U.S. patent application number 15/717164 was filed with the patent office on 2018-06-14 for backpack with ballistic insert.
This patent application is currently assigned to ANDASIMA. The applicant listed for this patent is ANDASIMA. Invention is credited to David DUTHOIT.
Application Number | 20180160793 15/717164 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55237639 |
Filed Date | 2018-06-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180160793 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DUTHOIT; David |
June 14, 2018 |
BACKPACK WITH BALLISTIC INSERT
Abstract
A backpack includes a compartment exhibiting a compartment
opening, a flap that can be moved between a closed position to
close the compartment opening and first and second open positions
in which it leaves the compartment opening open after swinging over
from the closed position towards the back and front of the
compartment, respectively. A ballistic protection shield can be
moved, passing through the compartment opening and over the head of
a backpack wearer, from a storage position in the inside of the
compartment to a deployed position to protect the torso of the
backpack wearer. Shield straps link the shield to the compartment
capable of suspending the shield in the deployed position. The
backpack defines a passage between the edge of the compartment
opening and the flap in the closed position and includes a
pull-type handle fixed to the shield and projecting to the outside
of the compartment.
Inventors: |
DUTHOIT; David; (Moussy le
Vieux, FR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ANDASIMA |
Cormeilles-en-Parisis |
|
FR |
|
|
Assignee: |
ANDASIMA
Cormeilles-en-Parisis
FR
|
Family ID: |
55237639 |
Appl. No.: |
15/717164 |
Filed: |
September 27, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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15124121 |
Sep 7, 2016 |
9801452 |
|
|
PCT/EP2016/051499 |
Jan 26, 2016 |
|
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15717164 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 3/06 20130101; F41H
1/02 20130101; F41H 1/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45F 3/06 20060101
A45F003/06; F41H 1/02 20060101 F41H001/02; F41H 1/00 20060101
F41H001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jan 30, 2015 |
FR |
15 50725 |
Jan 30, 2015 |
FR |
15 50726 |
Jan 30, 2015 |
FR |
15 50727 |
Claims
1. A backpack comprising: a compartment exhibiting a compartment
opening; a flap that can be moved between: a closed position in
which it closes the compartment opening, and first and second open
positions in which it leaves the compartment opening open after
swinging over from the closed position towards the back and front
of the compartment, respectively; a ballistic protection shield
that can be moved, passing through the compartment opening and over
the head of a backpack wearer, from a storage position in which it
is accommodated in the inside of the compartment to a deployed
position in which it protects the torso of the backpack wearer; and
shield straps linking the shield to the compartment capable of
suspending the shield in the deployed position; the backpack
defining a passage between the edge of the compartment opening and
the flap in the closed position and comprising a pull-type handle
fixed to the shield and projecting to the outside of the
compartment by way of this passage when the shield is in the
storage position and when the flap is in the closed position,
wherein the shield straps exhibit a degree of elasticity allowing
the shield straps to be lengthened by more than 5% of their
original length.
2. The backpack according to claim 1, wherein the elasticity of any
shield strap allows a lengthening of the shield strap by more than
20% of its initial length.
3. The backpack according to claim 2, wherein the elasticity of any
shield strap allows a lengthening of the shield strap by more than
50% of its initial length.
4. The backpack according to claim 1, wherein the shield straps are
fixed at less than 20 cm from the base of the compartment.
5. The backpack according to claim 1, wherein the elasticity of the
shield straps is such that tension on the shield straps allows a
neck to be created, wherein the largest dimension and/or the
equivalent diameter is greater than 25 cm.
6. The backpack according to claim 5, wherein the elasticity of the
shield straps is such that tension on the shield straps allows a
neck to be created, wherein at least one of the largest dimension
or the equivalent diameter is greater than 30 cm.
7. The backpack according to claim 1, wherein each shield strap
comprises a flexible tubular casing containing an elastic
cable.
8. The backpack according to claim 1, wherein the elasticity of the
shield straps is determined so that in the deployed position, the
shield moves back up towards the wearer's neck immediately once the
wearer has stopped pulling on the pull-type handle.
9. The backpack according to claim 8, wherein in the deployed
position, the shield extends at less than 20 cm from the neck of
the wearer if the pull-type handle is not pulled on.
10. The backpack according to claim 9, wherein in the deployed
position, the shield extends at less than 5 cm from the neck of the
wearer if the pull-type handle is not pulled on.
11. The backpack according to claim 1, wherein the compartment, the
shield and the shield straps are adapted so that tension on the
shield straps enables them to create a neck that allows at least
one of the head of the wearer, a motorcycle helmet or a combat
helmet to pass through, by lengthening the shield straps.
12. The backpack according to claim 1, wherein the shield has a
front face comprising MOLLE-type strips.
13. The backpack according to claim 1, wherein the flap and/or the
shield are adapted to ensure protection certified to NIJ-III,
NIJ-IIIA or NIJ-IV.
14. The backpack according to claim 1, wherein the compartment has
a capacity of more than 5 litres.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a backpack with a ballistic
insert.
STATE OF THE ART
[0002] FR 2 962 017 describes a backpack comprising: [0003] a
compartment exhibiting a compartment opening, [0004] a flap that
can be moved between a closed position in which it closes the
compartment opening and first and second open positions in which it
leaves the compartment opening open after swinging over from the
closed position towards the back and front of the compartment,
respectively, [0005] a ballistic protection shield or "charge" or
"ballistic insert" that can be moved, passing through the
compartment opening and over the head of a backpack wearer, from a
storage position in which it is accommodated in the inside of the
compartment to a deployed position in which it protects the torso
of the backpack wearer, [0006] straps linking the shield to the
compartment or "shield straps" capable of suspending the shield in
the deployed position.
[0007] According to the invention described in FR 2 962 017, the
backpack defines a passage between the edge of the compartment
opening and the flap in the closed position and comprises a handle,
hereinafter referred to as a "pull-type handle", fixed to the
shield, said handle projecting to the outside of the compartment by
way of this passage when the shield is in the storage position and
when the flap is in the closed position.
[0008] A backpack of this kind is referred to as the "backpack
described in the preamble" in the description below.
[0009] By pulling the pull-type handle, the wearer opens the flap
and removes the shield from the compartment. He can then position
it against his torso.
[0010] This type of backpack is intended to be worn discreetly,
particularly by the security forces. It is important that the
shield can be deployed rapidly and that, once in the deployed
position, said shield provides the wearer with maximum
protection.
[0011] There is therefore an ongoing need for a backpack of the
type described in the preamble which is more discreet and/or can be
deployed more quickly and/or offers greater protection.
[0012] An aim of the present invention is to respond to this
need.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0013] In a first main embodiment, the invention proposes a
backpack of the type described in the preamble which is noteworthy
in that the flap is made at least in part of a ballistic protection
material, in other words it is capable of offering the wearer
protection against gunfire or other ammunition.
[0014] Advantageously, the flap thereby helps to protect the
wearer.
[0015] In a second main embodiment, the invention proposes a
backpack of the type described in the preamble, noteworthy in that
the shield straps exhibit a degree of elasticity.
[0016] During deployment of the shield, in other words during its
movement from the storage position to the deployed position, the
wearer may thereby move the shield away from the edge of the
compartment opening to create an opening which allows the wearer's
head or neck to pass through. The elasticity of the shield straps
allows this gap to be increased, which enables the head to pass
through and speeds up deployment.
[0017] Advantageously, a backpack of this kind may therefore be
used by a wearer equipped with a helmet, for example a motorcycle
helmet or a combat helmet.
[0018] Moreover, after the head has passed through, the wearer
relaxes the tension on the straps, which allows the shield to move
back up the wearer's torso towards his neck. This means that the
upper part of the torso can be perfectly protected.
[0019] The elasticity of the shield straps is preferably determined
to make the shield move back up elastically towards the wearer's
neck, once said wearer has stopped pulling on the pull-type handle,
preferably until the shield is in contact with the wearer's neck,
preferably until it rests on the wearer's neck.
[0020] In a third main embodiment, the invention proposes a
backpack of the type described in the preamble which is noteworthy
in that it comprises a belt referred to as a "shield belt" fixed to
the compartment, preferably in a deactivatable manner, proximate to
the base of the compartment, preferably at less than 30 cm,
preferably at less than 20 cm, from said base, and adapted to be
able to be fixed to the shield, at least temporarily, in the
deployed position.
[0021] The shield belt therefore allows the shield to be
immobilised against the wearer's torso.
[0022] Advantageously, this improves the protection of the
wearer.
[0023] In a fourth main embodiment, the invention proposes a
backpack of the type described in the preamble, noteworthy in that
in the closed position the strap is fixed to the compartment by
means of a magnetic fastening.
[0024] The use of a magnetic fastening advantageously allows
detachment under the effect of a low amplitude force and, in
particular, under the effect of the force exerted by the shield
when the wearer pulls the pull-type handle. The implementation of a
magnetic fastening makes the fastening deactivation devices
useless, as links mechanically connecting the pull-type handle to
the fastening to move said fastening towards its unfastened
position at the same time as a the pull-type handle is pulled on to
move the shield towards its deployed position, as described in FR 2
962 017.
[0025] This improves the discreetness of the backpack.
[0026] Magnetic fastenings likewise allow said fastening to be
fastened and unfastened, while at the same time limiting wear.
[0027] In a fifth main embodiment, the invention proposes a
backpack of the type described in the preamble in which, in the
storage position, the shield is fixed, preferably suspended, in a
deactivatable manner, to the compartment, preferably on the inside
of the compartment, more preferably to the rear face of the
compartment, in other words to the face which, when the backpack is
worn by the wearer, extends at least in part against the back of
said wearer.
[0028] In a sixth main embodiment, the invention proposes a
backpack of the type described in the preamble, in which, when the
shield is in the storage position and the flap is in the closed
position, the pull-type handle extends over a height greater than 5
cm, preferably greater than 8 cm, above the top of the flap.
[0029] The backpack preferably comprises shoulder straps which are
adapted in such a manner that when the backpack is worn by a wearer
with the shield in the storage position the pull-type handle
extends at least in part behind the nape of the neck, even behind
the head of said wearer.
[0030] As will be seen in greater detail later on in the
description, the presence of a pull-type handle of this kind allows
the time required in order to deploy the shield to be considerably
reduced and constitutes a particularly notable improvement.
[0031] In a seventh main embodiment, the invention proposes a
backpack of the type described in the preamble in which the flap is
detachable.
[0032] The flap preferably comprises an anti-trauma plate.
[0033] The flap may therefore advantageously act as a face guard,
in particular.
[0034] The characteristics of the different embodiments may be
combined.
[0035] A backpack according to the present invention may more
particularly comprise one or a plurality of the following optional
characteristics, whatever the main embodiment: [0036] the flap
and/or the shield are adapted to ensure protection certified to
NIJ-IIIA, NIJ-III or NIJ-IV, preferably NIJ-IV; [0037] the
ballistic or "bullet-proof" protection material of the flap may be
identical to or different from that used for the shield; [0038] in
a preferred embodiment, the flap is integral with the compartment
in the second open position; [0039] in the second open position,
the flap preferably extends at least partially beneath the
compartment, preferably in such a manner as to protect the lower
part of the back, even the wearer's buttocks or legs; [0040] the
elasticity of a shield strap preferably allows said shield strap to
be lengthened (difference between the maximum length of the shield
strap and the resting length of the shield strap) by more than 5%,
by more than 10%, by more than 20%, by more than 30%, preferably by
more than 50%, preferably by more than 60%, preferably by more than
70%, preferably by more than 75% of its initial length (before the
tension is applied to lengthen it); [0041] the compartment, the
shield and the shield straps are adapted so that tension on the
shield straps enables them to create a neck which allows the head
of the wearer and/or a motorcycle or combat helmet to pass through,
a lengthening of the shield straps being preferably indispensable
to this end; [0042] the elasticity of the shield straps is
preferably such that tension on the shield straps allows a neck to
be created, whereof the largest dimension and/or the equivalent
diameter is greater than 20 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm, 40 cm, 50 cm; [0043]
in one embodiment, the elasticity of the shield straps allows a
neck to be created, the surface whereof is greater than 450
cm.sup.2, preferably than 500 cm.sup.2, preferably than 550
cm.sup.2, than 600 cm.sup.2, than 700 cm.sup.2, even than 750
cm.sup.2; [0044] the elasticity of the shield straps is such that,
in the deployed position, the shield extends at less than 20 cm,
preferably at less than 10 cm, preferably at less than 5 cm, from
the neck of the wearer if the pull-type handle is not pulled on;
the shield straps are fixed at less than 20 cm from the base of the
compartment, preferably to the base of the compartment; [0045] in
the idle position, the shield straps have a length greater than 35
cm, greater than 45 cm, greater than 50 cm, even greater than 60
cm; [0046] one, preferably each, shield strap takes the form of a
flexible tubular casing, preferably made of fabric, preferably of
polyester, containing an elastic cable; [0047] the compartment
preferably has a capacity of less than 30 litres, preferably less
than 25 litres, preferably less than 20 litres and/or more than 5
litres, preferably more than 10 litres, preferably more than 15
litres; [0048] the fixing of the shield to the compartment, in the
storage position, is preferably configured in such a manner as to
prevent the shield from resting on the base of the compartment in
the storage position; [0049] the shield is suspended in such a
manner that its upper edge extends at less than 10 cm from the
upper edge defining the opening of the compartment; [0050] the
backpack comprises a magnetic fastening capable of fixing the flap
to the compartment in the closed position of the flap, deactivation
of the magnetic fastening being necessary so that the flap moves
from the closed position into the second open position; [0051] when
the shield is in the storage position and the flap in the closed
position, the pull-type handle extends to a height h of more than 8
cm, preferably more than 10 cm, preferably more than 12 cm,
preferably more than 14 cm, above the top of the flap closing the
opening of the compartment; [0052] the pull-type handle is in the
shape of a closed loop; [0053] the pull-type handle is in the shape
of a flexible tubular casing containing a stiffening flange; [0054]
the pull-type handle is fixed to the shield at two fixing points
spaced apart from one another by more than 10 cm, preferably more
than 12 cm; [0055] the pull-type handle has a thickness of less
than 10 mm; [0056] the pull-type handle is made up of a strip wound
around itself in such a manner as to define a tube, said tube
containing a stiffening flange; [0057] the pull-type handle is
fixed to the shield in such a manner that, in the storage position
in which the shield is preferably suspended in the compartment, the
part of the pull-type handle disposed inside the compartment
extends to a height of less than 10 cm, less than 5 cm, less 3 cm;
[0058] the backpack comprises a first aid kit which is fixed,
preferably in a removable manner, preferably by means of
Velcro.RTM.-type self-fastening strips on the flap; [0059] the
first aid kit is fixed in such a manner as to be accessible to the
wearer when the flap is in the second open position, preferably in
such a manner as to be accessible to the right hand and to the left
hand of the wearer; [0060] the first aid kit contains at least one
compressional dressing and/or an Israeli bandage; [0061] the flap
is pierced by one or a plurality of vision holes; [0062] the flap
comprises a flap handle, preferably two flap handles, preferably
fixed to the inside face of the flap; [0063] the flap comprises an
anti-trauma plate; [0064] the anti-trauma plate assembly of the
flap extends over a surface representing more than 50%, preferably
more than 60%, preferably more 70%, preferably more than 80%,
preferably more than 90%, preferably more than 95%, preferably 100%
of the inner surface of the flap.
Definitions
[0065] A fastening or fixing is referred to as being
"deactivatable" when it can be selectively activated, in other
words to ensure a fixing between two elements, or "deactivated"
when it does not ensure this fixing.
[0066] The "equivalent" diameter of an opening or neck is the
diameter of a disc with the same surface as said opening or
neck.
[0067] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms used in the present
application have the same meaning as the corresponding terms used
in FR 2 962 017.
[0068] The descriptive terms defining relative positions, in
particular "below", "front", "rear", "upper", "lower",
"horizontal", "vertical" refer to a configuration in which the
backpack is worn by a wearer standing vertically, the rear of the
backpack denoting the side of the backpack toward the wearer, the
flap being in the closed position. For example, the rear face of
the compartment is the face exposed to the outside and the rear
face of the compartment is the face which extends along the
wearer's back. The rear face of the shield is the face exposed to
the outside in the deployed position. The lower edge of the shield
is the edge which extends proximate to the base of the compartment
in the storage position and proximate to the carrier's neck in the
deployed position.
[0069] "Comprising a", "consisting of a", "exhibiting a", should be
understood to mean "comprising at least one" unless otherwise
indicated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0070] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will
again emerge on reading the detailed description which follows and
on examining the attached drawing in which:
[0071] FIG. 1 depicts schematically the front face of a backpack
according to the invention, with the flap in the closed position
and the shield in the storage position, the shield being depicted
using dotted lines in the compartment;
[0072] FIG. 2 depicts schematically, as a perspective view, the
backpack in FIG. 1 with the flap in the first open position, the
shield not having been depicted;
[0073] FIG. 3 depicts schematically the backpack in FIG. 1 with the
flap in the second open position, the shield not having been
depicted; and
[0074] FIG. 4 depicts schematically the shield of the backpack
shown in FIG. 1 in the deployed position;
[0075] FIG. 5 depicts schematically a detail of the backpack in
FIG. 3.
[0076] The reference numbers used in FR 2 962 017 have been reused
wherever possible.
[0077] In the figures, identical reference numbers are used to
denote identical or similar elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0078] Backpack
[0079] From the outside, a backpack 2 according to the invention
appears similar to conventional backpacks. All the features
traditionally observed on a conventional backpack and, in
particular, the presence of shoulder straps 45 and a lumbar belt
may be applied to a backpack according to the present
invention.
[0080] Strips are sewn to the shoulder straps 45, preferably
substantially transversely in respect of the length of the shoulder
straps, in order to constitute MOLLE-type hanging loops.
[0081] A backpack according to the invention comprises a
compartment 4 closed by a flap 6.
[0082] The volume of the compartment is delimited by a horizontal
base 10, a vertical front face 12, a vertical rear face 14 and two
vertical side faces 16. The compartment preferably has a volume of
less than 30 litres, less than 25 litres, preferably less than 20
litres, a volume of 18 litres being particularly suitable.
[0083] The length of the compartment is preferably greater than 40
cm, preferably greater than 45 cm, preferably greater than 50 cm,
preferably greater than 55 cm.
[0084] Outer pockets may be disposed on the outside and/or on the
inside of the compartment. A Velcro.RTM.-type fastening is
preferably provided in the upper part of the compartment, so that a
wire, for example a telephone wire, can be fixed there.
[0085] In its upper part, the compartment 4 defines a compartment
opening 20 allowing a shield 50, as described above, to be inserted
and removed.
[0086] The compartment preferably widens out progressively towards
its opening 20, preferably from its base to its opening. This makes
it easier for the shield to be removed.
[0087] The flap 6 preferably comprises a front edge 32, a rear edge
30 and lateral edges 36. The flap 6 is preferably made up, at least
partly, of a bullet-proof material.
[0088] The material may, in particular, be one of the following
types defined by the NIJ (United States National Institute of
Justice) standard: I, IIA, II, IIIA, III, IV. The flap preferably
comprises an insert in this kind of material, preferably in an
NIJ-IIIA-type material, for example Dyneema.RTM..
[0089] The material may conform to one or a plurality of standards
issued by the Underwriters
[0090] Laboratories (UL) and the United States National Institute
of Justice and, in particular, UL Standard 752 and NIJ Standard
0101.04.
[0091] The flap 6 can be moved between a closed position in which
it closes the opening 20 and first and second open positions
described below, in which it leaves said opening open. In the
closed position, the flap 6 is preferably fixed to the front face
12 of the compartment by deactivatable closures 40 and 41 and, to
the rear face 14, by fastenings 60, 61 et 62 which are likewise
deactivatable.
[0092] The closures 40 and 41 correspond to the closures
traditionally used in conventional backpacks. The closures 40 and
41 may therefore be locked or unlocked in a reversible manner, in
order to prevent or to allow access to the inside of the
compartment. The fastenings 60 and 62 provided proximate to the
upper edge of the rear face 14 act as a hinge when the closures 40
and 41 are unlocked, in order to swing the flap 6 towards the back
of the compartment, in order to move it towards its first
conventional, open position.
[0093] The fastenings 60, 61 and 62 are likewise deactivatable,
preferably in a reversible manner, in other words they can be
configured in unfastened and fastened positions in which they no
longer link and link, respectively, the rear edge 34 of the flap to
the rear face 14 of the compartment 4. In the figures, letters "a"
and "b" denote the parts of fastenings or closures which are fixed
to the compartment and to the flap, respectively.
[0094] The movement from the fastened position to the unfastened
position may result from the deployment of the shield 50 between a
storage position in which said shield is housed in the compartment
and a deployed position in which the shield 50 extends in front of
the wearer in such a manner as to protect him.
[0095] Closures 40 and 41 are preferably fixed to the compartment 4
by means of flap straps 100 and 101, respectively. The closures 40
and 41 and the flap straps 100 and 101 act as hinges when the
fastenings 60 and 62 are unfastened and the flap is swung over
towards the front of the compartment 4, in other words towards the
second open position.
[0096] The length of the flap straps is preferably adjusted in such
a manner that in the second open position, in other words after the
flap 6 has been swung over following an unfastening of the
fastenings 60 and 62, the flap 6 extends, preferably partially,
below the compartment 4.
[0097] In the second open position, the flap preferably extends
over a distance d of more than 10 cm, more than 20 cm, more than 30
cm, below the base 10 of the compartment 4. The flap 6 preferably
extends in such a manner as to protect the top of the buttocks,
particularly the kidneys, arteries and iliac veins.
[0098] The width d' of the flap is preferably greater than 20 cm,
preferably greater than 25 cm, preferably greater than 30 cm.
[0099] In a preferred embodiment, the fastenings 60, 61 and 62 are
magnetic fastenings.
[0100] In a preferred embodiment, the flap is detachable from the
rest of the backpack. The wearer may therefore use it as a guard,
particularly for protecting the face.
[0101] To allow the flap to be detached, each flap strap 100 and
101 may, for example, be made up of two parts fixed to the
compartment and to the flap, respectively, and fastened to one
another by means of Velcro.RTM.-type self-fastening strips.
Alternatively, the closures 40 and 41 may be deactivatable by
simply pulling on the flap. For example, they may be magnetic.
[0102] The flap dimensions are preferably calculated to allow a
face to be covered. The flap preferably exhibits a general bowl
shape, in such a manner that the head is able to engage with it up
to a facial protection position. The flap 6 then advantageously
allows the sides of the head to be likewise protected.
[0103] In one embodiment, the flap 6 is pierced with one or a
plurality of vision holes 102, allowing the wearer to see in front
of him in the facial protection position. Each vision hole
preferably exhibits a surface of less than 5 cm.sup.2, preferably
less than 3 cm.sup.2, preferably less than 2 cm.sup.2, preferably
less than 1 cm.sup.2, preferably less than 0.5 cm.sup.2, preferably
less than 0.25 cm.sup.2 and/or preferably greater than 0.01
cm.sup.2, preferably greater than 0.05 cm.sup.2, preferably greater
than 0.1 cm.sup.2, preferably greater than 0.2 cm.sup.2.
Discreetness and security are improved by this.
[0104] When it is observed from the front, as shown in FIG. 3, the
flap exhibits a surface area of more than 1600 cm.sup.2, preferably
more than 1800 cm.sup.2, preferably more than 2000 cm.sup.2,
preferably more than 2200 cm.sup.2, preferably more than 2500
cm.sup.2.
[0105] More preferably, the flap comprises a flap handle 103
allowing the flap to be gripped. The flap handle 103 is preferably
fixed in such a manner that the wearer is able to keep the flap 6
in front of his face without exposing the hand holding onto the
flap handle.
[0106] The flap handle is preferably fixed to the inner face 105 of
the flap, in other words to the face of the flap which is exposed
towards the compartment in the closed position depicted in FIG.
1.
[0107] More preferably, the flap comprises at least right and left
flap handles fixed to the flap sides, preferably to the lateral
edges 36 of the flap, preferably to the inner face 105 of the flap.
The wearer is preferably able to pull on the right and left flap
handles with his right and left hands, respectively, in order to
put the flap against the facial protection position. The vision
holes 102 are then preferably substantially opposite the eyes of
the wearer.
[0108] The flap handle or handles are preferably made of fabric.
They may, in particular, take the shape of a cord or ribbon
loop.
[0109] More preferably, the flap comprises an anti-trauma plate
107, made of Kevlar for example, preferably ceramic. An anti-trauma
plate, known per se, exhibits a high degree of rigidity which
advantageously limits trauma to the body resulting from an impact
from a high-calibre bullet. An anti-trauma plate is preferably
inserted in the front edge 32 and the rear edge 30, as shown in
FIG. 3, and, again preferably, in the lateral edges 36.
[0110] Preferably more than 50%, preferably more than 60%,
preferably more than 70%, preferably more than 80%, preferably more
than 90%, preferably more than 95%, preferably 100% of the flap
surface is protected by at least one anti-trauma plate.
[0111] The bullet-proof shield 50 preferably comprises a main body
104 and a right wing 106 and a left wing 108 which protect the
sides of the wearer in the deployed position.
[0112] The right and left wings can fold back against the main body
of the shield in the storage position. Preferably, however, they
are fixed to the main body in such a manner that they tend to move
away elastically from said main body. Hence, they advantageously
allow the front and rear faces of the compartment to be kept spaced
apart and therefore to simulate a filling of the compartment.
Moreover, in the deployed position, this spacing apart increases
the speed with which said wings are positioned against the sides of
the wearer and therefore improves their protection. In the storage
position, the pressure exerted by the shield preferably determines
the outer shape of the compartment.
[0113] The shield 50 preferably exhibits an upper edge 52 and a
lower edge 54 extending substantially horizontally. The lower edge
54 preferably contains an indentation 56 allowing the wearer's head
to pass through. The upper edge 52 exhibits a pull-type handle 58
which extends to the outside of the compartment in the storage
position, crossing a passage between the flap and the edge of the
opening 20. This passage may, in particular, take the shape of one
or a plurality of slots.
[0114] The length of the shield, in other words the greatest
distance between the upper edge 52 and the lower edge 54, is
preferably greater than 40 cm, preferably greater than 50 cm,
preferably greater than 60 cm, even greater than 70 cm.
Advantageously, the wearer does not need to wear the shield in the
deployed position permanently. Unlike a conventional bullet-proof
vest, the shield may therefore be longer in length, thereby
ensuring maximum protection without getting in the way of the
wearer, particularly when he is seated.
[0115] The shape of the pull-type handle is not limiting. The
pull-type handle 58 is preferably bow-shaped, the two ends 59a and
59b being fixed to the upper edge 52 of the shield. The bow shape,
in other words a closed loop shape, of the pull-type handle allows
it to be hooked by the wearer. In particular, the pull-type handle
may be caught hold of by a single finger, without there being any
risk of the pull-type handle sliding and slipping away.
[0116] The fixing points of said ends 59a and 59b to the shield are
preferably spaced apart at a distance 1 greater than 8 cm,
preferably greater than 10 cm, preferably greater than 12 cm,
preferably greater than 14 cm, than 18 cm, than 20 cm, than 25 cm,
than 30 cm.
[0117] When the shield is in the storage position, as shown in FIG.
1, the backpack being disposed vertically, the pull-type handle
upwards, the pull-type handle preferably projects beyond the
compartment by a height greater than 5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, 25
cm and, preferably, projects beyond the top S of the flap, in the
closed position, by a height greater than 5 cm, 8 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm,
20 cm, 25 cm.
[0118] Preferably, as shown in FIG. 1, the pull-type handle extends
in the storage position below the top S of the flap, preferably on
the inside of the compartment (in other words, below the upper edge
119 of the opening of the compartment), to a height h' of less than
10 cm, preferably less than 7 cm, preferably less than 5 cm and/or
more than 2 cm, more than 3 cm.
[0119] More preferably, the pull-type handle is self-supporting, in
other words, in the storage position, in the absence of any contact
other than with the compartment, the flap and the shield, the
pull-type handle is kept in a substantially vertical plane, as
shown in FIG. 1.
[0120] The inventors have performed numerous tests and have
discovered that these characteristics assist with gripping
considerably and allow the shield to be deployed more quickly.
Moreover, they allow the wearer to catch hold of the pull-type
handle with the right hand or the left hand, which is particularly
advantageous when the wearer is injured.
[0121] In order to make deployment still easier, the shoulder
straps 45 are preferably adjusted in such a manner that the upper
part of the handle 58 is disposed at neck height, preferably at the
height of the nape of the neck.
[0122] The pull-type handle 58 is preferably made from a strip,
preferably of fabric, wound around itself widthways in such a
manner as to constitute a hollow tube. The width of the strip
before it is wound around may be greater than 10 mm, than 15 mm,
than 20 mm and/or less than 35 mm, than 30 mm. The strip may, in
particular, be made of polyester.
[0123] The pull-type handle preferably exhibits a resistance
greater than 1300 daN, than 1500 daN, than 1700 daN, than 1800
daN.
[0124] The length of the pull-type handle is preferably greater
than 20 cm, than 25 cm, than 30 cm and/or less than 45 cm, than 40
cm, a length of 35 cm being ideally suited.
[0125] In order to stiffen the pull-type handle, the strip forming
the tube preferably contains a stiffening flange, preferably made
of metal or polymer. In one embodiment, three steel strands 3 mm in
diameter or a flange with a 10.7 mm diameter made of woven
polyamide may be introduced into the lumen of the tube. The length
of the flange introduced into the tube is preferably greater than
25 cm and/or smaller than 30 cm, preferably smaller than the length
of the tube.
[0126] The pull-type handle preferably has a thickness e of less
than 10 mm, preferably less than 8 mm, which allows it to be hooked
using the hand or using a finger. The thickness of the pull-type
handle is the smallest dimension in a transverse cross section of
said pull-type handle. The thickness e is preferably less than 10
mm, preferably less than 8 mm, whatever the cross section of the
pull-type handle under consideration.
[0127] At least one fastening 60-62 is preferably disposed on
either side of the pull-type handle and, in the event that the
pull-type handle is in the shape of a bow, at least one fastening
is disposed between the two fixing points of the pull-type handle
on the flap.
[0128] The rear side 30 of the flap has a rear edge 34 preferably
including notches 63 disposed to allow the pull-type handle of the
shield to pass through when the flap is in the closed position. The
existence of notches 63 prevents the rear edge 34 from tilting the
pull-type handle and thereby allows said pull-type handle to be
kept in a substantially vertical position.
[0129] In the storage position, the shield preferably extends
against the rear face 14 of the compartment. The shield is
preferably immobilised in the compartment in such a manner that it
does not rest on the base 10 of the compartment. The shield is not
therefore deformed, which preserves its protective capacity in the
deployed position.
[0130] More preferably, in the storage position the shield is in
contact with the compartment. In particular, it is preferably not
housed in a casing.
[0131] In the storage position, the shield is preferably suspended
in the compartment.
[0132] To this end, the shield preferably comprises a tongue
preferably projecting from the side 52 of the shield and capable of
being introduced into a corresponding housing formed on the
compartment, for example by means of a strap, two opposite,
preferably substantially vertical, sides of which are sewn to the
compartment.
[0133] The suspension device is preferably of the MOLLE or "modular
light weight load carrying equipment" type.
[0134] In a preferred embodiment, the shield comprises two tongues
110 and 112, or "feet", projecting from the upper edge 52 of the
shield and being housed in the storage position in respective
housings 114 and 118, preferably formed by one or a plurality of
straps 115 sewn to the rear face 14 of the compartment, as shown in
FIG. 5.
[0135] At least the part of the tongue which is introduced into an
housing is preferably stiffened, for example by means of an insert
or by superposing a plurality of pieces of straps. The rigidity of
a tongue preferably makes it self-supporting. It preferably allows
it to remain planar, even when it is held by its end fixed to the
shield, vertically and horizontally. Advantageously, this
facilitates its insertion into the corresponding housing but
likewise its removal from said housing. A tongue preferably
exhibits a length greater than 2 cm, greater than 3 cm, greater
than 4 cm and/or less than 7 cm, less than 6 cm.
[0136] The tongues advantageously enable a precise positioning of
the shield in the compartment to be guaranteed. This positioning is
determined in order to allow the shield to be removed.
[0137] The suspension tongues are preferably disposed on either
side of the pull-type handle 58. The shield preferably complies
with at least one of the standards referred to in US
2009/014490.
[0138] More preferably, the shield is suspended in the storage
position in such a manner that its upper edge 52 extends at less
than 10 cm, at less than 7 cm, at less than 5 cm, at less than 4 cm
from the upper edge 119 defining the opening 20 of the compartment.
This speeds up deployment of the shield. Moreover, the pull-type
handle remains permanently accessible.
[0139] More preferably, the shield is suspended in the storage
position in such a manner that its upper edge 52 extends by more
than 1 cm, more than 2 cm, more than 3 cm from the upper edge 119
defining the opening 20 of the compartment. The pull-type handle
may thereby be supported on the compartment, which improves its
maintenance in the vertical position.
[0140] The lower edge 54 of the shield is linked to the compartment
4, preferably to the rear face of the compartment 4, by means of
two shield straps 74 and 76 disposed in such a manner that they
each rest on one of the wearer's shoulders in the deployed
position. Each shield strap therefore comprises one end fixed to
the shield, preferably to the lower edge 54 of the shield, and one
end fixed on the inside of the compartment 4, preferably to the
rear face of said compartment, preferably at less than 20 cm,
preferably at less than 10 cm, from the base 10 of the
compartment.
[0141] The length of the shield straps is preferably adjustable, in
order to be adapted to the shape of the wearer.
[0142] The shield straps are preferably elastic, so that they can
be lengthened when the wearer pulls on the pull-type handle 58.
Their fixing proximate to the base 10 of the compartment
advantageously allows their lengthening capacity to be
maximised.
[0143] In a preferred embodiment, the shield straps take the shape
of a tubular casing, either elastic or non-elastic, preferably
non-elastic, made of polyester for example, and contain an elastic
cable, preferably two cables, preferably three elastic cables. The
resistance of the tubular strap is preferably greater than 1000
daN, than 1100 daN, than 1200 daN.
[0144] The length of the tubular strap is preferably substantially
equal to the length of the elastic cable after it has been
lengthened. In the idle position, the tubular strap is preferably
folded, such that it can be lengthened, even if it is not elastic
or is less elastic than the flange or the elastic cables.
[0145] For optimum resistance, each elastic cable is preferably
made up of a plurality of strands, preferably made of rubber or
elastomer, preferably covered with a textile sheath.
[0146] Of course, a shield strap may only be elastic over a
fraction of its length.
[0147] More preferably, each shield strap comprises a fitting which
allows it to be detached from the shield and/or the
compartment.
[0148] The backpack preferably comprises a sleeve 120 in which a
shield belt 122 can be housed, at least one free end of the shield
belt projecting beyond the sleeve. By pulling this free end, the
wearer can, following deployment of the shield, draw close to said
free end of the shield, then fix it, preferably in a deactivatable
manner, to said shield. The fixing may, in particular, be
guaranteed by Velcro.RTM.-type self-fastening strips.
[0149] The shield belt preferably comprises right 124 and left 126
free ends projecting to the right and left of the wearer and which
the wearer can pull until he can fix them to the shield in the
deployed position.
[0150] A portion, preferably a substantially central portion, of
the shield belt is fixed to the compartment, preferably inside of
the sleeve, for example by means of Velcro.RTM.-type self-fastening
strips.
[0151] In one embodiment, the sleeve comprises right and left
openings from which the right free end 124 and the left free end
126, respectively, project from the shield belt. More preferably,
the sleeve is in the shape of a strip, one edge whereof, preferably
an upper edge, is fixed to the compartment and one edge, preferably
a lower edge opposite said upper edge, is temporarily fixed to the
compartment, for example by means of Velcro.RTM.-type
self-fastening strips. By pulling the upper edge, the wearer is
therefore able to access the part of the shield belt disposed in
the sleeve. This access in particular allows the shield belt to be
stored inside the sleeve.
[0152] More preferably, the shield belt is fixed in a deactivatable
manner, for example by means of Velcro.RTM.-type self-fastening
strips, such that when the backpack is in use with the shield in
the storage position, the shield belt cannot emerge from said
sleeve. Hence, the length of the free ends of the shield belt which
project beyond the sleeve remain constant provided the wearer does
not pull up.
[0153] The free right end 124 and/or the free left end 126 of the
shield belt is/are preferably provided with fastenings 128, for
example with clip fastenings. These fastenings may advantageously
constitute decoys, making it appear that the shield belt is a
lumbar belt of the kind traditionally used for backpacks. These
fastenings, which are preferably mock, allow two free ends of the
shield belt to be removed from the sleeve and said free ends to be
fixed to the shield in the deployed position. The front face 130 of
the shield, in other words the face that is exposed towards the
outside in the deployed position, preferably comprises
Velcro.RTM.-type self-fastening strips 132 which are capable of
cooperating with corresponding strips fixed to the free ends of the
shield belt, in order to keep the shield in the deployed position.
The shield belt may therefore be advantageously deployed and fixed
to the shield very quickly.
[0154] In one embodiment, the fastenings of the shield belt are not
mock and can be fixed one to the other. The wearer may therefore
use the shield belt as a conventional lumbar belt when the shield
is in the storage position. However the shield belt comprises means
for fixing the shield in the deployed position, for example a
Velcro.RTM.-type self-fastening strip.
[0155] In a preferred embodiment, the shield belt comprises two
self-fastening strips, preferably Velcro.RTM.-type, on each of its
two faces, respectively, disposed in such a manner as to be able to
hook corresponding strips disposed on each of the two large faces
of the shield, respectively. The shield may therefore be
advantageously connected and fixed to the shield belt when the
wearer is already using the shield belt (the face of the main part
of the shield which covers the wearer's torso is fixed to the face
exposed to the outside of the shield belt) or the free ends of the
shield belt may be connected to the shield which is already in the
deployed position (the inner face of each free end of the shield
belt is fixed to the face exposed to the outside of the main part
of the shield).
[0156] The front face of the shield preferably comprises MOLLE-type
strips 84 for fixing tools, traditionally used for military
equipment. In particular, the strips 84 may receive a firearm
case.
[0157] A carrying handle is preferably fixed to the compartment, in
order to allow the backpack to be carried by hand, particularly
with the shield in the storage position.
[0158] In a preferred embodiment, the carrying handle is fixed in
such a manner as to resist snatching at a force of 800 N,
preferably of 1000 N, preferably of 1200 N, preferably of 1500 N,
preferably of 2000 N. The carrying handle may therefore
advantageously act as a removal handle so that, where appropriate,
a person can draw on the wearer when he can no longer move without
assistance, in the event of injury for example.
[0159] The carrying handle can preferably be immobilised in a
deactivatable manner on the compartment, for example by means of a
Velcro.RTM.-type self-fastening system.
[0160] Advantageously, there is therefore no risk of the wearer
confusing the carrying handle for the pull-type handle when wearing
the backpack.
[0161] The backpack preferably looks like a city bag and does not
comprise a lumbar belt other than, optionally, the shield belt.
[0162] Operation
[0163] In the initial position, the backpack is worn by the wearer
in the conventional manner with the shoulder straps resting on the
wearer's shoulders and the optional lumbar belt being fixed in such
a manner as to wrap around the wearer, traditionally substantially
level with the navel or the sternum. The shield is in the storage
position at this point, the flap 6 being in the closed position,
closing the opening 20 of the compartment 4. The tongues of the
shield are housed in the corresponding housings in the rear face 14
of the compartment, which prevents the shield from becoming
deformed by resting on the base of the compartment and allows the
shield to be positioned in such a manner as to allow it to be
removed from the compartment. The pull-type handle projects from
the compartment 4, emerging from said compartment between the rear
edge 34 of the flap and the edge of the compartment delimiting the
opening 20. The pull-type handle thereby extends behind the head of
the wearer. The fastenings 60 and 62 are in the fastened position
and the closures 40 and 42 are in the closed position. The carrying
handle is kept against the compartment 4, preferably in such a
manner that only the pull-type handle can be accessed by the
wearer. The shield belt is stored in its housing, except for its
two free ends which extend further, on the right and on the left,
respectively, such that they can easily be grabbed by the
wearer.
[0164] In the initial position, the small-sized backpack is
perfectly discreet and resembles a city backpack, the pull-type
handle easily being mistaken for the carrying handles traditionally
fitted to this type of backpack.
[0165] In order to deploy the shield, the wearer grips the
pull-type handle 58 and pulls it upwards. This pulling action,
through the action of the shield, causes the fastenings 60 and 62
to unfasten. Because the fastenings are magnetic, pulling with only
one hand is sufficient to unfasten them. With the fastenings 60 and
62 in the unfastened position, the flap 6 swings into the second
open position under the effect of the shield emerging from the
compartment. Under the effect of gravity, the flap falls until it
is held in a suspended position by the flap straps and the closures
40 and 42 (second open position). Because the flap is reinforced,
it can then protect the lower back, including the wearer's
buttocks.
[0166] A second bulletproof shield, preferably made of a material
identical to that of the shield 50, is preferably fixed to the
front face or the rear face, preferably to the rear face of the
backpack. The second shield is preferably formed to guarantee
protection certified to NIJ-IIIA, NIJ-III or NIJ-IV, preferably at
least to NIJ-III.
[0167] The flap allows the protection guaranteed by this second
bulletproof shield to be extended to protect the wearer's back in
the deployed position.
[0168] After the pulling action, the shield straps which hold the
shield on the compartment stretch.
[0169] Their elasticity then allows them to lengthen and thereby
increase the gap between the shield and the opening of the
compartment. This makes it easy for the wearer to pass the shield
over his head and to lower it onto his torso, even if he is wearing
a combat helmet or a motorcycle helmet.
[0170] After passing it over his head, the wearer lowers the shield
so that it rests on his stomach.
[0171] The wings of the shield are then able to protect the
wearer's sides.
[0172] The elasticity of the shield straps is preferably determined
so that the shield immediately lifts towards the wearer's neck once
the wearer has stopped pulling on the pull-type handle. The wearer
thereby benefits from immediate protection of the upper part of his
torso, a region that it is particularly crucial to protect.
[0173] The provision of the pull-type handle above the backpack
allows it to be grasped very easily and, in conjunction with the
elasticity of the straps, allows particularly quick deployment.
Tests have shown that deployment is possible within less than 2
seconds, which, to the inventors' knowledge, constitutes
unparalleled performance.
[0174] Moreover, the configuration of the pull-type handle allows
the wearer to keep the shield on his stomach easily, which is
particularly useful if the wearer has to move, for example run,
before having been able to fix the shield belt to the shield. The
rigidity of the pull-type handle is preferably determined so that
the shield does not move laterally when the wearer runs while
holding said pull-type handle.
[0175] Next, the wearer grabs the free ends of the shield belt.
[0176] The wearer then pulls on the two free ends of the shield
belt, which allows the length of the sections of the shield belt
projecting beyond the sleeve to be increased. The wearer can then
lower these sections of the shield belt to the shield. The
Velcro.RTM.-type self-fastening strips fixed to said free ends and
to the shield may then cooperate in order to keep the shield
effectively against the torso and stomach of the wearer. The wearer
is then optimally protected, without the shield inhibiting his
movements. Moreover, tests have shown that deployment of the shield
belt is possible in less than 2 seconds.
[0177] The front face of the shield preferably comprises a sleeve
for a firearm. This means that the wearer can advantageously access
his firearm as soon as the shield is deployed.
[0178] Where required, for example after taking cover, the wearer
may detach the flap and use it as a guard, particularly in order to
protect his face. However the vision holes will allow him to
continue observing his environment.
[0179] As is clear in the present case, a backpack according to the
invention is very discreet when the shield is in the storage
position, can be deployed extremely quickly, then guarantee
effective protection with a high degree of comfort, particularly in
a region of the back which is not covered by the compartment of the
backpack. The invention is not of course limited to the embodiments
described and represented, these being provided for descriptive
purposes and not intended to be limiting in nature. In particular,
the number and shape of the fastenings, closures or pull and
carrying handles are not limiting. For example, the fastenings
could be realised with the help of Velcro.RTM.-type self-fastening
strips or with snap fasteners. The backpack may likewise not
comprise fastenings or closures. The fastenings may likewise attach
the shield and the flap and not the flap and the compartment.
[0180] The closures 40 and 41 which are used to suspend the flap in
the second open position, could likewise be replaced or
supplemented by any other suspension element, for example by a
strap attaching the flap and the compartment.
* * * * *