U.S. patent application number 16/407035 was filed with the patent office on 2019-08-29 for ballistic-resistant garment having an incrementally adjustable fit.
This patent application is currently assigned to Angel Armor, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Angel Armor, LLC. Invention is credited to Ross M. Hinschberger, Ryan M. Miller, Alan V. Morine, William T. Smith, Matthew J. Wellman.
Application Number | 20190265005 16/407035 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 67684363 |
Filed Date | 2019-08-29 |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20190265005 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wellman; Matthew J. ; et
al. |
August 29, 2019 |
Ballistic-Resistant Garment Having An Incrementally Adjustable
Fit
Abstract
A ballistic-resistant garment having an incrementally-adjustable
fit, and methods of making and using such a ballistic-resistant
garment, whereby the ballistic-resistant garment includes a front
panel having a front panel pocket configured to receive a first
ballistic-resistant insert; a back panel having a back panel pocket
configured to receive a second ballistic-resistant insert; a front
panel first fastener coupled to the front panel; and a plurality of
discrete back panel first fasteners coupled in spaced apart
relation to the back panel, whereby each of the discrete back panel
first fasteners is configured to matably engage with the front
panel first fastener to provide a first pair of releasably engaged
fasteners which couple the front and back panels to fasten the
ballistic-resistant garment about a torso of a wearer.
Inventors: |
Wellman; Matthew J.; (Fort
Collins, CO) ; Morine; Alan V.; (Fort Collins,
CO) ; Hinschberger; Ross M.; (Cheyenne, WY) ;
Smith; William T.; (Fort Collins, CO) ; Miller; Ryan
M.; (Wellington, CO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Angel Armor, LLC |
Fort Collins |
CO |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Angel Armor, LLC
Fort Collins
CO
|
Family ID: |
67684363 |
Appl. No.: |
16/407035 |
Filed: |
May 8, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15451225 |
Mar 6, 2017 |
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16407035 |
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15407155 |
Jan 16, 2017 |
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15451225 |
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62279202 |
Jan 15, 2016 |
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62278811 |
Jan 14, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41H 1/02 20130101; A41D
1/04 20130101; A41D 13/0518 20130101; F41H 5/013 20130101; A41D
13/0153 20130101; A41D 13/0568 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41H 5/013 20060101
F41H005/013; F41H 1/02 20060101 F41H001/02; A41D 1/04 20060101
A41D001/04; A41D 13/015 20060101 A41D013/015; A41D 13/05 20060101
A41D013/05 |
Claims
1-41. (canceled)
42. A ballistic-resistant garment, comprising: a front panel having
a front panel pocket configured to receive a first
ballistic-resistant plate; a back panel having a back panel pocket
configured to receive a second ballistic-resistant plate; a front
panel first fastener coupled to said front panel; an elongate
member coupled to said back panel; a plurality of discrete back
panel first fasteners coupled to said elongate member in spaced
apart relation, each of said discrete back panel first fasteners
configured to matably engage with said front panel first fastener
to provide a first pair of releasably engaged fasteners which
couple said front and back panels to fasten said
ballistic-resistant garment about a torso of a wearer; and a cover
configured to overlay said elongate member.
43. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 42, said cover
configured to overlay an elongate member outer surface of said
elongate member.
44. (canceled)
45. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 43, said cover
resiliently stretchable.
46. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 45, said cover
resiliently stretchable along a cover length.
47. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 46, furthering
comprising a resiliently stretchable panel disposed between
opposing cover right and left ends.
48. (canceled)
49. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 43, said cover
removably couplable to said back panel.
50. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 49, said cover
removably couplable to said elongate member.
51. (canceled)
52. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 43, further
comprising: a cover first attachment element coupled to said cover;
and a front panel first attachment element coupled to said front
panel; said cover first attachment element configured to matably
engage with said front panel first attachment element to provide a
first pair of releasably engaged attachment elements which couple
said cover to said front panel.
53. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 52, further
comprising: a cover second attachment element coupled to said
cover; and a front panel second attachment element coupled to said
front panel; said cover second attachment element configured to
matably engage with said front panel second attachment element to
provide a second pair of releasably engaged attachment elements
which couple said cover to said front panel.
54. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 53, said cover first
attachment element and said front panel first attachment element
comprising a mechanical-magnetic connecting structure.
55. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 54, said cover second
attachment element and said front panel second attachment element
also comprising said mechanical-magnetic connecting structure.
56. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 53, further comprising
a hook and loop securement system; one hook or loop element coupled
to a cover inner surface and the corresponding other hook or loop
element coupled to a front panel outer surface.
57. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 56, further comprising
a cover first hook or loop element coupled to said cover to dispose
outwardly in relation to said cover first attachment element; and a
cover second hook or loop element coupled to said cover to dispose
outwardly in relation to said cover second attachment element.
58. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 57, further comprising
a front panel first hook or loop element coupled to said front
panel to dispose inwardly in relation to said front panel first
attachment element; and a front panel second hook or loop element
coupled to said front panel to dispose inwardly in relation to said
front panel second attachment element.
59. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 43, further comprising
one or more slits disposed within said cover.
60. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 43, further comprising
a plurality of slits disposed within said cover in horizontally
spaced apart relation.
61. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 43, further comprising
one or more pockets disposed within said cover.
62. A ballistic-resistant garment, comprising: a front panel having
a front panel pocket configured to receive a first
ballistic-resistant plate; a back panel having a back panel pocket
configured to receive a second ballistic-resistant plate; a front
panel first fastener coupled to said front panel; a back panel
first fastener coupled to said back panel, said back panel first
fastener configured to matably engage with said front panel first
fastener to provide a first pair of releasably engaged fasteners
which couple said front and back panels to fasten said
ballistic-resistant garment about a torso of a wearer; and a cover
configured to overlay said first pair of releasably engaged
fasteners.
63. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 62, further
comprising: a front panel second fastener coupled to said front
panel; and a back panel second fastener coupled to said back panel,
said back panel second fastener configured to matably engage with
said front panel second fastener to provide a second pair of
releasably engaged fasteners which couple said front and back
panels to fasten said ballistic-resistant garment about a torso of
a wearer; said cover configured to overlay said first and second
pair of releasably engaged fasteners.
64. The ballistic-resistant garment of claim 63, further
comprising: a plurality of discrete back panel first fasteners
coupled to said back panel in generally horizontal spaced apart
relation, each of said discrete back panel first fasteners
configured to matably engage with said front panel first fastener
to provide said first pair of releasably engaged fasteners; and a
plurality of discrete back panel second fasteners coupled to said
back panel in generally horizontal spaced apart relation, each of
said discrete back panel second fasteners configured to matably
engage with said front panel second fastener to provide said second
pair of releasably engaged fasteners.
Description
[0001] This United States patent application is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
15/451,225, filed Mar. 6, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 15/407,155, filed Jan. 16, 2017, which
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
62/279,202, filed Jan. 15, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/278,811, filed Jan. 14, 2016, each hereby
incorporated by reference herein.
I. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A broad object of a particular embodiment of the invention
can be to provide a ballistic-resistant garment having an
incrementally-adjustable fit, and methods of making and using such
a ballistic-resistant garment, whereby the ballistic-resistant
garment includes a front panel having a front panel pocket
configured to receive a first ballistic-resistant insert; a back
panel having a back panel pocket configured to receive a second
ballistic-resistant insert; a front panel first fastener coupled to
the front panel; and a plurality of discrete back panel first
fasteners coupled in spaced apart relation to the back panel,
whereby each of the discrete back panel first fasteners is
configured to matably engage with the front panel first fastener to
provide a first pair of releasably engaged fasteners which couple
the front and back panels to fasten the ballistic-resistant garment
about a torso of a wearer.
II. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a method of using a particular
embodiment of the inventive ballistic-resistant garment to protect
a torso of a wearer from ballistic threats.
[0004] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
the inventive ballistic-resistant garment.
[0005] FIG. 2B is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive ballistic-resistant garment, whereby front and back panel
left sides are coupled together by matable engagement of at least
one discrete back panel fastener with at least one front panel
fastener to provide at least one pair of releasably engaged
fasteners.
[0006] FIG. 2C is a rear view of the particular embodiment of the
inventive ballistic-resistant garment shown in FIG. 2B.
[0007] FIG. 2D is a left side view of the particular embodiment of
the inventive ballistic-resistant garment shown in FIG. 2B.
[0008] FIG. 2E is a right side view of the particular embodiment of
the inventive ballistic-resistant garment shown in FIG. 2B.
[0009] FIG. 2F is a top view of the particular embodiment of the
inventive ballistic-resistant garment shown in FIG. 2B.
[0010] FIG. 2G is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of the
inventive ballistic-resistant garment shown in FIG. 2B.
[0011] FIG. 3A is a front view of a particular embodiment of a
front panel of the inventive ballistic-resistant garment.
[0012] FIG. 3B is a front view of a particular embodiment of a
front panel of the inventive ballistic-resistant garment, whereby
front panel fasteners are fixedly coupled to elongate connectors
which are slidably engaged with slits disposed in the front
panel.
[0013] FIG. 3C is a rear view of the particular embodiment of the
front panel shown in FIG. 3B.
[0014] FIG. 3D is a left side view of the particular embodiment of
the front panel shown in FIG. 3B.
[0015] FIG. 3E is a right side view of the particular embodiment of
the front panel shown in FIG. 3B.
[0016] FIG. 3F is a top view of the particular embodiment of the
front panel shown in FIG. 3B.
[0017] FIG. 3G is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of the
front panel shown in FIG. 3B.
[0018] FIG. 4A is a front view of a particular embodiment of a back
panel of the inventive ballistic-resistant garment.
[0019] FIG. 4B is a front view of a particular embodiment of a back
panel of the inventive ballistic-resistant garment, whereby an
elongate member is coupled to the back panel and a plurality of
discrete back panel fasteners are coupled in spaced apart relation
to the elongate member proximate opposing elongate member ends.
[0020] FIG. 4C is a rear view of the particular embodiment of the
back panel shown in FIG. 4B.
[0021] FIG. 4D is a right side view of the particular embodiment of
the back panel shown in FIG. 4B.
[0022] FIG. 4E is a left side view of the particular embodiment of
the back panel shown in FIG. 4B.
[0023] FIG. 4F is a top view of the particular embodiment of the
back panel shown in FIG. 4B.
[0024] FIG. 4G is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of the
back panel shown in FIG. 4B.
[0025] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a front of a particular
embodiment of an elongate connector of the inventive
ballistic-resistant garment, whereby a pair of front panel
fasteners are fixedly coupled to the elongate connector.
[0026] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a back of the elongate
connector shown in FIG. 5A.
[0027] FIG. 5C is a front view of the elongate connector shown in
FIG. 5A.
[0028] FIG. 5D is a rear view of the elongate connector shown in
FIG. 5A.
[0029] FIG. 5E is a right side view of the elongate connector shown
in FIG. 5A, but whereby the front panel fasteners are outwardly
exploded from the elongate connector.
[0030] FIG. 5F is a left side view of the elongate connector shown
in FIG. 5A, but whereby the front panel fasteners are outwardly
exploded from the elongate connector.
[0031] FIG. 5G is a top view of the elongate connector shown in
FIG. 5A, but whereby the front panel fasteners are outwardly
exploded from the elongate connector.
[0032] FIG. 5H is a bottom view of the elongate connector shown in
FIG. 5A, but whereby the front panel fasteners are outwardly
exploded from the elongate connector.
[0033] FIG. 6A is a front view of a particular embodiment of an
unfurled elongate member of the inventive ballistic-resistant
garment, whereby a plurality of discrete back panel fasteners are
coupled in spaced apart relation to the elongate member proximate
opposing elongate member ends.
[0034] FIG. 6B is a rear view of the particular embodiment of the
elongate member shown in FIG. 6A.
[0035] FIG. 6C is a front view of a particular embodiment of an
unfurled elongate member of the inventive ballistic-resistant
garment, whereby a plurality of discrete back panel fasteners are
coupled in spaced apart relation to the elongate member proximate
opposing elongate member ends, and whereby some of the plurality of
discrete back panel fasteners are matably engaged with front panel
fasteners fixedly coupled to elongate connectors.
[0036] FIG. 6D is an enlarged view of the pair of back panel first
fasteners matably engaged with the pair of front panel first
fasteners shown in FIG. 6C.
[0037] FIG. 6E is an enlarged view of the pair of back panel second
fasteners matably engaged with the pair of front panel second
fasteners shown in FIG. 6C.
[0038] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a front of a particular
embodiment of an elongate connector of the inventive
ballistic-resistant garment, whereby a front panel fastener is
fixedly coupled to the elongate connector.
[0039] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a back of the elongate
connector shown in FIG. 7A.
[0040] FIG. 7C is a front view of the elongate connector shown in
FIG. 7A.
[0041] FIG. 7D is a rear view of the elongate connector shown in
FIG. 7A.
[0042] FIG. 7E is a right side view of the elongate connector shown
in FIG. 7A, but whereby the front panel fastener is outwardly
exploded from the elongate connector.
[0043] FIG. 7F is a left side view of the elongate connector shown
in FIG. 7A, but whereby the front panel fastener is outwardly
exploded from the elongate connector.
[0044] FIG. 7G is a top view of the elongate connector shown in
FIG. 7A, but whereby the front panel fastener is outwardly exploded
from the elongate connector.
[0045] FIG. 7H is a bottom view of the elongate connector shown in
FIG. 7A, but whereby the front panel fastener is outwardly exploded
from the elongate connector.
[0046] FIG. 8 is a front view of a particular embodiment of an
unfurled elongate member of the inventive ballistic-resistant
garment, whereby a plurality of discrete back panel fasteners are
coupled in spaced apart relation to the elongate member proximate
opposing elongate member ends, and whereby some of the plurality of
discrete back panel fasteners are matably engaged with front panel
fasteners fixedly coupled to elongate connectors.
[0047] FIG. 9 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive ballistic-resistant garment including a cover overlaying
an elongate member proximate a right side of the garment.
[0048] FIG. 10A is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive ballistic-resistant garment showing a cover in relation
to the garment, whereby the cover is coupled to a front panel right
side.
[0049] FIG. 10B is a rear view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive ballistic-resistant garment showing a cover in relation
to the garment.
[0050] FIG. 11A is an outside view of a particular embodiment of an
unfurled cover of the inventive ballistic-resistant garment.
[0051] FIG. 11B is an inside view of the cover shown in FIG.
11A.
[0052] FIG. 12 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive ballistic-resistant garment showing a front panel
including front panel attachment elements and front panel hook or
loop elements.
[0053] FIG. 13A is an outside view of a particular embodiment of an
unfurled elongate member of the inventive ballistic-resistant
garment.
[0054] FIG. 13B is an inside view of the elongate member shown in
FIG. 13A.
[0055] FIG. 13C is an inside view of a particular embodiment of a
cover in overlaying engagement with the elongate member shown in
FIG. 13B.
[0056] FIG. 14A is an outside view of a particular embodiment of an
unfurled cover of the inventive ballistic-resistant garment,
whereby the cover includes a plurality of slits.
[0057] FIG. 14B is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive ballistic-resistant garment including the cover of FIG.
14A coupled to a front panel right side.
[0058] FIG. 14C is a rear view of a particular embodiment of the
inventive ballistic-resistant garment showing the cover of FIG. 14A
in relation to the garment.
III. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0059] Now referring primarily to FIG. 1, which illustrates a
method of using a particular embodiment of the inventive
ballistic-resistant garment (1) having an incrementally-adjustable
fastening system (2). A wearer (3) can wear the ballistic-resistant
garment (1) about a torso (4) to protect the torso (4) from
ballistic threats, whereby the ballistic-resistant garment (1)
includes a front panel (5) having a front panel pocket (6)
configured to receive a first ballistic-resistant insert (7), a
back panel (8) having a back panel pocket (9) configured to receive
a second ballistic-resistant insert (10), and a front panel first
fastener (11) coupled to the front panel (5). The
ballistic-resistant garment (1) further includes a plurality of
discrete back panel first fasteners (12) coupled in spaced apart
relation to the back panel (8), whereby each of the discrete back
panel first fasteners (12) is configured to matably engage with the
front panel first fastener (11) to provide a first pair of
releasably engaged fasteners (13) which couple the front and back
panels (5)(8) to fasten the ballistic-resistant garment (1) about
the torso (4) of the wearer (3).
[0060] The term "torso" for the purposes of this invention means
the trunk of a human body, the trunk excluding the head, neck, and
limbs. The torso can be divided into a front torso and a back
torso, the front torso encompassing the anterior portion of the
trunk of the human body, including the chest and the abdomen, the
back torso encompassing the posterior portion of the trunk of the
human body, including the back.
[0061] The term "front" for the purposes of this invention relates
to an anterior portion. Correspondingly, the front panel (5) of the
ballistic-resistant garment (1) means the portion of the
ballistic-resistant garment (1) configured to be worn about the
anterior portion of the human body.
[0062] The term "back" for the purposes of this invention relates
to a posterior portion. Correspondingly, the back panel (8) of the
ballistic-resistant garment (1) means the portion of the
ballistic-resistant garment (1) configured to be worn about the
posterior portion of the human body.
[0063] The term "right" for the purposes of this invention means a
right portion of a subject, such as a wearer (3), or a portion of a
component of the ballistic-resistant garment (1) which would
dispose proximate the right portion of the wearer (3) when the
wearer (3) wears the ballistic-resistant garment (1).
[0064] The term "left" for the purposes of this invention means a
left portion of a subject, such as a wearer (3), or a portion of a
component of the ballistic-resistant garment (1) which would
dispose proximate the left portion of the wearer (3) when the
wearer (3) wears the ballistic-resistant garment (1).
[0065] The term "pocket" for the purposes of this invention means a
receptacle configured to receive or contain one or more
ballistic-resistant inserts (7)(10), or other items.
[0066] The term "ballistic-resistant insert" for the purposes of
this invention means a three-dimensionally shaped object, whether
flat or contoured, which can have any applicable perimeter shape,
whether regular or irregular, which can be capable of slowing or
stopping one or more insults, such as a high velocity projectile,
for example via one or more energy-absorbing mechanisms. The
ballistic resistant insert (7)(8) can be generally rigid,
semi-rigid, flexible, or combinations thereof, depending upon the
application.
[0067] Now referring primarily to FIG. 3A through FIG. 3G, the
ballistic-resistant garment (1) includes a front panel (5)
configured to be worn about a front torso of a wearer (3), whereby
the front panel (5) has a front panel length (14) extending between
opposing front panel upper and lower ends (15)(16) and a front
panel width (17) extending between opposing front panel right and
left sides (18)(19) (as shown in the example of FIG. 3B). Each of
the front panel length and width (14)(17) can have any of a
numerous and wide variety of dimensional relations provided that in
combination, the dimensional relations are such that the front
panel length and width (14)(17) sufficiently cover the front torso
of the wearer (3), whether partially or completely.
[0068] Now referring primarily to FIG. 4A through FIG. 4G and akin
to the front panel (5), the ballistic-resistant garment (1) further
includes a back panel (8) configured to be worn about a back torso
of a wearer (3), whereby the back panel (8) has a back panel length
(20) extending between opposing back panel upper and lower ends
(21)(22) and a back panel width (23) extending between opposing
back panel right and left sides (24)(25) (as shown in the example
of FIG. 4B). Each of the back panel length and width (20)(23) can
have any of a numerous and wide variety of dimensional relations
provided that in combination, the dimensional relations are such
that the back panel length and width (20)(23) sufficiently cover
the back torso of the wearer (3), whether partially or
completely.
[0069] As to particular embodiments, the front and back panels
(5)(8) can together form a vest-like ballistic resistant garment
(1), which can be generally sleeveless (as shown in the examples of
the Figures); however, the invention need not be limited to this
configuration.
[0070] Now referring primarily to FIG. 3A through FIG. 4G, each of
the front and back panels (5)(8) has a corresponding front or back
panel pocket (6)(9) configured to receive a corresponding first or
second ballistic-resistant insert (7)(10).
[0071] Again referring primarily to FIG. 3A through FIG. 4G, as to
particular embodiments, each panel (5)(8) can be configured from
first and second materials (26)(27) disposed in overlaying
engagement to form the pocket (6)(9) which defines a pocket
interior space therebetween. Accordingly, the first and second
materials (26)(27) can be coupled proximate corresponding first and
second material peripheries (29)(30) except proximate a pocket
opening (31) through which a ballistic-resistant insert (7)(10) can
be passed for receipt within the pocket interior space.
[0072] Again referring primarily to FIG. 3A through FIG. 4G, as to
particular embodiments, the first and second materials (26)(27) can
be coupled proximate corresponding first and second material
peripheries (29)(30) which extend along the panel upper end
(15)(21) and the panel right and left sides (18)(24)(19)(25) to
dispose the pocket opening (31) proximate the panel lower end
(16)(22).
[0073] To secure one or more ballistic-resistant inserts (7)(10)
within the pocket interior space, a securement system (32) can be
coupled to the first and second materials (26)(27) proximate the
pocket opening (31), whereby the securement system (32) can include
any of a numerous and wide variety of adhesives or mechanical
fasteners, depending upon the application. As but one illustrative
example, the first and second materials (26)(27) can be coupled
together proximate the pocket opening (31) by a hook and loop
securement system (32), whereby one of the hook and loop elements
is coupled to the first material (26) proximate the pocket opening
(31) and the other of the hook and loop elements is coupled to
second material (27) proximate the pocket opening (31).
[0074] The first and second materials (26)(27) can be formed from
any of a numerous and wide variety of fabrics or fabric-like
materials, whether woven or non-woven, depending upon the
application. As but one illustrative example, the first material
(26), which can outwardly dispose when the ballistic-resistant
garment (1) is worn about the torso (4) of the wearer (3), can be a
flexible, durable, stain-resistant fabric, such as nylon or
polyester; and, the second material (27), which can inwardly
dispose when the ballistic-resistant garment (1) is worn about the
torso (4) of the wearer (3), can be a breathable fabric, such as
mesh or mesh-like fabric, which, as to particular embodiments, can
also have antimicrobial properties.
[0075] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, FIG. 3B
through FIG. 3G, and FIG. 4B through FIG. 4G, the
ballistic-resistant garment (1) further includes a front panel
first fastener (11) coupled to the front panel (5); and a plurality
of discrete back panel first fasteners (12) coupled in spaced apart
relation to the back panel (8), whereby each of the discrete back
panel first fasteners (12) is configured to matably engage with the
front panel first fastener (11) to provide a first pair of
releasably engaged fasteners (13) which couple the front and back
panels (5)(8) to fasten the ballistic-resistant garment (1) about
the torso (4) of the wearer (3).
[0076] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, and FIG.
4B through FIG. 4G, the ballistic-resistant garment (1) can, but
need not necessarily, further include a plurality of discrete back
panel second fasteners (33) coupled in spaced apart relation to the
back panel (8), whereby each of the discrete back panel second
fasteners (33) is configured to matably engage with the front panel
first fastener (11) to provide a second pair of releasably engaged
fasteners (34) which couple the front and back panels (5)(8) to
fasten the ballistic-resistant garment (1) about the torso (4) of
the wearer (3).
[0077] As to particular embodiments, the plurality of discrete back
panel first fasteners (12) can be coupled in spaced apart relation
to the back panel (8) proximate the back panel right side (24) and
the plurality of discrete back panel second fasteners (33) can be
coupled in spaced apart relation to the back panel (8) proximate
the back panel left side (25).
[0078] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, and FIG.
3B through FIG. 3G, the ballistic-resistant garment (1) can, but
need not necessarily, further include a front panel second fastener
(35) coupled to the front panel (5). Following, each of the
discrete back panel first fasteners (12) can be configured to
matably engage with the front panel first fastener (11) to provide
the first pair of releasably engaged fasteners (13), and each of
the discrete back panel second fasteners (33) can be configured to
matably engage with the front panel second fastener (35) to provide
the second pair of releasably engaged fasteners (34).
[0079] As to particular embodiments, the front panel first fastener
(11) can be coupled to the front panel (5) proximate the front
panel right side (18); thus, one of the plurality of discrete back
panel first fasteners (12) coupled in spaced apart relation to the
back panel (8) proximate the back panel right side (24) can matably
engage with the front panel first fastener (11) to provide the
first pair of releasably engaged fasteners (13) which couple the
front and back panels (5)(8) to fasten the ballistic-resistant
garment (1) about a right side portion of the torso (4) of the
wearer (3).
[0080] Respectively, the front panel second fastener (35) can be
coupled to the front panel (5) proximate the front panel left side
(19); thus, one of the plurality of discrete back panel second
fasteners (33) coupled in spaced apart relation to the back panel
(8) proximate the back panel left side (25) can matably engage with
the front panel second fastener (35) to provide the second pair of
releasably engaged fasteners (34) which couple the front and back
panels (5)(8) to fasten the ballistic-resistant garment (1) about a
left side portion of the torso (4) of the wearer (3).
[0081] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, FIG. 4B
through FIG. 4G, FIG. 6A, and FIG. 6B, the ballistic-resistant
garment (1) can, but need not necessarily, further include an
elongate member (36) coupled to the back panel (8), the elongate
member (36) having an elongate member length (37) disposed between
opposing elongate member right and left ends (38)(39), whereby the
plurality of discrete back panel first fasteners (12) can be
coupled in generally horizontal spaced apart relation to the
elongate member (36) proximate the elongate member right end (38)
and whereby the plurality of discrete back panel second fasteners
(33) can be coupled in generally horizontal spaced apart relation
to the elongate member (36) proximate the elongate member left end
(39).
[0082] As to particular embodiments having the front panel first
fastener (11) coupled to the front panel (5) proximate the front
panel right side (18) and the plurality of discrete back panel
first fasteners (11) coupled in generally horizontal spaced apart
relation to the elongate member (36) proximate the elongate member
right end (38), one of the plurality of discrete back panel first
fasteners (12) can matably engage with the front panel first
fastener (11) to provide the first pair of releasably engaged
fasteners (13) which couple the front and back panels (5)(8) to
fasten the ballistic-resistant garment (1) about a right side
portion of the torso (4) of the wearer (3).
[0083] Similarly, as to particular embodiments having the front
panel second fastener (35) coupled to the front panel (5) proximate
the front panel left side (19) and the plurality of discrete back
panel second fasteners (33) coupled in generally horizontal spaced
apart relation to the elongate member (36) proximate the elongate
member left end (39), one of the plurality of discrete back panel
second fasteners (33) can matably engage with the front panel
second fastener (35) to provide the second pair of releasably
engaged fasteners (34) which couple the front and back panels
(5)(8) to fasten the ballistic-resistant garment (1) about a left
side portion of the torso (4) of the wearer (3).
[0084] Now referring primarily to FIG. 6C and FIG. 8, upon matable
engagement to provide the first and second pair of releasably
engaged fasteners (13)(34), the elongate member (36) couples to the
front panel (5) to have a coupled elongate member length (40)
between the back panel first fastener (12) which is matably engaged
with the front panel first fastener (11) and the back panel second
fastener (33) which is matably engaged with the front panel second
fastener (35).
[0085] A lesser coupled elongate member length (40) can be achieved
by matably engaging back panel first and second fasteners (12)(33)
which dispose a lesser distance apart along the elongate member
length (37) with corresponding front panel first and second
fasteners (11)(35), in relation to matably engaging back panel
first and second fasteners (12)(33) which dispose a greater
distance apart along the elongate member length (37) with
corresponding front panel first and second fasteners (11)(35),
whereby the lesser coupled elongate member length (40) may be
useful for customizing the fit of the ballistic-resistant garment
(1) for a wearer (3) with lesser torso dimensional relations, such
as a lesser distance encircling the torso (4), versus a wearer (3)
with greater torso dimensional relations.
[0086] Likewise, a greater coupled elongate member length (40) can
be achieved by matably engaging back panel first and second
fasteners (12)(33) which dispose a greater distance apart along the
elongate member length (27) with corresponding front panel first
and second fasteners (11)(35), in relation to matably engaging back
panel first and second fasteners (12)(33) which dispose a lesser
distance apart along the elongate member length (37) with
corresponding front panel first and second fasteners (11)(35),
whereby the greater coupled elongate member length (40) may be
useful for customizing the fit of the ballistic-resistant garment
(1) for a wearer (3) with greater torso dimensional relations, such
as a greater distance encircling the torso (4), versus a wearer (3)
with lesser torso dimensional relations.
[0087] Upon customization of the fit of the ballistic-resistant
garment (1) via use of the incrementally-adjustable fastening
system (2), the wearer (3) can note the particular back panel first
and second fasteners (12)(33) which matably engage with
corresponding front panel first and second fasteners (11)(35) to
provide the customized fit. Following, upon wearing the
ballistic-resistant garment (1) again, the wearer (3) can achieve a
repeatable fit by matably engaging the noted back panel first and
second fasteners (12)(33) with corresponding front panel first and
second fasteners (11)(35), thereby duplicating the customized fit
without having to conjecture regarding the fit and consequently,
having to potentially readjust the fit multiple times, as may be
mandated by non-incremental or continuous conventional fastening
systems, such as hook and loop fastening systems.
[0088] As to particular embodiments, the elongate member (36) can,
but need not necessarily, be provided as a pair of elongate members
(36), each of the pair of elongate members (36) having opposing
elongate member right and left ends (38)(39), whereby each of the
pair of elongate members (36) can be discretely adjusted to provide
pairs of releasably engaged fasteners (13)(34). Following, the pair
of elongate member right ends (38) may or may not vertically align
with one another, depending upon the discrete adjustment of each of
the pair of elongate members (36). Likewise, the pair of elongate
member left ends (39) may or may not vertically align with one
another, depending upon the discrete adjustment of each of the pair
of elongate members (36).
[0089] Each of the back panel fasteners (12)(33) can be configured
as any of a numerous and wide variety of discrete fasteners which
can matably engage with a front panel fastener (11)(35) to provide
a pair of releasably engaged fasteners (13)(34).
[0090] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, FIG. 4B
through FIG. 4G, FIG. 6A through FIG. 6E, and FIG. 8, as but one
illustrative example, the back panel fasteners (12)(33) can be
configured as aperture elements (41) which dispose in generally
horizontal spaced apart relation in the elongate member (36)
proximate the elongate member ends (38)(39), whereby each aperture
element (41) defines an aperture element opening (42) which
communicates between opposing elongate member outer and inner
surfaces (43)(44). Correspondingly, each front panel fastener
(11)(35) can be configured as a mating protrusion (45) which can be
received within the aperture element opening (42) to provide the
pair of releasably engaged fasteners (13)(34).
[0091] Now referring primarily to FIG. 6D and FIG. 6E, as to
particular embodiments, each aperture element opening (42) can be
in communication with a slot opening (46) defined by a slot (47),
whereby the slot opening (46) also communicates between opposing
elongate member outer and inner surfaces (43)(44). Additionally,
the slot opening (46) has a slot opening width (48) which has
lesser dimensional relations than the aperture element opening
(42).
[0092] The material in which the aperture elements (41) and the
slots (47) are disposed can be any of a numerous and wide variety
of fabrics or fabric-like materials, whether woven or non-woven,
depending upon the application. As but one illustrative example,
the material can be a flexible, durable fabric, such as
chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSPE) synthetic rubber (CSM) (52) or
a similar elastomer, with like physical and mechanical properties,
chemical resistance, thermal properties, and/or environmental
performance.
[0093] Accordingly, as to particular embodiments, portions of the
elongate member (36) proximate the elongate member ends (38)(39) in
which the aperture elements (41) and the slots (47) dispose in
generally horizontal spaced apart relation can be formed from CSM
(52), although as to other particular embodiments, the entirety of
the elongate member (36) can be formed from CSM.
[0094] Referring to the former embodiments described directly
above, the elongate member (36) can additionally be formed from a
resiliently stretchable material (53) to further enhance the fit of
the ballistic-resistant garment (1) about the torso (4) of the
wearer (3) as well as to enhance the mobility of the wearer (3). As
but one illustrative example, the portions of the elongate member
(36) proximate the elongate member ends (38)(39) in which the
aperture elements (41) and the slots (47) dispose in generally
horizontal spaced apart relation can be formed from CSM (52) and
the portions of the elongate member (36) inwardly adjacent to each
of the elongate member ends (38)(39) can be formed from the
resiliently stretchable material (53).
[0095] Now referring primarily to FIG. 4A through FIG. 4G, as to
particular embodiments, the elongate member (36) can removably
couple to the back panel (8), such as by any of a numerous and wide
variety of adhesives or mechanical fasteners, depending upon the
application. As but one illustrative example, the elongate member
(36) can couple to the back panel (8) via a hook and loop
securement system (32), whereby one of the hook and loop elements
(54) can be coupled to the elongate member inner surface (44) and
the other of the hook and loop elements (55) can be coupled to a
back panel outer surface (56).
[0096] Now referring primarily to FIG. 4B, as to particular
embodiments, the height (57) of the hook and loop element (55)
coupled to the back panel outer surface (56) can be greater than
the width of the elongate member (36). Thus, the elongate member
(36) can adjustably couple to the back panel (8) along the height
(57) of the hook and loop element (55) coupled to the back panel
outer surface (56) and, correspondingly, can adjustably couple to
the back panel (8) along a portion of the back panel length
(20).
[0097] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, FIG. 3B
through FIG. 3G, FIG. 5A through FIG. 5H, and FIG. 7A through FIG.
7H, as to particular embodiments whereby the back panel fasteners
(12)(33) are configured as communicating aperture elements (41) and
slots (47) which dispose in generally horizontal spaced apart
relation in the elongate member (36) proximate the elongate member
ends (38)(39) (as described above), each front panel fastener
(11)(35) can be configured as a mating protrusion (45) which can be
received within the corresponding aperture element opening (42) and
slot opening (46) to provide a pair of releasably engaged fasteners
(13)(34).
[0098] Again referring primarily to FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, FIG.
3B through FIG. 3G, FIG. 5A through FIG. 5H, and FIG. 7A through
FIG. 7H, as but one illustrative example, the protrusion (45) can
be configured as a headed pin (49) having a head (50) outwardly
extending from a shank (51) which couples to the front panel (5),
whereby the circumference of the head (50) is greater than the
circumference of the shank (51), thereby facilitating functioning
of the head (50) as a stop element.
[0099] Following, for matable engagement of the headed pin (49)
with the slot (47), the head (50) can be passed through the
aperture element opening (42) in a first direction so that the
shank (51) can be received within the aperture element opening
(42). Further, the shank (51) can then be passed from the aperture
element opening (42) to the slot opening (46) whereby, upon receipt
within the slot opening (46), the head (50) can engage with the
slot (47) to stop the head (50) from passing through the slot
opening (46) and thus, matably engaging the headed pin (49) with
the slot (47) to provide a pair of releasably engaged fasteners
(13)(34).
[0100] For disengagement of the pair of releasably engaged
fasteners (13)(34), the shank (51) can be passed from the slot
opening (46) to the aperture element opening (42). Following, the
head (50) can be passed through the aperture element opening (42)
in a second direction which opposes the first direction.
[0101] Again referring primarily to FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, FIG.
3B through FIG. 3G, and FIG. 5A through FIG. 5H, as to particular
embodiments, each front panel fastener (11)(35), such as a headed
pin (49), can be adjustably coupled to the front panel (5) such
that the front panel fastener (11)(35) can be adjustably positioned
along the front panel width (17) and, as to particular embodiments,
also along the front panel length (14).
[0102] Now referring primarily to FIG. 5A through FIG. 5H, and FIG.
7A through FIG. 7H, as to particular embodiments, the front panel
fastener (11)(13) can be fixedly coupled to a connector (58),
whereby the connector (58) can be configured to adjustably couple
to the front panel (5). As but one illustrative example, the
connector (58) can be an elongate connector (58) configured for
slidable engagement with a slit (59) disposed in the front panel
(5).
[0103] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, and FIG.
3A through FIG. 3H, a plurality of slits (59) can be disposed in
generally horizontal spaced apart relation in the front panel (5)
along the front panel width (17). Accordingly, a front panel first
fastener (11) can be fixedly coupled to a first elongate connector
(60), whereby the first elongate connector (60) can be adjustably
coupled to the front panel (5) along the front panel width (17) by
slidable engagement with a slit (59) disposed proximate the front
panel right side (18). Thus, one of the plurality of discrete back
panel first fasteners (12) coupled in spaced apart relation to the
back panel (8) proximate the back panel right side (24) can matably
engage with the front panel first fastener (11) to provide the
first pair of releasably engaged fasteners (13) which couple the
front and back panels (5)(8) to fasten the ballistic-resistant
garment (1) about a right side portion of the torso (4) of the
wearer (3).
[0104] Respectively, a front panel second fastener (35) can be
fixedly coupled to a second elongate connector (61), whereby the
second elongate connector (61) can be adjustably coupled to the
front panel (5) along the front panel width (17) by slidable
engagement with a slit (59) disposed proximate the front panel left
side (19). Thus, one of the plurality of discrete back panel second
fasteners (33) coupled in spaced apart relation to the back panel
(8) proximate the back panel left side (25) can matably engage with
the front panel second fastener (35) to provide the second pair of
releasably engaged fasteners (34) which couple the front and back
panels (5)(8) to fasten the ballistic-resistant garment (1) about a
left side portion of the torso (4) of the wearer (3).
[0105] Now referring primarily to FIG. 3B, upon matable engagement
to provide the first and second pair of releasably engaged
fasteners (13)(34), the first and second elongate connectors
(60)(61) can dispose a distance (62) apart along the front panel
width (17). A lesser distance (62) may be useful for customizing
the fit of the ballistic-resistant garment (1) for a wearer (3)
with lesser torso dimensional relations, such as a lesser distance
encircling the torso (4), versus a wearer (3) with greater torso
dimensional relations. Conversely, a greater distance (62) may be
useful for customizing the fit of the ballistic-resistant garment
(1) for a wearer (3) with greater torso dimensional relations, such
as a greater distance encircling the torso (4), versus a wearer (3)
with lesser torso dimensional relations.
[0106] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, and FIG.
3A through FIG. 3H, as to particular embodiments, a plurality of
slits (59) can also be disposed in generally vertical spaced apart
relation in the front panel (5) along the front panel length (14).
Accordingly, the elongate connector (60)(61) and correspondingly,
the front panel fastener (11)(35) can be adjustably coupled to the
front panel (5) along the front panel length (14).
[0107] Additionally, the elongate connector (60)(61) can be woven
through a plurality of vertically-aligned slits (59) for an
enhanced connection with the front panel (5).
[0108] Now referring primarily to FIG. 5A through FIG. 5H, and FIG.
7A through FIG. 7H, as but one illustrative example, the elongate
connector (60)(61) can be configured to have at least one clip
(63), clip-like element (63), hook (63), hook-like element (63), or
the like, proximate an elongate connector end (64), which can
function as a stop element, thereby stopping that elongate
connector end (64) from passing through the slit (59).
[0109] Now referring primarily to FIG. 7A through FIG. 7H, as to
particular embodiments, only one front panel fastener (11)(35) can
be coupled to the elongate connector (60)(61).
[0110] Now referring primarily to FIG. 5A through FIG. 5H, as to
other particular embodiments, two or more front panel fasteners
(11)(35) can be coupled to the elongate connector (60)(61).
[0111] Now referring primarily to FIG. 1, FIG. 3A, and FIG. 4A, as
to particular embodiments, the ballistic-resistant garment (1) can,
but need not necessarily, further include a pair of strap elements
(65) which couple the front and back panels (5)(8) together
proximate the corresponding front and back panel upper ends
(15)(22).
[0112] As to particular embodiments, the pair of strap elements
(65) can connect to the ballistic-resistant insert (7)(10) received
within the pocket (6)(9), which may be helpful for load-bearing
weight distribution.
[0113] Now referring primarily to FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and FIG. 4D
through FIG. 4G, as to particular embodiments, the
ballistic-resistant garment (1) can, but need not necessarily,
further include a support loop (66) coupled to the back panel (8)
proximate the back panel outer surface (56), whereby the support
loop (66) can be configured to support a portion of the elongate
member (36). Further, the support loop (66) can function to
preclude the elongate member (36) from vertical movement along the
back panel length (20).
[0114] Now referring primarily to FIG. 9 through FIG. 14C, as to
particular embodiments, the ballistic-resistant garment (1) can,
but need not necessarily, further include a cover (67) configured
to overlay the elongate member (36) to effectively cover or lie
over the elongate member (36), thereby concealing or hiding the
elongate member (36) from sight. When in overlaying engagement with
the elongate member (36), a cover inner surface (68) of the cover
(67) can dispose in (i) adjacent or (ii) directly adjacent relation
to an elongate member outer surface (43) of the elongate member
(36).
[0115] As to particular embodiments, the cover (67) can partially
overlay the elongate member outer surface (43). As to other
particular embodiments, the cover (67) can overlay an entirety of
the elongate member outer surface (43).
[0116] Now referring primarily to FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B, the cover
(67) can include one or more cover panels (69), whereby a cover
panel (69) can be formed from one or more layers. Regarding the
latter, a cover panel (69) can be formed from a plurality of layers
coupled together proximate their peripheries, whereby the layers
can be the same or different, depending upon the embodiment.
[0117] The cover panel (69) can be formed from any of a numerous
and wide variety of materials, such as fabrics or fabric-like
materials, whether woven or non-woven, depending upon the
application. As but one illustrative example, the cover panel (69)
can be a flexible, durable, stain-resistant fabric, such as nylon
or polyester. As to particular embodiments, the cover panel (69)
can be formed from the same material as the front and back panels
(5)(8).
[0118] Again referring primarily to FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B, the
cover (67) can include a cover length (70) disposed between
opposing cover right and left ends (71)(72), whereby the cover (67)
can be resiliently stretchable to provide a variable cover length
(70). As to particular embodiments, the cover (67) can include a
resiliently stretchable panel (73) disposed between the cover right
and left ends (71)(72). As to particular embodiments, the
resiliently stretchable panel (73) can be medially disposed between
the cover right and left ends (71)(72), whereby one or more cover
panels (69) can be coupled or connected to each of the right and
left ends of the resiliently stretchable panel (73), thus flanking
the resiliently stretchable panel (73).
[0119] Now referring primarily to FIG. 11A, FIG. 11B, and FIG. 13A
through FIG. 13C, as to particular embodiments, the cover (67) can
removably couple to the elongate member (36) or the back panel (8),
such as by any of a numerous and wide variety of adhesives or
mechanical fasteners, depending upon the application. As but one
illustrative example, the cover (67) can couple to the elongate
member (36) via a hook and loop securement system (32), whereby one
of the hook and loop elements (54) can be coupled to a cover inner
surface (68) and the other of the hook and loop elements (55) can
be coupled to an elongate member outer surface (43).
[0120] Now referring primarily to FIG. 10A, FIG. 11B, and FIG. 12,
as to particular embodiments, the cover (67) can removably couple
to the front panel (5) to overlay the elongate member (36). As to
particular embodiments, the cover (67) can include at least one
cover first attachment element (74) coupled to the cover (67) (for
example, coupled to the cover inner surface (68)), and the front
panel (5) can include at least one front panel first attachment
element (75) coupled to the front panel (5) (for example, coupled
to a front panel outer surface (76)), whereby the cover first
attachment element (74) is configured to matably engage with the
front panel first attachment element (75) to provide a first pair
of releasably engaged attachment elements which couple the cover
(67) to the front panel (5).
[0121] As to particular embodiments, the cover (67) can further
include at least one cover second attachment element (78) coupled
to the cover (67) (for example, coupled to the cover inner surface
(68)), and the front panel (5) can include at least one front panel
second attachment element (79) coupled to the front panel (5) (for
example, coupled to the front panel outer surface (76)), whereby
the cover second attachment element (78) is configured to matably
engage with the front panel second attachment element (79) to
provide a second pair of releasably engaged attachment elements
which couple the cover (67) to the front panel (5).
[0122] As to particular embodiments, the cover first attachment
element (74) can be coupled to the cover (67) proximate the cover
right end (71), and the cover second attachment element (78) can be
coupled to the cover (67) proximate the cover left end (72).
[0123] As to particular embodiments, the front panel first
attachment element (75) can be coupled to the front panel (5)
proximate the front panel right side (18); thus, the cover first
attachment element (74) can matably engage with the front panel
first attachment element (75) to provide the first pair of
releasably engaged attachment elements which couple the cover (67)
to the front panel (5) proximate a right side portion of the torso
(4) of the wearer (3).
[0124] Likewise, the front panel second attachment element (79) can
be coupled to the front panel (5) proximate the front panel left
side (19); thus, the cover second attachment element (78) can
matably engage with the front panel second attachment element (79)
to provide the second pair of releasably engaged attachment
elements which couple the cover (67) to the front panel (5)
proximate a left side portion of the torso (4) of the wearer
(3).
[0125] Now referring primarily to FIG. 11B and FIG. 12, a
particular embodiment of the cover (67) can include a pair of cover
first attachment elements (74) coupled to the cover inner surface
(68) in vertically spaced apart relation proximate the cover right
end (71), and a pair of cover second attachment elements (78)
coupled to the cover inner surface (68) in vertically spaced apart
relation proximate the cover left end (72). Following, a particular
embodiment of the front panel (5) can include a pair of front panel
first attachment elements (75) coupled to the front panel outer
surface (76) in correspondingly vertical spaced apart relation
proximate the front panel right side (18), and a pair of front
panel second attachment elements (79) coupled to the front panel
outer surface (76) in correspondingly vertical spaced apart
relation proximate the front panel left side (19).
[0126] As to particular embodiments, (i) the cover first attachment
element (74) and the front panel first attachment element (75)
and/or (ii) the cover second attachment element (78) and the front
panel second attachment element (79) can be provided by a
mechanical-magnetic connecting structure. Each mechanical-magnetic
connecting structure can include a first connecting module and a
second connecting module which can be arranged on each other in a
closing direction and can be mechanically latched to each other in
a closed position. Additionally, the mechanical-magnetic connecting
structure can include magnetic means which establish a magnetic
attraction force between the first and second connecting modules to
assist the transfer of the first and second connecting modules into
the closed position. The first connecting module can be released
from the second connecting module by means of a movement of the
first connecting module or a part of the first connecting module in
an opening direction that differs from the closing direction,
whereby the magnetic means counteract movement of the first
connecting module in the opening direction.
[0127] As but one illustrative example, the mechanical-magnetic
connecting structure can be similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat.
No. 8,794,682, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in
its entirety.
[0128] As but a second illustrative example, the
mechanical-magnetic connecting structure can be a SNAP fastener,
which can be obtained from Fidlock GmbH, Hindenburgstra e 37, 30175
Hannover, Germany. Of course, any mechanical-magnetic connecting
structure having a similar functionality to this product may also
be used, such as any product which combines a magnetic fastener
with a mechanical snap fastener.
[0129] As to particular embodiments, the cover first attachment
element (74) can be provided by the first connecting module and the
front panel first attachment element (75) can be provided by the
second connecting module.
[0130] As to particular embodiments, the cover first attachment
element (74) can be provided by the second connecting module and
the front panel first attachment element (75) can be provided by
the first connecting module.
[0131] As to particular embodiments, the cover second attachment
element (78) can be provided by the first connecting module and the
front panel second attachment element (79) can be provided by the
second connecting module.
[0132] As to particular embodiments, the cover second attachment
element (78) can be provided by the second connecting module and
the front panel second attachment element (79) can be provided by
the first connecting module.
[0133] Now referring primarily to FIG. 10A, FIG. 11B, and FIG. 12,
the cover (67) can removably couple to the front panel (5) to
overlay the elongate member (36) via an additional coupling system
and in particular, via a hook and loop securement system (32),
whereby one of the hook and loop elements can be coupled to the
cover inner surface (68) and the other of the hook and loop
elements can be coupled to the front panel outer surface (76).
[0134] Now referring primarily to FIG. 11B, as to particular
embodiments, a cover first hook or loop element (81) can be coupled
to the cover (67) proximate the cover right end (71), and a cover
second hook or loop element (82) can be coupled to the cover (67)
proximate the cover left end (72).
[0135] Now referring primarily to FIG. 12, as to particular
embodiments, a front panel first hook or loop element (83) can be
coupled to the front panel (5) proximate the front panel right side
(18); thus, the cover first hook or loop element (81) can matably
engage with the front panel first hook or loop element (83) to
provide a hook and loop securement system (32) which couples the
cover (67) to the front panel (5) proximate a right side portion of
the torso (4) of the wearer (3).
[0136] Respectively, a front panel second hook or loop element (84)
can be coupled to the front panel (5) proximate the front panel
left side (19); thus, the cover second hook or loop element (82)
can matably engage with the front panel second hook or loop element
(84) to provide a hook and loop securement system (32) which
couples the cover (67) to the front panel (5) proximate a left side
portion of the torso (4) of the wearer (3).
[0137] Regarding the cover (67), each cover hook or loop element
(81)(82) can be disposed peripherally (or toward the corresponding
cover end (71)(72) as opposed to toward a cover middle), as the
securement system (32) may be useful to ensure that the cover ends
(71)(72) closely overlay the front panel (5). In other words, this
securement system (32) can preclude the cover ends (71)(72) from
"sticking out" or disposing outwardly from the front panel outer
surface (76). Thus, the cover hook or loop element (81)(82)
proximate each corresponding cover end (71)(72) can be disposed
outwardly of the respective cover first and second attachment
elements (74)(78). Specifically, the cover first hook or loop
element (81) can dispose outwardly of the cover first attachment
element (74), and the cover second hook or loop element (82) can
dispose outwardly of the cover second attachment element (78).
[0138] Regarding the front panel (5), each front panel hook or loop
element (83)(84) can be disposed inwardly (or toward the center of
the front panel (5) as opposed to toward a periphery of the front
panel (5)) in relation to the respective front panel first and
second attachment elements (75)(79). Specifically, the front panel
first hook or loop element (83) can dispose inwardly of the front
panel first attachment element (75), and the front panel second
hook or loop element (84) can dispose inwardly of the front panel
second attachment element (79).
[0139] Now referring primarily to FIG. 14A through FIG. 14C, as to
particular embodiments, the cover (67) can include at least one
slit (59) disposed therein. As to particular embodiments, the slit
(59) can be disposed in a cover outer surface (85).
[0140] As to particular embodiments, a plurality of slits (59) can
be disposed in generally horizontal spaced apart relation within
the cover (67) along the cover length (70). Accordingly, an
elongate connector (60) can be adjustably coupled to the cover (5)
along the cover length (70) by slidable engagement with a slit
(59).
[0141] As to particular embodiments, a plurality of slits (59) can
also be disposed in generally vertical spaced apart relation within
the cover (67) along a cover width (86). Accordingly, an elongate
connector can be woven through a plurality of vertically-aligned
slits (59) for an enhanced connection with the cover (5).
[0142] Now referring primarily to FIG. 10A, FIG. 11B, FIG. 13C, and
FIG. 14B, as to particular embodiments, the cover (67) can include
one or more pockets (87) disposed therein. As but one illustrative
example, the cover (67) can include one or more pockets (87)
disposed proximate the cover inner surface (68). As to particular
embodiments, the pocket (87) can include a pocket opening (88)
which disposes upwardly.
[0143] A method of making the ballistic-resistant garment (1)
having an incrementally-adjustable fastening system (2) includes
providing a front panel (5) having a front panel pocket (6)
configured to receive a first ballistic-resistant insert (7);
providing a back panel (8) having a back panel pocket (9)
configured to receive a second ballistic-resistant insert (10), and
coupling a front panel first fastener (11) to the front panel (5).
The method further includes coupling a plurality of discrete back
panel first fasteners (12) in spaced apart relation to the back
panel (8), whereby each of the discrete back panel first fasteners
(12) is configured to matably engage with the front panel first
fastener (11) to provide a first pair of releasably engaged
fasteners (13) which couple the front and back panels (5)(8) to
fasten the ballistic-resistant garment (1) about the torso (4) of
the wearer (3).
[0144] The method of making the ballistic-resistant garment (1)
having the incrementally-adjustable fastening system (2) can
further include providing additional components of the
ballistic-resistant garment (1) as described above.
[0145] As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic
concepts of the present invention may be embodied in a variety of
ways. The invention involves numerous and varied embodiments of a
ballistic-resistant garment and methods for making and using such a
ballistic-resistant garment, including the best mode.
[0146] As such, the particular embodiments or elements of the
invention disclosed by the description or shown in the figures or
tables accompanying this application are not intended to be
limiting, but rather exemplary of the numerous and varied
embodiments generically encompassed by the invention or equivalents
encompassed with respect to any particular element thereof. In
addition, the specific description of a single embodiment or
element of the invention may not explicitly describe all
embodiments or elements possible; many alternatives are implicitly
disclosed by the description and figures.
[0147] It should be understood that each element of an apparatus or
each step of a method may be described by an apparatus term or
method term. Such terms can be substituted where desired to make
explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this invention is
entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that all
steps of a method may be disclosed as an action, a means for taking
that action, or as an element which causes that action. Similarly,
each element of an apparatus may be disclosed as the physical
element or the action which that physical element facilitates. As
but one example, the disclosure of a "fastener" should be
understood to encompass disclosure of the act of
"fastening"--whether explicitly discussed or not--and, conversely,
were there effectively disclosure of the act of "fastening", such a
disclosure should be understood to encompass disclosure of a
"fastener" and even a "means for fastening". Such alternative terms
for each element or step are to be understood to be explicitly
included in the description.
[0148] In addition, as to each term used it should be understood
that unless its utilization in this application is inconsistent
with such interpretation, common dictionary definitions should be
understood to be included in the description for each term as
contained in the Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary,
second edition, each definition hereby incorporated by
reference.
[0149] All numeric values herein are assumed to be modified by the
term "about", whether or not explicitly indicated. For the purposes
of the present invention, ranges may be expressed as from "about"
one particular value to "about" another particular value. When such
a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one
particular value to the other particular value. The recitation of
numerical ranges by endpoints includes all the numeric values
subsumed within that range. A numerical range of one to five
includes for example the numeric values 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80,
4, 5, and so forth. It will be further understood that the
endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to
the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. When a
value is expressed as an approximation by use of the antecedent
"about," it will be understood that the particular value forms
another embodiment. The term "about" generally refers to a range of
numeric values that one of skill in the art would consider
equivalent to the recited numeric value or having the same function
or result. Similarly, the antecedent "substantially" means largely,
but not wholly, the same form, manner or degree and the particular
element will have a range of configurations as a wearer (2) of
ordinary skill in the art would consider as having the same
function or result. When a particular element is expressed as an
approximation by use of the antecedent "substantially," it will be
understood that the particular element forms another
embodiment.
[0150] Moreover, for the purposes of the present invention, the
term "a" or "an" entity refers to one or more of that entity unless
otherwise limited. As such, the terms "a" or "an", "one or more"
and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein.
[0151] Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to claim at
least: i) each of the ballistic-resistant garments herein disclosed
and described, ii) the related methods disclosed and described,
iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicit variations of each of
these devices and methods, iv) those alternative embodiments which
accomplish each of the functions shown, disclosed, or described, v)
those alternative designs and methods which accomplish each of the
functions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which is
disclosed and described, vi) each feature, component, and step
shown as separate and independent inventions, vii) the applications
enhanced by the various systems or components disclosed, viii) the
resulting products produced by such systems or components, ix)
methods and apparatuses substantially as described hereinbefore and
with reference to any of the accompanying examples, x) the various
combinations and permutations of each of the previous elements
disclosed.
[0152] The background section of this patent application, if any,
provides a statement of the field of endeavor to which the
invention pertains. This section may also incorporate or contain
paraphrasing of certain United States patents, patent applications,
publications, or subject matter of the claimed invention useful in
relating information, problems, or concerns about the state of
technology to which the invention is drawn toward. It is not
intended that any United States patent, patent application,
publication, statement or other information cited or incorporated
herein be interpreted, construed or deemed to be admitted as prior
art with respect to the invention.
[0153] The claims set forth in this specification, if any, are
hereby incorporated by reference as part of this description of the
invention, and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use
all of or a portion of such incorporated content of such claims as
additional description to support any of or all of the claims or
any element or component thereof, and the applicant further
expressly reserves the right to move any portion of or all of the
incorporated content of such claims or any element or component
thereof from the description into the claims or vice-versa as
necessary to define the matter for which protection is sought by
this application or by any subsequent application or continuation,
division, or continuation-in-part application thereof, or to obtain
any benefit of, reduction in fees pursuant to, or to comply with
the patent laws, rules, or regulations of any country or treaty,
and such content incorporated by reference shall survive during the
entire pendency of this application including any subsequent
continuation, division, or continuation-in-part application thereof
or any reissue or extension thereon.
[0154] Additionally, the claims set forth in this specification, if
any, are further intended to describe the metes and bounds of a
limited number of the preferred embodiments of the invention and
are not to be construed as the broadest embodiment of the invention
or a complete listing of embodiments of the invention that may be
claimed. The applicant does not waive any right to develop further
claims based upon the description set forth above as a part of any
continuation, division, or continuation-in-part, or similar
application.
* * * * *