirt for rotation of the control dial. Thus, a vest
can be worn discreetly and readily adjusted conveniently while
being worn. While the embodiments shown in the figures and
described in detail herein relate particularly to upper torso
protective ballistic vests, the invention is applicable to
protective apparel in general. For example, the invention is
applicable to personal floatation devices, life vests, life
jackets, water ski vests, and wake board vests. Furthermore, the
invention is applicable to body armor for military and police
personnel, as well as to any protective apparel worn by citizens or
protective gear worn by athletes. Based on the foregoing
description, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled
in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad
utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the
present invention other than those specifically described herein,
as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent
arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the
present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without
departing from the substance or scope of the present invention.
Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein
in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is
to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and
exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for the
purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the
invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed
to limit the present invention or otherwise exclude any such other
embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent
arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the
claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.
* * * * *