SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DISSIPATING IMPACT MOMENTUM AND BLAST WAVE ENERGY

Abstract

The invented device forms a flexible planar or nonplanar blast surface that is oriented to receive and dissipate energy and restrict penetrations received from objects, projectiles and/or blast waves received from and along a vector path. A flexible assembly forms a blast surface having a multitude of pinned or semi-pinned elongate entangled staples, wherein a multiplicity of the staples extend at least partially along a vector path, wherein the vector path is oriented perpendicularly relative to the blast surface. A flexible particulate assembly comprising a multitude of adjoining pinned, semi-pinned and/or semi-static particles assembled together to present interstitial areas no larger than the diameter of a selected projectile; and a flexible binding medium integrated with the multitude of adjoining particles and adapted to maintain the multitude of adjoining particles in a flexible semi-pinned semi-static array.

Claims

1. A flexible fabric comprising a multitude of elongate entangled staples (staples), wherein each staple of a multiplicity of staples of the multitude of staples comprises a partial length that extends in a substantively parallel orientation.

2. The flexible fabric of claim 1, wherein the multitude of staples is present in the flexible fabric at an areal density of greater than 0.50 ounce per square foot.

3. The flexible fabric of claim 1, wherein the flexible fabric is positioned between an entity and a shielding element.

4. The flexible fabric of claim 1, wherein the entity is a human being.

5. The flexible fabric of claim 1, wherein the multiplicity of the staples comprises a fire retardant.

6. The flexible fabric of claim 1, wherein each of the multiplicity of staples present an elongate dimension greater than 0.5 inches.

7. The flexible fabric of claim 1, wherein the multiplicity of the staples comprises a material, in combination or in singularity, selected from the material group of a polymer, a metal, a metal alloy, a ceramic and a basalt component.

8. The flexible fabric of claim 7, wherein the multitude of staples is present in the flexible fabric at an areal density of greater than 0.50 ounce per square foot.

9. The flexible fabric of claim 1, wherein the multitude of staples further comprises a second multiplicity of staples, wherein the second multiplicity of staples is distributed to at least partially extend linearly in a range of orientations, wherein the range extends from parallel to the multiplicity of partial lengths of the first multiplicity of staples to orthogonal to the multiplicity of partial lengths of the multiplicity of staples.

10. The flexible fabric of claim 1, further comprising: a coupling edge formed within an edge of the flexible fabric; and a coupling feature attached to the coupling edge, wherein the coupling feature is adapted to enable the flexible fabric to be positioned vertically, whereby the partial lengths of the multiplicity of staples is positioned to be parallel to a horizontal ground plane.

11. The flexible fabric of claim 1, wherein the multiplicity of staples is formed into a semi-pinned state.

12. A flexible fabric comprising a multitude of entangled staples (staples), comprising: a first fabric of a first multiplicity of the staples that comprises lengths extending in a substantively parallel orientation; a second fabric of a second multiplicity of the staples that comprise lengths extending in a substantively parallel orientation; an intermediate layer, the intermediate layer disposed between the first fabric and the second fabric; and a stitching, the stitching multiply stitching together and extending through the first fabric, the intermediate layer, and the second fabric.

13. The flexible fabric of claim 12, wherein the first multiplicity of staples is formed in a static state.

14. The flexible fabric of claim 13, wherein the second multiplicity of staples is formed in a semi-pinned semi-static state.

16. The flexible fabric of claim 12, wherein the intermediate layer comprises a woven fabric.

17. The flexible fabric of claim 16, wherein the woven fabric comprises a multiplicity of woven sheets.

18. The flexible fabric of claim 12, the first fabric further comprising an additional multiplicity of staples, wherein the additional multiplicity of staples distributed to extend in a range of orientations in reference to the vector path, wherein the range extends from parallel to the multiplicity of parallel lengths of the first multiplicity of staples to orthogonal to the orthogonal to the parallel lengths of the first multiplicity of staples.

19. The flexible fabric of claim 12, the second fabric further comprising an alternate multiplicity of staples, wherein the alternate multiplicity of staples distributed to extend in a range of orientations in reference to the vector path, wherein the range extends from parallel to the multiplicity of parallel lengths of the first multiplicity of staples to orthogonal to the orthogonal to the parallel lengths of the first multiplicity of staples.

20. A flexible particulate structure comprising: a multitude of adjoining particles, the adjoining particles assembled together to present interstitial areas no larger than the diameter of a selected projectile; and a flexible binding medium, the flexible binding medium integrated with the multitude of adjoining particles and adapted to maintain the multitude of adjoining particles in a flexible semi-pinned semi-static array.

21. The flexible particulate structure of claim 20, further comprising: the flexible particulate structure forming an internal surface; and an energy capturing layer positioned along the internal surface, the energy capturing layer comprising a multitude of elongate entangled staples (staples), wherein each staple of a multiplicity of the staples of the multitude of staples each comprise one or more partial lengths that extend in a substantively parallel orientation normal to the adjoining surface.

22. The flexible particulate structure of claim 20, wherein a multiplicity of adjoining particles is substantively spherical.

23. The flexible particulate structure of claim 20, wherein a multiplicity of adjoining particles is substantively semi-spherical.

24. The flexible particulate structure of claim 20, wherein a multitude of adjoining particles is substantively semi-spherical and comprises an outer layer and a filler element, wherein the outer layer is oriented proximally toward a predicted path of travel of the selected projectile.

25. The flexible particulate structure of claim 24, wherein the filler element is highly compressive.

26. The flexible particulate structure of claim 20, wherein the filler element is flame retardant.

32. The flexible particulate structure of claim 20, wherein the flexible semi-pinned semi-static array forms a multiplicity of layers of adjoining particles.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0071] The detailed description of some embodiments of the invention is made below with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals represent corresponding parts of the figures.

[0072] FIG. 1 is a detailed cut-away cross-sectional view of an invented lower density staple grouping;

[0073] FIG. 2 is a detailed cut-away cross-sectional view of a layered staple of the lower density staple grouping of FIG. 1;

[0074] FIG. 3 is a detailed cut-away cross-sectional view of an entangled structure comprising the staples of FIG. 1, after numerous penetrations by the barbed needle of FIG. 1 into and away from the first grouping of FIG. 1;

[0075] FIG. 4 is a detailed cut-away cross-section of a packaged grouping that comprises the entangled structure of FIG. 3 enclosed within a protective material;

[0076] FIG. 5 is a detailed cut-away cross-section of the packaged grouping of FIG. 4 utilized in combination with a prior art shielding structure;

[0077] FIG. 6 is a detailed cut-away cross-sectional view of a higher density version of the entangled structure of FIG. 3;

[0078] FIG. 7 is a top view of an assembly that includes one or more instances of the invented matrix of FIG. 6 comprised within a top matrix;

[0079] FIG. 8A is a cut-away sideview of the assembly of FIG. 7 and presents the top matrix, a zone of woven material, and an internal matrix;

[0080] FIG. 8B is an additional detailed representation of the cut-away sideview of the assembly of FIG. 8A, comprising multiple layers of each component layer presented in FIG. 8A;

[0081] FIG. 9 is a detailed cut-away sideview of the assembly of FIG. 7;

[0082] FIG. 10 is an isolated view of the threading of the assembly of FIG. 7;

[0083] FIG. 11A is a cut-away sideview of an alternate assembly comprising the top matrix of FIG. 7 and the woven fabric of FIG. 8 coupled together;

[0084] FIG. 11B is an additional detailed representation of the cut-away sideview of the alternate assembly of FIG. 11A, comprising multiple layers of each component layer presented in FIG. 11A;

[0085] FIG. 12 is a cut-away sideview detail of the alternate assembly of FIG. 11A;

[0086] FIG. 13 is a cut-away top view the assembly of FIG. 7, further augmented with temperature mitigation elements;

[0087] FIG. 14 is a cut-away side view of the assembly of FIG. 7 that has been further augmented with sensors;

[0088] FIG. 15 is a cut-away top view of an interrupter layer that is used in certain yet other alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention in combination with the assembly of FIG. 7 and/or the alternate assembly of FIG. 11A;

[0089] FIG. 16 is a detailed cut-away top view of four of the spheres of the interrupter layer of FIG. 15;

[0090] FIG. 17A is a detailed cut-away top view of an alternate sphere for inclusion in the interrupter layer of FIG. 15;

[0091] FIG. 17B is a detailed cut-away top view of an additional alternate sphere for inclusion in the interrupter layer of FIG. 15;

[0092] FIG. 18 is a cut-away side view of the interrupter layer if FIG. 15;

[0093] FIG. 19 is a cut-away top view of a compilation comprising the interrupter layer of FIG. 15 positioned on top of the assembly of FIG. 7;

[0094] FIG. 20A is a cut-away side view of the compilation of FIG. 19;

[0095] FIG. 20B is a cut-away side view of an alternate compilation showing the interrupter layer of FIG. 15 positioned on top of the alternate assembly of FIG. 11A;

[0096] FIG. 21A is a representation of a bullet approaching a cut-away side view of the compilation of FIG. 19;

[0097] FIG. 21B is a continuation of the scenario of FIG. 21A, wherein the bullet impacts the interrupter layer and fractures;

[0098] FIG. 22 presents a first protective garment, a shirt, incorporating the interrupter layer of FIG. 15 and the assembly of FIG. 7;

[0099] FIG. 23 presents a second protective garment, a glove, incorporating the interrupter layer of FIG. 15 and the assembly of FIG. 7;

[0100] FIG. 24 presents a third protective garment, a full body suit, incorporating the interrupter layer of FIG. 15 and the assembly of FIG. 7; and

[0101] FIG. 25 presents a fourth protective garment, a boot, incorporating the interrupter layer of FIG. 15 and the assembly of FIG. 7;

[0102] FIG. 26 is a line drawing presenting a front view of a panel of invented material, such as the assembly of FIG. 7, further adapted to be hung up as a protective curtain or panel; and

[0103] FIG. 27 is a line drawing presenting a side view of a plurality of the staples of FIG. 1 incorporated into a static structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0104] In the following detailed description of the invention, numerous details, examples, and embodiments of the invention are described. However, it will be clear and apparent to one skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the embodiments set forth and that the invention can be adapted for any of several applications.

[0105] It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular aspects of the present invention described, as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present invention will be limited only by the appended claims. Methods recited herein may be carried out in any order of the recited events which is logically possible, as well as the recited order of events.

[0106] Where a range of values is provided herein, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range, is encompassed within the invention. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and are also encompassed within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the range's limits, an excluding of either or both of those included limits is also included in the invention.

[0107] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the methods and materials are now described.

[0108] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms a, an, and the include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as solely, only and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a negative limitation.

[0109] When elements are referred to as being connected or coupled, the elements can be directly connected or coupled together or one or more intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when elements are referred to as being directly connected or directly coupled, there are no intervening elements present.

[0110] Throughout this specification, like reference numbers signify the same elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0111] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 1, FIG. 1 is a detailed cut-away cross-sectional view of a lower density staple grouping 2 (the first grouping 2) formed by a quantity of staples 4 (the staples 4). Each of the staples 4 comprises at least a first staple end length 4A and a second staple end length 4B (the staple end lengths 4A & 4B). Many of the staple end lengths 4A & 4B of the staples 4 of the first grouping 2 are initially randomly oriented with respect to a Z-axis, wherein the Z axis defines a thickness dimension Z of the first grouping 2.

[0112] It is noted that the terms multitude and multiplicity are utilized herein, wherein a multitude is a group, plurality, or subset of elements and a multiplicity is the set of all elements as specified.

[0113] A prior art barbed needle 6 having a barb 6A extending from a needle body 6B is penetrated through the first grouping 2 to cause the staple end lengths 4A & 4B of the staples 4 to orient generally along the Z-axis, e.g., each of the staple end lengths 4A & 4B preferably substantively parallel to the Z-axis, that is, separately and substantively extending within +/20 degrees in parallel with the Z-axis or more preferably substantively extending within +/10 degrees in parallel with the Z-axis.

[0114] An exemplary staple 8 of the many staples 4 is shown being captured between the barb 6A and the needle body 6B of the barbed needle 6 and thereby forcing a pair of exemplary staple ends 8A & 8B of the exemplary staple 8 to separately align in greater parallelism with the Z-axis. It is an inventive aspect of the invented method that the staple end lengths 4A & 4B of the staples 4 generally, and the exemplary staple end lengths 8A & 8B of the exemplary staple 8 as a specific example, are preferably positioned by the barbed needle 6 to terminate more proximately towards a notional threat region 10. A plurality of potential threat vectors 12 (the vector paths 12) pass from the threat region 10 and into and potentially through the first grouping 2 and towards a protected region 14. It is noted that, in the absence of an actual incoming object, the vector paths 12 might be considered as preferred notional vector paths, that is, directions from which an incoming threat or object might preferably approach. It is noted that protective gear need not be hit straight on from the front, i.e. from a single ideal preferred incoming notional vector path, in order to provide at least some protective benefit, and further that a direct hit from an actual incoming threat at the ideal angle for maximal effectiveness of one's protective gear is rarely a good thing to count on. It may therefore be preferable to account for a range or variety of notional vector paths, rather than to orient the entirety of a piece of protective gear in the same direction on the assumption that the gear would only ever receive incoming threats from that single same notional vector path. Accordingly, a plurality of the vector paths 12 are presented here.

[0115] It is understood that the scope of the meaning of the term the threat region 10 as used within the present disclosure includes a region that the first grouping 2 is intended to face and receive energy from. It is also understood that the scope of the meaning of the term the protected region 14 as used within the present disclosure includes a region expected to encompass an entity for which the first grouping 2 is oriented to protect and/or dissipate energy originally received from the threat region.

[0116] It is understood that the threat region 10 faces the protected region 14 and that the first grouping 2 is preferably disposed between the threat region 10 and the protected region 14. It is further understood that the first grouping 2 is entirely positioned with a notional front plane 16 and a notional back plane 18, wherein no staple extends beyond either the front plane 16 or the back plane 18. The front plane 16 is positioned between the first grouping 2 and the threat region 10, and the back plane 18 is positioned between the first grouping 2 and the protected region 14.

[0117] These penetrations of the first grouping 2 by the barbed needle 6 encourage or increase an incidence of orientations of many of the staple end lengths 4A & 4B along the Z-axis. The Z-axis is selected as an anticipated primary direction of an incoming energy that the first grouping 2 would be positioned to accept. The first grouping 2, as an aggregate of the staples 4, will absorb and diffuse the energy received by the first staple grouping 2 when said energy passes from the threat region 10 to engage with the first grouping 2.

[0118] It is understood that the term energy as defined and used within the present disclosure includes, but is not limited to, a blast wave, a projectile, and/or transferred kinetic energy.

[0119] Increased alignment of any particular one of the staples 4 along any particular one of the vector paths 12 results in an increased potential of that instant one of the staples 4 to accept, diffuse, and dissipate blast energy travelling along that same one of the vector paths 12. It is understood that a given one of the staples 4 does not need to be exactly parallel with a particular threat vector path 12 to accept energy travelling along said one of the vector paths 12; any dimensional component evidenced within a three dimensional shape of any one of the staples 4 that is parallel with a particular one of the vector paths 12 will generally enable said one of the staples 4 to more effectively accept energy travelling along the instant one of the vector paths 12. It is understood that the staples 4 may absorb and dissipate some received energy in a phase change imposed by separate interactions of individual ones of the staples 4 with an energy travelling from the threat region 10 at high speed and toward the first grouping 2, such as faster than 600 feet per second.

[0120] The staples 4 preferably comprise one or more high tensile strength and high compression strength materials, such as but not limited to, KEVLAR, SPECTRA, DYNEEMA and other suitable high tensile and high compression materials known in the art.

[0121] In certain alternate preferred embodiments one or more of the staples 4 present a maximum elongate length of between 0.5 inch and 4.0 inch and a cross-sectional diameter 0.004 inch+/0.003 inch. It is understood that not every staple 4 of the first grouping 2 is or must be entangled.

[0122] It is understood that as referenced herein any length Z value is measured in parallel with the Z-axis, and any other length parameter is expressed as a distance along an X-axis, wherein the Z-axis and the X-axis are mutually orthogonal.

[0123] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 is a detailed cut-away cross-sectional view of a layered staple 200 that comprises one of the staples 4 that is coated and/or substantively encapsulated with a material 202. The material preferably encapsulates a first staple tip 4C and a second staple tip 4D (the staple tips 4C & 4D) of the instant one of the staples 4. The material 202 may be or comprise one or more protective substances, such as, but not limited to, a flame resistant material, a flame proofing material, a moisture resistant material, a water repellant material, a polymer, a metal, a metal alloy, a ceramic, a basalt component and/or other suitable protective substances known in the art, in singularity or combination.

[0124] It is understood that any one of the staples 4 might be measured or understood, regardless of any instant or immediate orientation or positioning of the instant one of the staples 4, in terms of having an elongate dimension of a maximum length of the staple and a cross-sectional area. It is understood that one or more of the staples 4 may have a substantively continuous cross section relative and perpendicular to the elongate dimension of the instant one of the staples 4 that may be substantively round, elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular, or other cross-sectional shape known in the art. It is understood that one or more of the staples 4 may have a substantively non-continuous cross section relative to the elongate dimension of the instant one of the staples 4 that may vary over the elongate length of the instant one of the staples 4.

[0125] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 is a detailed cut-away cross-sectional view of an entangled structure 300 comprising the staples 4 of FIG. 1 after numerous penetrations by the barbed needle 6 into and away from the first grouping 2. The entangled structure 300 comprises entangled staples 4 that are positioned between and do not extend either through or up to the front plane 16 or the back plane 18. For the purpose of clarity of explanation, selected entangled ones of the staples 4 are identified as a first exemplary entangled staple 302, a second exemplary entangled staple 304, a third exemplary entangled staple 306, and a fourth exemplary entangled staple 308 (the exemplary entangled staples 302-308) thereby caused the formation of a plurality of exemplary entanglements 310-316, specifically a first exemplary entanglement 310, a second exemplary entanglement 312, a third exemplary entanglement 314, and a fourth exemplary entanglement 316 (the exemplary entanglements 310-316). It is understood that each of the exemplary entanglements 310-316 entangles lengths of two or more of the staples 4, specifically the entangled staples 302-308. It is understood that not every one of the staples 4 of the first grouping 300 must be entangled.

[0126] The preferred density of the staples 4 of the entangled structure 300 is preferably in the range of 0.1 ounce to 1.0 ounce per square foot of the entangled structure 300 in the X-Y plane, and more preferably within the range of 0.42 ounce per square foot +/25% of an invented matrix 600, as introduced in FIG. 6, in the X-Y plane.

[0127] In FIG. 3, the first staple end length 4A is aligned along a first notional threat vector path Z1 and the fourth exemplary entangled staple 308 presents a fourth exemplary entangled staple end length 308A aligned along a second notional threat vector path Z2. It is understood that the preferred orientation of the staple end lengths 4A & 4B, such as the exemplary staple end lengths 8A & 8B of FIG. 1 or the fourth exemplary entangled staple end length 308A, is to be perfectly parallel with at least one of the vector paths 12 such as the first notional threat vector path Z1 and the second notional threat vector path Z2 and that the entangled structure 300 preferably presents a diverse orientation of staples 4, such as the exemplary staple 8 of FIG. 1 or the exemplary entangled staples 302-308, such that a portion of the staple end lengths 4A & 4B, such as the exemplary staple end lengths 8A & 8B of FIG. 1 or the fourth exemplary entangled staple end length 308A, are substantively parallel with any actually received energy travelling along one of the vector paths 12, such as the first notional threat vector path Z1 and the second notional threat vector path Z2, received by the first grouping 2 and from the threat region 10. It is further understood that many of the staple tips 4C & 4D are positioned preferably more proximate to the threat region 10 and distal from the protected region 14. It is understood that the threat region 10 is the region through which at least one of the vector paths 12 is anticipated to pass to strike various alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention.

[0128] It is emphasized that one or more staples 4, such as the exemplary staple 8 of FIG. 1 or the exemplary entangled staples 302-308, preferably comprises one or more high tensile strength and high compression strength materials, such as but not limited to, KEVLAR, SPECTRA and other suitable high tensile and high compression materials known in the art.

[0129] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 4, FIG. 4 is a detailed cut-away cross-section of a packaged grouping 400 that comprises the entangled structure 300 enclosed within a protective material 402. The protective material 402 may comprise a soft fabric and/or a formed shell, or a combination of one or more shape forming materials and soft fabric elements, to include but not limited to, any suitable material known in the art that may envelop the entangled structure 300 such as a film, a fabric, a spray, and a dip. Additionally or alternatively, the protective material 402 may be or comprise one or more protective substances, such as, but not limited to, a flame resistant material, a flame proofing material, a moisture resistant material, a water repellant material, and/or other suitable protective substances known in the art, in singularity or combination. The protective material 402 partially encloses, or alternatively totally encloses, the entangled structure 300 in various and distinguishable alternate preferred embodiments of the packaged grouping 400.

[0130] It is understood that the packaged grouping 400 is preferably disposed between the threat region and the protected region 14.

[0131] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 5, FIG. 5 is a detailed cut-away cross-section of a prior art shielding element 500 disposed between the threat region 10 and the entangled structure 300. The prior art shielding element 500 may be or comprise a prior art armor or armor material, such as, but not limited to, a woven Kevlar fabric, a hard shell Kevlar material, and/or other suitable shielding or armor structures known in the art.

[0132] It is understood that the primary role of the shielding structure 500 may be to directly receive and interceded a projectile (not shown) traveling toward the entangled structure 300 along one of the vector paths 12 and toward an external shielding side 500A of the shielding structure 500. It is further understood that a primary function of the entangled structure 300 is to receive and dissipate energy received from an internal shielding side 500B of the shielding structure 500 as generated by a collision of one or more projectiles (not shown) passing from the threat region 10 and onto the external shielding side 500A. One or many of a prior art shielding structure layer 500C of internally and separately consistent or discrete shielding material may be comprised within the prior art shielding element 500. The prior art shielding element 500 may be or comprise a prior art armor or armor material, such as, but not limited a woven Kevlar fabric, a hard shell Kevlar material, and/or other suitable shielding or armor structures known in the art.

[0133] An additional key function of the entangled structure 300 is to receive and dissipate any energy that passes from the shielding structure 500 and into the entangled structure 300, particularly when received from the threat region 10.

[0134] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 6, FIG. 6 is a detailed cut-away cross-sectional view of a higher density entangled structure 600 (the invented matrix 600) comprising a plurality of the staples 4 entangled together after numerous penetrations by the barbed needle 6, or other suitable manufacturing means and methods known in the art, to encourage the formation of a plurality of staple entanglements 602 (the matrix staple entanglements 602) of various instances of the staples 4 of the invented matrix 600. The invented matrix 600 thereby forms an energy capturing layer that dissipates and/or absorbs energy; in certain alternate preferred embodiments of the present in invention the absorption and/or dissipation of energy received by the energy capturing layer formed by the matric 600 may be generated at least partially through phase changes of individual staples 4. It is understood that not every one of the staples 4 of the invented matrix 600 must be entangled.

[0135] The preferred density of the staples 4 of the invented matrix 600 is in the range of 0.1 ounce to 3.00 ounce per square foot of the invented matrix 600 in the X-Y plane, and more preferably within the range of 0.71 ounce per square foot +/25% of the invented matrix 600 in the X-Y plane.

[0136] It is understood that the invented matrix 600 is preferably disposed between the threat region 10 and the protected region 14. It is further understood that many of the staple end lengths 4A & 4B and the staple tips 4C & 4D are positioned preferably more proximate to the threat region 10 and distal from the protected region 14.

[0137] In certain preferred applications of the method of the present invention, one or more layers of the invented matrix 600 are placed within an equipment (not shown) and between a shielding element 500 (of FIG. 5) of the equipment and an inner protected region 14 positioned within the equipment. It is preferable in these preferred applications of the method of the present invention that an air gap be maintained between the invented matrix 600 or invented matrices 600 and the inner protected region 14 of the equipment.

[0138] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 7, FIG. 7 is a top view of an assembly 700 that includes one or more instance of the invented matrix 600 (as disclosed in FIG. 6) comprised with a top matrix 702 of the assembly 700 as seen from a point of view along the Z-axis, wherein the top view of the top matrix 702 is presented within a plane defined by the X-axis and a Y-axis orthogonal to both the X-axis and the Z-axis. The top matrix 702 may comprise two, three, or more instances of the invented matrix 600.

[0139] It is understood that the Z-axis, X-axis, and the Y-axis are mutually orthogonal. It is understood that as referenced herein any width parameter is expressed as a distance value measured along the Y-axis.

[0140] The top matrix 702 is bound by a top threading 704 that forms separate stitched columns 706 (the columns 706) and stitched rows 708 (the rows 708). One or more additional lengths of the top threading 704 is applied to form an optional boundary serging 710. The optional boundary serging 710 is positioned in from the outer edge of the assembly on all four external sides 712 thereof. It is noted that serging is a term of art in the field of sewing, and refers to a type of stitching generally done with a sewing machine that secures edges of a piece of fabric against fraying or raveling. It is noted that while the term serging is used, other means of securing the material as described herein besides a serging stitch may also be suitable as understood by one skilled in the art.

[0141] In certain still alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention, the columns 706 and the rows 708 form squares, diamonds, parallelograms, spiral shapes, elliptical shapes, circular, angular shapes, or rectangles that preferably measure within the range of less than or equal to 1.00 inch to 2.00 inch or more in either length along the X-axis or width along the Y-axis.

[0142] The top threading 704 of the assembly 700 preferably comprises material that exhibits a high level of tensile strength, such as, but not limited, to a size 207 KEVLAR/TEX 210/GOVT. 3-CORD threading, a size 346 KEVLAR thread/TEX 350/GOVT. 5-CORD threading, and other suitable threading known in the art. Sewing needles (not shown) suitable for threading various preferred embodiments of the assembly 700 include a non-titanium coated Groz-Beckert 13517 #26 sewing needle, a Groz-Beckert 13517 SAN 5 #24 sewing needle, and other suitable sewing needles known in the art. Alternatively or additionally, various still alternate preferred embodiments of the top threading 704 may be or comprise, in singularity of combination, (a.) Bonded Kevlar #207 dimensioned at a 018/0.46 mm diameter, and exhibiting a 64 lb. breaking strength; (b.) Bonded Kevlar #346, dimensioned at 0.026/0.65 mm diameter, and exhibiting a 124 lbs. breaking strength; and/or (c.) any suitable thread known in that having a strength +/30% of any thread mentioned herein.

[0143] The unit weight of the top threading may be 1500 grams per 9,000 meters, i.e., 1500 dernier.

[0144] It is understood that the columns 706 and the rows 708 do not form pockets, nor quilted pockets, in the top matrix 702, but merely pass through the top matrix 702 preferably with minimal disturbance of the staples 4 of the top matrix 702.

[0145] In certain still other alternate preferred embodiments of the invented method, the stitched columns 706 are spaced at 1.5 inches apart, and the stitched rows 708 are spaced at 1.5 inches apart. The preferred stitching pattern, e.g., the columns 706 and the rows 708, spiral designs, etc., are best selected as a design choice in view of the particular composition and quantity of the top matrix 702, the number of layers of a nonwoven fabric material 800, and the how many instances of the invented matrix 600 are included in forming the internal matrix 802 of FIG. 8.

[0146] In even other various alternate and distinguishable preferred embodiments of the assembly 700, a sewing pattern of top threading 704 may be positioned to form, in singularity or combination, (a.) an orthogonal vertical and horizontal stitching pattern, (b.) a square stitching pattern, (c.) a rectangular stitching pattern, (d.) a diamond stitching pattern, (e.) a spiral stitching pattern, (f.) and/or other patterns and variable stitches distances selected as a design choice typically made in view of a foreseeable threat.

[0147] In certain preferred applications of the method of the present invention, the assembly 700 is placed within an equipment (not shown) and between a shielding element 500 (of FIG. 5) of the equipment and an inner protected region 14 positioned within the equipment. It is preferable in these preferred applications of the method of the present invention that an air gap be maintained between the assembly 700 and the inner protected region 14 of the equipment.

[0148] A cut-away indicator 714 indicates a line across the top matrix 702 used as a point of view of FIGS. 8A and 8B.

[0149] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 8A, FIG. 8A is a cut-away sideview of the assembly 700 and presents the top matrix 702 and a zone of woven fabric material 800 (hereinafter, the woven material 800), and an internal matrix 802.

[0150] In certain alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention, the internal matrix 802 may comprise two, three, or more discrete or joined instances of the invented matrix 600. In certain alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention, the woven material 800, in various alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention, may comprise one, two, three, and up to between 12 to 18 layers or more, of high to moderate tensile strength fabric, in singularity, or in combination, such as, but not limited to, (1.) a fabric comprising a para-aramid synthetic fiber with a molecular structure of many inter-chain bonds, such as a Kevlar fabric, (2.) a fabric comprising an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers, such as a SPECTRA fabric, (3.) a fabric comprising an alternate ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers, such as a Dyneema, and/or (4.) any suitable shielding or protective material known in the art.

[0151] The top matrix 702, the woven material 800, and the internal matrix 802 are all pierced by the top threading 704. A bobbin threading 804 running outside of the internal matrix 802 and proximate to the protected region 14 couples with the top threading 704 to stitch the columns 706 and the rows 704.

[0152] The bobbin thread 804, and a boundary serging bobbin thread (not shown) may be coupled with or comprise material that exhibits a high level of tensile strength, such as, but not limited, to a size 207 KEVLAR/TEX 210/GOVT. 3-CORD threading, a size 346 KEVLAR thread/TEX 350/GOVT. 5-CORD threading, and other suitable threading known in the art. Sewing needles (not shown) suitable for threading various preferred embodiments of the assembly 700 include a non-titanium coated Groz-Beckert 13517 #26 sewing needle, a Groz-Beckert 13517 SAN 5 #24 sewing needle, and other suitable sewing needles known in the art. Alternatively or additionally, various still alternate preferred embodiments of the bobbin thread may be or comprise, in singularity of combination, (a.) Bonded Kevlar #207 dimensioned at a 018/.46 mm diameter, and exhibiting a 64 lb breaking strength; (b.) Bonded Kevlar #346, dimensioned at 0.026/.65 mm diameter, and exhibiting a 124 lbs breaking strength; and/or (c.) any suitable thread known in that having a strength+/30% of any thread mentioned herein.

[0153] It is understood that due to the compressive nature of the top matrix 702 and the internal matrix 802 allow the top threading 704 and the bobbin thread 804 to cause depressions that extend toward the woven layer 800, and these depressions in no way segment either the top matrix 702 or the internal matrix 802 into pockets such as quilted pockets. It is understood that the stitched columns 704 and stitched rows 706 do not form pockets, such as quilted pockets, in the top matrix 702, the woven material 802, nor the internal matrix 802, but rather the top threading 704 merely passes through the top matrix 702, the woven material 800, and the internal matrix 802 preferably with minimal disturbance or displacement of the top matrix 702, the woven material 802, and the internal matrix 802.

[0154] Referring now to the top matrix 702 and the internal matrix 802, the staples 4 of each respective instance of the invented matrix 600, such as the top matrix 702 and the internal matrix 802, are preferably oriented such that most of the staple end lengths 4A & 4B are generally parallel with the Z-axis with a plus or minus deviation of less than 45 degrees from the z-axis, and more preferably with a plus or minus deviation of less than 20 degrees from the Z-axis, and that the staple tips 4C & 4D are preferably largely oriented to point away from the protected region 14 and toward the threat region 12. By this orientation of the staples 4 of both the top matrix 702 and the internal matrix 802, the assembly 700 provides a greater capacity to dissipate and absorb energy received from the direction of the threat region 10. It is understood that a minority of the staple end lengths 4A & 4B of the top matrix 702 and the internal matrix 802 are variously distributed in relation to the Z-axis to add robustness to the method of the present invention in protecting against threat vectors in traveling along vector paths that are more than 45 degrees oblique to the Z-axis.

[0155] Referring now to the woven material 800, a series of one or more discrete woven layers 800A-800E (the woven layers 800A-E) are positioned to form the woven material 800. Each of the woven layers 800A-800E is preferably a continuous and individual layer of high to moderate tensile strength fabric, in singularity, or in combination, such as, but not limited to, (1.) a fabric comprising a para-aramid synthetic fiber with a molecular structure of many inter-chain bonds, such as a Kevlar fabric, (2.) a fabric comprising an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers, such as a SPECTRA fabric, (3.) a fabric comprising an alternate ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers, such as a Dyneema, and/or (4.) any suitable shielding or protective material known in the art.

[0156] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 8B, FIG. 8B is an additional detailed representation of the cut-away sideview of the assembly 700 of FIG. 8A and presents the top matrix 702 as comprising five invented matrices 600, and the woven material 800 comprising five woven material layers 800A-800E, and the internal matrix 802 as comprising four invented matrices 600. It is understood that the quantity of top invented matrices 600 comprised within the top matrix 702 and the internal matrix 802 are design choices that may be varied in view of the intended use of the assembly 700. It is further understood that the number of woven material layers 800A-800E of the woven material 800 is a design choice that may be varied in view of the intended use of the assembly 700.

[0157] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 9, FIG. 9 is a detailed cut-away sideview of the assembly 700 and again presents a length of the top threading 704 joining with the bobbin thread 802 to form a stitch coupling feature 900 only after the top threading 704 pierces through the top matrix 702, the woven material 800, and the internal matrix 802. The staples 4 are shown to be oriented such that the staple end lengths 4A & 4B in combination with the first staple tip 4C and second staple tip 4D of the instant one of the staples 4 preferably point generally away from protected region 14 and toward the threat region 10.

[0158] For the purpose of clarity of illustration and explanation, FIG. 9 presents clear areas within the top matrix 702, the woven material 800, and the internal matrix 802. In fact, the areas defined between or bordered by the various lengths of the top threading 704 and/or the bobbin threading 804 are filled with respective locations of the top matrix 702, the woven material 800, and the internal matrix 802 that the top threading 704 is traversing through.

[0159] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 10, FIG. 10 is an isolated view of the assembly 700 showing a length of the top threading 704, two stitch coupling features 900A & 900B and a length of the bobbin thread 804. This isolated view of FIG. 10 is provided for clarity of description of the dynamics generated by the interaction of the top threading 704, the stitch coupling features 900 and the bobbin thread 804 within the assembly 700. It is understood that the structure of the top threading 704 coupled with the bobbin thread 804 increases the stability of the woven material 800 within the assembly 700.

[0160] An exemplary stitch 1000 is formed by a bobbin length 1002 of the bobbin threading 804, a top thread length 1004 of the top threading 704, a first coupling feature 900A and a second coupling feature 900B. A top thread length 1004 extends through (1.) a first coupling feature 900A and (2.) to and through a second coupling feature 900B, wherein the bobbin length 1002 extends to and through the first coupling feature 900A; the bobbin thread length 1002 further extends to through the neighboring second coupling feature 900B. It is understood that the coupling features, such as the stitch coupling feature 900, the first coupling feature 900A, and the second coupling feature 900B, are formed of and comprise elements of both the bobbin thread 804 and the top threading 704.

[0161] Various series of stitches 1000 are generally positioned to form the columns 706, the rows 708 and the optional boundary serging 710. One or more coupling features 900, 900A & 900B and/or stitches 1000 may be, include, or be comprised within, any suitable stitch known in the art, to include, but not limited to, a lock stitch, a chain stitch, a zigzag stitch, a running stitch, a back stitch, a satin stitch, and an overlock stitch, in singularity or in combination. The top threading 704 may also couple with a boundary bobbin thread (not shown) to form stitches 1000 that in turn form the boundary serging 710.

[0162] It is understood that each stitched column 706 and stitched row 708 comprise a plurality of stitches 1000. It is further understood that a series of stitches 1000 may be formed to create the boundary serging 710.

[0163] In even other various alternate and distinguishable preferred embodiments of the assembly 700, a sewing pattern of top threading 704 may be positioned to form, in singularity or combination, (a.) an orthogonal vertical and horizontal stitching pattern, (b.) a square stitching pattern, (c.) a rectangular stitching pattern, (d.) a diamond stitching pattern, (e.) a spiral stitching pattern, (f) and/or other patterns and variable stitches distances selected as a design choice typically made in view of a foreseeable threat.

[0164] In patentable distinction, one optional aspect of the invented method applies stitches 1000 in combination with two or more invented matrices 600 adds reinforcement to the invented sewn assembly 700 along the aforementioned Z-axis, whereby the placement of the stitches 1000 within the invented sewn assembly 700 induces internal dynamics within the invented sewn assembly 700 that are analogous to a cantilever bridge.

[0165] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 11A, FIG. 11A is a cut-away sideview of an alternate assembly 1100 comprising the top matrix 702 and the woven fabric 800 coupled together in part by the length of the top threading 704. It is understood that the internal matrix 802 is not included in the alternate assembly 1100. It is understood that the decision to not include the internal matrix 802 is most appropriate when there is little or need to provide protection against backface signature energy that penetrates the woven fabric 802. Additional preferred embodiments of the invented method where backface signature protection is not required include, ballistic protection curtains, internally positioned ballistic protection curtains, tarpaulin, tenting fabrics, and other suitable structures and environments known in the art. Installations of the alternate assembly 1100 within airframes and other structures provide with both protection from penetrating energids, e.g., blast waves and projectiles, as well as sound proofing and thermal insulation while remaining hidden from external viewing.

[0166] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 11B, FIG. 11B is an additional detailed representation of the cut-away sideview of the alternate assembly 1100 of FIG. 11A and presents the top matrix 702 as comprising five invented matrices 600, and the woven material 800 comprising three woven material layers 800A-800C. It is understood that the quantity of top invented matrices 600 comprised within the top matrix 702 is a design choice that may be varied in view of the intended use of the alternate assembly 1100. It is further understood that the number of woven material layers 800A-800C of the woven material 800 are design choices that may be varied in view of the intended use of the alternate assembly 1100.

[0167] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 12, FIG. 12 is a cut-away sideview detail of the alternate assembly 1100 comprising the top matrix 702 and the woven fabric 800 coupled by the length of the top threading 704 and the bobbin thread 802. The staples 4 are shown to be oriented such that the staple end lengths 4A & 4B in combination with the first staple tip 4C and the second staple tip 4D of the instant one of the staples 4 preferably point generally away from the woven layer 800 and toward the threat region 10.

[0168] For the purpose of clarity of illustration and explanation, FIG. 12 presents clear areas within the alternate assembly 1100. In fact, the areas defined between or bordered by the various lengths of the top threading 704 and/or the bobbin threading 804 are filled with respective elements of the top matrix 702, the woven material 800 that the top threading 704 is merely traversing through.

[0169] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 13, FIG. 13 is a cut-away top view the assembly 700 that has been augmented with heat sink elements 1300 and/or cooling heat pipes 1302 that are positioned within the top matrix 702 and/or the internal matrix 802. One or more cooling heat pipes 1302 may comprise heat absorbing or dissipating wax, oil, a phase changing heat absorbing or dissipating wax material or structure, or other suitable cooling material or structure known in the art. Alternatively or additionally, the cooling heat pipes 1302 may be or comprise one or more prior heat pipe materials and structures configured to remove and dissipate heat from the assembly 700, to include the suitable prior art materials and structures known in the art as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,301,557 issued to Inventor Santos, Elmer, on Apr. 5, 2016, or People's Republic of China Patent Application CN204599382U, filed by Zhongyuan University of Technology on May 21, 2015. Still alternatively or additionally, the cooling heat pipes 1302 may comprise one suitable alternate prior art heat pipe or cooling materials and structures known in the art, to include paraffin waxes that have a high heat of fusion per unit weight and a specific melting point selection, provide dependable cycling, are non-corrosive and are chemically inert, such as products marketed by Advance Cooling Technologies, Inc., of Lancaster, PA. Yet alternatively or additionally, the cooling heat pipes 1302 may comprise one or more additional suitable prior art heat pipe or cooling materials and structures known in the art such as paraffin wax and/or polystyrene capsules containing M3 paraffin wax as phase change material for thermal energy storage in a polypropylene (PP) matrix, and as disclosed in POLYMER ENCAPSULATED PARAFFIN WAX TO BE USED AS PHASE CHANGE MATERIAL FOR ENERGY STORAGE by Mokgaotsa Jonas Mochane and as published by the University of the Free State, Qwaqwa Campus, Phuthaditjhaba, 9866, Republic of South Africa.

[0170] Even further alternatively or additionally, cooling heat pipes 1302 may be or comprise suitable flexible thermal regulation systems known in the art based on suitable phase change materials (PCM'S) known in the art to include, but not limited to, encapsulated PCM's positioned within or upon flexible supporting materials of the assembly 700, e.g., the staples 4, top matrix 702, the internal matrix 802, the woven fabric 800; these encapsulated PCMs provide a physical approach that may be based on capillarity and/or hydrogen bonding.

[0171] Even further alternatively or additionally, cooling heat pipes 1302 may be or comprise suitable flexible thermal regulation systems known in the art based on suitable phase change materials (PCM'S) known in the art to include, PCM's grafted or positioned within or upon the assembly 700 onto the supporting materials, e.g., which is a chemical approach based on grafting reaction.

[0172] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 14, FIG. 14 is a cut-away side view of the assembly 700 that has been augmented with sensors 1400-1406 within the top matrix 702 and/or the internal matrix 802. One or more sensors 1400-1406 may comprise suitable prior art Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID), wireless communications circuits, and/or parametric sensing modules known in the art. One or more parametric sensing modules 1400-1406 may generate measurements of ambient temperature velocity, detections of received forces and other parametric values. These RFID devices and/or wireless communications circuits comprised within one or more or more sensors 1400-1406 may be configured to transmit by wireless means identifying information of the assembly 700, GPS location data related to the assembly 700, and/or parametric measurement values generated by the one or more parametric sensing modules. Alternatively or additionally, one or more sensors 1400-1406 may be or comprise one or more suitable prior art amorphous ferromagnetic microwire (GCM) technology devices that optionally record information, and/or mark or enable track the location and movement of the assembly 700.

[0173] Alternatively or additionally, one or more sensors 1400-1406 may be or comprise one or more prior art devices to include, but not limited to, a wireless communications enabled (a.) pressure sensor, (b.) temperature sensor, and/or (c.) combined pressure and temperature sensor. Still alternatively or additionally, one or more sensors 1400-1406 may be or comprise one or more prior art devices to include, but not limited to, a wireless communications enabled ultra-miniature, high-temperature, low frequency, RFID passive wireless sensor, such as, but not limited to, one or more wireless communications enabled sensors as marketed by Phase IV Engineering, Inc. of Boulder Colorado, or other suitable wireless communications enabled sensors known in the art.

[0174] Still alternatively or additionally, one or more sensors 1400-1406 may be or comprise one or more prior art devices to include, but not limited to, a wireless communications sensor as marketed by RVmagnetics Kosice, Kosice, Slovakia (Slovak Republic), or other suitable wireless communications enabled sensor known in the art.

[0175] Still other potential elements comprising or comprised within one or more RFID sensors 1400-1406 may be or comprise RFID devices such as, but not limited to, an NFC Bluetooth FPC On-Metal Sticker Tag With Genuine RFID Chip Ntag213 Universal Small Size [DIA 10 mm] as marketed by Far East Technology Co., Ltd of Shenzhen, China; an 5 mm*5 mm Mini Ntag213 NFC Tag 13.56 MHZ FPC Sticker With RFID Micro Chip 144 Bytes 1 mm Reading Range as marketed by Ancient Code Store of Shenzhen, China; a Micro NFC/RFID TransponderNTAG203 13.56 MHz as marketed by Kiwi Electronics of Den Haag, The Netherlands; a 5 pcs Programmable 12 mm NTag215 Micro Chip FPC Mini RFIDNFC Tag as marketed by Pack of Adventure of Florence, KY; and/or one or more other suitable RFID sensor devices known in the art.

[0176] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 15, FIG. 15 is a cut-away top view of an interrupter layer 1500 that is used in certain yet other alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention in combination with the assembly 700 and/or the alternate assembly 1100. The interrupter layer 1500 comprises a particulate matter, e.g., a plurality of particles, 1502 (hereinafter, spheres 1502), maintained in semi-pinned, semi-static status by an elastomer 1504. It is understood that the term pinned signifies that the relative movement of the spheres 1502 in three dimensional space highly restricted, and therefore semi-pinned signifies that the relative movement of the spheres 1502 in three dimensional space is partially restricted. Further, the term static would signify that the positions of the spheres 1502 are fixed in place, and therefore semi-static signifies that the positions of the spheres 1502 are partially fixed in place. It is understood that the particles presented as spheres 1502 in FIG. 15 may be or comprise one or more three dimensional suitable shapes known in the art, including but not limited to, in part or in totality, a non-symmetric volume, a dodecahedron, a cube, or a pyramid. It is noted that the interrupter layer 1500 is referred to herein sometimes as a particulate layer comprising within it a plurality of particles such as the spheres 1502. Further, the element of the particulate fabric binding the particles together, such as the elastomer 1504, may be referred to herein as a binding medium.

[0177] One or more spheres may comprise alumina ceramic, boron carbide ceramic, and/or other suitable materials known in the art.

[0178] It is understood that the interrupter layer 1500 in various other alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention, may comprise elements having shapes other than spherical, such as a hemisphere, irregular shapes and/or any suitable shape known in the art.

[0179] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 16, FIG. 16 is a detailed cut-away top view of four of the spheres 1502 that illustrates the invented design concept of the present invention of the interrupter layer 1500. A designer of a preferred embodiment may select a particular dimensional value of a projectile, for example a base diameter of 0.358 inch bullet diameter of a 35 caliber round. The designer may then select spheres and arrange the selected spheres to establish a sphere maximum displacement value to be built into in the interrupter layer 1500, such preferably as less than one half of the expected bullet radius. In the exemplary illustration of FIG. 16, a representative maximum displacement value 1600 is indicated. This representative maximum displacement value 1600 is less than the selected dimensional aspect of a projectile; for example if the interrupter designer selects the projectile dimensional value 0.358 inch, the designer would preferably designate a smaller maximum displacement value 1600, e.g., inch. By this applying this exemplary design criteria to the entire interrupter layer 1500, no sphere 1502 would be more than 0.0400 inches from a neighboring sphere 1502 within the X-y plane defined by the X-axis and the Y-axis.

[0180] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 17A, FIG. 17A is a detailed cut-away top view of an alternate sphere 1700, wherein an outer shell 1702 encapsulates an inner lower density volume 1704. The outer shell 1702 may comprise alumina ceramic, boron carbide ceramic, and/or other suitable materials known in the art. The alternate sphere 1700 having a lower weight than the sphere 1504 would be more appropriate for still other alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention suitable for forming protective clothing, e.g., animal handling apparel, explosive ordnance disposal apparel, oilfield worker apparel, steel workers apparel

[0181] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 17B, FIG. 17A is a detailed cut-away top view of an additional alternate sphere 1706, wherein an alternate outer shell 1708 encapsulates an inner high compressive strength material 1710 such as high compressive strength carbon fiber reinforced polyamide-imide, or other suitable high compressive strength material. The alternate outer shell 1708 may comprise alumina ceramic, boron carbide ceramic, and/or other suitable materials known in the art.

[0182] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 18, FIG. 18 is a cut-away side view of the interrupter layer 1500 The plurality of spheres 1502 may be set into the semi-pinned, semi-static status by pouring the elastomer 1504 in a liquid state over and around the spheres 1502. In certain alternate preferred embodiments of the method of the present invention, the elastomer 1504 may be provided and positioned within the interrupter layer 1500 by suitable injection molding techniques known in the art, by suitable transfer molding techniques known in the art, and/or other suitable fabricating techniques known in the art.

[0183] In certain preferred methods of fabrication and repair of the interrupter layer 1500, the spheres 1502 may be aligned more towards a certain direction of Z-axis, as presented in FIG. 18.

[0184] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 19, FIG. 19 is a cut-away top view a compilation 1900 comprising the interrupter layer 1500 positioned on top of, i.e., closer to the threat region along the Z-axis, of the assembly 700. It is understood that the interrupter layer 1500 is positioned on top of, i.e., closer to the threat region along the Z-axis, of the alternate assembly 1100. As noted in the discussion of FIG. 15, the plurality of spheres 1502 are maintained in semi-pinned, semi-static status by the elastomer 1504.

[0185] A cut-away indicator 1902 indicates a line across the compilation 1900 used as a point of view of FIG. 20A and FIG. 20B.

[0186] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 20A, FIG. 20A is a cut-away side view of the compilation 1900 showing interrupter layer 1500 positioned on top of, i.e., more proximate to the threat region than the assembly 700.

[0187] In certain preferred applications of the method of the present invention, the compilation 1900 is placed within an equipment (not shown) and between a shielding element 500 (of FIG. 5) of the equipment and an inner protected region 14 positioned within the equipment. It is preferable in these preferred applications of the method of the present invention that an air gap be maintained between the compilation 1900 and the inner protected region 14 of the equipment.

[0188] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 20B, FIG. 20B is a cut-away side view of an alternate compilation 1904 showing interrupter layer 1500 positioned on top of, i.e., more proximate to the threat region than, the alternate assembly 1100.

[0189] In certain preferred applications of the method of the present invention, the alternate compilation 1904 is placed within an equipment (not shown) and between a shielding element 500 (of FIG. 5) of the equipment and an inner protected region 14 positioned within the equipment. It is preferable in these preferred applications of the method of the present invention that an air gap be maintained between the alternate compilation 1904 and the inner protected region 14 of the equipment.

[0190] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 21A, FIG. 21A is a representation of a bullet 2100 approaching a cut-away side view of the interrupter layer 1500 positioned on top of the assembly 700 at a rate of speed faster close to faster than 600 feet per second. It is noted that the bullet is represented as having a leading section 2100A and a trailing section 2100B, wherein the leading section 2100A will contact the interrupter layer 1500 before the trailing section 2100B.

[0191] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 21B, FIG. 21B is a representation of a bullet 2100 contacting the interrupter layer 1500 and fragmenting. A first plurality of shattered bullet elements 2102A variously fly away from or into the interrupter layer 1500, and a second plurality of shattered bullet elements 2102B of the bullet 2100 penetrate into the assembly 700. It is noted that the leading section 2100A will deaccelerate before the trailing section 2100B deaccelerates, and this temporal displacement of deacceleration will encourage the generation of the two pluralities of shattered bullet elements 2102A & 2102B.

[0192] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 22, FIG. 22 presents a top garment 2200 having an external garment textile layer 2202 covering an interrupter layer 1500, wherein the interrupter layer is disposed between the external garment textile layer 2202 and an assembly 700. The spheres 1504 of the interrupter layer 1500 of the top garment 2200 may preferably be dimensioned with a diameter of less than five millimeters to protect a wearer (not shown) against barbed wire, razor wire and other suitable barrier material known in the art, whereby the preferred maximum displacement of the spheres 1504 of the interrupter layer 1500 of the top garment 2200 would preferably be five millimeters or less.

[0193] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 23, FIG. 23 presents a glove 2300 having an external glove textile layer 2302 covering an interrupter layer 1500, wherein a detailed cut-away view shows that interrupter layer 1500 is disposed between the external glove textile layer 2302 and an assembly 700. The spheres 1504 of the interrupter layer 1500 of the glove 2300 may preferably be dimensioned with a diameter of less than five millimeters to protect a wearer (not shown) against barbed wire, razor wire and other suitable barrier material known in the art, whereby the preferred maximum displacement of the spheres 1504 interrupter layer 1500 of the glove 2300 would five millimeters or less.

[0194] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 24, FIG. 24 presents a full body garment 2400 having an external full body garment layer 2402 covering an interrupter layer 1500, wherein detailed cut-away view shows that the interrupter layer is disposed between the external full body garment layer 2402 and an assembly 700. The spheres 1504 of the interrupter layer 1500 of the body garment 2400 may preferably be dimensioned with a diameter of less than five millimeters to protect a wearer (not shown) against barbed wire, razor wire and other suitable barrier material known in the art, whereby the preferred maximum displacement of the spheres 1504 interrupter layer 1500 of the body garment 2400 would five millimeters or less.

[0195] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 25, FIG. 25 is a cut-away side view that presents a boot 2500 having an external layer 2502 covering an interrupter layer 1500, wherein the interrupter layer is disposed between the external boot layer 2502 and an assembly 700. The spheres 1504 of the interrupter layer 1500 of the boot 2500 may preferably be dimensioned with a diameter of less than five millimeters to protect a wearer (not shown) against barbed wire, razor wire and other suitable barrier material known in the art, whereby the preferred maximum displacement of the spheres 1504 interrupter layer 1500 of the boot 2500 would five millimeters or less.

[0196] It is understood that the interrupter layer 1500 of the FIGS. 22 through 25 may include alternate spheres 1700 and/or additional alternate spheres 1706 in addition to, combined with, and/or replacing spheres 1504.

[0197] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 26, FIG. 26 is a line drawing presenting a front view of a panel of invented material, such as the assembly of FIG. 7, further adapted to be hung up as a protective curtain or panel. A curtain 2600 may include at least a sheet of material 2602 including or coupled to a hanging assembly 2604 suitable for hanging up the curtain 2600, such as but not limited to on a wall or over a window. The hanging assembly 2604, instantiated in this Figure more specifically as a left hanging assembly 2604A and a right hanging assembly 2604E, might be any suitable means for hanging up the curtain 2600. The non-limiting example presented in this Figure comprises an aperture 2606 which can be secured onto a hook 2608, with the hook 2608 fastened to some feature not shown that the curtain 2600 might be hung up on, such as a wall. More specifically, this Figure presents a first aperture 2606A secured onto a left hook 2608A, collectively forming the left hanging assembly 2604A; and a right aperture 2606E secured onto a right hook 2608E, collectively forming the right hanging assembly 2604E. It is noted that not every instance of the aperture 2606 need necessarily correspond to an instance of the hook 2608; extra apertures may be useful for adjustability. It is further noted that additional features for this type of assembly, such as grommets to reinforce the durability of one or more instance of the aperture 2606, are obvious potential enhancements that one skilled in the art might further choose to include. It is further noted that hook-and-aperture is just one non-limiting example of a possible implementation of the hanging assembly 2604, and other means exist for hanging up the sheet of material 2602, such as but not limited to snaps, nails, staples, adhesives, hook-and-loop fasteners, and more. It is noted that the sheet of material 2602 might be any shape, not just the rectangle presented here; for instance, the sheet of material 2602 might be shaped to fit within or behind a car door, or even shaped and colored such that the sheet of material 2602 might not appear out of place doubling as an aesthetic decoration. It is noted that an edge of the sheet of material 2602 which includes one or more elements of a hanging assembly 2604, such as the top edge as presented in FIG. 26, might be referred to also herein as a coupling edge.

[0198] Referring now generally to the Figures and particularly to FIG. 27, FIG. 27 is a line drawing presenting a side view of a plurality of the staples 4 of FIG. 1 incorporated into a static structure 2700 such as a block 2702 of a hard material such as plastic or resin. It is noted that the static structure 2700 might be in any shape, and this is just a simple example. It is further noted that a key benefit of the staples 4 is mitigation of effects such as shock waves, and static structures such as the static structure 2700 presented here are also vulnerable to shock wave effects, such as resonant effects between solid material and wave; a sound wave shattering a wineglass might be one practical example. As another practical example, experts in the field of earthquake-resistant architecture might readily recognize the pitfalls of building a static structure such as a building entirely solid, such that any resonance or wobble, small or large, would be likely to resonate through that whole structure and even amplify itself, and such that the structure would be likely to shatter rather than bend, wobble, or otherwise dissipate any received energy (such as from an earthquake) less harmfully. These are practical examples included to illustrate the phenomenon of a static structure being threatened or destroyed just by receiving waves of non-physical energy, without anything physically smashing into the static structure itself. Inclusion of the staples 4 within a static structure, as presented here with the static structure 2700, may provide the beneficial effect of dissipating, interrupting, and redirecting wave momentum received by the static structure 2700, and potentially giving the static structure 2700 a higher level of resilience toward incoming energy.

[0199] While selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/or desired. Components that are shown directly connected or contacting each other can have intermediate structures disposed between them. The functions of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment, it is not necessary for all advantages to be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Every feature which is unique from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, also should be considered a separate description of further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such feature(s). Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0200] The above description and drawings are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certain instances, well-known details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description. Further, various modifications may be made without deviating from the scope of the embodiments. Accordingly, the embodiments are not limited except as by the appended claims.

[0201] Reference in this specification to one embodiment or an embodiment means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase in one embodiment in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

[0202] The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used to describe the disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in the specification, to provide additional guidance to the practitioner regarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certain terms may be highlighted, for example, by using italics and/or quotation marks. The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaning of a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the same context, whether or not it is highlighted. It will be appreciated that the same thing can be said in more than one way. One will recognize that memory is one form of a storage, and that the terms may on occasion be used interchangeably.

[0203] Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein nor is any special significance to be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification, including examples of any term discussed herein, is illustrative only and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification.

[0204] Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples of instruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of a reader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions will control over and other cited, incorporated or referenced disclosures or patent documents.