KR20080033427A - Clothing for storing and / or carrying items - Google Patents

Abstract

According to the present invention, the following is provided.

A garment that stores and / or carries one or more items,

Torso receiving portion for being worn on at least a portion of the wearer's torso;

One or more reservoirs containing the items / items are included,

Wherein said or each reservoir is at least partially composed of a semi-rigid polymeric material, said or each reservoir being integrated with said body receiving portion.

Description

GARMENT FOR STORING AND / OR CARRYING ITEMS}

The present invention relates to garments for carrying and storing items in the wearer's body. The present invention relates, in particular, to clothing for transporting and storing items such as tools and devices that are required to perform a particular occupation and activity, wherein the stored items need to be replaced or contacted quickly and easily.

In certain occupational and activity areas, a plurality of portable items are needed to perform a job or activity. In order for these items to be readily used when needed, it is convenient or even necessary to carry these items around the user or in a worn state. Examples of such occupations are executive officers, soldiers, merchants, firefighters, emergency responders, and emergency rescue personnel. The description below focuses on the equipment used by police officers, but it is clear that similar ideas can be applied to other occupations.

Even in the case of law enforcement, police officers may use a number of handcuffs, such as handcuffs, pistols, expandable baton, noncritical chemical sprays for crowd control such as oleoresin capsicum (OC) or CS sprays, rubber gloves, masks and radio handsets. Use professional tools regularly. Traditionally, many or most of these items are carried in belts around the waist of police officers. Such a device is disadvantageous in that it may be impractical to have too many items depending on one belt. This means that because each item is only supported in a limited area, there can be a significant strain on the wearer's body or belt and significant instability in the movement of each item. Moreover, the finished garment pouch in the press-stud holding each item secured to the belt, i.e., covering the belt keeper or flap, may be It does not facilitate access and removal. This is especially true when, for example, a police officer is in the process of arrest, or perhaps when he needs to overpower a criminal with another hand and hasten access to his or her handcuffs with only one free hand. do.

Other items regularly used by the police officer may be carried in the pocket of the police officer's uniform. However, the shape of the pocket and / or closure used to close the pocket, i.e. the material and / or design, such as buttons, zippers, can often prevent easy access of the items.

This requires a means by which one or more items are carried and stored in the wearer's body and should not be penalized as described above. It is an object of the present invention to provide a garment for transporting and / or storing one or more items that alleviate or overcome at least one or more disadvantages of the prior art.

The present invention will be primarily described in the field of application of the transport and / or storage of items used by law enforcement. However, it can be clearly understood that the present invention is not limited to this application.

Generally, the or each reservoir comprises at least a portion from a laminate comprised of at least a semi-rigid polymeric material and a flexible material.

The body receiving portion may also comprise at least a laminate of the semi-rigid material and the flexible material. The semi-rigid laminate also includes other materials or elements provided with desirable properties. For example, the laminate may include armor materials, such as steel mesh or Kevlar fibers, to provide garments that are able to withstand stabs or slashes. In addition, the semi-rigid laminate can include materials that can withstand flame. Moreover, semirigid laminates can include cooling tubes to help control the wearer's body temperature.

The trunk receptacle generally includes a major element of the garment that covers a predetermined amount of wearer's torso. It is generally shaped to correspond substantially to at least a portion of the wearer's torso. The trunk receptacle may comprise a plurality of panels coupled by stitching, welding, lamination or other coupling means. Each panel may contain the same or different materials. The panel made of different materials comprises one panel or panels made of a material comprising a semi-rigid material, and preferably one panel or panels made of a flexible material. One panel or panels comprising the semi-rigid material may comprise a laminate of the semi-rigid material and the flexible material.

Flexible materials are generally one or more synthetic fabrics that are suitable for the intended clothing wearer and have desirable properties. Such properties include light mass, water resistance, sun protection, good mechanical properties. Although natural materials such as curtains can be used as an embodiment, the flexible material is preferably a synthetic fabric. Suitable synthetic materials include materials containing nylon and polyester. Other flexible materials include aramids such as those traded under the trade name of NOMEX. The flexible material advantageously comprises two or more fabric layers, laminated together. In one embodiment, the flexible material is a laminate of nylon and polyester, for example a laminate of 200 denier nylon and 600 denier polyester cloth. In one embodiment, the flexible material may have a network structure. Preferred flexible materials are nylon or polyester, preferably weave or knitted nylon or polyester. More preferred flexible materials are knitted nylons such as those sold by DuPont under the CORDURA trademark.

The body receiving portion of the garment includes a front portion for covering at least a portion of the front of the wearer's body, a rear portion for covering at least a portion of the back of the wearer's body, two side portions and at least one shoulder portion supported and extending by the shoulder of the wearer. In general, it includes. The trunk receptacle also includes an inner surface and an outer surface in contact with the wearer's body. The trunk receptacle also generally includes a lockable opening that allows the garment to be coated or peeled off. Preferably, the lockable opening is located at the front of the garment to facilitate wearing. Preferably, the opening can be locked by a fastener, preferably a zip. More preferred fasteners can be adjusted to allow for other thicknesses underneath the garment. One example of an adjustable fastener is a double zipper.

Preferably, the torso receiving portion includes two side holes through which the arms of the wearer can pass. While the wearer walks or runs, the arm holes are preferably sized and shaped such that the movement of the wearer's arms is not disturbed. Moreover, the preferred length of clothing is that while wearing the garment, the bottom edge of the garment is not lower than the waist of the wearer, so that while wearing the garment, movement of the wearer's torso is not disturbed.

The inventor's clothing also includes one or more receptacles to receive items for storage and / or transportation. Each reservoir is at least partially composed of semi-rigid polymer material and is integrated with the body receiving portion of the garment.

The or each reservoir generally has the form of a pocket or holder. Each reservoir extends from the outer surface of the body receptacle. The reservoir includes at least one outer wall and may also include an inner wall. Each store has an opening for receiving an item. At least some of the material of each reservoir is a semirigid polymer material. In general, at least a portion of each reservoir outer wall consists of a semi-rigid polymeric material. Preferably, the semi-rigid material is constructed or molded in a three-dimensional form. The use of semi-rigid materials has sufficient robustness to define and maintain the shape of the reservoir, while providing the outer wall of each reservoir with sufficient flexibility to be properly deformed when replacing or removing the corresponding item in the reservoir. do.

The reservoir may also include a closure for the opening. The closure also preferably comprises the semi-rigid material formed.

The reservoir comprises an inner wall, which can be simply configured as part of the garment body receiving portion. However, in another embodiment, the inner wall may be configured separately from the body receiving portion. The inner wall is made of a flexible material and can be simply constructed. However, some reservoirs may also be configured to include at least a portion of the semirigid material.

As an embodiment, the inner wall may be comprised of at least a portion of a perforated material, such as a mesh, to enhance air circulation between the garment and the wearer's body.

It may be advantageous that the inner wall is a contrasting color that is clearly visible to the wearer when the reservoir is opened.

Preferably, each storage form complements the form of the item designed to receive. Since at least a portion of the outer wall is semi-rigid, the reservoir can minimize or prevent additional movement of items in the reservoir.

The or each reservoir is integrated with the body receiving portion. Such integration may mean attachment of the reservoir material to or in the material of the body receiving portion. The attachment can be made by stitching, bonding or laminating. Alternatively or additionally, the integration of the or each reservoir with the body receiver is by way of an integral forming or molding method. In this way, at least a portion of the reservoirs are integrally molded or molded in that they are molded or molded with at least a portion of the body receiving portion to form one or more integrated pieces.

The semi-rigid material is preferably based on synthetic polymers. More preferably, the semi-rigid material is based on a foamed plastic material which is generally attributable to the low density and low mass of such material. More preferably, the semi-rigid material is based on a polyethylene foam or ethylene vinyl acetate, ie a polyolefin foam, such as an EVA foam. In particular, preferred semi-rigid materials include EVA foam. EVA foam exhibits many desirable properties suitable for the present invention, for example, good weather and chemical resistance, low water absorption, good mechanical properties, good heat and compression molding characteristics, softness, elasticity, This includes important features such as strong form resilience after compression. More preferably, the EVA foam is a compressed EVA foam that is generally formed by applying pressure to the foam while heat is applied. During the compression process, the EVA foam can be formed or molded into the desired form. By varying the thickness and temperature and / or pressure of the foam, the resulting density and mechanical properties of the molded EVA foam can be controlled.

The semi-rigid material may consist of a laminate. The semi-rigid laminate comprising the EVA preferably comprises at least a first fabric layer bonded to the first side of the EVA layer. Preferably, the semi-rigid laminate of the reservoir comprises an outer layer of flexible material. The outer layer of the semi-rigid laminate, wherein the body receiving portion of the garment comprises a flexible material or one or more panels of flexible material and a laminate, preferably coincides with the outer layer of the flexible material or the flexible material laminate, It provides an overall appearance and uniform appearance with clothing. Preferably, the outer layer of the fabric has essentially protective properties. One example of a suitable material for the first layer is woven or knitted nylon, preferably knitted nylon such as that sold by Dupont under the trademark CORDURA.

More preferably, the semi-rigid laminate further comprises a second fabric layer bonded to the second side of the EVA layer, whereby a three layer structure having an EVA core is formed. . The second fabric layer preferably constitutes a liner of the reservoir. Examples of suitable materials for the second fabric layer include polyester, cotton, nylon, polyester curtains and wool. The second fabric layer may help to construct a mesh, such as nylon mesh, which helps to strengthen the semi-rigid membrane and maintain its shape.

As mentioned above, many desirable properties of EVA foam include good properties for thermal and compression molding. These properties make it possible for the reservoir walls formed from EVA foam to be formed and molded into a single piece in three dimensions, if desired, to correspond to the shape of the item received in the reservoir. This feature is helpful because it ensures that each item is safely stored in the desired arrangement and that it is easily removed for easy access and use. It also reduces or eliminates unwanted movement of the items in the store, thereby reducing the tearing and wear of the items and clothing. Moreover, it helps the wearer's fit.

As noted above, the reduction or absence of unwanted movement of items stored in the reservoir has another advantage that potentially the opening of the reservoir does not require a seal. The outer wall and inner wall of the reservoir are sufficient to secure the item securely. However, due to the nature of the semi-rigidity, the reservoir walls are flexible enough to allow the wearer's hand to deform into the necessary extent to enter the reservoir to retrieve the item when needed.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, it may be appropriate to have a seal over the opening of the reservoir. The closure can have one or more flaps. The closure may be secured using conventional fasteners, preferably hook and loop materials such as those sold under the Velcro brand or Jeep. The closure may also be generally constructed of semi-rigid material. Preferably, the closure can be made of the same material as the outer wall of the reservoir. Thus, the preferred material for the closure is EVA foam or EVA foam laminate.

The reservoirs are generally disposed over the front part and may extend to the shoulders / shoulders of the garment. All openings of the reservoirs are arranged to be easily accessible by the wearer's hand / hands. In general, the opening of the reservoir located at the top of the front part or the shoulder means that the opening is facing its bottom, and the reservoir located at the bottom of the front part has the opening facing its top.

The reservoirs for storing the items may also be located on the left or right side of the front part, the location of which depends on the wearer's hand. For example, when arresting a criminal, a right-handed police officer will need to overpower the criminal with his or her right hand and then access handcuffs with his or her left hand. Therefore, in order to facilitate access, it is desirable to place the handcuffs on the right side of the wearer. The same ergonomic considerations can also be applied to the location of repositories on clothing used for executors and other occupations.

In a preferred embodiment, the garment comprises a reservoir intended to store a set of handcuffs. The handcuff reservoir consists of an inner wall, an outer wall and an opening. The size and shape of the handcuff reservoir ensures that the shape and size of the pair of handcuffs folded in close contact with the interior sizes of the reservoir are almost identical, preferably only slightly larger than the handcuffs, to fit snugly. The reservoir also preferably comprises a general central hub having a shape and size that is received within the central opening of the folded handcuffs. The hub consists of an inner wall and one or more hub elements extending from either the inner wall or the inner wall or outer wall. Preferably, one hub element extends from the inner wall. Preferably, the surface of the or each hub element comprises a flexible material. The outer wall of the reservoir is made of a semi-rigid material, preferably formed plastics, more preferably formed EVA foam, preferably at least partly. More preferably, it is composed of EVA foam and elastomeric material. More preferably, the outer wall is formed of at least one panel of each semi-rigid material and elastomeric material. More preferably, the opening of the reservoir is located in the elastomeric material. The elastomeric material is preferably one of the types traded under the names of LYCRA, ELASTANE or SPANDEX trademarks. Optionally, the elastomeric material may be of the type traded, for example, in the name of neoprene.

The opening of the reservoir is preferably slightly less than the maximum size of the folded cuffs. However, by the opening formed of the elastomeric material, the handcuffs can be stretched to a sufficient extent to pass through, after which they are restored to their original size. Thus, the cuffs are retained in the reservoir by a combination of the hub, the semi-rigid nature of at least a portion of the outer wall, and less openings.

The small opening of the handcuffs reservoir has a second function of ensuring that the handcuffs are difficult to see by a third party, thereby reducing the likelihood that the handcuffs are taken out by unauthorized persons.

The hub consists of a single hub element extending from the inner or outer wall, with a slight distance between the free end of the hub and the opposite wall. Similarly, the hub consists of two or more hub elements extending from the inner and outer walls, with a slight distance between the free ends of the hub elements. The distance is generally less than the thickness of the folded handcuffs. The interior of the hub element / elements is preferably filled with an elastic material, such as a silicone gel. The silicone gel is preferably laminated on one side of the flexible material on the hub surface and on the opposite side of the backing layer of the semi-rigid material. Thus, the hub can be deformed sufficiently elastic so that the thickness of the folded handcuffs can pass through it.

In one embodiment of the invention, the inner wall of the cuff reservoir consists of a flexible material such as nylon and a laminate of semi-rigid material such as EVA foam in the region around the hub.

The handcuffs reservoir may be located at the bottom of the front of the garment, with the opening of the handcuffs reservoir located at or towards the top thereof.

The garment generally comprises one or more reservoirs. Other items that may be stored in the reservoir include expandable baton, non-lethal chemical sprays, first rescue items (eg, rubber gloves and masks), radio handsets, newspapers, cell phones, and other personal items.

The expandable baton and the reservoirs intended to store chemical sprays also preferably have a size and shape that complements the size and shape of each of the items, thereby extending generally. Moreover, each reservoir is preferably located and placed in the garment in such a way as to maximize accessibility and ensure that when accessed, the item is easily arranged for use. Preferably, the outer wall of said reservoirs comprises a semi-rigid material and preferably comprises EVA foam. The reservoirs are preferably located on top of the shear face of the garment. Preferably, the transverse axis of each reservoir, when coated, is disposed at an angle to the central line of the body tom. More preferably, the bottom end of each reservoir is located closer to the trunk centerline than the top end. More preferably, the opening of each reservoir is therefore located towards or at the bottom end. Such position and placement allows for smooth and quick removal and placement of these items in downward and pulling action without obstruction from the walls / walls of the reservoir.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the at least one reservoirs located at the top of the shear face of the garment consist of an outer wall comprising an EVA foam formed, with an integral seal located towards or at the bottom end thereof. The closure is also preferably composed of formed EVA foam. The closure is preferably connected to the hinge for rotational movement outward from the closed position to the open position. It can be seen that the outwardly open closure is minimally disturbed and allows removal of the item from the reservoir. The opening of the reservoir may extend a considerable distance from the bottom end of the outer wall of the reservoir towards the end of the top, thereby allowing sufficient distance for access and removal of the item. In this case, the integrated opening needs to be large enough and large enough to cover the opening. The closure may include a fastener. Preferably, the fastener is composed of a hook and a loop fastener.

Preferably, each closure includes a release flap or tab that can be held by the wearer when the closure is opened. The release tabs preferably comprise a clear symbol indicating the contents of the respective reservoirs. As such, the wearer can receive tactile feedback from the release tab, helping to ensure the correct placement of the item even in situations with reduced visibility.

The inner surfaces of the bins may include gripping means to help hold the item in them. The gripping means may consist of one of a hook or loop material having another material attached to the item. Preferably, the hook or loop material, if present, is laminated to the inner surface of the reservoir.

Preferably, the garment also includes a reservoir for receiving a first rescue kit comprising, for example, rubber gloves and a mask. The reservoir advantageously has a configuration, arrangement and structure similar to the reservoir designed to receive the baton and OC spray.

The garment may optionally also include a repository for storing various other and / or personal items, such as newspapers, wallets, keys, and the like. Preferably, the reservoir is located towards the front center. However, since the items of other repositories do not need to be accessed quickly, their structure need not be consistent with the present invention, and may be a traditional design. Preferably, however, the outer wall of the other reservoir has a similar appearance to the rest of the garment. Thus, it may comprise a panel of flexible material or semi-rigid laminate similar to the material used elsewhere in the garment. Other reservoirs advantageously include openings facing upwards such that the wearer can see down the opened reservoir. Preferably, the other reservoir hides an opening that can be secured to the front side of the garment.

The garment also generally includes a reservoir for receiving a radio handset. Preferably, the radio handset comprises a guide that can be conveniently configured as an open end holder for receiving and holding the radio handset in a preferred arrangement. Preferably, however, the radio reservoir also comprises a pocket element that depends from the open end of the guide. Preferably, the guide is composed of a semi-rigid material. More preferably, it is composed of semi-rigid material, such as the other reservoirs described above. The pocket element may be constructed of the same material as the guide support. However, preferably, it is composed of a flexible material such as leather webbing, which is an elastic material. Suitable materials are three-dimensional meshes, preferably padded meshes, such as those containing foam elements to protect the radio from tampering. The pocket element may be adjacent to the holder, and the pocket element and the holder may have the same material and may be stitched or attached in the same manner as bonding. Preferably, the pocket element is suspended freely from the open end of the holder.

The garment of the present invention is advantageous as it can include a plurality of other features.

Preferably the garment comprises lighting means. The lighting means preferably comprises a flexible light installed in the garment. Preferably, the flexible light is composed of a flexible arm having a light source provided at one end thereof. The other end of the flexible arm is mounted to the garment. The operation and intensity of the light source is manually controlled by the wearer, preferably using one or more switches provided in the flexible light. One or more switches may conveniently be located near the light source. In a preferred embodiment, the flexible arm is mounted on the shoulder and extends downward toward the top of the front of the garment. The arm can be attached along its longitudinal direction by attachment means such as hook and loop fasteners. Preferably, the arm extends from an aperture in the garment to minimize damage to the garment due to the use of the flexible light. The power source for the light is preferably rechargeable and integrated with the garment. The power source may be a rechargeable battery such as solar or lithium battery.

The garment also includes clothing lighting means for improving the wearer's field of view during night time or during periods of poor visibility. Preferably, the garment lighting means is comprised of one or more light emitting members integrally formed with the garment. More preferably, the or each light emitting member is composed of a transparent window or tube for emitting and transmitting light. The light emitting member may be configured as a window that receives a plurality of light emitting diodes. The garment lighting means is preferably powered by a rechargeable power source which is a convenient power source such as used to power the lighting means described above. The operation of the garment lighting means is preferably also controlled by a switch located above the lighting means.

The garment lighting means can optionally or additionally comprise reflective material regions. Preferably, they are composed of a reflective material that is a series of pieces that are provided at the back of the garment. Preferably, the garment comprises means, such as a flap, for covering the reflective areas, if desired.

The garment of the present invention may include ventilation means to allow circulation of air between the garment and the wearer's body. The ventilation means is generally composed of an opening in the body receiving portion. The openings are preferably composed of vents provided in the flexible material of the body receiving portion. The holes may be formed independently in the flexible material, or may consist of separate panels of integrated holes in which a material such as mesh is received. The ventilation means is advantageously provided in an area of the garment that matches the body area of the wearer, for example, where a lot of sweat is likely to occur around the neck and back.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the ventilation means further comprises micro jet fans inserted into the garment to assist air circulation between the garment and the wearer's body.

The garment of the present invention preferably further comprises sizing means for adjusting the size of the garment to suit the torso size of the particular wearer. Preferably, the size adjusting means is provided on each side portion of the garment. Preferably, each adjusting means is composed of first and second adjusting members, wherein the first adjusting member is provided at the front portion of the garment, and the second adjusting member is provided at the rear portion of the garment. do. The first and second adjusting members of each adjusting means can be separated and moved relative to each other to increase or decrease the side spaces of the front part and the rear part.

Preferably, the first and second adjusting members of each adjusting means consist of flaps attachable to each other, the first flap being provided on the bottom side of the front part, and the second flap being the bottom of the corresponding rear part. It is provided on the side. Other types of fasteners such as buckles or press-studs may also be used, but the first and second flaps may be preferably attached to each other by hook and loop fasteners. . More preferably, at least one of the first and second flaps includes size indicators that, when attached, indicate a suitable relative position of the first and second flaps to achieve the size of the particular garment. . The size indicators may be printed or embossed on the first and / or second flaps. In a preferred embodiment, the size indicators are welded or hot stamped to the hook or loop fastener area of each second flap.

The apparel of the present invention may further comprise attachment means for attaching the wearer's belt or similar article of clothing to the apparel. The attachment means generally comprise one or more adjustable straps which extend from the bottom end of the garment and can be connected with the belt of the wearer. The adjustable straps, when not in use, may preferably be extended or restored, such as restored over the bottom end of the garment. The adjustable straps preferably comprise webbing made of a stretchable material.

The inventor's apparel is intended for connecting various devices there, such as pistol houses, taser guns, hydration packs, radio packs, reflective strips, shoulder straps, GPS packs and emergency beacons. Means may be optional and additionally included. The connecting means may consist of a flap with hook and loop fasteners and fabric areas compatible with the hook and loop fasteners. Advantageously, said compatible fabric regions are formed of a laminate over said garment material.

The garment also preferably comprises audio and / or visual recording devices / devices. The digital camera is preferably housed in the front, considerably central position, of the garment. A convenient location is on or in the other reservoir, such as in a recess in the reservoir closure.

The inner surface of the garment may be provided on protrusions that are distanced from the wearer's body to the inner surface of the garment, thereby enhancing and facilitating air circulation therebetween. These areas may be padded to enhance wearer comfort. Moreover, the raised areas may include shock absorbing material to enhance wearer protection. The protrusions are preferably located above the shoulders and the front part of the inner surface. The recessed areas above the shoulders are preferably padded and advantageously consist of integrated pads, in particular a gel filling, such as a cushion filler, a silicone gel. The protrusions on the front face preferably coincide with the chest and rib area of the wearer's torso. The protrusions are preferably separated to minimize contact between the garment and the wearer's body. The protrusions on the front face also advantageously comprise a shock resistant material which is preferably padded to provide physical protection to the wearer against injury or attack. An example of such a material is a three-dimensional impact net. (The three-dimensional net has a raised appearance, unlike a flat, textile-like appearance.)

1 is a front view of a first embodiment of a garment according to the invention.

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the garment of FIG. 1. FIG.

FIG. 3 is a side view of a reservoir containing the pair of handcuffs shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a detailed view of the reservoir containing the baton shown in FIG. 1.

5 is a rear view of a first embodiment of a garment incorporating a hydration pack.

6 is a view showing the opposite side of the front end of the first embodiment of the garment.

Fig. 7A is a front view showing a second embodiment of the garment of the present invention.

7B is a view showing the opening and closing directions of the reservoirs of the second embodiment.

8 is a rear view of a second embodiment of the present invention.

9 (a) and 9 (b) are diagrams showing single molded pieces used to make the second embodiment.

10 is a view showing the camera function in detail in the second embodiment.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings.

Referring now again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the garment of the present invention includes a vest 10, worn by the wearer 12. The vest 10 includes a body receiving portion 14 which is semi-rigid and generally made of a flexible material. The vest also includes a plurality of reservoirs 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25 at least in part made of semi-rigid material. The semi-rigid material comprises a compressed EVA foam, preferably a compressed EVA laminate with at least an outer layer of polyester material. Each of the reservoirs 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25 is integrated with the body receiving portion 14. The vest 10 includes a front portion 26 (shown in FIG. 1) for at least partially covering the front of the body of the wearer 12 and a rear portion 28 for at least partially covering the rear of the body of the wearer 12. (Shown in FIG. 2), two side portions 30 and 32, and two shoulder portions 34 and 36. The front portion 26 of the trunk receptacle 14 also includes a lockable opening 38 that allows the vest 10 to be coated or peeled off.

The reservoir 16 is located at the front bottom 26 of the vest 10 and includes an opening 44 near the top. The reservoir 16 is adapted to receive a set of handcuffs, whereby it has a shape and size that closely matches a set of folded handcuffs. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the handcuff reservoir 16 along line III-III of FIG. 1. The cuff reservoir 16 includes an outer wall 40, an inner wall 42, and an opening 44. The outer wall 40 is an elastomer comprising at least a semi-rigid element 46 consisting of a compressed laminate of EVA foam and a molded outer layer of a polyester outer layer, and the material of the elastomer being used under the Lycra trademark. Mer element 48. The opening 44 is located in the elastomeric element 48 and is slightly less than the maximum size of the folded handcuffs 50.

The inner wall 42 also consists of a laminate layer of flexible material 43 with a bottom layer 45 of EVA foam. The inner wall 42 comprises a generally central hub, which consists of hub elements of a shape or size that is received in the central opening of the folded handcuffs 50. The hub element 52 is hollow and filled with a laminated silicone gel on top layer 43. The shortest distance between the hub element 52 and the inner surface 56 of the outer wall is less than the thickness of the folded handcuffs 50. However, by the hub element 52 filled with silicone gel, the hub element 52 is deformed sufficiently elastic to allow the folded handcuffs 50 to pass through it.

With the cuff reservoir 16, the opening 44 provided in the elastomeric element 48 of the outer wall 40 allows the opening 44 to be stretched sufficiently to allow the folded handcuffs to pass through. The handcuffs are received into the reservoir by the hub and semirigid elements 46 and less openings 44 of the outer wall 40.

The reservoirs 18, 20 and 22 are used for the storage of the first rescue kit containing the expandable baton, the OC spray and the rubber glove / mask, respectively. Since the features of each of these reservoirs are similar, a description will be made with respect to the baton reservoir 18, and similar features may be understood to be shared by the reservoirs 20, 22.

As shown in FIG. 1, the baton reservoir 18 is located at the front top 26 of the vest 10 and may generally be stretched. Baton reservoir 18 has a size and shape that complements the size and shape of the expandable baton. The baton reservoir is also positioned inclined above the vest in such a way that its transverse axis is formed at an angle to the wearer's torso centerline X-X. The baton reservoir 18 has an upper end 62 and a lower end 64, the lower end 64 being closer to the center line X-X than the upper end.

4 shows a background of baton reservoir 18 containing baton 58 with only the handle visible. The baton reservoir comprises an outer wall 60 composed of compressed EVA foam laminated to an outer surface of polyester. The baton reservoir 18 is integrally formed with the body receiving portion 14 by being integrally formed together during the molding process. The arcuate opening 66 extends from the lower end 64 toward the upper end 62 by a distance. Thereby, sufficient space is allowed for removing and accessing the baton. The baton reservoir further includes a closure 68 formed to have a sized shape covering the opening 66. The closure 66 is hingedly connected to the lower end 64 for rotational movement outward from the closed position (shown in FIG. 1) to the open position (shown in FIG. 4). The closure 68 further includes a hook and loop fastner 70 for holding the closure 68 in the closed position.

The vest 10 includes a reservoir 24 for receiving a radio handset 72. The radio reservoir 24 comprises a guide support consisting of an open end holder 74 which is integrally molded with the body receiving portion 14 by an integral formation during the molding process, It consists of molded and compressed EVA foam laminated with esters. The reservoir 24 further comprises a pocket element 76 suspended from the bottom of the open end holder 74. The pocket element 76 comprises an elastic net. The reservoir 24 further includes a flap closure 78 secured by a hook and loop fastener (not shown).

The vest 10 also includes a flexible arm 82 installed at one end of the shoulder 36 and extends downwardly toward the top 26 of the front end of the vest 10. lighting means comprising a flexible light having a light source. The flexible light 80 may include a manual controller (not shown) to allow the wearer to control the intensity and operation of the light source 84. The flexible arm 82 is attached along the longitudinal direction by attachment means configured to include a flexible strap attached to the trunk accommodating portion 14 by a hook and loop fastener. The lighting means also comprises a rechargeable power source which is integrally formed with the vest 10 and consists of a rechargeable lithium battery.

Another feature of the vest is clothing illumination means consisting of a member 88 for emitting light located at the rear end 28. The light emitting member 88 is an integrated transparent polymer window having a flexible PCB with a series of LED emitters mounted on its surface. It is also powered by a rechargeable power source 86, which member 88 includes an embedded flexible printed circuit board 87 having strain relief means 89 to prevent damage caused by deformation. Connected.

The vest 10 comprises ventilation means consisting of panels of integral perforations comprising materials such as meshes 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d and 90e provided in the body receiving portion. Panels of unitary perforations incorporating the material are located in the region of the vest 10 that corresponds to the body region of the wearer who experiences a lot of sweating, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. 90a and 90b are located around the wearer's neck, and panels 90c, 90d and 90e are located at the rear end of the wearer.

The vest 10 includes a size adjusting means 92 provided on each side portion (30, 32). Each size adjusting means comprises a first and a second adjusting member configured to include flaps 94 and 96 which can be attached to each other. The flaps 94 and 96 may be attached by a hook and loop fastener having a loop element provided on the flap 96 and a hook element provided on the flap 94. Flap 96 includes size indicators, generally shown at 98. The size indicators 98 are formed at intervals from the size lines 100 and associated with the chest dimension of the wearer embossed on the flaps 96, each of which is required to obtain a specific size of the vest 100. Outline the relative positions of the flap 94. The size indicator is provided at the bottom of the attached flaps 94 and 96, the bottom position of which is specified to correspond to the chest size of the wearer when the two flaps 94 and 96 are attached. This is where the size line 100 can be seen.

Another feature of the vest 10 is a fastening means consisting of two adjustable straps 102 to attach the vest 10 to the wearer's belt 104. 6 shows the adjustable strap 102 in more detail. They each consist of a stretchable material element attached to the bottom edge of the vest 10 and a connecting element for attaching to the belt 104 of the wearer. Each telescopic element 106 and its corresponding element 108 may be attached to each other by means of hook and loop attachment means indicated by 110a and 110b. Each stretch element 106 includes an elastic portion 112 that functions to restore the stretch element 106 over the bottom edge of the vest 10 when not in use. FIG. 5 shows a modified version of the vest 10 including a back portion 28 and a hydration pack for attachment. The hydration pack 112 includes a fluid conduit 114 that extends over the shoulder region 34 for contact by the wearer's mouth. The hydration pack 112 is attached to the vest by a hook and loop fastener, for which purpose the vest 10 has an attachment tab having a hook element for attachment with the loop material on the hydration pack 112. 116a, 116b and 116c.

6 shows the opposite side of the front of the vest 10. A plurality of projected padded areas 120a, b, c and d and 122a, b and c are defined by the inner surface of the vest to maintain a constant distance from the wearer's body to the inner surface 118. 118), whereby air circulation between them is easily enhanced. The recessed areas 122a, 122b and 122c above the shoulders 34, 36 consist of integral pads filled with cushioning silicone gel that enhances the wearer's comfort. The recessed areas 120a, b, c, and d are provided in partitioned form, coincident with the chest and rib areas of the wearer's torso. In addition, they further include and pad an impact resistant material composed of a three-dimensional impact net, thereby enhancing the physical protection and comfort of the wearer.

A second embodiment of the present invention is shown by Figs. 7A and 8B. Within these figures, each reference numeral in Figs. 7 and 8 denotes like parts by like reference numerals in a manner that is 200 higher than reference numerals corresponding to Figs. The appearance of the second embodiment and the appearance of the second embodiment will be mainly described.

Vest 210 includes torso receiver 214 and a plurality of reservoirs 216, 218, 220, 222 and 224. The body receiver 214 includes molded and semi-rigid panels 215a, b and c and flexible panels 290a, b, c, d and e of mesh material. The semi-rigid panels 215a, b and c consist of a laminate formed of EVA foam and a nylon material traded under the CORDURA trademark. To facilitate manufacturing, the semi-rigid panel 215a is molded with at least some of the reservoirs 216, 220 and 222, and the semi-rigid panel 215b includes at least the reservoirs 218 and 224. Molded together with a portion of the semi-rigid panels 215a and 215b and their respective reservoir portions form a single molded piece. 9A and 9B show each single molded piece 230, 232 constituting semi-rigid panels 215a, 215b together with the corresponding reservoir portions.

Referring to FIG. 9A, a single molded piece 230 includes a semi-rigid panel 215a with the outer wall of the reservoirs 216, 220. In the case of the outer wall 240 of the reservoir 216, the single molded piece 230 also has a white outlined area 216 that is exchanged and clipped by the elastomeric element 248 during the vest manufacturing process. (a)). Similarly, the outer wall 220 of the reservoir comprises a region 220a outlined in white, in which a portion of the opening for each reservoir is formed and cut out. The single molded piece 230 also includes a portion 350 extending over one of the shoulders of the wearer and an inner wall 348 of the central reservoir 225.

Referring to FIG. 9B, the single molded piece 232 includes the semi-rigid panel 215b with the outer wall of the reservoir 218 and a holder element 274 at the open end of the radio reservoir 224. It includes. The outer wall 260 of the reservoir 218 also includes an area 260 (a) outlined in white, during which the opening of the reservoir is formed and cut during the vest manufacturing process. The single molded piece 232 also includes an area 352 extending over the other side of the wearer's shoulder. It includes an integrated molded pouch 354 that houses a rechargeable lithium battery case 286.

During the manufacture of the vest 210, the two semi-rigid shoulder regions 350 and 352 are coupled with the flexible rear panel 356, and with the mesh panels 290c and 290d, the back portion of the vest ( 228).

Referring again to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the second embodiment shows that the relative positions of the reservoirs 218, 220 and 222 are opposite when compared to the first embodiment. In addition, the positions of the hinges connected to each of the formed seals 268, 221, and 223 are clearly moved from FIG. 7B relative to the first embodiment, and the opening and closing directions of the various seals are indicated by arrows. Even in the case of the formed closures 268, 221 (shown in the open position in FIG. 7A) they are hinged side by side along the outer side of the respective reservoirs 218, 220, respectively. In the case of the first structural reservoir 222, its closure 223 (shown in its closed position in FIG. 7) is generally within the region indicated by reference numeral 227. Is hinged to the top side of the. All formed seals are held in their closed positions by hook and loop fasteners (not shown).

Each formed closure 268, 221, 223 includes release tabs 268a, 221a, 223a, which may be held by the wearer to open the corresponding closure. Each release tab contains an embossed symbol that displays the contents of a particular repository. For example, the release tab 223a includes a horizontal embossed first structural box indicating that the contents of the reservoir 222 is a first structural kit.

The radio reservoir 224 is different from the radio reservoir 24 of the respective means of the closure. Unlike the radio reservoir 24, which includes a flap 78 secured by a hook and loop fastener, the radio reservoir 224 is sealed by a jeep 279.

The flexible light 280 includes a manual controller including a member 288 for emitting light located at the rear portion 288 of the vest 210 and a switch 285 for controlling the operation of the light source 284. do. The flexible arm 282 extends from a molded aperture 287 that reduces wear or tear of the arm 282.

The central reservoir 225, which houses general or personal items such as newspapers, wallets, keys, etc., is also a seal 229 formed by hinged along the bottom edge of the reservoir 225 in the general area indicated by reference numeral 231. It includes. The outer surface of the formed sealing portion 229 is invoiced in a logo or badge when displaying a specific police force.

The formed closure 229 of the central reservoir also includes means for receiving a digital camera therein, as shown in FIG. The camera 340 is outlined in dashed lines and is housed in a complementary recess 342 (shown in dashed lines) provided in the closure 229. When accommodated in the recess, the camera lens 344 coincides with a hole 346 provided in the seal. The central placement of the camera enables proper framing and minimizes image instability due to the wearer's movement. Due to the camera's internal receptacle, the camera is hidden and helps prevent tampering. When needed, the wearer can be manually operated to record still photos and video footage using the camera. The camera 340 can be removed from the vest 210 when needed and the images recorded by it can be downloaded directly from the camera or from its memory card. One system can be installed at the police station, whereby the downloaded information is recorded with the name and date of the relevant police officer. The camera is then recharged and returned to the vest.

Finally, various other modifications and / or changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention as summarized herein.

Claims (48)

A garment for the storage and / or transport of one or more items, Torso receiving portion to be worn on at least a part of the wearer's torso; One or more reservoirs containing the items / items are included, Wherein said reservoir comprises at least a portion of a semi-rigid polymeric material, said reservoir being integrated with said body receiving portion. The garment of claim 1, wherein the reservoir comprises at least a portion of a laminate comprising at least a semi-rigid polymeric material and a flexible material. The garment of claim 1, wherein the body receiving portion also comprises at least a laminate of the semi-rigid material and the flexible material. The garment of claim 1, wherein the garment is shaped to substantially match at least a portion of the wearer's torso. The method of claim 1 wherein the flexible material is nylon or polyester, preferably weave, knitted nylon or polyester, and more preferably DuPont (CORDURA) under the CORDURA trademark. Garment, characterized in that it is a knitted nylon as sold by Dupont). According to claim 1, wherein the body receiving portion of the garment, a front portion for covering at least a portion of the front end of the wearer's body, a rear portion for covering at least a portion of the rear end of the wearer's body, two side portions, and on the shoulder of the wearer And at least one shoulder portion extending into and supported by the shoulders. The body of claim 1, wherein the torso receiving portion includes two side holes that are shaped and sized to allow the arms of the wearer to pass through and to substantially prevent movement of the wearer's arms while walking or running. Clothing characterized in that. The method of claim 1, wherein the length of the garment, when worn, is not lower than the waist of the wearer's waist, thereby preventing movement of the wearer's torso during the wear. Made clothing. The garment of claim 1, wherein the or each reservoir is generally in the form of a pocket or holder and extends from an outer surface of the body receiving portion. The garment of claim 1, wherein each reservoir comprises at least one outer wall and has an opening in which the item is received. The garment of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the outer wall of each reservoir consists of the semi-rigid polymer material molded or molded into a three-dimensional form. The garment of claim 1, wherein the reservoir also includes a closure to an opening comprising the formed semi-rigid material. The garment of claim 1, wherein the reservoir comprises an inner wall. 15. The garment of claim 13, wherein the inner wall comprises a vented material. 15. The garment of claim 13, wherein the inner wall is of contrasting color to be apparent to the wearer when the reservoir is opened. 10. The garment of claim 1, wherein the shape of each reservoir complements the shape of the item being received. The method of claim 1, wherein the integration of the reservoir with the body receiving portion is an integral molding or molding method in which at least a portion of the reservoirs are molded or molded with at least a portion of the body receiving portion to form one or more integrated pieces. Featured clothing. The garment of claim 1, wherein the semi-rigid material is based on a foamed plastic material. 2. The semi-rigid material of claim 1, wherein the semi-rigid material is based on a polyolefin foam, such as polyethylene foam or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, preferably a layer of compressed EVA foam. , clothing. 20. The garment of claim 19, wherein the semi-rigid material comprises a semi-rigid laminate of at least a first layer of fabric bonded to the first side of the EVA layer. The garment of claim 20, wherein the first layer of fabric is the same as the flexible material. 21. The garment of claim 20, wherein the semi-rigid laminate comprises a second layer of fabric coupled to the second side of the EVA layer to form a liner of the reservoir. 23. The garment of claim 22, wherein the second layer of fabric is comprised of a mesh to help strengthen the semi-rigid membrane. The garment of claim 1, wherein the semi-rigid material of the reservoir has a flexible property sufficient to allow the reservoir to deform sufficiently to allow the wearer's hand to enter the reservoir to eject the item. The garment of claim 1, wherein the openings of the reservoirs are arranged to be easily accessible by the wearer's hand. 2. The handcuff storage according to claim 1, wherein one of the reservoirs is a handcuffs storage having a shape and a size almost identical to the folded pair of handcuffs, and the handcuffs storage includes an inner wall and an outer wall and the pair of handcuffs in the center of the opening. Apparel comprising a generally central hub having a size and shape to be accommodated. 27. The garment of claim 26, wherein the hub comprises a hub element extending from the inner wall of the cuff reservoir, wherein the interior of the hub element is filled with silicone gel. 27. The garment of claim 26, wherein the outer wall of the cuff reservoir comprises an EVA foam and an elastomeric material, wherein the reservoir opening is located within the elastomeric material. 29. The garment of claim 28, wherein the reservoir opening is slightly less than the maximum size of the folded handcuffs and can be stretched elastically enough to allow the handcuffs to pass through it. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising one or more elongated reservoirs for storing the expandable baton and / or chemical spray and / or the first structural kit, wherein the reservoirs, when coated, have a longitudinal direction of each reservoir in the body center. Apparel, characterized in that it is disposed at an inclined line and positioned above the top of the front part of the garment, and the opening of the reservoir is located towards the bottom end or at the bottom end. 31. The system of claim 30, wherein the elongated reservoir has an outer wall having an integral seal, which is located towards or at its lower end and is hinged to rotate outwardly from the closed position to the open position. And the outer wall comprises molded EVA foam. 31. The device of claim 30, wherein the closure includes a release flap or tab that can be gripped by the wearer when the closure is open, wherein the release tab includes the contents of each reservoir. Clothing comprising a symbol to display. The method of claim 1, Inner surfaces of the reservoirs, characterized in that it comprises a grip means to help hold the item therein. The method of claim 1, One of the reservoirs for receiving a radio handset, characterized in that it comprises a guide made of the semi-rigid material and a flexible pocket hanging on the guide. The method of claim 34, The flexible pocket is characterized in that consisting of three-dimensional mesh, clothing. The method of claim 1, Further comprising a flexible light that can be mounted to the garment, The flexible light includes a flexible arm provided with a light source at one end, and at the other end of the flexible arm, the flexible light is installed on the garment of the shoulder and extends downward toward the upper end of the front portion of the garment, clothing. 37. The garment of claim 36, wherein the power source of the light can be recharged and integrated with the garment. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising clothing lighting means for improving the wearer's field of view at night time or during periods of poor visibility, wherein the lighting means comprises one or more light emitting members integrated with the garment. Clothing characterized in that. 39. The garment of claim 38, wherein said light emitting member comprises a window comprising a plurality of light emitting diodes. 39. The garment of claim 38, wherein the garment lighting means is powered by a rechargeable power source. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising side size adjusting means for adjusting the size of the garment to fit the size of the particular wearer's torso, wherein each adjusting means comprises first and second adjusting members. And the first adjusting member is provided at the front part, and the second adjusting member is provided at the rear part of the garment. 42. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein the first and second adjustment members of the adjustment means comprise flaps attachable to each other, the first flap being provided on the lower side of the front side, and the second flap being Apparel, characterized in that provided on the lower back side corresponding. 43. The apparatus of claim 42, wherein at least one of the first and second flaps, when attached, displays size indicators that indicate suitable relative positions of the first and second flaps to achieve the size of a particular garment. Apparel, characterized in that it comprises. 44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the first and second flaps are attached to each other by hook and loop fasteners, the size indicators being welded or hot to the hook or loop fastener area of each second flap. ) Clothing, characterized by being stamped. The wearable device of claim 1, further comprising fastening means for fastening a wearer's belt or similar article of clothing to the garment, the fastening means extending from a lower end of the garment and connectable to the wearer's belt. And the adjustable straps, wherein the adjustable straps are stretchable and, when not in use, shrink over the bottom end of the garment. The inner surface of the garment is provided with a projection, by which the projection is distanced from the wearer's body to the inner surface of the clothing, thereby allowing air circulation between the body and the inner surface of the clothing. Apparel, characterized in that it is easy and reinforced. 47. The garment of claim 46, wherein the protrusions are padded and / or padded and include impact resistant material. Apparel, which stores and / or transports one or more items as described with reference to each embodiment shown in the accompanying figures above.

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