Abstract
In some examples, a protective garment, includes a body, a pair of sleeves extending from the body, each sleeve having a cuff portion, a forearm portion, and an elbow portion, a plate connected to at least one of the cuff portion, the forearm portion, and the elbow portion, the plate having a plurality of layers and a sensor disposed between at least two of the plurality of layers, the sensor being a pressure sensor configured to detect a threshold pressure and generate a corresponding signal, and an output device in communication with the sensor and being configured to receive the signal and at least one of sound an alarm, call emergency services, and transmit a GPS coordinate when the threshold pressure has been reached.
Claims
1. A protective garment, comprising: a body; a pair of sleeves extending from the body, each sleeve having a cuff portion, a forearm portion, and an elbow portion; a plate connected to at least one of the cuff portion, the forearm portion, and the elbow portion, the plate having a plurality of layers and a sensor disposed between at least two of the plurality of layers, the sensor being a pressure sensor configured to detect a threshold pressure and generate a corresponding signal; and an output device in communication with the sensor and being configured to receive the signal and at least one of sound an alarm, call emergency services, activate a strobe light, and transmit a GPS coordinate when the threshold pressure has been reached.
2. The protective garment of claim 1, wherein the cuff portion includes an extension portion having a thumb hole extending therethrough.
3. The protective garment of claim 2, wherein the extension portion is retractable within the respective sleeve.
4. The protective garment of claim 1, wherein the cuff portion includes an extension portion having a thumb sheath extending from the cuff portion and being made from a rigid material.
5. The protective garment of claim 1, wherein the plate is cylindrical and is releasably connectable to one of forearm portion and cuff portion.
6. The protective garment of claim 1, wherein the plate has an outer layer, an inner layer, and an intermediate layer disposed between the outer and inner layers, the sensor being disposed between the outer layer and the intermediate layer.
7. The protective garment of claim 6, wherein the outer layer is made from a first material and the inner layer is made from a second material, the first material being harder than the second material.
8. The protective garment of claim 7, wherein the output device is embedded within any one of the body and one of the pair of sleeves.
9. The protective garment of claim 8, wherein the output device has a speaker that sounds an alarm when the threshold pressure has been reached.
10. The protective garment of claim 9, wherein the sensor and the output device are coupled via a wire.
11. The protective garment of claim 1, wherein the output device is one of a smart phone, a tablet, and a personal computer.
12. The protective garment of claim 1, further comprising a collar extending from the body, the collar having a plate pocket therein and a collar plate disposed within the plate pocket.
13. The protective garment of claim 12, wherein the collar has a first configuration in which the collar lays flat on the body, and a second configuration in which the collar is raised from the body, the collar plate being configured to remain disposed within the collar when the collar transitions between the first and second configurations.
14. The protective garment of claim 1, further comprising a collar extending from the body, the collar having a sheathable tool pocket and a sheathable tool disposed within the sheathable pocket.
15. The protective garment of claim 14, wherein the sheathable tool is a flail.
16. The protective garment of claim 1, wherein each of the sleeves comprises a slash-resistant material.
17. A protective headgear, comprising: a crown; a plate connected to the crown, the plate having a plurality of layers and a sensor disposed between at least two of the plurality of layers, the sensor being a pressure sensor configured to detect a threshold pressure and generate a corresponding signal; and an output device in communication with the sensor and being configured to receive the signal and at least one of sound an alarm, call emergency services, activate a strobe light, and transmit a GPS coordinate when the threshold pressure has been reached.
18. The protective headgear of claim 17, wherein the crown includes a front portion, a rear portion, and opposing side portions, the plate being connected to the front portion and the rear portion.
19. The protective headgear of claim 17, wherein the output device is embedded within the crown.
20. The protective headgear of claim 17, wherein the crown is dome shaped and the plate is correspondingly dome shaped and further comprising a cuff extending from and folded back onto the crown.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1A is an elevational view of an outer garment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 1B is schematic cross-sectional view of layers of the outer garment of FIG. 1A.
[0014] FIGS. 2A and 2B are partial transparent views of a collar of the outer garment of FIG. 1 in a first configuration and a second configuration, respectively.
[0015] FIG. 2C is a perspective view of a collar plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 3A is a partial transparent view of the collar of the outer garment of FIG. 1 at least partially housing a sheathable tool.
[0017] FIG. 3B is a schematic view of the outer garment of FIG. 1 housing one or more sheathable tools in a body thereof.
[0018] FIG. 3C is a schematic view of the sheathable tool of FIGS. 3A and 3B.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a cuff portion of the outer garment of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a cuff portion of the outer garment of FIG. 1 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a cuff portion of the outer garment of FIG. 1 according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a cuff portion of the outer garment of FIG. 1 according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure and include one or more inserts therefor.
[0023] FIG. 8A is a partial transparent view of a sleeve of the outer garment of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 8B is a partial transparent view of a sleeve of the outer garment of FIG. 1 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 9A is a schematic exploded view of a sleeve of the outer garment of FIG. 1 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 9B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the sleeve of FIG. 9A taken at a forearm portion thereof and including a plurality of forearm plates.
[0027] FIG. 10A is a front perspective view of a headgear according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 10B is a rear elevational view of the headgear of FIG. 9A.
[0029] FIG. 10C is a side schematic exploded view of the headgear of FIG. 9A including exemplary plates therefor.
[0030] FIG. 10D is a front schematic exploded view of the headgear of FIG. 9A including an exemplary plate therefor.
[0031] FIG. 11 is a front schematic exploded view of a headgear according to another embodiment of the present disclosure including exemplary plates therefor.
[0032] FIG. 12 is a schematic view of a plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure that may be implemented in the outer garment of FIG. 1, headgear of FIG. 10A, and the headgear of FIG. 11, for example.
[0033] FIG. 13 is a schematic view of the outer garment of FIG. 1 in which forearm portions thereof include forearm plates with integrated sensors connected to one or more output devices.
[0034] FIG. 14 is a schematic view of the outer garment of FIG. 1 in which elbow portions thereof include an elbow plate with integrated sensors connected to one or more output devices.
[0035] FIG. 15 is a schematic view of the headgear of FIG. 10A in which a crown thereof includes crown plates with integrated sensors connected to one or more output devices.
[0036] FIG. 16 is a schematic view of the headgear of FIG. 11 including plates with integrated sensors connected to one or more output devices.
[0037] FIG. 17A is a schematic view of a standalone protective sleeve including standalone sensors and an output device with a wireless transceiver in communication with a smart phone.
[0038] FIG. 17B is a schematic view of the standalone protective sleeve of FIG. 17A including an elbow plate with integrated sensors and standalone sensors in other portions of the sleeve.
[0039] FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a standalone panic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0040] FIG. 18B is a schematic view of the standalone panic device of FIG. 18A showing exemplary internal components thereof and in wireless communication with a smartphone.
[0041] FIG. 18C is a schematic view of the standalone panic device of FIG. 18A attached to an inside portion of a garment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] FIGS. 1A and 1B depict an outer garment 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, outer garment 10 may be a jacket. However, in other examples, outer garment 10 may be any article of clothing that is typically worn overtop other articles of clothing, such as a sweatshirt, a hooded sweatshirt (hoodie), a sweater, and a blazer, for example. Outer garment 10 may include a body 20, a collar 30, and a pair of sleeves 40. Body 20 may include a pair of front panels 22 that may be connected via one or more fasteners 24 to close outer garment 10. Such fastener 24 may be a zipper which may extend along an entire length of outer garment 10 from a bottom end to a top end thereof, as shown in FIG. 1A. However, in other embodiments, fastener 24 and front panels 22 may extend along only a portion of the length of outer garment 10 such that outer garment 10 may be characterized as a pullover outer garment. Although outer garment 10 is depicted as having a zipper 24, front panels 22 of outer garment may be coupled via an alternative fastener or a plurality of fasteners, such as buttons, snaps, Velcro, magnets, and hooks, for example. As mentioned above, outer garment 10 may be a sweatshirt or other type of outer garment that may not have separable panels 22. Thus, it should be appreciated that outer garment 10 may not have front panels 22 and fasteners 24.
[0043] Outer garment 10 may be made from one or more layers of one or more materials. For example, outer garment 10 may have an outer layer 11, one or more intermediate layers 12, and an inner layer 13, as illustrated in FIG. 1B. However, in some embodiments, outer garment 10 may only have outer layer 11 and inner layer 13 or, alternatively, just outer layer 11. Outer layer 11 of outer garment may be made from any one or more of common textile materials, such as cotton, wool, nylon, polyester, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE or Gore-Tex) jersey material, leather, denim, and corduroy, for example. Intermediate layer 12 may be an insulating layer, for example, and may be made from one or more of common insulating materials, such as down, Primaloft, and Thinsulate, for example. Inner layer or liner 13 may be made from any one or more of common liner materials, such as polyester, nylon, cotton, silk, and fleece, for example.
[0044] FIGS. 2A and 2B depict a collar 30 of outer garment 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Collar 30 may have a first configuration or flat configuration, as shown in FIG. 2A, and a second configuration or raised configuration, as shown in FIG. 2B. Collar 30 may have opposing edges 34 along which fastener 24 may extend. In this regard, collar 30 may be transitioned from the first configuration to the second configuration by fastening fastener 24 at the edges 34. For example, zipping zipper 24 from a bottom end of collar 30 to a top end of collar 30 may cause collar to flip up from the flat configuration to the raised configuration. As shown, collar 30 may include a first pocket or plate pocket 31 that may extend along an entire length of collar 30 from edge to edge or along a portion of a length of collar 30. Such plate pocket 31 may be configured to receive and house a collar plate.
[0045] FIG. 2C depicts a collar plate 50 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, collar plate 50 may extend along a length between opposite ends 54 and may have a first side 51 and a second side 52. Collar plate 50 may be configured to extend about a neck hole 36 defined by collar 30 when collar 30 is in the second configuration. In other words, collar plate 50 can bend or may be pre-curved to conform to a shape of collar 30 in both the first and second configurations. Collar plate 50 may be a hard material but may have some flexibility to allow it to flex with collar 30 as it transitions from the first configuration to the second configuration. In this regard, collar plate 50 may be made from any one or more of a polymer material (e.g., polycarbonate, polylactide (PLA), and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)), metal material (e.g., stainless steel and aluminum), and a composite material (e.g., fiberglass and carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP)). The rigidity and hardness of collar plate 50 may help defend against a choking attack and/or a knife attack. Pocket 31 may be accessible by an opening in an edge 34 of collar 30 or elsewhere along the length of collar 30 such that collar plate 31 can be modularly removed and inserted, such as prior to or after washing. Such opening may have one or more fasteners, such as one of the fasteners mentioned above, for closing the opening and preventing collar plate 50 from inadvertently falling out of collar 30. Pocket 31 may be slightly longer than plate 50, such as up to 5% longer, for example, to provide enough room for collar plate 50 to move as collar 30 is transitioned between the first configuration and the second configuration. In the first configuration, plate 50 may be positioned within pocket 31 such that first side 51 faces upwardly away from body 20 of outer garment 10, and in the second configuration, first side 51 may face inwardly toward the wearer's neck while second side 52 may face outwardly, as illustrated in FIG. 2C.
[0046] In addition to or in lieu of first pocket 31 and collar plate 50, collar 30 may house or sheath a sheathable tool 60. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3A, collar 30 may include a second pocket or tool pocket 32 that may be configured to sheath sheathable tool 60 and may be positioned adjacent to first pocket 31.
[0047] Additionally or alternatively, sheathable tool 60 may be sheathed within body 20 of garment 10 which may have pockets similar to that of tool pocket 32. For example, as shown in FIG. 3B, sheathable tool 60 may be sheathed within body 20 at a location proximate to collar 30, such as at a location that would be beneath collar 30 when collar 30 is in the flat configuration, which can help conceal sheathable tool 60. In another example also depicted in FIG. 3B, sheathable tool 60 may be located in one of panels 22 near a bottom end thereof such that sheathable tool 60 is proximate a waist-line of a wearer of garment 10. This can facilitate quick access to the sheathable tool 60 as the wearer would not have to reach up towards collar 30 to unsheathe tool 60. Instead, tool 60 would be located near the wearer's hand when the wearer's arms are extended by their sides.
[0048] An exemplary sheathable tool 60 may be a flail, as illustrated in FIG. 3C. Flail 60 may have a first end 61, a second end 62, an elongate portion 63 extending from first end 61 to second end 62, and a loop 64 connected to first end 61. Elongate portion 63 may comprise a wire, a chain, or weighted rope, for example. When housed within second pocket 32 of collar 30, flail 60 may extend through collar 30 from edge to edge. In some embodiments, flail 60 may be configured to double back such that flail 60 is approximately twice as long as collar 30. Second pocket 32 may be dimensioned accordingly. Loop 64 may be recessed within collar 30, such as behind a flap, for example, which may allow user to engage loop 64 with a finger and withdraw flail from collar 30 at a moment's notice to defend against an attack or to flail it about offensively. In this regard, loop 64 may also provide positive control of flail 60. Although flail 60 is shown as having one loop 64 at first end 61, flail 64 may have a second loop at second end 62 which may allow flail 60 to be more easily loaded into second pocket 32, such as via a coat-hanger or the like.
[0049] In self-defense situations, particularly those that involve up close encounters, the victim's arms are often deployed as both offensive and defensive tools which can sometimes result in damage or injury to those limbs. For example, it is common for a victim of a knife attack to have many defensive wounds on the hands and forearms as people instinctively put their arms up to block a slashing or stabbing knife in order to protect vital organs. Additionally, while arms and fists may be used offensively to punch or strike an opponent, it is common for landed punches to result in broken bones in the hand or wrist. Sleeves 40 of outer garment 10 may be configured to shield the arms and provide hard points for offense and defense. Sleeves 40 may each include a cuff portion 42, a forearm portion 44, an elbow portion 46, and an upper arm portion 48, as shown in FIG. 1A.
[0050] FIG. 4 depicts cuff portion 42 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Cuff portion 42 is disposed at an end of sleeve 40 opposite body 20. Cuff portion 42 may have an extension portion 41 that may ordinarily be recessed within sleeve 40 and may be deployable or extensible when desired. In this regard, extension portion 41 may comprise an elastic material that may retract back into sleeve 40. Alternatively, extension portion 41 may instead always be exposed and may not retract back into sleeve 40. Extension portion 41 may be configured to extend beyond the first line of a wearer's knuckles but not the second line of knuckles so that at least a portion of the fingers are exposed. In other embodiments, extension portion 41 may extend beyond the second line of knuckles, but not the third and final line of knuckles. As shown, extension portion 41 may have a thumb hole 43 which may allow a thumb to be positioned through extension portion 41 which may help maintain extension portion 41 over a portion of a wearer's hand. This may help shield the wearer's hand from a knife, for example. Thus, in some embodiments, extension portion 41 may comprise a slash-resistant material, which is described in more detail below. In still other embodiments cuff portion 41 may include a circumferential plate pocket 41a for receipt of a plate therein which can provide further shielding and can be used as a blunt instrument for striking.
[0051] FIG. 5 depicts a cuff portion 42 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Cuff portion 42 is like cuff portion 42 except that, instead of a thumb hole 43, cuff portion 42 includes a hardened thumb sheath 43. Thumb sheath 43 still allows the wearer to maintain extension portion 41 over their hand even during a scuffle. However, thumb sheath 43 provides further protection by shielding the wearer's thumb and may also provide a weapon that can be used to jab a perpetrator. Thumb shield 43 may be made from any of the materials described above with respect to collar plate 50, for example.
[0052] FIG. 6 depicts a cuff portion 42 according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure. Cuff portion 42 is similar to cuff portion 42 except that cuff portion 42 may include an extension portion 41 with hardened knuckle elements 45a, 45b. In this regard, extension portion 41 may include a first row of hardened knuckle elements 45a and a second row of hardened knuckle elements 45b, as shown in FIG. 6. However, in some embodiments, extension portion 41 may have only one row of hardened knuckle elements 45a. Knuckle elements 45a, 45b may each form indentations on an interior of extension portion 41 so that they may receive the knuckles of a wearer, while also forming convex protrusions extending from an exterior of extension portion 41. Thus, for example, the first row of knuckle elements 45a may correspond to a first row of a wearer's knuckles, and second row of knuckle elements 45b may correspond to a second row of a wearer's knuckles. Knuckle elements 45a, 45b may be made from a hardened material, such as carbon fiber or UHWMPE, for example. Additionally, each knuckle element 45a, 45b in a row may be connected to an adjacent knuckle element, or they may each be unconnected such that they may be moveable independently from one another. Furthermore, knuckle elements 45a of the first row may be connected to knuckle elements 45b of the second row to provide further rigidity. Knuckle elements 45a, 45b may help provide a shield to knuckles and may help prevent boxer's fracture or other types of fractures that may commonly occur in the hand from punching. Cuff portion 41 may include a thumb hole 43 like that of cuff portion 42 or may include a thumb sheath 43 like that of cuff portion 42.
[0053] FIG. 7 depicts a cuff portion 42 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein cuff portion 42 of sleeve 40 includes an extension portion 41 configured as a fingerless glove. Fingerless glove 41 may expose the wearer's fingers while covering the palm, back of the hand, and knuckles, with the exception of a full thumb covering 43. Fingerless glove 41 may include a knuckle guard insert pocket 71 positioned over the knuckle region of glove 41, configured to receive a knuckle guard insert 70 made of hardened material similar to knuckle elements 45a, 45b. Knuckle guard insert 70 may be removable to allow for washing of fingerless glove 41 or for replacement with inserts 70 of varying hardness or weight depending on the wearer's needs. Thumb covering 43 may include a thumb cap pocket 73 configured to receive a thumb cap insert 72 made of hardened material (e.g., polycarbonate, metal, or composite material). Thumb cap insert 72 forms a rigid protective covering over the wearer's thumb while also providing an offensive tool that can be used for targeted strikes against an attacker. The combination of knuckle guard insert 70 and thumb cap insert 72 provides the wearer with multiple hardened striking surfaces while maintaining dexterity through the exposed finger portions of fingerless glove 41.
[0054] FIG. 7A depicts an exemplary configuration of forearm portion 44 and elbow portion 46 of sleeve 40. As shown, forearm portion 44 is disposed between elbow portion 46 and cuff portion 42 and may include a circumferential plate connection feature 49 for connection to a circumferential forearm plate. For example, plate connection feature 49 may be a plate pocket formed in lining 13 of outer garment 10. Alternatively, plate connection feature 49 may be a circumferential band of Velcro material for modular connection with a forearm plate that may also include Velcro. Alternatively, forearm portion 44 may have one or more connection features arranged about an axis of sleeve 40 where each of such connection features connects to a plate that does not entirely and circumferentially extend about an axis of sleeve 40. For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, forearm portion 44 may include a first and second plate connection feature 49a, 49b offset from each other about an axis of sleeve 40.
[0055] Elbow portion 46 may extend from upper arm portion 48 to forearm portion 44 such that a wearer's elbow is positioned within elbow portion 46 when wearing outer garment 10. As shown, elbow portion 46 may include a first plate connection feature 47a and a second plate connection feature 47b positioned below first connection feature 47a. Such connection features may be pockets sewn into lining 13 in outer garment 10 or may instead include Velcro or some other attachment mechanism, for example. First and second connection features 47a, 47b may be separated by a gap such that a tip of a wearer's elbow may be positioned within such gap. However, in other embodiments, first and second connection features 47a, 47b may be a single connection feature extending from upper arm portion 48 to forearm portion 44 so that a wearer's elbow may be completely covered by an elbow plate, which may be curved to be conformal to the wearer's elbow. First and second connection features 47a, 47b may be semi-cylindrical or otherwise curved so as to partially extend about an axis of sleeve or upper arm portion 48 which can help conform elbow plates 47a, 47b to the wearer and provide concealment.
[0056] Each plate connection feature 47a, 47b may be connected to at least one arm band 48a, 48b which may help a plate connected thereto conform to the wearer's arm at the desired position. In this regard, arm bands 48a, 48b may extend from plate connection features 47a. 47b, about sleeve 40, and back to connection feature 47a, 47b so that, when a user positions their arm through an arm band 48a, 48b, the arm band 48a, 48b pulls an elbow plate against their arm in the desired position and maintains it in such a position even during the potential chaos of a self-defense situation. Thus, in the embodiment depicted, first arm band 48a may be connected to first plate connection feature 47a, and second arm band 48b may be connected to a second plate connection feature 47b.
[0057] FIGS. 9A and 9B depict forearm portion 44 and elbow portion 46 of sleeve 40 of garment 10 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, forearm portion 44 and elbow portion 46 of outer garment 10 may feature an interchangeable plate system. The interchangeable plate system is configured to protect the wearer and enable the wearer to use their arms and elbows as offensive weapons in self-defense situations. Forearm portion 44 may include one or more zippered forearm pockets 90 with a zipper 91 extending along a portion of the length of forearm portion 44, and elbow portion 46 may include a zippered elbow pocket 92 with a zipper 93 extending along a curve of elbow portion 46. Zippered forearm pockets 90 may be configured to receive a removable forearm plate 95, and zippered elbow pocket 92 may be configured to receive a removable elbow plate 96. Forearm plates 95 and elbow plate 96 may be made of flexible plastic or other suitable materials of varying thickness, providing options for different levels of protection based on the wearer's needs and anticipated threats. The removable nature of forearm plates 95 and elbow plate 96 allows for machine-washing of outer garment 10 without damaging the plates 95, 96 or the washing machine. Additionally, plates of different materials, weights, or protective capabilities may be interchanged based on the wearer's personal preference or specific use cases. This interchangeable plate system provides improved modularity and simplicity compared to the arm-band configuration described above, as the zippered pockets 90, 92 securely hold the plates 95, 96 in position without the use of arm bands 48a, 48b. The zippered configuration also enables quick and convenient insertion or removal of the plates 95, 96 while ensuring they remain securely in place during wear and use.
[0058] FIGS. 10A-10D depict headgear 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the embodiment depicted, headgear 100 is a baseball cap that includes a crown 110 and a brim 120. However, other embodiments may utilize other types of brimmed caps (e.g., cowboy hat) and non-brimmed caps (e.g., skull cap). Crown 110 may include a front portion 112, a rear portion 114, and opposing side portions 116. Baseball caps like that of headgear 100 may include a plurality of triangular shaped panels 111 (e.g., five or six panels) that are connected together to form crown 110 which is typically a dome shaped structure configured to cover a top portion of a wearer's head. Where headgear 100 includes six panels 111, front portion 112 may include the two front located panels, rear portion 114 may include the two rear located panels 111, and side portions 116 may include the remaining panels 111 positioned between front portion 112 and rear portion 114.
[0059] As shown in FIGS. 10C and 10D, headgear 100 may include one or more plate connection features 113 for connecting to a corresponding plate, such as Velcro and/or a plate pocket. For example, in the embodiment depicted, crown 110 may include one or more plate connection features 113, which may each be a plate pocket. Each plate connection feature 113 and plate 130 connected to the connection feature 113 may correspond in shape. For example, headgear 100 may include a plate connection feature 113 at the front portion 112 of headgear 100, rear portion 114 of headgear 100, and/or side portions 116 of headgear 100, as shown in FIG. 10C. In this regard, plate connection features 113 and the plates 130 connected thereto may each take on the shape of the portion it is connected to for both comfort and low visibility.
[0060] Brim 120 extends from front portion 112 and may include a plate connection feature 123, as shown in FIG. 10D. In the embodiment depicted, plate connection feature 123 may be a plate pocket, for example. As such, a plate 132 that may be disposed within brim 120 may take on the shape of brim 120 and may be used as a weapon. In some embodiments, plate 132 may be a durable stiff visor insert made of either metal or hard plastic, replacing the conventional cardboard visors found in most regular baseball caps. This rigid visor construction provides enhanced durability for daily wear and also functions as a potential offensive implement in self-defense situations.
[0061] FIG. 11 depicts a headgear 200 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the embodiment depicted, headgear 200 is a beanie that includes a crown 210 and a cuff 220 extending from crown 210 and folded onto crown 210. However, some embodiments of beanie 200 may not include cuff 220, but rather may just include crown 210.
[0062] Crown 210 may include one or more plate connection features 213 for connecting to a corresponding plate, such as Velcro and/or a plate pocket. In one embodiment, crown 210 may include a single dome shaped plate connection feature 213, which may be a plate pocket configured to receive a single dome shaped plate 230 that conforms to the entire crown 210. The dome shaped plate 230 may cover substantially the entire crown portion of the wearer's head, providing comprehensive protection against impacts. Alternatively, crown 210 may include a plurality of plate connection features 213 distributed across crown 210, each configured to receive a corresponding plate 230, as illustrated in FIG. 11. In this regard, multiple smaller plates 230 may be used instead of a single dome shaped plate, allowing for greater flexibility, articulation, and comfort while maintaining protective coverage. Each plate connection feature 213 and plate 230 connected thereto may correspond in shape to the area of crown 210 where it is positioned for both comfort and low visibility. Plates 230 may employ a split design, wherein each plate is divided into sections that articulate relative to one another, allowing headgear 200 to flex naturally with the wearer's head movements.
[0063] Cuff 220 extends from the lower edge of crown 210 and may be folded back onto crown 210. Cuff 220 may include one or more plate connection features 223. In one embodiment, cuff 220 may include a single circumferential plate connection feature 223, which may be a plate pocket configured to receive a single circumferential plate 232 that extends around the entire cuff 220. Alternatively, cuff 220 may include a plurality of plate connection features 223 positioned around the circumference of cuff 220, each configured to receive a corresponding plate 232, as illustrated in FIG. 11. This multi-plate configuration allows for greater flexibility and comfort when cuff 232 is folded. Plates 232 within cuff 220 may be made of flexible yet durable material such as metal or composite, providing impact protection around the circumference of the wearer's head. When cuff 220 is folded down (unfolded from crown 210), plates 232 may provide enhanced protection to the ears, temples, and back of the neck, areas that are particularly vulnerable in cold weather when a beanie would typically be worn.
[0064] As described above, outer garment 10, headgear 100, and headgear 200 may each include one or more plate connection features, such as features 31, 41a, 47a, 47b, 49, 90, 92, 113, 123, 213, and 213, for example, so that plates can be strategically placed for wearer protection. Such plates, including collar plate 50, knuckle guard insert 70, thumb cap insert 72, forearm plates 95, elbow plates 96, crown plates 130, brim plate 132, crown plate 230, and cuff plates 232, can be made of varying levels of durability to allow for different levels of protection with potential tradeoffs such as weight and rigidity. Additionally, the plates can be made with one or more layers such that each plate may have a harder layer facing outwardly and a softer layer facing inwardly towards the wearer for wearer comfort. Additional features can also be provided with such plates, such as one or more sensors that may be configured to detect a threshold level of impact or pressure which may sound an alarm and/or send a signal to an output device, such as smart phone.
[0065] FIG. 12 depicts a plate 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Plate 300 is exemplary of any of the aforementioned plates, including collar plate 50, knuckle guard insert 70, thumb cap insert 72, forearm plates 95, elbow plate 96, crown plates 130, brim plate 132, crown plate 230, and cuff plates 232, as well as plates not explicitly shown in the figures but which could be implemented in garment 10 or headgear 100/200. Plate 300 may include an outer layer 301, an inner layer 303, and one or more intermediate layers 302. As shown, plate 300 may include an outer layer or first layer 301 that may be made of a hardened material and may include ridges, corrugations, or protrusions 306, as shown, which may facilitate more damage when used as a weapon. The hardened material can include any one of the materials mentioned above with respect to collar plate 50. Inner layer 303 can be a soft material, such as a foam or a dense rubber, for example, which can provide comfort and protection to the wearer's arm or head when the plate is positioned within the garment 10 or headgear 100/200. Thus, outer layer 301 may be made from a material harder than inner layer 303. Such relative hardness may be determined via a Rockwell hardness test. Intermediate layer 302 may be corrugated and/or made from shock absorbent material which may further reduce the risk of injury to the wearer's limbs and head. Such shock absorbing material can include foam, rubber, and/or polymer gels. Another intermediate layer (not shown) may include a thin piece of plastic material to enclose the absorbent material. In other embodiments, plate 300 may only include outer and inner layers 301, 303.
[0066] In some examples of plate 300, a sensor 305 may be sandwiched between one or more of these layers 301, 302, 303, such as outer layer 301 and intermediate layer 302, as illustrated in FIG. 12. Sensor 305 may be a pressure sensor, such as a piezoelectric or piezoresistive pressure sensor, for example. Although one sensor 305 is depicted, plate 300 may not have any sensor 305 or may instead have a plurality of sensors 305 forming a sensor array that may be arranged to cover an entire area defined by plate 300 or substantially an entire area covered by plate 300. Thus, a threshold pressure may be detectable at any location along plate 300. In some embodiments, a plurality of pressure sensors 305 may be connected to a single circuit board, allowing for a wider area of protection and alarm activation. Such an arrangement provides comprehensive coverage across the protective plate 300, ensuring that impacts or pressure applied to different areas of the plate will still trigger the appropriate response. The plurality of sensors may be arranged in a grid pattern, concentric circles, or strategic locations corresponding to the most vulnerable or likely impact points.
[0067] Sensor or sensor array 305 may be coupled to an output device 320 either via a communications channel 310, which may be a wired or wireless connection. Where sensor 305 transmits wirelessly, sensor 305 may include a transceiver for communicating signals back and forth with output device 320. Output device 320 may be a remote device when transmitting wirelessly, such as a smart phone, a tablet, or a personal computer, for example. Output device 320 can alternatively be a purpose-built module with a speaker for sounding an alarm, as shown in FIG. 12, and configured so that it may be embedded within garment 10, such as between one of layers 11, 12, and 13 thereof in any one of body 20, collar 30, and sleeves 40. Pressures sensor 305 may be configured to detect pressure, such as a threshold pressure. Such threshold pressure may be 20 lbs/in.sup.2, for example. Thus, once this threshold pressure is achieved, a signal may be sent from sensor or sensor array 305 along communications channel 310 to output device 320. Output device 320 may decode the signal and sound an alarm, call an emergency contact or emergency services, and/or transmit a GPS coordinate to the emergency contact or personnel. In some embodiments, output device 320 may further include a strobe light that activates simultaneously with the alarm. The strobe light may assist in disorienting an attacker, drawing attention from bystanders, and/or helping emergency responders locate the wearer in low-light conditions. The strobe light may be embedded within the same housing as the speaker or may be positioned elsewhere on garment 10 for maximum visibility.
[0068] Plate 300 can be utilized in outer garment 10, headgear 100, or headgear 200 and may be used both defensively and offensively. In this regard, plate 300 can be sized and shaped to be connected to any one of the aforementioned plate locations and, as such, can be modularly positioned within such plate locations for varying levels of protection, comfort, and flexibility. For example, plate 300 can be formed into a cylindrical shape or ring shape and inserted into plate pocket 49 of forearm portion 44 of outer garment 10 and/or plate pocket 41a of cuff portion 41. Similarly, plate 300 may be curved and placed into first and second pockets 47a, 47b of elbow portion 46. Plate 300 may also be inserted into collar 30 in lieu of plate 50. Plate 300 can also be connected to headgear 100 at front portion 112, rear portion 114, and/or side portions 116, such as being disposed within pockets or via Velcro or the like. As such, plate 300 may form a shape corresponding to the triangular dome panels comprising front portion 112, rear portion 114, and side portions 116. Also, plate 300 may be formed into a dome shape and positioned within plate pocket 213 of headgear 200.
[0069] More specific examples of plate 300 integration with the aforementioned outer garment 10 and headgear 100/200 are shown in FIGS. 13-16. In particular, FIG. 13 depicts outer garment 10 with forearm plates 95 positioned within sleeve 40. As illustrated, forearm plates 95 are configured similar to plate 300, each including a sensor 305 embedded therein. Sensors 305 of forearm plates 95 are connected via a wired connection 310 to one or more output devices 320a, 320b which may be located anywhere within outer garment 10, such as in a chest region, for example. In the example depicted, output devices 320a, 320b include an audible alarm speaker 320a and a strobe light 320b. When a threshold pressure (e.g., 20 lbs/in.sup.2) is applied to any area of forearm plates 95, sensors 305 transmit a signal through wired connection 310 to output devices 320a, 320b, which immediately activates both the audible alarm 320a and strobe light 320b. The audible alarm 320a is configured to emit a high-decibel sound to attract attention from bystanders and potentially startle or disorient an attacker. Simultaneously, strobe light 320b flashes at a frequency configured to further disorient an attacker while increasing visibility of the wearer in low-light conditions. The strategic positioning of forearm plates 95 with integrated sensors 305 provides the wearer with both physical protection against impacts or knife attacks and an automatic alert system that activates upon receiving a significant impact, without requiring the wearer to manually trigger an alarm during a high-stress defensive situation.
[0070] FIG. 14 illustrates the outer garment 10 with elbow plates 96 positioned within sleeve 40. Elbow plates 96 are configured similar to plate 300, incorporating a sensor 305 embedded therein. Sensor 305 can be a sensor array that includes multiple pressure sensors arranged in a pattern that conforms to the curved shape of the elbow, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the elbow's surface. Each sensor 305 is connected via a wired connection 310 to one or more output devices 320a, 320b, which can be located anywhere within garment 10, such as upper back portion, for example. Similar to the forearm configuration, output devices 320a, 320b includes both an audible alarm speaker 320a and a strobe light 320b. When the wearer uses their elbow defensively to block an attack or offensively as a striking implement, and a threshold pressure is detected by any sensor 305, a signal is transmitted through wired connection 310 to output devices 320a, 320b thereby activating both the audible alarm 320a and strobe light 320b. This configuration is particularly advantageous as the elbow is commonly used as both a defensive shield and an offensive weapon in close-quarter self-defense situations. The combination of the protective elbow plates 96 with the integrated sensor 305 and connected alarm system provides an additional layer of protection and deterrence without compromising the wearer's mobility or the low-profile nature of the protective garment.
[0071] FIG. 15 depicts headgear 100 in the form of a baseball cap with crown plates 130 positioned within front portion 112 and rear portion 114 crown 110, for example. Crown plates 130 are configured similar to plate 300, each incorporating a sensor 305 embedded therein. Sensors 305 of crown plates 130 are connected via wired connections 310 to an output device 320 discretely positioned within crown 110, such as at top end thereof. Output device 320 includes an audible alarm speaker but can also include or alternatively be a strobe light. When a threshold pressure is applied to any of the crown plates 130, such as during an impact to the head or when the headgear 100 is used as a defensive implement, sensors 305 transmit a signal through wired connections 310 to output device 320. This configuration provides head protection while also incorporating an automatic alert system that can be triggered during a self-defense situation. Additionally, brim plate 132 may also include a sensor 305 connected to the same output device 320, allowing the wearer to intentionally trigger the alarm by applying pressure to brim 120 when using it as an offensive implement.
[0072] FIG. 16 illustrates headgear 200 in the form of a beanie with crown plate 230 and cuff plates 232 positioned within crown 210 and cuff 220, respectively. Crown plate 230 and cuff plates 232 are configured similar to plate 300, each incorporating sensors 305 embedded therein. Sensors 305 of crown plate 230 and cuff plates 232 are connected via wired connections 310 to an output device 320 discretely positioned within crown 210, such as at a top end thereof, for example. Output device 320 includes an audible alarm speaker but can also include or alternatively be a strobe light. The multiple sensors 305 distributed throughout the crown plate 230 and cuff plates 232 form a comprehensive sensor network that covers a substantial portion of the wearer's head. When a threshold pressure is applied to any area protected by crown plate 230 or cuff plates 232, the corresponding sensor 305 transmits a signal through wired connection 310 to output device 320, which activates both the audible alarm and/or strobe light. This configuration is particularly advantageous in cold weather conditions when a beanie would typically be worn, as it provides comprehensive head protection with an integrated alert system without compromising the comfort or appearance of conventional winter headwear. When cuff 220 is unfolded to cover the ears, temples, and back of the neck, the sensors 305 within cuff plates 232 provide expanded coverage of these vulnerable areas, enhancing both the protective capabilities and the alarm triggering zones of headgear 200.
[0073] In addition to or in lieu of plate 300, outer garment 10 and/or headgear 100, 200 may comprise a slash-resistant material, such as a slash-resistant textile material. In other words, a slash-resistant fabric material may comprise at least a portion of outer garment 10, such as inner layer 13, and a portion of headgear 100 and headgear 200. For example, collar 30 and/or sleeves 40 may be lined with a slash-resistant material. More specifically, cuff portion 42, forearm portion 44, and elbow portion 46 may be lined with a slash-resistant material. This may help defend against a knife attack or other penetrating type attack. Such slash-resistant material may include any one or more of an aramid (e.g., Kevlar), UHMWPE, and P-benzoxazole (e.g., Zylon), for example.
[0074] FIG. 17A depicts a standalone protective sleeve 400 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Protective sleeve 400 may be configured to be worn independently of outer garment 10, such as underneath any conventional garment. Protective sleeve 400 may include a tubular body 410 sized to fit around a wearer's arm, with an upper portion 412, an elbow portion 414 and a forearm portion 416. Tubular body 410 may be constructed from a flexible, cut-resistant material such as aramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar), UHMWPE, or a composite material, for example, that provides protection against slashing or stabbing attacks while maintaining flexibility and comfort for everyday wear.
[0075] As illustrated in FIG. 17A, protective sleeve 400 may incorporate standalone pressure sensors 432 integrated directly into the material of tubular body 410 at strategic locations, such as the forearm portion 416 and upper arm portion 412, without the use of rigid plates. The standalone pressure sensors 432 may be thin and flexible, allowing them to conform to the wearer's arm while maintaining the sleeve's low profile. These sensors 432 may be configured to detect a threshold pressure and generate a corresponding signal when the wearer's arm receives an impact or pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold.
[0076] Protective sleeve 400 may further include an output device 440 in communication with pressure sensors 432. Such communication may be a wired connection 430, for example. Output device 440 may be similar to output device 320 and may include a speaker for sounding an alarm, a strobe light, and a wireless transceiver. As shown in FIG. 17A, the output device 440 includes both an alarm and a wireless transceiver. The wireless transceiver of output device 440 may establish a Bluetooth connection to a smart phone 442 or other mobile device of the wearer. In this regard, upon activation of one or more pressure sensors 432, output device 440 may be configured to automatically send a distress call and the wearer's location data to a predetermined contact list via the connected mobile device 442. This feature allows for rapid notification of emergency contacts when the wearer may be unable to manually call for help.
[0077] FIG. 17B depicts a standalone protective sleeve 400 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Sleeve 400 combines both integrated plates and standalone sensors. As shown, protective sleeve 400 may include an elbow plate 450 positioned within elbow portion 414 that incorporates integrated sensors similar to those described with respect to plate 300. Additionally, standalone sensors 432 may be positioned in forearm portion 416 and upper portion 412 where no rigid plates are present. This hybrid configuration provides enhanced protection at the elbow while maintaining flexibility and low profile throughout the rest of sleeve 400. The combination of plate-integrated sensors and standalone sensors 432 provides comprehensive pressure detection coverage across the entire sleeve while selectively reinforcing critical areas. Both the integrated sensors of plate 450 and standalone sensors 432 may be in communication with output device 440, which functions as described above to alert both the wearer's immediate surroundings through an audible alarm and/or strobe light, as well as remote contacts through the wireless connection to the wearer's mobile device.
[0078] FIGS. 18A-18C depict a standalone panic device 500 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Panic device 500 provides an alternative to the integrated pressure sensor systems described above by offering a self-contained unit that can be attached to any garment. As shown in FIG. 18A, device 500 may include a housing 510 that contains all electronic components. Housing 510 may be compact and low-profile to remain discreet when attached to a garment.
[0079] FIG. 18B illustrates an exploded view of device 500, showing exemplary internal components. In this regard, device 500 may include a power source 520 (e.g., one or more batteries), a pressure sensor 530, an alarm speaker 540 (and/or strobe light), and a wireless transmitter 550, all contained within housing 510. Pressure sensor 530 may be similar to pressure sensor 305 and may be configured to detect either direct pressure (when the device is deliberately pressed by the wearer) or impact pressure (when the wearer experiences a collision or attack). The sensitivity threshold of pressure sensor 530 may be adjustable to prevent false alarms while ensuring reliable activation when needed.
[0080] Wireless transmitter 550 may be configured to communicate with a smartphone 570 or other mobile device to transmit a distress signal and GPS location to a predetermined contact list upon activation. In some embodiments, device 500 may include its own GPS module to determine location independently of a connected mobile device. FIG. 18C depicts device 500 attached to the inside of a garment 600, which may be similar to outer garment 10. Device 500 may be secured to garment 600 using one or more attachment mechanisms 560, which may include, but are not limited to, Velcro strips, pins, clips, or magnets. This versatility allows device 500 to be easily transferred between different garments or positioned at the most convenient location for the wearer's needs.
[0081] In operation, when pressure sensor 530 is activated (either by direct press or impact), device 500 simultaneously sounds an alarm through speaker 540 (and/or activates a strobe light), and transmits a distress signal through wireless transmitter 550. The distress signal may include the wearer's GPS coordinates and a predefined emergency message. Additionally, device 500 may be configured to initiate a direct call to emergency services (e.g., 911) through the connected mobile device 570.
[0082] The protective systems described herein may be incorporated into various other articles of clothing beyond outer garments and headgear. For example, protective shoes may incorporate pressure sensors and plates in the toe box, heel counter, or ankle collar areas to detect impacts from kicks or stomps. Protective gloves may include sensors in the palm, backhand, or finger regions. Pants and shorts may incorporate plate pockets and sensors in the thigh, knee, or hip regions for protection during ground-based self-defense situations, for example. Scarves may include elongated plates and sensors along their length, providing neck protection while maintaining the appearance of conventional winter accessories.
[0083] A mobile device application may be developed to complement the protective clothing systems described herein. Such application may be compatible with both iOS and Android operating systems and may provide enhanced functionality beyond basic emergency notification. The application may include customizable sensitivity settings for pressure sensors, allowing users to adjust activation thresholds based on their specific needs and activity levels. Additionally, the application may provide battery level monitoring for wireless output devices, system diagnostics to ensure all components are functioning properly, and automatic emergency service dialing with pre-recorded messages.
[0084] The mobile device application may also include over-the-air (OTA) update capabilities for both the application software and firmware of connected output devices. This feature ensures that users always have access to the latest security patches, feature enhancements, and compatibility updates. The application may maintain an event log recording all sensor activations, including timestamps, GPS coordinates, and sensor data, which may be valuable for law enforcement investigations or insurance claims following an incident. The mobile device application may also incorporate machine learning algorithms to distinguish between intentional defensive actions and accidental impacts, reducing false alarms while maintaining reliability in genuine emergency situations.
[0085] Although the subject matter disclosed herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles set forth in this disclosure. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the exemplary embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised, such as combining one or more features of one embodiment with another embodiment or features from a plurality of embodiments, as an example. Thus, the exemplary embodiments herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosed subject matter to such embodiments.
