Multi-Genre Body Armor with Dual Coil Shock Suspension and Buckwheat Hull Shock Absorbers

Abstract

Multi-genre body armor comprising an external coil shock suspension (500) having a plurality of coil springs (510) attached to a top shell (500b) of rigid material and a bottom shell (500a) of rigid material; an internal coil shock suspension (511) having a plurality of coil springs (510) attached to a top shell (511c) of rigid material and a bottom shell (511b) of rigid material; and an innermost layer of encased (516a) buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516), with or without a sizing air pocket (526) sandwiched between the internal coil shock suspension (511) and the encased (516a) buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516).

Description

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present invention relates to body armor, and more specifically to shock diminishing armor for the protection of the human or animal body, or the body of an object, from the effects of blunt force impact and other moving forces of energy.

Prior Art

The following tables reference prior art which presently appear relevant:

US Patents

	Patent Number	Kind Code	Issue Date	Patentee
	9,314,060	B2	2016 Apr. 19	Giles
	6,253,376	B1	2001 Jul. 3	Ritter
	4,642,814	B1	1981 Feb. 17	Godfrey

US Patent Application Publications

	Publication Nr.	Kind Code	Publ. Date	Applicant
	20190133235	A1	2019 May 9	Domanskis

Foreign Patent Documents

	Foreign	Cntry.	Kind		App
	Doc. Nr.	Code	Code	Pub. Dt.	Pantentee
	2095054	EP	B1	2011 Jan. 26	Muller

Body armor in the form of safety gear comes in a multitude of designs for a multitude of genres. For use in sports, most safety gear comprises foam and an external shield of sort. Some, like THE VICK helmet, use foam with controlled air and a shield of sort.

Foam, density irrelevant, with or without use of air, is only capable of inadequate shock absorption from blunt force, and at best, merely comforts the skin upon impact from an outside force. Laceration, contusion, and concussion can and regularly do still occur.

Some safety gear comprises a shield with little-to-no foam and no air. This gear includes, but is not limited to, hard hats used on construction sites; batting helmets used in baseball; and shin guards for use in sports or construction.

There are chin guards, like those from SHOCK DOCTOR, and other gear pieces, which claim multi-stage impact protection, however, I have found that the impact protection is designed to protect the body armor more so than the body of the wearer, and while the shield may resist dimpling when struck, the human body still endures the force.

More advanced body armor, such as helmets and knee pads comprise foam and a single layer of collapsible devices, however the shell or shroud containing the devices is directly joined to the stationary member which rests against the body of the wearer, therefore upon impact of blunt force, there is still a jarring effect to the body of the wearer, and shock trauma is then assumed.

Recently under development at Berkeley is a helmet comprising foam and struts, however a strut is a rod, with a determined length, thus cannot direct, nor buffer movement beyond that length. As such, any force causing movement beyond that length will have a jarring effect to the body of the wearer, and shock trauma will be assumed.

Even in designs of armor comprising a single layer of collapsible devises also serving as joinders, is the inevitable reaction of blunt force impact to the external surface, of kickback to the stationary member which rests against the body of the wearer, thus inflicting shock trauma.

Of these designs above are those Claimed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,314,060 to Giles (2016), 6253376 to Ritter (2001) and Provisional Patent Application 62/565,097 to Domanskis (2018), having a single layer of collapsible devices; and in U.S. Pat. No. 4,642,814. To Godfrey, and European Patent 2,095,054 to Muller, having only the foam.

Although improvements to safety gear have been developed throughout history, these common, yet unrealized defects have gone unsolved and without correction, and presently remain.

For this reason, and others, safety gear manufactured to date, everywhere in the world, is ineffectual. If its whole purpose is to protect the body of the wearer from injury caused by blunt force impact, yet the wearer is injured by blunt force impact, to the areas armored, it does not work.

Body armor in the form of child and infant car seat comprise foam, a shield of sort, means to secure the seat inside the vehicle, and means to secure the child or infant in side seat.

One defect plaguing all pasts and current models is the absence of allowance for movement upon impact of a moving force of energy, which causes the body of the child or infant to endure that force, inflicting shock trauma and oftentimes leading to death.

Another problem commonly present in many past and current models of child car seats is the absence of a Y strap restraint, like those designed for infants. Sans a Y strap, a child is secured in the seat with a single diagonal over the shoulder strap or a simple across the lap belt installed in the vehicle itself, the faulty design of which can and has facilitated the ejection of children from car seats, and sometimes ejection from vehicle, upon impact of a moving force of energy, often resulting in child fatality.

SUMMARY

In accordance with one embodiment body armor comprises a dual coil shock suspension, buckwheat hull shock absorbers and a durable, lightweight shield or encasement in every gear piece for every genre of body armor.

Advantages

Accordingly several advantages of one or more aspects are as follows: to provide body armor that is hyper focused on shock absorption; that protects the body of humans, animals, or other objects from all effects of blunt force impact; that eliminates transferred shock residuum to the body of the wearer or the body of the armored object; that allows multidirectional movement of the two external layers, independent of each other, and independent of the internal layer; that is suitable for every gear piece in every genre of body armor, offering equal protection to all wearers without the need for sensor research and different engineering for different uses or wearers; that is lightweight, durable, and comfortable; that is compatible with diverse garment designs; that allows for quick and easy do-it-yourself parts repair or replacement; that allows the wearer to customize protection and comfort by adding or removing buckwheat hulls; that allows airflow and releases heat; and to provide body armor that is long-lasting and economical. Still further advantages will be elucidated upon examination of the following description and correlative drawings.

DRAWINGS—FIGURES

Suffixation has been arranged for easy recognition of categorical grouping patterns.

FIG. 1 shows a side elevation of body armor with a dual coil shock suspension, having an independent encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers.

FIG. 1A shows a side elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1 with means for coil spring attachment in accordance with the invention.

FIG. 1B shows a side elevation of similar body armor with a single-ply shell connecting the first and second beds of coil springs, with alternative coil spring variations, in accordance with another embodiment.

FIGS. 1C and 1D show side elevations of the body armor of FIG. 1B, with alternative means for coil spring attachment, as well as alternative coil spring variations, in accordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 1a shows a front elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of protection panels attached to stratified body garment.

FIG. 1a′ shows a rear elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1a, with the independent encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers in the form of a mock turtleneck optional undergarment for use with the stratified garment of FIG. 1a.

FIG. 1a ₂ shows a two-dimensional perspective of the body armor of FIG. 1a, with means for protection panel attachment.

FIG. 1b shows a side elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of a chin guard with straps (straps not shown).

FIG. 1c shows a side elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of a thigh pad.

FIG. 1d shows a side elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of knee and elbow pads, with independent encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers for insertion into independent pocket in a compression sleeve.

FIG. 1d ₂ shows a side elevation of the compression sleeve of FIG. 1d.

FIG. 1e shows a side elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of a kneepad in accordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 1e ₂ shows a side elevation of the knee pad of FIG. 1e, with attached encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers.

FIG. 1f shows a two-dimensional side perspective view of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of a helmet for use in snow sports, ice sports, driving, et al.

FIG. 1g shows a two-dimensional side perspective view of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of a multi-genre helmet.

FIG. 1h shows a two-dimensional side perspective view of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of a hard hat for use in construction, et al.

FIG. 1i shows a two-dimensional side perspective view of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of a batting helmet.

FIG. 2 shows a side elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, having an integrated sizing air pocket, and attached encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers.

FIG. 2a shows a two-dimensional side perspective view of the body armor of FIG. 2, in the form of a football helmet.

FIG. 2b shows a rear-to-side perspective view of the bottom shell of the internal coil suspension of FIG. 2a.

FIG. 2c shows a two-dimensional side perspective view of the body armor of FIG. 2, in the form of a multi-genre helmet with sunshade.

FIG. 3 shows a side perspective view of a threaded gabion and threaded cincture.

FIG. 3a shows a two-dimensional side perspective view of the gabion of FIG. 3, with coil spring insertion through one ply.

FIG. 3b shows a two-dimensional side perspective view of the gabion of FIG. 3, with coil spring insertion through two plies.

FIG. 3c shows a side perspective view of a threaded gabion cap with topside cross-grooves.

FIG. 3d shows an upside-down side perspective view of the gabion cap of FIG. 3c, with internal wormhole and coil insertion.

FIG. 3e shows a side perspective view of the gabion cap of FIG. 3c, screwed into the gabion cincture of FIG. 3.

FIG. 3f shows a two-dimensional side perspective view of the coil spring of FIG. 3a fully attached to hinged, two-ply shells at both ends.

FIG. 4 shows a top plan view of the bottom shell of the sizing air pocket of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4a shows a bottom plan view of the bottom shell of FIG. 4, with means for encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers attachment.

FIG. 5 shows a side elevation of an encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers, particular to detachable protection panels.

FIG. 5a shows a bottom plan view of the encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers, with panel loop, fastener loop, and lacing apertures.

FIG. 5b shows a bottom plan view of the encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers, with panel insertion and fastener insertion.

FIG. 5c shows a top plan view of the internal surface of the external layer of the stratified garment, with fastener insertion.

FIG. 5d shows a top plan view of the encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers, with an open placket.

FIG. 6 shows a front elevation of the encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers in the form of the optional undergarment of FIG. 1a′, with choice of three necklines, to wit turtleneck (as illustrated), mock turtleneck, and crewneck.

FIG. 6a shows a side elevation of a protection panel particular to use with optional undergarment of FIG. 1a′, having a fastener loop.

FIG. 6b shows a top plan view of the internal surface of the external ply of the internal coil shock suspension, with fastener loop, male end securing device, and hinge.

FIG. 6c shows a top plan view of the internal surface of FIG. 6b, with fastener insertion.

FIG. 7 shows a front elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1 in the form of protection panels attached to the stratified garment of FIG. 1a.

FIG. 7′ shows a rear elevation of the body armor of FIG. 7, with an independent encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers in the form of a turtleneck optional undergarment of FIG. 1a′.

FIG. 7A shows a front elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of protection panels attached to the stratified garment of FIG. 1a.

FIG. 7A′ shows a rear elevation of the body armor of FIG. 7A, with an independent encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers in the form of a crewneck optional undergarment of FIG. 1a′.

FIG. 7B shows a front elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of protection panels attached to the stratified garment of FIG. 1a.

FIG. 7C shows a front elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, attached to the stratified garment of FIG. 1a.

FIG. 7D shows a front elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, attached to the stratified garment of FIG. 1a.

FIG. 7D′ shows a rear elevation of the body armor of FIG. 7D.

FIG. 7E shows a front elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of protection panels attached to the stratified garment of FIG. 1a, with an independent encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers in the form of the optional undergarment of FIG. 1a′.

FIG. 7E′ shows a rear elevation of the body armor of FIG. 7E.

FIG. 7F shows a front elevation of the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of protection panels attached to the stratified garment of FIG. 1a.

FIG. 7F′ shows a rear elevation of the body armor of FIG. 7F with an independent encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers in the form of the optional undergarment of FIG. 1a′.

FIGS. 7G and 7H (not shown) show the body armor of FIG. 1, in the form of child and infant car seats.

FIG. 7I (not shown) shows the body armor of FIG. 1 in the form of an equestrian saddle.

FIG. 7J (not shown) shows the body armor of FIGS. 1 and 2 in the form of a medical cast.

FIG. 7K (not shown) shows the body armor of FIG. 1 in the form of a vehicular auto body.

Drawings - Reference Numerals
008 compression sleeve
010 placket                      33B rib panel
012 patella panel pocket         34A rib panel
014 buckwheat hull pouch pocket  34B rib panel
27 upper arm panel               35A rib panel
27′ upper arm panel              35B rib panel
27π upper arm panel              36 rib panel
27π2 upper arm panel             37A rib panel
27π3 upper arm panel             37B rib panel
28 upper arm panel               38A scapula panel
28′ upper arm panel              38B scapula panel
28π upper arm panel              39A rib panel
28π2 upper arm panel             39B rib panel
28π3 upper arm panel             40 shoulder panel
30A rib panel                    42 shoulder panel
30B rib panel                    44 shoulder panel
31A rib panel                    46 shoulder panel
31B rib panel                    48 shoulder panel
32A rib panel                    49 shoulder panel
32B rlb panel                    50 vertebrae panel
33A rib panel                    53 vertebrae panel
                                 55 vertebrae panel
100 external layer of stratified garment
100bis internal layer of stratified garment 59 vertebrae panel
101 male threads                 60 sternum panel
102 threaded gabion              61 sternum panel
103 cross-grooves                62 sternum panel
104 threaded cincture            63 sternum panel
105 wormhole                     64 sternum panel
106 female threads               66 sternum panel
107 gabion                       67 vertebrae panel
108 aperture                     68 vertebrae panel
109 threaded cap with cross-grooves 69π sternum panel
111 external lace                69 vertebrae panel
111bis internal lace             71 lumbar panel
112 external armhole             73 lumbar panel
112bis internal armhole          73a suspenders
127A external anterior upper arm flap 73b suspenders
127Abis internal anterior upper arm flap 80 clavicle panel
127B external posterior upper arm flap 81 clavicle panel
127B-bis internal posterior upper arm flap 82 clavicle panel
128 external side upper arm flap 84 clavicle panel
128bis internal side upper arm flap 85 clavicle panel
140 external shoulder            86 clavicle panel
140bis internal shoulder         87 clavicle panel
200 undergarment                 88A scapula panel
56 vertebrae panel               88B scapula panel
58 vertebrae panel               89 clavicle panel
11c internal ply of top shell of internal coil 500a internal ply of bottom shell of external
shock suspension                 coil shock suspension
500 bed of coil springs for external coil shock 500b internal ply of top shell of external coil
suspension                       shock suspension
500c external ply of top shell of external 511b internal ply of bottom shell of internal
501A hinge                       coil shock suspension 511d
501B hinge                       valve aperture
502A side squeeze buckle with hinge 511e valve gabion
502B side squeeze buckle with hinge 511π external ply of bottom shell of internal
503 nubbin aperture              coil shock suspension for use with protection
503A nubbin507A chin strap loop  panels having an independent encasement of
507B chin strap loop             buckwheat hull shock absorbers in the form of
510 coil spring                  an optional undergarment
510ac connector shell            511π-a fastener loop
510e first painted line on coil spring 512 suspension loop
510f second painted line on coil spring 514 fastener loop
510g painted tip on coil spring  516 buckwheat hull shock absorbers
510h unpainted tip on coil spring 516a encasement for buckwheat hull shock
511 bed of coil springs for internal coil shock absorbers
suspension                       518 face mask
511a external ply of bottom shell of internal 525 ratchet suspension
coll shock suspension, and also top shell of 525A tension dial
sizing air pocket with valve aperture and valve 908C crewneck
gabion                           coil shock suspension
                                 538A sunshade
526 sizing air pocket            588 external dome
526a shroud with flange          588bis internal dome
526b shroud flange               800 hook-and-loop fastener
526c bladder with valve          810 female end of hook-and-loop fastener
528A-a female snaps              820 male end of hook-and-loop fastener
528A-b male snaps                881 placket
530 external ventilation aperture 908A turtleneck
530bis internal ventilation aperture 908B mock turtleneck
538 sunshade

DETAILED DESCRIPTION—FIG. 1—FIRST EMBODIMENT

One embodiment of multi-genre body armor with dual coil shock suspension (588) and buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516) is illustrated in FIG. 1 (side elevation). The body armor has an external shell (500c) made of lightweight, durable, rigid material, such as plastic or ultra carbon, however can be made of another lightweight, durable, rigid material, such as a titanium alloy, or cellulose acetate.

The external shell (500c) is connected to its second ply (500b) by hinge (501B) at one end, with a securing device, such as a side squeeze buckle (502B) at the opposite end.

The second ply (500b) is the top shell through which a plurality of coil springs (510) is attached, at one end of each coil spring (510) by insertion through a predetermined placement and number of apertures (108).

The opposite end of each coil spring (510) is attached to its bottom shell (500a) by insertion through a predetermined placement and number of apertures (108). Each end of each coil spring (510) is secured in place with a gabion (102) and cincture (104), both having female threads (106), and a cap (109) having an internal wormhole (105), male threads (101), and topside cross-grooves (103).

The external bed of coil springs (500) is open and unattached along its perimeter, creating a suspension.

The bottom shell (500a) of this suspension is joined by hinge (501A), at one end, to the top shell (511c) of a second bed of coil springs (511), also open and unattached along its perimeter.

Method and means for construction of the first bed of coil springs (500) is repeated for the second bed of coil springs (511).

The third layer of this ternary is the innermost layer of shock absorption, comprising a sufficiency of encased (516a) buckwheat hulls (516), to eliminate transferred shock residuum to the body of the wearer.

In one embodiment, the innermost layer (516) is attached by inserting the second ply of the bottom shell (511a) of the second bed of coil springs (511), through a loop (512) in the buckwheat hull encasement (516a), then securing the loop (512) between the two plies of the bottom shell by a securing device, such as a side squeeze buckle (502B), at the end opposite the hinge (501B).

I contemplate the use of side squeeze buckles (502) as means for securing and opening the two plies of each shell, however, other securing devices can be used, such as snaps, laces, specially designed rivets, et al.

I contemplate the use of hinges (501) as means for joining the two plies of each shell, however other devices can also be used, such as snaps, ball-in-socket devices, et al.

In one or more embodiments, a predetermined size, placement and number of ventilation apertures (530, 530bis) pierce some or each and every shell of the armor.

Operation—FIGS. 1 and 2

In operation, the body armor is used and works in the following ways:

• • 1. One inserts the armor (FIG. 1—side elevation) into a relevant pocket (012, 014) or compartment, integrated into a body garment (008), with an internal layer of buckwheat hulls (516) against the body of the wearer, or against an optional comfort lining (536), which rests against the body of the wearer, and the dual coil shock suspension (588) toward the external ply of said pocket (012, 014) or compartment of the garment (008).
    • (a) Upon blunt force impact, the external layer of the ternary (500) twists, pulls, or extends in whichever direction the blunt force is travelling. Moving with and in the direction of the force, harmoniously, reduces transferred shock residuum to the next layer.
    • (b) Upon blunt force impact, the second layer of coil shock suspension (511) twists, pulls, or extends in the opposite directions as the external layer (500), eliminating kickback, keeping the force from jarring the body of the wearer, and absorbing the transferred shock residuum from the external layer (500).
    • (c) The innermost layer of buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516) is disposed between the internal coil shock suspension (511) and the body of the wearer, protecting the body of the wearer from transferred shock residuum.
    • (d) When used in vehicles or machinery, with or without the buckwheat hulls, the dual coil shock suspension works in the manner described in 1(a) and 1(b), above, absorbing transferred shock residuum to the object of its protection.
  • 2. One attaches the detachable body armor (FIG. 1—side elevation, FIG. 1a-1a₂—a front, rear, and side elevation) to a surface of a garment (100) with use and means for attachment, such as hook-and-loop fasteners (800), laces (111), et al, as with the protection panels (27′-888) of FIGS. 1a, 1a′, and 1a₂).The detachable body armor works in the manner described in numbers 1(a)-1(c), above.
  • 3. One shapes the armor (FIGS. 1, 1b-1e, and 2—side elevations; 1a—front elevation; 1a′—rear elevation; 2g—rear-to-side perspective; 1f-1i, 2a and 2b—two-dimensional perspectives) into any design, while keeping intact its fundamental elements; e.g. helmet; protection panel; chin guard; knee and elbow pad, all with differing sizes, shapes, and designs, however comprising the same elements, being the stratified disposition of an external dual coil shock suspension (588) and an internal encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516), with or without sizing air pocket (526); with or without comfort lining (536).

Operation of every design works in the manner described in FIGS. 1 and 2 numbers 1(a)-1(c).

• • 4. Other suitable manners of incorporating the stratified disposition of an external dual coil shock suspension (588) and an internal encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516), with or without sizing air pocket (526); with or without comfort lining (536) into body armor, can be used.

Operation of any manner of incorporating the stratified disposition of the fundamental elements aforementioned works in accordance with description for FIGS. 1 and 2, numbers 1(a)-1(c).

Advantages

Upon examination of the description and figures, further advantages of my body armor with a dual coil shock suspension and buckwheat hull shock absorbers are elucida

• • a) Mass manufacturing of parts for assembly is simplified, because the elements do not change from gear piece to gear piece; from genre to genre, and only shapes, sizes, designs, and possibly colors differ.
  • b) Because I contemplate each coil spring being inserted by hand, and not machine, the manufacturing of my body armor will create employment opportunity around the world, contributing to personal, local, and global economic growth.
  • c) Knowing they are well-protected will enhance a wearer's performance in both work and play.
  • d) My body armor provides equal protection to every economical class of wearer, and while each brand might fluctuate pricing, the same armor can be made and sold to lower, middle, and upper class consumers all the same, and all around the world.
  • e) Having ventilation apertures piercing some or every shell of the body armor allows airflow, releases heat, reduces the weight of the armor significantly, and reduces production costs, which in turn reduces the consumer price index.
  • f) It provides versatility, while maintaining freedom of mobility.
  • g) Allows the wearer of the armor to quickly and easily customize protection according to relevance and individual preference, by detaching and adding panels, providing coverage only to areas of known impact, or injuries benefitting from special shielding.
  • h) Reduces bulk, which allows for lighter weighted armor, which in turn, increases speed, freedom of mobility, and greater precision in the execution of activities performed by the wearer.
  • i) Because buckwheat hulls do not retain heat, my body armor eliminates the problem of overheating the wearer during excessive activity.FIG. 1A is a magnification showing means for coil spring (510) attachment, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIGS. 1a-2c—Additional Embodiments

The body armor with dual coil shock suspension (588) and buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516) can be shaped into any form of safety gear. FIGS. 1a-2a show various forms of the body armor for use in various genres, all comprising the elemental composition of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIGS. 1a-1a ₂ show the body armor in the form of detachable, interchangeable protection panels (27′-88B) attached to the external surface of the external layer of a stratified garment (100). FIGS. 1a and 1a₂ comprise the ternary of urging means for shock absorption, attached, in each panel, whereas FIG. 1a′ comprises the ternary with an independent encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516) in the form of an optional undergarment (200).

The stratified garment (100) in the form of a shoulder pads/flak jacket optional combination vest, made of durable, semi-breathable stretch material, comprising two layers, seamless or joined with permanence at one side, possibly by vertical stitching, with each layer having an independent lace (111, 111bis), or other fastening member up or down the side opposite the stitching. The garment can also have both sides lace up or down, or temporarily join with a fastening member.

The external layer of the garment (100) having a predetermined placement and number of plackets (881) and apertures (1108), together with use of devices such as hook-and-loop fasteners (800), laces (111), or other suitable devices, provide means for attachment of protection panels (27′-888) to the garment.

FIGS. 1b-1e ₂ show the body armor in additional forms of safety gear (all side elevations). FIG. 1b shows the body armor with dual coil shock suspension and buckwheat hull shock absorbers in the form of a chin guard with strap loops (507) (straps not shown). FIG. 1c shows the armor in the form of a thigh pad. FIG. 1d shows the armor in the form of both a knee pad and an elbow pad (the only distinguishing characteristic would be size). FIG. 1d2 shows a compression sleeve with integrated panel pockets (012, 014), and right and left upper and lower plackets (010) for easy pull-on and off. FIG. 1d₂ is intended for use with FIG. 1d. FIGS. 1e and 1e₂ show the body armor in an additional form of knee pad, having an arc with a much less pronounced curvature than that of FIG. 1d. FIG. 1e shows the ternary of shock absorbers unattached, whereas FIG. 1e₂ shows attachment, but with the securing device (502) in the open position. FIG. 1e is intended for use with garments having integrated pockets as with football uniforms (garments not shown).

FIGS. 1f-1g and 2a-2c show the body armor with dual coil shock suspension (588) and buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516) in various forms of headgear. FIG. 1f shows the armor in the form of a helmet, intended for use in snow and ice sports, such as snow skiing, snowboarding, and bobsledding; for use in motor sports, such as racecar driving, motorcycling, demolition derby, and go-karting; for use in aeronautical and aerial sports, such as piloting, skydiving, sky surfing, hang-gliding, and zip lining; FIG. 1g shows the armor in the form of a multi-genre helmet, intended for use in sports such as bicycling, roller skating, skateboarding, lacrosse, equestrian sports, hoverboarding, scooter riding, roller derby, and rock climbing;

FIG. 1h shows the armor in the form of a hard hat, with a ratchet suspension (525), intended for use on construction sites, etc; FIG. 1i shows the armor in the form of a batting helmet, intended for use in baseball and softball; FIGS. 1f-1g can be designed with no-face, half-face, or full-face styles, with or without chin straps (800), and with or without sunshades (538), all in accordance with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 (those in accordance with FIG. 2 not shown with FIGS. 1f-1g).

FIG. 2a shows the body armor with dual coil shock suspension (588) and buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516) in the form of a football helmet. FIG. 2b shows the internal ply of the bottom shell of the second bed of coil springs (511b) with ventilation apertures (530bis). FIG. 2c shows the armor in the form of a multi-genre helmet. Options for chin straps (800), and sunshades (538) vary. FIGS. 2a and 2c are in accordance with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 (those in accordance with FIG. 1 not shown with FIGS. 2a-2c). FIGS. 2a and 2c can be designed with or without chin straps (800) and with or without sunshades (538). FIG. 2a can be designed with various styles of facemasks (518).

I contemplate sunshades (800) for all headgear made with High Definition visual technology; light and darkness intelligence; anti-glare and anti-haze technology, and even with prescription lenses. All sunshades for all headgear can be styled in different sizes for varying coverage capabilities.

I contemplate chin straps (800) made with a non-stretch material, for use with an internal dome (588bis), or a stretch material, for use with an external dome (588), and with varying buckling devices (502).

I contemplate a comfort lining (536), a detachable, interchangeable accessory is optional for all gear pieces, made with cooling memory foam, fur, wool, and warming technology, et al., in various shapes and sizes relevant to the gear.

FIGS. 1a-2c, in use, work and operate in accordance with Operation for FIGS. 1 and 2, numbers 1(a)-1(c), and 3, above.

FIGS. 1B-1D—Alternative Embodiments

There are various alternative means for coil spring (510) attachment, which are viable. FIG. 1B shows a single ply connector shell (510ac) with attached coil springs (510) from both coil shock suspensions (588), and coil spring (510) variation, in accordance with an alternative embodiment. FIG. 1C shows the single ply connector shell (510ac) and an alternative means for coil spring (510) attachment, having the coil springs (510) set into cooled molten material, in accordance with an alternative embodiment. FIG. 1D shows the single ply connector shell (510ac), means for coil spring (510) attachment from FIG. 1C, and coil spring (510) variation, in accordance with an alternative embodiment.

FIGS. 1B-1D, in use, work and operate in accordance with Operation for FIGS. 1 and 2, numbers 1(a)-1(c) above.

Detailed Description—FIG. 2

An additional embodiment of the multi-genre body armor with dual coil shock suspension (588) and buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516) is illustrated in FIG. 2 (side elevation).

The additional embodiment incorporates a sandwiching disposition of a sizing air pocket (526) between the second coil shock suspension (511) and the buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516).

The external ply of the bottom shell (511a) of the second coil shock suspension (511) serves as the top shell of the sizing air pocket (526), having a valve aperture (511d) and a valve gabion (511e).

The top shell (511a) of the sizing air pocket (526) is connected to its bottom shell (526a), by hinge (501A) at one end, with a securing device (502A), such as a side squeeze buckle, at the opposite end.

The bottom shell (526a) comprises a shroud (526a), made of expandable material, such as stretch fabric, or other lightweight expandable material, having a sheathe-encased flange (526b), longitudinally disposed. The flange (526b) having a predetermined number of hinge knuckles (501) at one end, and a securing device (502) such as a side squeeze buckle at the opposite end, made of a springy, bendy material, such as plastic, a springy, bendy metal alloy, or some other durable, lightweight springy material of suitability.

A bladder with air valve (526c) lies between the two plies. The bladder with air valve (526c), together with the expandable material of the bottom shell (526a), and the adjustability of the buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516), provides means for sizing.

In operation, FIG. 2 works in the following ways:

• • (a) When air is added to the bladder (526c), the bladder expands against the encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516), the shape of which is adjustable. The increased air causes the encasement of buckwheat hulls (516) to mold to the size and shape of the head of the wearer. By adding or removing air, the wearer is able to size the internal dome (588bis) to a perfect fit.
  • (b) Other operations in accordance with numbers 1(a)-1(c) from FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3-3 f show method and means for coil spring (510) attachment, in construction of each suspension (500, 511).

Components for the method and means for coil spring (510) attachment, for each suspension are as follows:

• • Coil springs (510) having two painted lines (510e, 510f) with predetermined placement, and a painted tip (510g).
  • A top shell (500b, 511c) and a bottom shell (500a, 511b), each having a predetermined placement and number of apertures (108), encircled, off center, on the external surface with a gabion (102) and cincture (104), both having female threads (106), with shell-A having no internal gabion (107), and shell-B having an encircling, off center gabion (107) on its internal surface.
  • Gabion caps (109) having an internal wormhole (105) with aperture (108A) at the tip, male threads (101), and cross-grooves (103) on top for screwing purposes.

Operation—FIGS. 3-3f

The painted tip (510g) of a coil spring (510) is inserted through an aperture (108) of shell-A, from the internal surface, by rotational ingress to the external surface until the second painted line (510f) is emergent beyond the rim of the external threaded gabion (102). This action is repeated until coil springs (510) have been inserted into all apertures (108).

Internal surfaces of shell-A, for both suspensions, are then aligned in apposition to the internal surfaces of shell-B, with each internal gabion (107) supporting an opposing unattached end of coil spring (510).

From the external side of shell-A, each coil spring (510) is then receded, by rotational egress, to the first painted line (510e), which causes the rotational ingress of the unpainted tip (510h) of the coil spring (510) into shell-B.

Each tip (510g, 510h) of coil spring (510) is inserted into the aperture (108A) of the wormhole (105), and each cap (109) is screwed into the cincture (104), by hand, then tightened with a screwdriving device, resulting in coil springs (510) suspending from one shell, and the other shell suspending from coil springs (510).

Upon completion of coil spring (510) attachment for both suspensions, the internal plies of each shell (500a, 500b; 511b, 511c) are joined by hinge (501) or other joining device with swivel capabilities at one end, to the external ply of each shell (500a, 500c; 511a), and secured in place, at the opposite end, by a side squeeze buckle with hinge (502), or other latching device of suitability.

An inverted order of suspension is as follows:

• • A bed of coil springs (511) suspended from a stationary shell (511b).
  • A second shell (511c) suspending from the suspended bed of coil springs (511).
  • A second bed of coil springs (500) suspending from the suspended second shell (500a).
  • A third shell (500b) suspending from the suspended second bed of coil springs (500).

FIGS. 5-6 c show components of the body armor with dual coil shock suspension (588) and buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516) in the form of detachable, interchangeable protection panels (27′-88B) with protective body garments, at various stages of attachment. FIGS. 5-5c and 6 show encasements of buckwheat hull shock absorbers. FIGS. 5, 5a, and 5c show the same encasement from various angles, with focus on attachment loops. FIG. 6 shows the encasement in the form of an optional undergarment, with choice of three necklines, to wit turtleneck (908A) (as illustrated), mock turtleneck (908B), and crewneck (908C).

FIG. 5C shows plackets (881) on the internal surface of the external layer (100A-a) of the stratified garment (100), with fastener (800) insertion. FIGS. 6a-6c show an embodiment for use with panels (27′-888), garment in the form of a vest (100), and optional undergarment (200), with a fastener loop (511n-a) on the internal surface to the external ply of the internal shell (511n) to the second coil shock suspension (511), at different angles. FIG. 6c with a fastener insertion.

Operation—FIGS. 5 and 5d

The external ply of the internal shell (511π) of the second coil shock suspension (511) is inserted into a suspension loop (512), external face down. A hook-and-loop fastener (800), or other fastening member of suitability is inserted through the fastener loop (514) disposed on the external surface of the suspension loop (512). The internal ply of the shell (511b) is secured in place by a latching device such as a side squeeze buckle (502), at the end opposite the hinge (501). Each end of the fastener (800) is inserted through plackets (881) in the external layer of the stratified garment (100), and secured.

The optional undergarment (200) of FIG. 6 is pulled on over the human head and secured in place with removable laces (111). The vest (100) is outfitted with panels (27′-888), then pulled on over the human head, and each layer is secured at one side, independently, with lace (111) up or lace (111) down, preferably.

Operation of the panels is described in FIG. 1, numbers 1(a)-1(c), and 2.

Advantages

From the description and figures provided, several advantages of my various embodiments become evident:

• • (a) An optional comfort lining (536) is inclusive with every gear piece; the independent, detachable accessory, the intended disposition of which is rested between the body of the wearer and the encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516), and having the technology and intelligence for the purposes of cooling, warming, and comforting.
  • (b) An optional sunshade (538) is inclusive with head pieces, having High Definition properties, light and darkness intelligence, anti-glare and anti-haze technology, and other properties eliminating the problem of decompensated vision in inclement weather and other conditions which tend to visually impair. Vision options on sunshades (538) include corrective prescriptions, which will obviate the need for wearers to don eyeglasses with headgear.
  • (c) Body armor diversity, while keeping intact the fundamental ternary of elements, with intended disposition, in that encasements for the buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516a) take the form of attachables, having a loop(s) (512, 514) for securing placement; separates, for insertion into a garment (008); and in the form of an undergarment (200), having any of three necklines (908,908B,908C), providing comfort, warmth, and style, as well as protection from transferred shock residuum.

FIGS. 7-7F′ show additional embodiments of the body armor with dual coil shock suspension (588) and buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516), in the form of protection panels (27-89), for use with a stratified garment (100) in forms including, but not limited to shoulder pads/flak jacket optional combination vest; catchers' apron; chaps; armlets; wristlets; shin guards; riot gear; sparring gear, and shields. FIGS. 7-7F′ show the stratified garment (100) in the form of the shoulder pads/flak jacket optional combination vest (100) of FIG. 1a and FIG. 1a′, with various attached protection panels (27-89), having alternative placements, shapes, and sizes.

The vest (100) comprises an external layer (100) and an internal layer (100bis) of durable, semi-breathable stretch material, such as elastic, seamless or joined with permanence at one side, preferably by vertical stitching, with each layer lacing (111) up or down, independently, at the opposite side. Each layer of the vest (100) having an anterior and a posterior which extend in width in order to connect at its side. Each layer has two shoulders (140); a neck hole (120); two armholes (112); and six upper arm flaps (127A-128bis), which, when worn, all lie adjacent to the relative body parts of the wearer. The external layer of the vest (100), having a predetermined placement and number of plackets (881), and apertures (108), which, in communion with hook-and-loop fasteners (800) or laces (111), provide means for attachment of protection panels (27-89) to the garment (100). Other stratified garments (100) (not shown), include a catchers' apron (100) comprising the same elements as the vest (100) but with straps (800) and buckles (502) of sort in lieu of a posterior. The apron (100) extends to the thigh, and has an optional groin flap disposed front bottom center. Chaps (100) comprise the same elements as the vest (100), but shaped for the legs, having full anterior legs, full posterior legs, or with straps (800) and buckles (502) of sort, in lieu of either side; a belt (800) at the waist, optional foot flaps at the anterior ankle, and with the diaper devoid.

Armlets (100), wristlets (100), and shin guards (100) all comprise the same elements as the vest (100) and chaps (100), but are shaped to cover and protect the relative body parts, being the arm from shoulder to elbow for the armlet; the arm from elbow to wrist for the wristlet (100); and the shin from knee to ankle for the shin guard (100).

FIGS. 7-7 f, in use, work and operate in accordance with Operation for FIGS. 1 and 2, numbers 1(a)-1(c), and 2, above.

Advantages

Accordingly, several more advantages of the body armor with dual coil shock suspension (588), and buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516) in the form of protection panels (27-89) for use with the stratified garment (100) are as follows:

• • (a) It allows the wearer to be the architect, choosing each panel (27-89), and each placement, customizing each garment (100) to individual preference.
  • (b) It allows diverse use of panels (27-89) in that a clavicle panel (80-87, 89) can be used as a vertebrae panel (50-58, 68, 69); can be used as a scapula panel (38A, 38B, 88A, 88B), etc., equally effective.
  • (c) It offers complete versatility, enabling the wearer to make changes as necessary, quickly and easily.
  • (d) It optimizes freedom of mobility, by only adding coverage to areas of known impact, or to injuries benefitting from special shielding versus the entire garment (100), and because all space in between panels (27-89) is a durable, semi-breathable stretch material.
  • (e) It's unencumbering, having reduced bulk and weight, enabling the wearer to execute performance with precision, comfortably.
  • (f) A wearer can outfit the vest (100) with shoulder panels (40-49), and sternum panels (60-66) and don the garment (100) as shoulder pads, or add rib panels (30A-37B, 39A, 39B), and the vest (100) also becomes a flak jacket, obviating the need to own and don a second, separate gear piece, which can be bulky, awkward, and ill-fitted.

FIGS. 7G-7K—Additional Embodiments

FIGS. 7G-7K (not shown) show additional forms of the body armor for use in various genres, all comprising the elemental composition and stratified disposition of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIGS. 7G and 7H (not shown) show the body armor in the form of child and infant car seats; FIG. 7I (not shown) shows the body armor in the form of an equestrian saddle, with tandem encasement of buckwheat hull shock absorbers (516) disposed against the body of each wearer, being the horse and also the rider; FIG. 7J (not shown) shows the body armor in the form of a medical cast; FIG. 7K (not shown) shows the body armor in the form in a vehicular auto body with retractable panels which cover the open perimeter when not in use.

FIGS. 7G-7K, in use, work and operate in accordance with Operation for FIGS. 1 and 2, numbers 1(a)-1(c), and 3. FIG. 7J, in use, works and operates also in accordance with Operation for FIGS. 1 and 2, number 2. FIG. 7K, in use, works and operates also in accordance with Operation for FIGS. 1 and 2, number 1(d).

Advantages—FIGS. 7G and 7K

Further advantages of one or more embodiments of my body armor in the forms described above are as follows:

• • (a) in the form of child and infant car seats, the dual coil shock suspension (588) allows the upper part of the seat to move with and in the directions of moving forces of energy, while remaining secured in place at its base, keeping the body of the child or infant unmoved;
  • (b) in the form of child and infant car seats, the use of Y strap restraints with lock-in-place buckles, in the child car seats, effectively keeps the child from ejection upon impact of a moving force of energy;
  • (c) in the form of child and infant car seats, the constant, continuous subtle motion of each suspension comforts and soothes the child or infant throughout the duration of even lengthy travel.
  • (d) in the form of an equestrian saddle, instead of the galloping movement causing the body of the rider to bounce off of the saddle then slam back down onto the saddle repeatedly, causing contusion and pain, the dual coil shock suspension (588) gently sways harmoniously with the force, allowing the rider to remain seated;
  • (e) The body armor is adjutant in the form of medical casts, providing protection to healing injuries, from shock trauma, resulting from various blunt force impact involved with everyday life activity; allowing for unencumbered healing and further injury prevention;
  • (f) in the form of a vehicular auto body, the dual coil shock suspension (588) eases the impact of blunt force caused by collision, without folding or rippling in on itself and crushing like a tin can, endangering the passengers inside.

CONCLUSIONS, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE

Accordingly, the examiner will see that the various embodiments of my body armor solve and correct every defect plaguing body armor, historically and to date, as elucidated in the BACKGROUND, particularly identifying and addressing the conceptual defect which continues to cause inventors and manufacturers to produce body armor engineered to protect the body armor from blunt force impact more so than the wearer.

Furthermore, my body armor with dual coil shock suspension and buckwheat hull shock absorbers has the additional advantages of:

• • Providing the ultimate protection at minimal cost with use of buckwheat hulls, which do not retain heat and have been scientifically proven to be completely effectual in protecting a raw egg from blunt force impact of a sledgehammer, dropped from a distance above, where all others in the experiment failed, including foam.
  • Permitting production versatility by incorporating ventilation apertures into some or each and every shell, which provides the health benefits associated with airflow,
  • release of heat, and decreased weight of the body armor, to the wearer. The use of ventilation apertures also reduces the amount of material used to manufacture each shell, therefore decreasing cost to the maker, as well as to the consumer.
  • Permitting alternative methods and means for coil spring attachment, however, the method and means described above, for attachment of coil springs to its top and bottom shells, particularly in a suspension, where gravity is a factor, provides the most secure placement and hold, and is capable of sustaining repeated occurrences of blunt force impact, without decompensation.
  • Other methods and means commonly used, such as setting the coil springs into cooled molten material decompensate in time. Also, the method and means for attachment of coil springs to a shell of rigid material, provided in the description and correlating drawings allows the wearer to make quick and easy do-it-yourself parts repair or replacement. Even children can do it.
  • Imperative to effectual protection, permitting appropriate sizing for each individual wearer for each use, without the need for costly custom-fitting, which holds an expiration date for effectiveness, due to inevitable internal size expansion from wear and use. This advantage also eliminates the increased costs and complications associated with excessive production involved with producing multiple size choices for each size category, with which the consumer must settle for the predetermined size with the closest fit versus my body armor's advantage of perfect sizing each use, and life-longevity with permissive parts repair or replacement.
  • Permitting quick, easy, and repeated, if necessary, parts repair or replacement is not only economical for the consumer and parts manufacturers, but bears quite the advantage for athletes who are superstitious about their gear pieces bringing luck or
  • greatness in performance and play. An athlete can use his or her lucky gear piece for life, and the armor will maintain effectiveness.
  • Providing equal protection to every consumer, regardless of size, weight, age, gender, or economic class.
  • Dispositions, sizes, quantities, shapes, etc. of features such as apertures, plackets, fastening devices, securing devices, coil spring coarseness, length and girth can be made in various alternatives, while maintaining suitability.

Claims

1. Body armor comprising of plurality of urging means for shock absorption, for the protection of the human or animal body, or the body of an object from the effects of blunt force impact and other moving forces of energy.

2. The body armor of claim 1 wherein said plurality of said urging means is three.

3. The body armor of claim 2 wherein first said urging means is an external suspension comprising a plurality of coil springs, having a top shell of rigid material and a bottom shell of rigid material.

4. The body armor of claim 2 wherein second said urging means is a suspension comprising a plurality of coil springs, having a top shell of rigid material and a bottom shell of rigid material.

5. The body armor of claim 3 and claim 4 wherein said shells of rigid material each comprise two plies, having a joining device with swivel capabilities at one end, and the opposite end bearing a latching device, which when coupled with manual force, provides means of opening and securing said plies in a closed position.

6. The body armor of claim 3 and claim 4 wherein a single shell comprises both said bottom shell of first said suspension and said top shell of second said suspension.

7. The body armor of claim 3 and claim 4 wherein said shells of rigid material have a predetermined placement and number of apertures.

8. The body armor of claim 7 wherein said apertures are encircled, off center, with a gabion and cincture on the external surface of said shells.

9. The body armor of claim 8 wherein said gabion and cincture both have female threads.

10. The body armor of claim 8 wherein a gabion cap having an internal wormhole with aperture at the tip, male threads, and topside cross-groves screw into said gabion and cincture.

11. The body armor of claim 7 wherein said apertures of said bottom shell have an encircling, off center gabion on its internal surface.

12. The body armor of claim 3 and claim 4 wherein said coil springs have two painted lines circumferentially disposed, and a painted tip proximal to said painted lines.

13. The body armor of claim 2 wherein third said urging means is an internal layer of encased buckwheat hulls.

14. The body armor of claim 1 wherein said plurality of said urging means is stratified. Whereby (a) upon blunt force impact to the surface of the external shell, first said suspension, allowing for multidirectional movement, deflects and redirects the force away from the body of the wearer, and reduces transferred shock residuum to the sandwiching layer; (b) penetrating force is absorbed by second said suspension, of said sandwiching layer, which allows for multidirectional movement, absorbing kickback, and diminishing transferred shock residuum to the internal layer; (c) transferred shock residuum is absorbed by said internal layer of encased buckwheat hulls.

15. A method for creating a suspension by attaching a plurality of coil springs to a top shell of rigid material and a bottom shell of rigid material comprising: (a) providing coil springs of the type having two painted lines circumferentially disposed, with a painted tip proximal to said painted line; a top shell of rigid material and a bottom shell of rigid material, each of the type having an identical predetermined placement and number of apertures, encircled, off center, on the external surface with a gabion and cincture, both having female threads, with said bottom shell having an encircling, off center gabion on its internal surface; and gabion caps of the type having an internal wormhole with aperture at the tip, male threads, and topside cross-grooves;(b) inserting said painted tips of said coil springs through said apertures of said top shell, from said internal surface by rotational ingress to said external surface until second said painted line is emergent beyond the rim of said external gabion;(c) repeating this action until said coil springs have been inserted into all said apertures;(d) aligning said internal surface of said top shell in a position to said internal surface of said bottom shell, with each said internal gabion supporting an opposing unattached end of said coil spring;(e) receding each said coil spring from said external surface of said top shell by rotational egress, to first said painted line, which causes the rotational ingress of the unpainted tip of said coil spring into said bottom shell;(f) inserting each said tip of said coil spring into said aperture of said wormhole of each said gabion cap;(g) screwing said gabion caps into each said cincture, by hand, by pressing and turning to the right; and(h) tightening said gabion caps by pressing the tip of a screwdriving device into said topside cross-grooves and turning to the right until it ceases to give.Whereby resulting in said coil springs suspending from one said shell and the other said shell suspended from said coil springs.

16. A body garment comprising a predetermined placement and number of plackets and apertures for attachment of said body armor in the form of protection panels.

17. The body garment of claim 16 wherein said garment is stratified.

18. The body garment of claim 17 wherein the stratification comprises two layers

19. The body garment of claim 18 wherein said two layers comprise a durable, semi-breathable stretch fabric, vertically joined with permanence at one side, with each said layer along the opposite side unattached, creating an internal anterior flap, an internal posterior flap, an external anterior flap, and an external posterior flap, each having a predetermined placement and number of apertures, plackets, or both, which when coupled with a fastening member, provides means for temporary adjoinment, loosening, and tightening of said internal anterior flap to said internal posterior flap, and said external anterior flap to said external posterior flap.