U.S. patent application number 16/967174 was filed with the patent office on 2021-02-04 for guard.
This patent application is currently assigned to LEKISPORT AG. The applicant listed for this patent is LEKISPORT AG. Invention is credited to Eberhard HEIM.
Application Number | 20210030083 16/967174 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005166209 |
Filed Date | 2021-02-04 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210030083 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
HEIM; Eberhard |
February 4, 2021 |
GUARD
Abstract
The present invention relates to a guard (1) having a guard
element (2) on the basis of rigid plastic or metal, which guard
element has a concave rear face (2b) that is curved transversely to
a longitudinal axis (L1) of the guard (1) and partially encloses an
inner space for accommodating the limb of a user, and a convex
front face (2a). The guard composes at least one closing device
(34) for removably fastening the guard element to a limb of the
user while allowing to adjust the size of the guard element.
Inventors: |
HEIM; Eberhard;
(Unterensingen, DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LEKISPORT AG |
Baar |
|
CH |
|
|
Assignee: |
LEKISPORT AG
Baar
CH
|
Family ID: |
1000005166209 |
Appl. No.: |
16/967174 |
Filed: |
February 5, 2019 |
PCT Filed: |
February 5, 2019 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2019/052694 |
371 Date: |
August 4, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 13/0568 20130101;
A41D 13/0543 20130101; A44B 11/065 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A41D 13/05 20060101
A41D013/05; A44B 11/06 20060101 A44B011/06 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 26, 2018 |
CH |
00228/18 |
Claims
1. A guard for protecting a limb of a user, having a guard element
which is formed on the basis of a hard plastic or metal and which
comprises a concave rear side, which is formed in a curved manner
transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis of the guard and
partially encloses an interior space for accommodating a limb of
the user, and a convex front side, wherein the guard comprises at
least one closing apparatus for fastening the guard element to the
limb of the user in a releasable and size-adjustable manner,
wherein the closing apparatus is configured for the selective
continuous or stepwise setting of a wearing width of the guard
element on the limb of the user, and wherein the closing apparatus
comprises a latching closure, a ratchet closure or a clamping
closure.
2. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one tongue is
fastened with a first end in the region of a first side edge of the
guard element, wherein at least one clasp is fastened in the region
of a second side edge of the guard element which lies opposite the
first side edge, or vice versa, and wherein the tongue can be
fastened to the clasp in a releasable manner at different positions
along a longitudinal axis of the tongue.
3. The guard as claimed in claim 2, wherein the clasp comprises a
through-opening for accommodating the tongue.
4. The guard as claimed in claim 3, wherein the clasp comprises a
lever which can be tilted about an axis of rotation which is
arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guard, said lever
being suitable for fastening the tongue to the clasp in a
releasable manner.
5. The guard as claimed in claim 4, wherein the lever comprises a
rolling region which is suitable for fixedly clamping the tongue to
the clasp when the lever is tilted.
6. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein the closing apparatus
is of self-latching configuration.
7. The guard as claimed in claim 2, wherein the tongue comprises
teeth, which are directed in a first direction, for the purposes of
engaging in a corresponding portion on the clasp, wherein the
corresponding portion comprises teeth which are directed in a
second direction opposite to the first direction.
8. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein the closing apparatus
comprises a means for securing the closing apparatus against
unintentional opening.
9. The guard as claimed in claim 8, wherein the means for securing
the closing apparatus against unintentional opening comprises two
lateral tabs which are arranged on the clasp, which stand opposite
one another and which, during simultaneous actuation thereof,
unlock the closing apparatus, in particular by releasing the
tongue.
10. The guard as claimed in claim 2, wherein the tongue is fastened
to the guard element by way of a first fastening tab, and/or
wherein the clasp is fastened to the guard element by way of a
second fastening tab.
11. The guard as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first fastening
tab for the fastening of the tongue is fastened to the guard by way
of at least a first fastening means and/or wherein the second
fastening tab for the fastening of the clasp is fastened to the
guard element by way of at least a second fastening means.
12. The guard as claimed in claim, wherein the closing apparatus
makes stepwise setting of the wearing width possible.
13. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein the closing apparatus
makes continuous setting of the wearing width possible.
14. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein the guard comprises at
least two closing apparatuses which are spaced apart from one
another in relation to the longitudinal axis of the guard.
15. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the
guard element and the closing apparatus is provided at least in
certain regions with an anti-slip material, and wherein the
anti-slip material is an anti-slip lining, an anti-slip coating or
anti-slip fibers or threads which are embedded into a woven fabric
of the guard element or of the closing apparatus.
16. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein it is a shin guard or
forearm guard.
17. The guard as claimed in claim 3, wherein the clasp comprises a
lever which can be tilted about an axis of rotation, said lever
being suitable for fastening the tongue to the clasp a releasable
manner.
18. The guard as claimed in claim 4, wherein the lever comprises a
rolling region, in the form of an eccentric clamping portion, which
is suitable for fixedly clamping the tongue to the clasp when the
lever is tilted.
19. The guard as claimed in claim 2, wherein the tongue comprises
teeth, which are directed in a first direction, for the purposes of
engaging in a corresponding portion on the clasp, wherein the
corresponding portion comprises teeth which are directed in a
second direction opposite to the first direction, and wherein the
tongue is a latching tongue, which comprises a toothing at its
upper side.
20. The guard as claimed in claim 8, wherein the means for securing
the closing apparatus against unintentional opening comprises two
lateral tabs which are arranged on the clasp, which stand opposite
one another and which, during simultaneous actuation thereof,
unlock the closing apparatus, by releasing the tongue.
21. The guard as claimed in claim 2, wherein the tongue is fastened
to the guard element by way of a first fastening tab, and/or
wherein the clasp is fastened to the guard element by way of a
second fastening tab and additionally by way of a clasp band which
is fixed to the second fastening tab.
22. The guard as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first fastening
tab for the fastening of the tongue is fastened to the guard by way
of at least a first fastening means, and said first fastening tab
can be fastened, by way of the first fastening means, selectively
at different alternative positions, along the longitudinal axis of
the guard, and/or wherein the second fastening tab for the
fastening of the clasp is fastened to the guard element by way of
at least a second fastening means, and said second fastening tab
can be fastened, by way of the second fastening means, to the guard
element selectively at different alternative positions, along the
longitudinal axis of the guard.
23. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein the closing apparatus
makes stepwise setting of the wearing width possible, in the form
of stepwise tightening.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of guards for
limbs, in particular shin guards or forearm guards, in particular
for sporting activities in the field of ski sport (in particular in
ski racing, or downhill, giant slalom and slalom), in inline
skating, in hockey, American football, or in other types of sport
in which limbs have to be protected.
PRIOR ART
[0002] On limb guards, fastening elements are typically provided
for fastening the guard to the limb of the user. As described for
example in WO 2014/060171 A1 for a shin guard, these fastening
elements are usually conventional hook-and-loop fastener systems,
such as is also known from the field of orthopedic arm and leg
splints. These systems allow the user to fasten the guard with
differing tightness as desired depending on the width of the limb.
It is disadvantageous here that in order to achieve a widening or
tightening, the hook-and-loop mechanism in each case has to be
completely released, re-applied and re-fixed to correspond to the
desired degree of fastening. As a result of the removal of the
entire guard, the latter has to be re-positioned on the respective
limb, which requires two hands and is time-consuming.
[0003] Latching clasps are known for example in the case of
motorcycle shoes, as disclosed in WO 2012/111033 A1, or else in the
case of helmets or snowboard bindings. U.S. Pat. No. 5,370,133
discloses the use of latching clasps in the case of an orthopedic
leg splint.
[0004] Documents such as, for example, US 2002/020000, US
2015/033433, U.S. Pat. No. 9,551,405 or FR 3011443 disclose guards
which can be fastened with bands to corresponding body parts. If
any longitudinal adjustment is provided, said adjustment thus takes
place by way of a longitudinal setting of the respective band.
[0005] US 2013/267878 discloses a leg prosthesis for the lower leg,
without a guard.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Correspondingly, the problem addressed by the present
invention is that of providing an improved limb guard. In
particular, a gradual, even subsequent setting of the degree of
fastening of the guard to the limb is in this case intended to be
achieved, without needing to re-position the guard. At the same
time, it is intended for one-handed handling, in particular
one-handed setting or adjustment of the wearing width, to be made
possible. The aforementioned problem is solved by a limb guard
(referred to subsequently as "guard") having a guard element which
is formed on the basis of a hard plastic or metal. Preferred
materials are composite or fiber composite materials or
thermoplastics, for example polyamide (PA), polypropylene (PP),
polyethylene (PE). The guard element comprises a concave rear side,
which is formed in a curved manner transversely with respect to a
longitudinal axis of the limb guard and partially encloses an
interior space for accommodating the limb of a user, for example
the shin region or forearm region, and a convex front side. The
guard element is in this case configured in the form of a surface
which is curved substantially only in one direction, on the concave
rear side of which the limb of the user comes to lie and the convex
front side of which performs the protective function.
[0007] The guard according to the invention comprises at least one
closing apparatus for fastening the guard element to the limb of
the user in a releasable and size-adjustable manner. The closing
apparatus is configured for the selective continuous or stepwise
setting of a wearing width of the guard element in a
circumferential direction on a limb of the user. Here, wearing
width is understood to mean substantially the length of the
circumference of the guard during use, that is to say in a state
fastened to the limb of the user, measured in the circumferential
direction substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the
guard.
[0008] The guard according to the invention is preferably a shin
guard or a forearm guard.
[0009] It is the core of the invention that the closing apparatus
comprises a latching closure, a ratchet closure or a clamping
closure, or that the closing apparatus is a latching closure, a
ratchet closure or a clamping closure.
[0010] In this case, the guard element comprises a first side edge
and a second side edge which, as seen in relation to the interior
space, lies opposite the first side edge, wherein the first side
edge preferably forms the inner edge, which faces toward the
opposite second limb of the user, and the second side edge
preferably forms the outer edge. The set wearing width thus also
influences the distance of the first side edge of the guard element
from the second side edge of the guard element, said distance being
measured transversely across the interior space.
[0011] In this case, the transition region between the inner edge
and the upper edge, and also the transition region between the
outer edge and the upper edge, are preferably of fundamentally
arcuate configuration, wherein the circular arc between the inner
edge and the upper edge describes a greater radius than the
circular arc between the outer edge and the upper edge.
[0012] Preferably, at least one tongue is fastened with a first
end, directly or indirectly, in the region of the second side edge
of the guard element, and at least one clasp is fastened, directly
or indirectly, in the region of the first side edge of the guard
element, or vice versa. The tongue can be fastened to the inner
edge and the clasp can be fastened to the outer edge, which
simplifies the handling since better access from the outside is
afforded for releasing the closure. Conversely, however, it is also
possible for the tongue to be fastened to the outer edge and for
the clasp to be fastened to the inner edge, as a result of which
the situation is avoided whereby, when the closing apparatus is
closed, the protruding proportion of the tongue projects outward
and, for example in ski racing, flutters in the wind.
[0013] Advantageously, the tongue for setting the wearing width can
be fastened to the clasp in a releasable manner at different
positions along a longitudinal axis of the tongue, which extends
substantially in the circumferential direction.
[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the clasp comprises a
through-opening for accommodating or guiding the tongue. To define
the wearing width of the guard on the limb of the user, the free
end of the tongue is therefore pulled through this through-opening
until the desired wearing width is reached. In a preferred
embodiment, the clasp is then actively actuated, for example in the
case of a clamping clasp by tilting a clamping lever about an axis
of rotation, which is arranged substantially parallel to the
longitudinal axis of the guard. As an alternative, the fixing of
the clasp can be effected by a self-latching locking mechanism,
such as, for example, in the case of a latching or ratchet
closure.
[0015] The tongue can thus preferably be either a clamping tongue
or a latching tongue, and the clasp is preferably a clamping clasp
or latching clasp or ratchet clasp.
[0016] The clasp preferably comprises a lever which can be tilted
or rotated about an axis of rotation which is arranged preferably
parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guard, said lever being
suitable for fastening the tongue to the clasp in a releasable
manner.
[0017] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the lever comprises
a rolling region which is preferably configured in the form of an
eccentric clamping portion and which is suitable or configured for
fixedly clamping the tongue to the clasp when the lever is
tilted.
[0018] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the
closing apparatus is of self-latching configuration.
[0019] In a further preferred embodiment, the tongue comprises
teeth, which are directed in a first direction, for the purposes of
engaging in a corresponding portion on the clasp. Here, the
corresponding portion of the clasp preferably comprises teeth which
are directed in a second direction opposite to the first direction.
The mutual engagement prevents the tongue from being spontaneously
slid or pulled back out of the through-opening again. As an
alternative, however, it is also possible for the latching tongue
to comprise grooves and ridges or a ribbing. In such a case, the
clasp preferably comprises a latching element which engages into
the grooves of the tongue. The toothing or ribbing is preferably
arranged on the upper side of the latching tongue. Here, the
latching tongue is slid through the through-opening and
automatically hooks in the clasp, such that a lever does not need
to be actuated for clamping purposes. Instead of a toothing or
ribbing, other variants of a positively locking connection between
the clasp and the tongue are also possible, for example by way of
spaced-apart cutouts in the tongue into which an engaging element
of the clasp can engage or hook to define the wearing width.
[0020] Advantageously, the closing apparatus, in particular if the
closing apparatus is a latching closure or ratchet closure,
comprises a means for securing the closing apparatus against
unintentional opening.
[0021] Said means for securing the closing apparatus against
unintentional opening or unlocking can for example be a triggering
element which has to be actively actuated in order to release the
closure. This may for example involve two lateral tabs which are
arranged on the clasp, which stand opposite one another and which,
only during simultaneous actuation thereof, unlock the closing
apparatus. The unlocking or the releasing of the closing apparatus
or of the closure can for example be achieved by releasing the
tongue, possibly only by actuation of the triggering element.
However, the clamping or latching action can also be canceled in a
simple manner by tilting the clamping or latching lever in a
direction opposite to the clamping direction.
[0022] A particularly preferred guard comprises a closing apparatus
which makes stepwise setting of the wearing width possible.
[0023] In this case, it is possible in particular for the wearing
width or the circumference of the guard to be tightened in a
stepwise manner, for example in the case of a latching or ratchet
closure, in particular by introducing and pulling or sliding a
latching tongue through the clasp along the ribbed or toothed
portion thereof from groove to groove.
[0024] The desired wearing width is set or defined automatically in
the case of the latching closure or ratchet closure, that is to say
as a result of self-latching of the lever to the tongue, or of the
tongue to the clasp. The sliding of the tongue, in particular on
account of the orientation of a latching element in the case of
such a closure, is generally possible only in one direction without
actuation of a triggering element. The latching element prevents
the tongue from being pulled or slid in the opposite direction.
Only as a result of triggering of the triggering element can the
closure be unlocked. According to a preferred embodiment, the
closure is completely released in one operation by triggering the
triggering element, in that the tongue is completely released from
the clasp.
[0025] An alternative embodiment comprises a ratchet closure, in
which an actuation of the ratchet in a first direction brings about
stepwise tightening, and an actuation of the ratchet in a second
direction opposite to the first direction brings about stepwise
widening of the wearing width or of the circumference of the
guard.
[0026] As an alternative, it is also possible to provide a closing
apparatus which makes continuous setting of the wearing width
possible. By way of example, in the case of a simple clamping
closure the wearing width can be both tightened and widened
continuously, depending on the position at which the clamping
tongue is fixedly clamped along the longitudinal axis thereof by
the clamping lever. Here, if the clamping lever has been released,
the tongue can thus be pulled or slid in both directions through
the clasp.
[0027] Here, the wearing width is the circumference measured on the
limb of the user when the guard is fastened or the closing
apparatus is closed, measured along the direction of extent of the
tongue or of the adjusting band parallel to the longitudinal axis
of the tongue, and in relation to the longitudinal axis of the
guard at the axial height of the clasp.
[0028] Advantageously, the tongue is connected to the guard element
in the region of one of the two side edges by means of a first
fastening tab. In this case, the tongue can be fastened to the
fastening tab, for example by sewing, adhesive bonding, pressing,
riveting, welding, injection molding, etc. As an alternative,
however, the tongue can also be fastened directly to the guard
element. In a further embodiment, the fastening tab is configured
in one piece with the tongue, or the fastening tab preferably
transitions seamlessly into the tongue, wherein the fastening tab
preferably has a greater width than the tongue. The fastening tab
can be formed of the same material as the tongue, or of another
material, and/or can have the same thickness as the tongue or a
different thickness thereto. By way of example, the fastening tab
can be formed of a material which is more stable in relation to
tension or bending, and less flexible, than the tongue, or vice
versa. Preferably, the tongue is formed of plastic, in particular
of a flexible plastic, for example injection-molded plastic. The
tongue preferably has a certain inherent rigidity so that it can be
slid through the through-opening.
[0029] The first fastening tab for the fastening of the tongue is
preferably fastened to the guard by way of at least a first
fastening means. In this case, said first fastening means or
fastening element can be used to fasten the fastening tab
selectively at different alternative positions along the
longitudinal axis of the guard, which makes a basic setting of the
height of the respective closing apparatus on the guard element
possible. Depending on the choice or type of fastening means, the
fastening means can be fastened to the guard element in a
releasable manner, or alternatively can already be fastened to the
guard element in a fixed manner at a selected position during
production. In addition or as an alternative, said first fastening
means or fastening element can be used to fasten the fastening tab
for the tongue, or, if the tongue is fastened directly to the guard
element, the tongue itself, selectively at different alternative
positions in the circumferential direction, in a direction
transverse to the longitudinal axis of the guard and substantially
along the longitudinal axis of the tongue. This facilitates an
additional possibility of the basic setting of the wearing width of
the guard on the limb of the user, either already during
production, or else subsequently in the case of releasable
fastening means. For this purpose, the fastening tab for the
tongue, or the tongue itself, and/or the guard element can comprise
further cutouts, which define the additional adjustment positions
in the longitudinal or circumferential direction and in which the
respective fastening means can be fixed.
[0030] The clasp is preferably fastened to the guard element in the
region of the first side edge. In this case, the clasp can be
fastened to the guard element either directly or by means of a
second fastening tab. It is particularly preferred if the clasp is
fastened to the guard element additionally by way of a clasp band
which is fixed to the second fastening tab or which is connected in
one piece therewith. In this case, the clasp band can be fastened
with a first end to the fastening tab and/or to the guard element,
and with the other end to the clasp, for example in that the second
end is laid in the form of a loop around a bracket or pin of the
clasp and fixed thereto. However, the clasp, preferably in the form
of a clamping, latching or ratchet clasp, can also be fastened
directly on the fastening tab, for example by overmolding,
screwing, or riveting.
[0031] Preferably, the second fastening tab for the fastening of
the clasp is fastened to the guard element by way of a second
fastening means. Preferably, the fastening tab can be fastened, by
way of the second fastening means, to the guard element selectively
at different alternative positions substantially along the
longitudinal axis of the guard.
[0032] In addition or as an alternative, the fastening tab for the
clasp can also be fastened, by way of the fastening means or
fastening element, selectively at different alternative positions
in the circumferential direction, in a direction transverse to the
longitudinal axis of the guard and substantially along the
longitudinal axis of the tongue which is fastened at the opposite
side edge, which facilitates an additional possibility of the basic
setting of the wearing width of the guard on the limb, either
during production, or else subsequently in the case of releasable
fastening means. For this purpose, the fastening tab for the clasp,
and/or the guard element can comprise further cutouts, which define
the additional adjustment positions in the longitudinal or
circumferential direction and in which the respective fastening
means can be fixed.
[0033] Preferably, a closing apparatus comprises in each case a
pair composed of a clasp which is fastened to a first side edge and
a tongue which is fastened to the opposite second side edge. In
this case, in relation to the longitudinal axis of the guard, the
tongue is advantageously arranged substantially at the same height
as the opposite associated clasp.
[0034] Preferably, the guard comprises at least two such closing
apparatuses, which are arranged spaced apart above one another in
relation to the longitudinal axis of the guard.
[0035] Preferably, a first upper closing apparatus is arranged in
the upper half of the guard, and at least a second lower closing
apparatus is preferably arranged in the lower half of the guard or
substantially approximately in the middle region of the guard, as
seen in relation to the longitudinal axis thereof.
[0036] So that the guard remains in position on the limb of the
user, the guard element and/or the closing apparatus(es), or their
fastening regions, are provided at least in certain regions with an
anti-slip lining or an anti-slip coating, for example with a shrink
tube. The fastening tabs, or the clamping or latching tongues
fastened thereto, can preferably be provided, in particular on
their inner side, with anti-slip and/or friction-enhancing means in
order to ensure a better hold of the guard on the limb of the user,
or in order to avoid slippage of the guard after the fixation
thereof. For this purpose, use can for example be made of anti-slip
materials, for example in the form of a covering, in the form of
integrated fibers (for example woven-in rubber threads) or in the
form of partially molded-on, injection-molded, or otherwise
connected adhesion-enhancing frictional surfaces (for example
silicone prints). A further preferred embodiment comprises an
elastic portion which is fastened to the tongue, for example in the
form of a textile band attachment. Said textile band attachment can
absorb tensile forces, but also affords a certain elasticity. It is
also possible for anti-slip threads to be worked into such a
textile band, or the textile band can be provided with an anti-slip
printing or coating. As an alternative thereto, the tongue itself,
or the fastening tab, is produced from at least partially elastic
material.
[0037] It can also be advantageous, for example in the case of a
shin guard, for the guard to be formed of two rigid and hard
elements, a shin element which forms the guard element and a
sliding element. In this preferred embodiment, the two elements are
then mounted so as to be displaceable relative to one another along
the axis of the shin guard, and the mounting is also dynamic and
spring-loaded. That is to say that, in the relaxed state, the shin
guard is at the maximum length and can be shortened to some extent
counter to the spring force.
[0038] On the convex front side, the guard element can also
comprise at least one rigid or partially elastic rib, which
preferably extends substantially over the entire axial length of
the guard element and which is raised above the surface, or a
ridge, preferably in the form of a rib of substantially pyramidal
cross section with an axially extending tip. Said rib can be formed
in one piece with the guard element and made of the same material
or can be fastened (for example by adhesive bonding, screwing,
riveting, or similar) as a separate element on the front side of
the guard element. The rib itself can be manufactured from a
friction-minimizing material or can be coated therewith (for
example a rib made of aluminum, for example coated with PTFE). The
ribs can furthermore preferably be fastened to the guard element in
a releasable and exchangeable manner, for example with a releasable
clamping mechanism, latching mechanism, snap-fit mechanism, or
sliding latching mechanism or sliding snap-fit mechanism, with
easily releasable screws, nuts, slides, or similar, without
extensive use of tools or destruction of the component parts and by
way of releasable mechanisms. The ribs can furthermore be
manufactured in different forms and structural heights, in order to
individually adapt the guard by exchanging them and to change the
properties of said guard flexibly to match the requirements.
[0039] Further exemplary embodiments are described in the dependent
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0040] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below
with reference to the drawings, which serve merely for elucidation
and are not to be interpreted as limiting. In the drawings:
[0041] FIG. 1a shows a schematic lateral illustration of a right
limb guard, configured in the form of a shin guard, according to a
first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, in a view as
seen from the inside, or from the left by the user, with two open
clamping closures;
[0042] FIG. 1b shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin
guard from FIG. 1, with two closed clamping closures;
[0043] FIG. 2a shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin
guard from FIG. 1a, in a view as seen from the outside, or from the
right by the user;
[0044] FIG. 2b shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin
guard from FIG. 1b, in a view as seen from the outside, or from the
right by the user;
[0045] FIG. 3a shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard
from FIG. 1b, in a view as seen from behind by the user, or looking
at the rear side of the shin guard;
[0046] FIG. 3b shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard
from FIG. 1b, in a view as seen from behind by the user, or looking
at the rear side of the shin guard;
[0047] FIG. 4a shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard
from FIG. 1a, in a view from below;
[0048] FIG. 4b shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard
from FIG. 1b, in a view from below;
[0049] FIG. 5a shows a schematic perspective illustration of the
shin guard from FIG. 1a, in a view looking at the rear side of the
shin guard as seen from the inside, or obliquely from the bottom
left;
[0050] FIG. 5b shows a schematic perspective illustration of the
shin guard from FIG. 1b, in a view looking at the rear side of the
shin guard as seen from the inside, or obliquely from the bottom
left;
[0051] FIG. 6a shows a schematic lateral illustration of a right
limb guard, configured in the form of a shin guard, according to a
second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, in a view as
seen from the inside or from the left by the user, with two open
latching closures;
[0052] FIG. 6b shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin
guard from FIG. 6a, with two closed latching closures;
[0053] FIG. 7a shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin
guard from FIG. 6a, in a view as seen from the outside, or from the
right by the user;
[0054] FIG. 7b shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin
guard from FIG. 6b, in a view as seen from the outside, or from the
right by the user;
[0055] FIG. 8a shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard
from FIG. 6a, in a view as seen from behind by the user, or looking
at the rear side of the shin guard;
[0056] FIG. 8b shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard
from FIG. 6b, in a view as seen from behind by the user, or looking
at the rear side of the shin guard;
[0057] FIG. 9a shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard
from FIG. 6a, in a view from below;
[0058] FIG. 9b shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard
from FIG. 6b, in a view from below;
[0059] FIG. 10a shows a schematic perspective illustration of the
shin guard from FIG. 6a, in a view looking at the rear side of the
shin guard as seen from the outside, or obliquely from the bottom
right; and
[0060] FIG. 10b shows a schematic perspective illustration of the
shin guard from FIG. 6b, in a view looking at the rear side of the
shin guard as seen from the outside, or obliquely from the bottom
right.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0061] FIG. 1 illustrates a first exemplary embodiment of a guard 1
according to the invention, which is configured here in the form of
a shin guard. A guard for the protection of another limb, for
example a forearm, can be configured analogously, wherein the guard
element 2 can be adapted in terms of its basic form depending on
the limb to be protected. The guard 1 comprises a guard element 2,
which comprises a convex front side 2a and a concave rear side 2b,
as seen in relation to the direction of movement of the user. The
concave rear side 2b at least partially encloses an interior space,
which is suitable for accommodating a limb of a user, for
accommodating a leg in the present exemplary embodiment, in
particular a shin. The guard element 2 is of ergonomic design and
extends substantially along a longitudinal axis L1 of the guard 1
from an upper edge 3, which is typically rounded, to the likewise
typically rounded lower edge 4.
[0062] FIGS. 1-5 illustrate a shin guard 1 for the right leg of a
user, and the corresponding shin guard 1 for the right leg of the
user is designed to be mirror-symmetrical thereto. Each guard
element 2 comprises a first side edge 5 and a second side edge 6.
In this case, in the exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 1-5, the first
side edge 5 is arranged on the inner side of the guard 1 and thus
forms the inner edge, which faces toward the left leg of the user,
and the second side edge 6 is arranged on the outer side of the
guard 1 and thus forms the outer edge. The transition region
between the respective side edge 5, 6 and the lower edge 4 is of
rounded design, as is the transition region between the respective
side edge 5, 6 and the upper edge 3. The transition region between
the upper edge 3 and the first side edge 5 is of arcuate
configuration here, as is the transition region between the upper
edge 3 and the second side edge 6, wherein the last transition
region in FIG. 1a approximately describes a right angle.
[0063] The guard 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment
from FIGS. 1-5 comprises two closing apparatuses 34 which are
arranged in a pair, which are configured in the form of clamping
closures and which are spaced apart from one another in relation to
the longitudinal axis L1 of the guard 1.
[0064] For this purpose, in the present exemplary embodiment from
FIGS. 1-5, two clamping clasps 9a, 9b are fastened to the guard
element 2 in the region of the first side edge 5 or the inner edge.
The clasps 9a, 9b are fastened by way of a respective inner
fastening tab 7a, 7b, wherein the first, upper inner fastening tab
7a is assembled on the guard element 2 at a spacing from the
second, lower inner fastening tab 7b in relation to the
longitudinal axis L1. Here, the inner fastening tab 7a, 7b is
fastened to the guard element 2 in each case by way of two
fastening means 21a, 21b. In embodiments with height-adjustable
closing apparatuses 34, the fastening tabs can also be shifted to
alternative adjustment positions 23a, 23b along the longitudinal
axis L1. As is evident in FIGS. 5a, 5b, it is also possible for the
inner fastening tab 7a, 7b to be fastened at different positions
30a, 30b in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L1
along the plane of extent of the inner fastening tab 7a, 7b. In the
illustrated variant, the adjustment positions 30a, 30b are realized
as partially or completely introduced, for example pre-drilled,
cutouts in the guard element.
[0065] In the present exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 1-5, a
respective clasp band 8a, 8b is fastened with a first end to the
respective inner fastening tab 7a, 7b, wherein the respective
clamping clasp 9a, 9b is fastened to the second end of said clasp
band. In the present exemplary embodiment, the clasp band 8a, 8b is
formed with its second end in the form of a loop, which, for the
purposes of connection to the clamping clasp 9a, 9b, is laid
around, and fastened to, a bracket or pin of the clamping clasp 9a,
9b, said bracket or pin being arranged substantially along the
longitudinal axis L1 of the guard 1. Both the first, upper clamping
clasp 9a and the second, lower clamping clasp 9b comprise a
respective clamping lever 12a, 12b, which comprises a rolling
region 25a, 25b configured in the form of an eccentric region in
the illustrated exemplary embodiment. Below the rolling region 25a,
25b, a through-opening is arranged in the clamping clasp 9a, 9b,
which extends substantially between a base plate and the clamping
lever 12a, 12b of the respective clamping clasp 9a, 9b.
[0066] In the region of the second side edge 6 or the outer edge of
the guard element 2, two clamping tongues 11a, 11b are fastened to
the guard element 2 likewise with the aid of a respective outer
fastening tab 10a, 10b. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment
from FIGS. 1-5, a respective clamping tongue 11a, 11b is fastened
with a first end to the respective outer fastening tab 10a, 10b,
wherein the second, free end 13a, 13b of said tongue is introduced
into the respectively opposite clamping clasp 9a, 9b and, for the
purposes of fastening the guard 1 to the leg of the user, is fixed,
for example clamped in, there in a releasable and length-adjustable
manner by means of the clamping lever 12a, 12b. The outer fastening
tab 10a, 10b is fastened to the guard element 2 in each case by way
of two fastening means 22a, 22b. In embodiments with
height-adjustable closing apparatuses 34, the outer fastening tabs
10a, 10b can also be shifted to alternative adjustment positions
24a, 24b along the longitudinal axis L1. As is evident in FIGS. 5a,
5b, it is also possible for the outer fastening tabs 10a, 10b to be
fastened at different positions 32a, 32b in a direction transverse
to the longitudinal axis L1 along the plane of extent of the outer
fastening tab 10a, 10b, parallel to the longitudinal axis L11
thereof or substantially in the circumferential direction U. Here,
the adjustment positions 32a, 32b are also realized as partially or
completely pre-drilled cutouts in the respective outer fastening
tab 10a, 10b for the respective clamping tongue 11a, 11b.
[0067] To fasten the guard 1 to the leg of the user, the guard
element 2 is placed with its concave rear side 2b on the shin of
the user. The first, upper clamping tongue 11a is then laid, from
the outside, around the calf of the user's leg. Subsequently, the
first, upper clamping tongue 11a is guided through with its free,
second end 11a into a through-opening of the first, upper clamping
clasp 9a. As a result of insertion of the clamping tongue 11a, the
wearing width of the guard on the leg is continuously reduced and
then set at the desired wearing width in that the first, upper
clamping lever 12a fixedly clamps the first, upper clamping tongue
11a by being folded down about an axis of rotation D12 which is
oriented substantially along the longitudinal axis L1 of the guard
1. In the present exemplary embodiment, the clamping lever 12a is
folded down along the rolling region 25a of the clamping lever 12a.
To release the fastening of the guard 1 to the leg, the clamping
lever 12a is folded up again and thus the first, upper clamping
tongue 11a is freed from the first clamping clasp 9a again.
[0068] The second or lower closing apparatus 34 functions
analogously to the first or upper closing apparatus 34 just
described.
[0069] If the user's leg is of above-average width, as mentioned
above, it is thus possible for the inner fastening tab 7a, 7b for
the clamping clasp 9a, 9b or the outer fastening tab 10a, 10b for
the clamping tongue 11a, 11b to be fastened to the guard element 2
in an adjustment position 30a, 30b, or 32a, 32b, respectively,
which is further along the circumferential direction U, in order to
enlarge the maximum fit or the circumference of the guard 1.
[0070] In the second illustrated exemplary embodiment from FIGS.
6-10, a shin guard 1 for the right leg of a user is illustrated,
and the corresponding shin guard 1 for the left leg of the user is
designed to be mirror-symmetrical thereto.
[0071] As in the first exemplary embodiment described at the start,
said shin guard 1 comprises a guard element 2, which comprises a
convex front side 2a and a concave rear side 2b, as seen in
relation to the direction of movement of the user. The concave rear
side 2b likewise at least partially encloses an interior space
which is suitable for accommodating a leg of a user, in particular
a shin of the user. The guard element 2 is of ergonomic design and
extends substantially along a longitudinal axis L1 of the guard 1
from an upper edge 3, which is typically rounded, to the likewise
typically rounded lower edge 4.
[0072] Here, too, each guard element 2 comprises a first side edge
5 and a second side edge 6. In this case, the first side edge 5 is
arranged in each case on the inner side of the guard 1, said inner
side facing toward the left leg of the user, and thus forms the
inner edge. The transition between the respective side edge 5, 6
and the lower edge 4 is also of rounded design here, as is the
respective transition between the respective side edge 5, 6 and the
lower edge 3. The shin guard 1 according to the present second
exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 6-10 comprises two closing
apparatuses 34 which are configured in the form of latching or
ratchet closures and which are spaced apart from one another in
relation to the longitudinal axis L1 of the guard 1. At the second
side edge 6 or at the outer edge, an upper, outer fastening tab 14a
and a lower, outer fastening tab 14b are fastened, in each case by
way of at least one fastening means 26a, 26b. Here, too, depending
on the type of the selected fastening means 26a, 26b, the outer
fastening tabs 14a, 14b can be fastened to the guard element 2
selectively at different adjustment positions 28a, 28b along the
longitudinal axis L1. As is evident in FIG. 8a, it is also possible
for the outer fastening tab 14a, 14b to be fastened at different
positions 33a, 33b in a direction transverse to the longitudinal
axis L1 along the plane of extent of the outer fastening tab 14a,
14b or along the circumferential direction U.
[0073] Unlike in the first exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 1-5 with
the clamping closures, here, a respective latching clasp 15a, 15b
is fastened to the respective external or outer fastening tab 14a,
14b. The first, upper latching clasp 15a and the second, lower
latching clasp 15b each comprise a latching lever 19a, 19b, and
also each comprise a first unlocking button 18a.sub.1, 18b.sub.1
and a second unlocking button 18a.sub.2 and 18b.sub.2,
respectively. Unlike in the first exemplary embodiment, in the
second exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 6-10, the latching clasp
15a, 15b is fastened without a clasp band to the respective
fastening tab 14a, 14b or is connected thereto in one piece.
[0074] In the second exemplary embodiment, in the region of the
first side edge 5 or the inner edge, a first, upper inner fastening
tab 16a and a second, lower inner fastening tab 16b which is
axially spaced apart therefrom along the longitudinal axis L1 are
fastened to the guard element 2. Depending on the choice of
fastening means, the inner fastening tabs 16a, 16b can also be
fastened, possibly releasably, at a plurality of different
alternative adjustment positions 29a, 29b along the longitudinal
axis L1. As is evident in FIGS. 6a, 6b, it is also possible for the
fastening tab 16a, 16b to be fastened at different positions 31a,
31b in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L1 along the
plane of extent of the fastening tab 16a, 16b or along the
circumferential direction U.
[0075] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the respective
inner fastening tab 16a, 16b is formed in one piece with the
respective latching tongue 17a, 17b, that is to say the first,
upper fastening tab 16a transitions seamlessly into a ribbed first,
upper latching tongue 17a, and the second, lower fastening tab 16b
transitions seamlessly into a ribbed second, upper latching tongue
17b. In this case, in the depicted second exemplary embodiment, the
non-ribbed portion which forms the fastening tab 16a, 16b has a
greater width than the portion which forms the latching tongue 17a,
17b. The upper side of the latching tongue 17a, 17b is formed with
a regular sequence of grooves and ridges, or the upper side of said
tongue is ribbed in the illustrated exemplary embodiment from FIGS.
6-10.
[0076] The wearing width is set by introducing the latching tongue
17a, 17b into the through-opening of the latching clasp 15a, 15b. A
tilting element/latching element (not illustrated) engages on the
underside or below the latching lever 15a, 15b into the grooves
which are arranged at regular spacings on the ribbed latching
tongue 17a, 17b, in order to permit a sliding movement of the
latching tongue 17a, 17b in only one direction. To release the
closing apparatus 34, in the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the
two unlocking buttons 18a.sub.1 and 18a.sub.2, and 18b.sub.1 and
18b.sub.2, respectively, which lie opposite one another on the
latching clasp 15a, 15b are pressed simultaneously, which causes
the engagement of the tilting element/latching element in the
groove to be released and the latching tongue 17a, 17b can be
removed from the through-opening of the latching clasp 15a, 15b.
The closing apparatus 34 is then ready for resetting.
[0077] If the calf of the user is of above-average width, as
mentioned above, it is thus possible for the outer fastening tab
14a, 14b for the latching clasp 15a, 15b or the inner fastening tab
16a, 16b for the latching tongue 17a, 17b to be fastened to the
guard element 2 in an adjustment position 33a, 33b, or 31a, 31b,
respectively, which is further along the circumferential direction
U, in order to enlarge the maximum fit or the circumference of the
guard 1. Conversely, in the case of a small calf, for example in
the case of guards for children, it is possible for a tighter
adjustment position to be selected. Said basic setting of the
wearing width can be effected either during production, or else
first by the user in the case of releasable fastening means for the
fastening tabs.
LIST OF REFERENCE DESIGNATIONS
TABLE-US-00001 [0078] 1 Guard 2 Guard element 2a Front side of 2 2b
Rear side of 2 3 Upper edge of 2 4 Lower edge of 2 5 First side
edge of 2 6 Second side edge of 2 7a Fastening tab for 8a/9a 7b
Fastening tab for 8b/9b 8a First, upper clasp band 8b Second, lower
clasp band 9a First, upper clamping clasp 9b Second, lower clamping
clasp 10a Fastening tab for 11a 10b Fastening tab for 11b 11a
First, upper clamping tongue 11b Second, lower clamping tongue 12a
Clamping lever of 9a 12b Clamping lever of 9b 13a Free end of 11a
13b Free end of 11b 14a Fastening tab for 15a 14b Fastening tab for
15b 15a First, upper latching clasp 15b Second, lower latching
clasp 16a Fastening tab for 17a 16b Fastening tab for 17b 17a
First, upper latching tongue 17b Second, lower latching tongue
18a.sub.1 First unlocking button of 15a 18a.sub.2 Second unlocking
button of 15a 18b.sub.1 First unlocking button of 15b 18b.sub.2
Second unlocking button of 15b 19a Latching lever of 15a 19b
Latching lever of 15b 20a Free end of 17a 20b Free end of 17b 21a
Fastening means of 7a 21b Fastening means of 7b 22a Fastening means
of 10a 22b Fastening means of 10b 23a Adjustment positions for 21a
on 2 23b Adjustment positions for 21b on 2 24a Adjustment positions
for 22a on 2 24b Adjustment positions for 22b on 2 25a Rolling
region of 12a 25b Rolling region of 12b 26a Fastening means of 14a
26b Fastening means of 14b 27a Fastening means of 16a 27b Fastening
means of 16b 28a Adjustment positions for 26a on 2 28b Adjustment
positions for 26b on 2 29a Adjustment positions for 27a on 2 29b
Adjustment positions for 27b on 2 30a Adjustment positions for 21a
on 7a 30b Adjustment positions for 21b on 7b 31a Adjustment
positions for 27a on 16a 31b Adjustment positions for 27b on 16b
32a Adjustment positions for 22a on 10a 32b Adjustment positions
for 22b on 10b 33a Adjustment positions for 26a on 14a 33b
Adjustment positions for 26b on 14b 34 Closing apparatus D12 Axis
of rotation of 12 L1 Longitudinal axis of 1 L11 Longitudinal axis
of 11a, 11b L17 Longitudinal axis of 17a, 17b U Circumferential
direction of 1
* * * * *