Support vest

ES 2 633 176 T3

DESCRIPTION

Support vest

Field of the invention

The invention relates generally to vest-shaped products and support methods and tools of use, including, but not limited to, camera stabilization equipment.

Background of the invention

There are vests or harnesses that implement various strategies for load carrying and resistance to torque. The shortcomings of existing vests include, for example, tightening around regions of the body indiscriminately, thus restricting breathing, circulation, perspiration and movement. Specifically, they can affect body systems and areas such as the spine, abdomen, shoulder blades and certain nerve branches and plexuses.

Existing vests fall into two main categories: front-mounted vests, where the load attachment point is on the front, or ventral side of the sagittal plane of the human body; and rear-mounted vests, where the load attachment point is at the rear, or on the dorsal side of the sagittal plane. These vests are generally constructed to transfer the vertical component of the load to the wearer's body and to resist the torque of suspending a weight in front of the vest.

Users of conventional vests often find that pressure is directed towards areas where it causes discomfort. Chest straps can restrict natural breathing, and additionally cause the vest to move during breathing, affecting the pitch of the load carrying attachment point and interfering with the precise operation of supported equipment. To maintain proper pitch of the load, conventional vests generally cause the user to use a modified gait that is contrary to natural human locomotion, and results in decreased balance and increased muscular effort throughout the lower extremities. and through the ventral and dorsal abdominal muscles. The loaded vest can also interfere with the natural movement of the entire shoulder girdle, particularly the shoulder blades, thus restricting the movement of the arms. By encompassing large areas of the wearer's body, the front-mounted vest, and to some extent the rear-mounted vest, reduce perspiration resulting in additional discomfort.

Accordingly, there is a need for a vest that overcomes or reduces some or all of the shortcomings of existing vests.

Document WO2013008001 A1 discloses a support vest according to the preamble of claim 1.

Summary of the invention

An object of the present invention is to provide a support vest according to claim 1.

An illustrative embodiment of the invention provides a support vest configured to accommodate the natural movements of a user, allowing forces to be applied to selected areas, and allowing the attachment points for a supported load to be varied. The support vest is rigid in the sagittal plane and flexible in the coronal plane.

In accordance with the illustrative embodiment of the invention, the support vest includes a semi-rigid waistband with a ventral spar member and a dorsal spar member extending upward thereof. The top (upper) end of the ventral spar member is attached to a ventral plate. The upper end of the back rail is attached to a rigid back plate. The belly plate and the back plate are connected to each other by semi-rigid, adjustable shoulder straps configured to fit over the shoulders of a user. A load can be attached to the support vest through attachment components located ventrally and / or dorsally.

The ventral spar member and the dorsal spar member are inferiorly attached to the waistband via a lower ventral pivot system and a lower dorsal pivot system, respectively. The ventral spar member and the dorsal spar member are superiorly attached to the ventral plate and the backplate respectively, through an upper ventral pivot system and an upper dorsal pivot system, respectively. Pivot systems can include limiting adjustments to limit rotation. The point of attachment of the ventral spar member to the ventral plate and the attachment height of the dorsal spar member to the backplate are substantially at the same height.

Additional features of this illustrative embodiment of the invention include extendable and collapsible ventral and dorsal spar elements through a length adjustment system, such as a telescopic mechanism. The vertical spar members can extend ventrally and dorsally to approximately mid-thoracic level and are substantially symmetrical with each other. For many applications, the support vest transmits

ES 2 633 176 T3 preferably the volume of the load to the ilium lower, and the rest to the upper trapezius muscle of the user, which can be achieved, at least in part, by these adjustments.

A system of pads can add comfort to the user and further help distribute forces as desired. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, dorsal iliac pads are disposed within the waistband on either side of the dorsal spar member attachment zone; one or more backplate pads are disposed on the inner side of the backplate; the backplate pads transition to a pair of shoulder strap pads disposed on the inner side of the shoulder straps; one or more dorsal stem pads are disposed on the inner side of the dorsal spar; ventral iliac pads are disposed inside the waistband on either side of the joint area of ​​the ventral spar member; and one or more belly plate pads are disposed on the inner side of the belly plate. The dorsal and ventral iliac pads can preferably be adjusted along the waistband. It will be understood that in many cases a single continuous pad can be used in one area or a plurality of pads. The pads can vary in thickness to achieve the desired force distribution.

The support vest preferably has numerous adjustments to achieve the desirable weight insertion zone distribution. In addition to the adjustments described so far, the load link components can be adjustable. In addition, the shoulder and waist straps may have a dual anchor adjustment system, in which the dual anchor strap system can transfer forces from the ventral side of the support vest to the dorsal side. Belt and waistband adjustment systems may include interlocking semi-rigid slides with a closure mechanism such as hook and loop materials.

The support vest may include a quick release system. A dorsal combination quick release and hinge system is disposed at the top point of the dorsal spar member and a lower dorsal combination quick release and hinge system is disposed at the lower point of the dorsal spar member. The vest may be configured such that both mechanisms can be released substantially simultaneously by functionally connected laces.

Description of the drawings

Figure 1 depicts a support vest according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2 depicts a waistband isometric in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 3 depicts ventral and dorsal stem systems in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 4 is a rear elevation of the belly plate 3, the back plate 4 and the shoulder straps 5 according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Figures 5A-D depict lower and upper pivot systems in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 6 depicts rear elevations of a pivot limitation adjustment in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Figures 7A-F depict a combination quick release and hinge mechanism in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 8 depicts a pad system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 9 shows weight insertion zones associated with a vest according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 10 depicts weight application zones and torque application zones associated with a vest in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 11 depicts a vest with a ventral load attachment point according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 12 depicts a vest with a back load attachment point according to an illustration embodiment of the invention.

Detailed description of the invention

The invention will generally be referred to as an Exovest. As used herein "Exovest device" includes various embodiments of the invention. The Exovest device will also be referred to as a support vest or exoskeleton frame. An illustrative embodiment of the invention will now be described.

Rather than squeeze around and interfere with various regions and systems of the human body indiscriminately, an exemplary Exovest device transfers its load and torque to regions

ES 2 633 176 T3 that are better able to withstand such weights and forces and transfer them appropriately through all natural body cargo transport systems. Additionally, the Exovest device interferes relatively minimally with breathing, circulation, perspiration, and movement, including locomotion.

The Exovest device conforms to a flexible exoskeleton structure around the human body that generally conforms to the natural movements of the body, allowing forces to be applied to selected areas, and allowing the attachment points for the supported load to be varied.

Figure 1 depicts an Exovest device according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. Instead of the full pelvic waistband common to all current vests, the Exovest device uses a semi-rigid waistband 1, preferably about a hand's width wide (about four inches), that supports two systems. of independent pads (described in more detail below) that rest on and around the iliac ridges of the pelvic girdle, avoiding the abdominal region ventrally, and the sacral region dorsally. Since the femoral bones of the lower extremity insert directly into the iliums, the iliac crests are ideal locations to place a load to be transferred through the lower extremity to the floor. Allowing the load to be placed indiscriminately on the abdomen can lead to intestinal discomfort. Allowing the load to be applied to the sacral region of the spine can cause the spinal nerve plexuses to compress, and can place unnecessary stress on the sacroiliac joint. Allowing the load to be placed laterally on the glutes medius can restrict the natural movement of the hip joints. Illustrative embodiments of the Exovest device avoid some or all of these problems by directing loading to anatomically suitable regions, and limiting the direction of loads to anatomically inappropriate regions.

Additionally, a system of pads can be incorporated, for example including pads to avoid compressing the buttocks laterally so that interference by the system with the actions of these muscles with the hip joints when walking can be reduced or eliminated.

Rising from the waistband 1, both ventrally and dorsally, are vertical spar elements, which may take various forms, but in the illustrated design are represented by two sets of preferably substantially parallel shafts 2A, 2B which may be extendable and collapsible for fit different torso lengths. Parallel shank pairs 2A, 2B extend upward from the ventral and dorsal sides of the waistband 1. A single element that can be extended or another form of vertical stringer can be used as long as it can accommodate different torso lengths. In the case of the front-mounted vest, these replace the generally used solid vertical stringer, and by virtue of their paired shafts, they can offer a lighter and stronger attachment point on the front of the Exovest device. The shanks can offer a greater variety of vertical attachment than the currently used front-mount vest. In the case of the rear-mounted vest, the dorsal rods replace the dorsal spar, and can offer a variety of similarly enhanced attachment possibilities.

"Vertical" and "horizontal" are used herein as terms generally relative to each other and not as specific positions. As will be understood, the position of the vest and its components will not necessarily correspond to the horizon and to a normal with respect to the horizon.

The stem systems are raised ventrally and dorsally to approximately mid-thoracic level. Their spacing (for example, four finger width spacing - about four inches) can allow them to pass comfortably ventrally between breasts of any size, and dorsally to prevent some or all from coming into contact with the spinal vertebrae, and passing between the shoulder blades without affecting them or their natural movement. Ventrally, the upper point of the stem system is attached to a ventral plate 3, approximately three fingers (approximately three inches) tall that lies just below the clavicles, and extends substantially horizontally in the sagittal plane towards a distance just wide enough to allow a semi-rigid strap system to cross over the shoulders. Dorsally, the upper point of the stem system is attached to a rigid dorsal plate 4, substantially at the same height as the ventral plate 3 which separates into two elements that curve upward around the shoulder blades to a height and distance suitable for be attached to a semi-rigid strap system that crosses from the belly plate 3.

When crossing over the shoulders, the shoulder straps 5 are preferably designed with sufficient adjustability to allow them to pass comfortably between the sternocleidomastoids of the neck and the acromioclavicular joint of the shoulder, allowing their optional, but recommended, associated pad systems to rest. only on the upper regions of the trapezius muscles. Pressure on the sternocleidomastoids can restrict neck movement, cause discomfort, and in extreme situations, reduce blood circulation. Pressure on the acromioclavicular joint can cause discomfort and restrict movement of the shoulder. The only bony connection between the upper limb and the torso is when the clavicles join the shoulder blades through the acromioclavicular joint. Since the weight carried in the hands, and the torque resulting from suspending this weight out of the front, is transmitted to the rest of the body only minimally through this joint, but maximally through the

ES 2 633 176 T3 shoulder blades that are included within twin wedges of the trapezius muscles, this makes the upper trapezius muscle a preferable area to transfer weight to, provided that the natural movement of the shoulder blades, and the shoulder girdle is not restricted by such a placement.

Therefore, the Exovest device preferably transmits the volume of the load to the illions in a lower way, and the rest to the trapezius in a higher way. This is shown in Figures 9 and 10 by the thick black arrows. The thick white arrows in Figure 10 represent the torque application zone. This configuration allows the Exovest device to withstand the torque of a weight carried earlier relative to the user. Both the front-mounted and rear-mounted vests resist the aforementioned torque by means of their structures that constitute a lever from the waistband to the mid-thoracic level (represented by the chest straps of the front-mounted vest, and by the dorsal stringer of the rear-mounted vest). The Exovest device can be designed to extend and approximately duplicate this lever arm to the height of the upper wishbone, thereby possibly reducing local compressive forces on the body.

Figure 8 depicts a pad system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. The pads, including the dorsal iliac pads 8.2, the dorsal plate pad 8.4, and the dorsal stem pads 8.6, are attached to the dorsal stem system so that they can comfortably engage the twin rows of the erector spinae muscle system. that run along both sides of the spine. Superior to the stem system, the pads attach to the dorsal plate 4, and engage the mid-trapezius muscles to the shoulder blades, preferably without touching either the shoulder blades or the spine, and transition to the shoulder straps 5 that engage the upper regions of the trapezius muscles when the straps 5 are crossed over the shoulders to join the ventral region of the vest. Torque encounters resistance in this illustrative embodiment without significantly inhibiting respiration, as with the front-mounted vest, and without significantly loading the thoracic vertebrae, as with the rear-mounted vest. The trapezius muscles are a desirable placement zone for torque resistance, provided that the natural movement of the shoulder blades, and shoulder girdle, is not substantially restricted by such placement. Additional pads are provided, including 8.1 ventral iliac pads, 8.3 belly plate pads, and 8.5 shoulder strap pads.

Figures 11 and 12 depict Exovest devices with ventral and dorsal load attachment points 10, 12, respectively, according to illustrative embodiments of the invention. Since the Exovest device is rigid in the sagittal plane, and the spar systems are substantially ventrally and dorsally symmetrical, the point of attachment for load attachment can be either ventral or dorsal. Accordingly, the Exovest device has possibilities for attaching the front-mounted vest and the rear-mounted vest, but with possibly greater variety in the case of the front-mounted vest because the front spar can eliminate the need for a chest strap connection. , thereby freeing the vertical variety. Attachment points can be selected to precisely suit the present application, without being predetermined by the vest model. The interlocking system can result in a vest that can transfer a load, regardless of where it is attached, to suitable and comfortable anatomical regions of the body. The torque experienced by placing a load prior to the user's center of gravity is transferred, regardless of where the load is attached, to the most suitable body regions to resist that torque.

Although rigid in the sagittal plane where it needs to resist load and torque, the Exovest device is flexible in the coronal plane. The stringer systems, ventral and dorsal, are attached inferiorly to the waistband through pivoting systems 6A, 6B, respectively, (which can be free, friction, limited or self-centering). Superiorly, they are also attached to the belly plate 3 and the back plate 4 by the pivot systems 6C, 6D, respectively, which can generally be lighter. In conventional vests, any movement of the pelvis generated by normal locomotion is transmitted to the load-carrying attachment point, changing its pitch and interfering with the precise operation of the supported equipment. Especially in the case of the rear-mounted vest, this effect causes the user to adopt an unnatural gait that is ineffective and exhausting. In the Exovest device, the natural movements of the pelvic girdle generated when walking or climbing stairs are adapted, at least in part, by the pivots, which allow the vertical stem systems that form the load attachment points to remain in place. in the user's body. When equipment is transported and operated precisely while walking, this system can allow for reduced muscular effort on the part of the operator, and thus can allow for a higher degree of balance and stability. Similarly, the upper pivots allow natural movements of the shoulder girdle and upper extremities without interfering, or reducing interference, with the pitch of the spar systems and their load carrying attachment points.

These pivots work around two axes, the lower one corresponding to the rotation of the pelvic girdle while walking, the upper one corresponding to the rotation of the shoulder girdle when moving an arm at a different height relative to the other. The lower pivot system minimizes the lifting and lowering of the upper tool attachment to the waistband, allowing the point to remain at a more constant level while walking.

ES 2 633 176 T3

The Exovest device can be designed to be lighter than the related art, and thereby more comfortable to use. Preferably it is attached to the user only in anatomically suitable places, so as not to impinge indiscriminately on unsuitable places. Ideally, the Exovest device conforms to and moves with the user's natural movements, including breathing, which can reduce fatigue, and increase the time of use possible. Additionally, it may not be necessary to tighten the vest to the same degree as in the related art. Conventional front and rear mount vests must be highly tightened to ensure that when the supported load is moved anteriorly, the vest is ready to withstand the resulting torque. In the case of the Exovest device, due to the preferred rigid nature of the structure, and the relatively long lever arm, the potential resisting torque can be higher compared to conventional vests. As the load moves anterior to the user, the torque-resisting lever sits on the muscular systems of the upper back. When the anterior extent of the load decreases, pressure is reduced or removed accordingly from these muscular systems.

The Exovest device can also be easily adjusted while under load using shoulder straps and single or multiple anchor waistband (detailed below) that allow the user to tailor how the load is transmitted to the body. For example, the shoulder straps can be relaxed so that all vertical load is placed on the hips, or they can be tightened to transfer some of that load to the shoulders, to suit personal preference or different operating circumstances.

Various components of the Exovest device will now be described in more detail.

Waistband

Figure 2 depicts a waistband isometric in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. Waistband 1 adjusts to accommodate various wearer perimeters by means of a system of interlocking components to provide a proper fit. On each side, left and right, there are several interlocking semi-rigid sliding elements. Each interlocking section comprises a pair of sliding elements, identified in figure 2 as parts 1.1A, 1.1B and 1.1C, 1.1D. In the case of the illustrated design, the slide member 1.1A overlaps the slide member 1.1B and the slide member 1.1C overlaps the slide member 1.1D. One slider of each pair (1.1B, 1.1D) is attached to the front of the vest, and the other slider of the pair (1.1A, 1.1C) is attached to the back of the vest. The sliding elements 1.1A, 1.1C are held in relation to the sliding elements 1.1B, 1.1D, respectively by paired guide sets 1.2A, 1.2B and 1.2C, 1.2D (only partially shown). Velcro strips 1.3AB run outside the sliding elements 1.2AD, which are attached to the sliding elements 1.1A, 1.1C at the front, and run through rollers 1.4A, 1.4B, respectively, which are attached to the second sliding element of each pair 1.1B, 1.D, respectively, at the rear. These bands then form a loop over themselves and are Velcroed to themselves at the front. Other suitable adjustable closure mechanisms can also be used. This multiple anchoring system allows, for example, a 2: 1 mechanical advantage when adjusting the vest, so that it is not necessary to remove and readjust the vest to achieve tightness.

The interlock system provides a waistband that is both adjustable and rigid enough to be able to transfer weight from the ventral side of the vest to the dorsal side, or vice versa, depending on which side the load attachment point is placed on.

The waistband 1 is equipped on one side with an eccentric lever 1.5, here shown on the left side of the vest, which is provided to allow the operator to quickly relax the tension of the waistband when the vest is not loaded. The waistband 1 is then returned to optimum tightness by returning the lever to its closed position. On the side of the vest corresponding to the eccentric lever, the dorsal point of the velcro band is attached to a hook on the lever itself to allow eccentric anchoring.

On one side of the waistband, here shown on the left side of the vest, there is a conventional retention system comprising 1.6 wedge-shaped dovetail plates that interlock securely and rigidly to maintain vest stability, but to allow for easy entry and exit of the vest.

Incorporated into the waistband 1, on one side only, here shown on the left side of the vest, is a unique combination quick release / hinge system 7, which in normal operation acts as a hinge that works in conjunction with the retainer on 1.6 dovetail to allow entry into and exit of the vest, but which acts as an emergency quick release system in circumstances in which the user has to get rid of the vest and all the load supported with extreme speed. This is depicted in more detail in Figures 7A-F. Other quick release mechanisms compatible with waistband 1 are within the scope of the invention.

Figure 8 depicts a pad system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. Inside the semi-rigid sliding elements 1.1 there are two sets of preferably movable foam pads that are positioned to transfer the weight to the user's body. Two front pads 8.1,

ES 2 633 176 T3 as shown in figure 8, they are placed on either side of the abdomen, applying their transmitted weight directly to the ilium, as indicated in figure 9 by the thick arrows. Two posterior pads 8.2 are placed over the iliums on either side of the sacrum as shown in figure 8. In this way, the load is diverted from the abdomen and the sacrum (the base of the spinal column) and also from the medium glutes. A gap between the front and back padding systems allows the waistband to be tightened front-to-back, with minimal load on the buttocks at the sides. This has two advantages. First, directing the front-back tightening through the semi-rigid waistband allows weight to be transferred to the lower back, and second, leaving a gap can allow better blood circulation, since the waistband can not be continually pressing around the body.

Ventral and dorsal stem systems

Figure 3 depicts ventral and dorsal stem systems in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. Rising from the attachment points of the waistband 1 at the lower stem spacers 2.1A, 2.1B, ventrally and dorsally, respectively, there are two vertical stem systems 2.2A, 2.2B (which in any case may comprise any system vertical stringer) that are interlocked superiorly in a telescopic system, with two sets of smaller vertical rods 2.3A, 2.3B, by means of locking clamps 2.4A, 2.4B. The vertical rod system 2.2A comprises the rods 2.6A, 2.6B into which the rods 2.7A, 2.7B, respectively, are telescopically folded. The vertical rod system 2.2B comprises the rods 2.6C and 2.6D, into which the rods 2.7C and 2.7D, respectively, are telescopically folded. The upper sections terminate ventrally at the upper stem spacers 2.5A, 2.5B where they join ventrally to ventral plate 3, and dorsally to dorsal plate 4 (see Figure 1).

These vertical spar systems offer a vertical variety of attachment points, and unlike other systems known to the inventors, can offer a variety of both ventral and dorsal attachment points. This narrow vertical stringer system avoids or minimizes contact with the female breasts and shoulder blades. Specifically, the dual stem system offers increased strength and lightness, and greater comfort compared to various conventional designs. The rounded edges of the stems can increase comfort compared to a flat plate, and generally dorsally will not directly impact the spine, but rather the twin rows of erector spinae and trapezius muscles that run on either side of it . Additionally, the dual stem system ensures that both the center line of the sternum and the spine are open to ventilation to allow perspiration in areas prone to sweat.

Belly plate, back plate and shoulder straps

Figure 4 is a rear elevation of the belly plate 3, the back plate 4, and the shoulder straps 5 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. Each vertical spar system connects superiorly with its associated plate 3, 4. Ventrally, the ventral plate 3 comprises a thin plate only wide enough (in the coronal plane) to allow the shoulder straps 5 to be raised from their extremities (left and right) in the sagittal plane to pass relatively comfortably over shoulders, and about two inches in vertical depth. The ventral vertical spar system is preferably adjusted to a height such that the top point of the ventral plate 3 is disposed just below the clavicles, thereby avoiding or reducing contact with them and allowing relatively uninhibited movement of the clavicles. the shoulder girdle.

Inside the belly plate 4 are placed thin cushioning pads 8.3 (see figure 8) which are not intended for load bearing purposes, but rather protect the user from occasional contact with the belly plate 3.

Dorsal plate

Dorsally, the dorsal vertical spar system, which includes the pair of parallel rods 2B, connects superiorly with the dorsal plate 4, which inferiorly preferably has the same width (in the coronal plane) as the spar system itself, but that is separated into two independent elements approximately two inches wide that curve around the shoulder blades and that rise vertically to connect with the shoulder straps 5. Figure 4 represents the back plate 4 that widens towards the two independent elements that extend over the shoulders. This flared configuration can be more comfortable than a more angular design. The dorsal vertical spar system is preferably adjusted to a height that allows the upper point of the dorsal plate 4 to terminate just lower at the upper point of the trapezius where this muscular system passes over the shoulder.

Figures 7A-F depict a unique combination quick release / hinge system 7 incorporated into the backplate 4 on its left side in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention, which in normal operation acts as a hinge to allow easy entry into and out exit of the vest, but which acts as an emergency quick release system in circumstances in which the user has to dispose of the vest and all the load supported with extreme rapidity. The hinge / quick release system 7 will be described in

ES 2 633 176 T3 more detail below.

Inside the dorsal plate 4 sit two systems of pads 8.4, 8.5, 8.6 that engage the trapezius muscles that run along either side of the spine, as shown in figure 8. Preferably, the pads They are positioned as follows: in the coronal plane, they end in the middle of the shoulder blades, so as not to affect the natural movement of the shoulder girdle. The gap between the pad systems allows the pads to bridge the spine without touching it. Therefore, the spinal column is not directly interfered with mechanically, and the region can perspire freely. This pad system transmits the volume of the torque produced when the user supports a previous load on the trapezius muscles.

Superiorly, the pads continue past the top point of the backplate 4 until they are disposed within the shoulder straps 5 when crossing over the shoulders. See pads 8.4 and 8.5 in the figure

8. Lower towards the backplate 4, the pads may optionally transition to two short vertical pads 8.6 which descend into position within the backsplash system to support the dorsal stringers 2B, and to prevent direct contact with the back. As with the 8.5 dorsal plate pads, these 8.6 dorsal pads bridge the spine, applying their forces to the interior of lower regions in the trapezius and upper regions of the erector spinae muscles. The back pad system preferably leaves the spine open for ventilation to allow for perspiration.

Shoulder straps

As shown in Figure 4, two sets (left and right) of semi-rigid shoulder straps 5 run superiorly at the junction of the ventral plate 3 to the back plate 4, each set having a strap extending from the dorsal plate 4 and a strap extending from the belly plate 3. The first straps include, ventrally, two short rigid adjustment plates 5.1 approximately two inches wide whose lower connections with the ventral plate 3 allow adjustment in the coronal plane to accommodate different shoulder widths. These 5.1 adjustment plates run superiorly to the height of the upper end of the dorsal plates, just below the upper point of the trapezius where this muscular system passes over the shoulder. Running from the upper point of these adjustment plates 5.1 to the back plate 4 is a system analogous to the waistband adjustment system described above. On each side, left and right, there run several interlocking semi-rigid sliding elements analogous to 1.1 shown in figure 2, in the case of the illustrated design, two sliding elements approximately three fingers wide (one attached ventrally to the plates of fit, the other directly to the backplate) that are arranged one above the other, and held in relation to each other by sets of paired guides, analogous to 1.2 in figure 2. These semi-rigid glides connect dorsally to the upper region of the dorsal plate through a connection that allows adjustment in the coronal plane to accommodate different shoulder widths.

Outside these sliding elements, a velcro band runs that is attached to the adjustment plate 5.1 at the front, and runs through a roller (not shown), analogous to 1.4 in figure 2, attached to the sliding element on the back. This band then forms a loop on itself and is velcroed to itself at the front, in a similar way to how the velcro band 1.3 of waistband 1 does in figure 2. This dual anchoring system allows a 2: 1 mechanical advantage when adjusting the vest, so there is no need to remove and readjust the vest for optimal tightness.

Since the length of the semi-rigid sections of the shoulder straps is kept to a minimum, and since they pass almost horizontally over the shoulders, the interlocking system provides shoulder straps that are both adjustable and rigid enough to transfer forces. from the ventral side of the vest to the dorsal side, or vice versa, depending on which side the load attachment point is placed.

In a 5.1 adjustment plate, there is a conventional retention system, analogous to the waistband retention element 1.6, comprising wedge-shaped dovetail plates that interlock securely and rigidly to maintain the stability of the vest, but to allow the easy entry and exit of the vest in combination with the hinge / quick release system 7.

The pad system rising from the backplate 4 continues beyond the top point of the backplate 4 to be arranged within the shoulder straps 5, as shown by reference number 8.5 in Figure 8. Therefore Some of the weight of the attached load may be placed vertically on the trapezius muscles when they cross over the shoulder, to stabilize the vest on the wearer's body. By using the double anchor velcro strap, the load can be adapted, even under load, to suit various circumstances.

Other adjustable mechanisms that can take the place of velcro straps when used in the described embodiments, provided that they offer an analogous function.

Lower and upper pivot systems

ES 2 633 176 T3

Figures 5A-D depict lower and upper pivot systems in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. Waistband 1 connects ventrally and dorsally to the spar systems via two rigid plates 6.1, 6.2, respectively, which serve to direct torque and load-bearing forces away from the abdomen ventrally, and support forces of loads away from sacrum dorsally, and toward the iliums. (See also figure 2.)

The ventrally located abdominal pivot plate 6.1 makes up much of the rigid ventral section of the waistband. Laterally, it is attached on one side to the semi-rigid slide element system 1.1B via the wedge-shaped dovetail plates 1.6. On the laterally opposite side, it is attached directly to the 1.1 D semi-rigid slider system. The sacral pivot plate 6.2 makes up much of the rigid ventral section of the waistband 1. Laterally, it is attached to one side of the semi-rigid sliding element system 1.1A through the emergency quick release / hinge system 7. On the side opposite laterally, it is directly attached to the semi-rigid sliding element system 1.1C.

A single load bearing shaft 6.5, passing through a bearing, connects abdominal plate 6.1 and sacral plate 6.2 with their associated vertical spar systems. In the illustrated design, the stringers are represented by double rod systems joined and held in precise relation to each other by lower rod spacers 2.1A, 2.1B (see also figure 3), and it is in these spacers, in the design illustrated, where the load bearing shaft is inserted. This allows the spar systems to pivot in the sagittal plane with respect to their associated plates. The lower pivot system is designed to allow natural human movement, and to accommodate geometric variations that occur within the human body when walking or climbing, and to ensure that vertical load attachment points are isolated, in a very large degree, of these movements.

Superiorly, the vertical spar systems connect ventrally to the lower point of the ventral plate 3 and dorsally to the lower point of the dorsal plate 4. In the illustrations, these pivots are shown to have a lower load-bearing capacity than their abdominal and sacral counterparts, and their corresponding parts are represented as 2.5A, 2.5B upper stem spacers and 6.4 upper plates connected by a single axis of 6.5 load bearing, passing through a bearing or bearing. As with the lower pivot system, the upper pivot system is designed to allow natural human movement, and to accommodate geometric variations that occur within the human body during arm movement and shoulder rotation.

Other upper and lower pivot systems can be used as long as they confer the functionality as described above.

Pivot limitation setting

Figure 6 depicts a pivot limitation adjustment in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. By means of a limiting system that may preferably comprise one or more shafts or elements 6.6 protruding from the stem spacers 2.1A, 2.1B, into large cavities in the abdominal plate 6.1 and the sacral pivot plate 6.2 (or vice versa), or any other compatible method of limiting rotation, the lower pivots 6A, 6B (see Figure 1) are limited to a number of degrees in each direction corresponding to the natural rotation of the pelvic girdle around the sagittal plane in normal human locomotion. The system has built-in stops that limit this rotation so that when the user's weight rests on one leg, and the pelvic girdle is relaxed and tilted maximally in one direction around the sagittal plane, then the pivot reaches its furthest extension and is blocks. This maintains the relationship between flexibility and stiffness in the vest.

To accommodate differences in anatomical geometry between individuals, and between men and women, this limit can be adjusted by varying the size of the pins or elements that are inserted into large cavities, varying the size of large cavities, or by any other practical means. The restraint system can also be quickly adjusted by rotating the hexagonal insert to present a different facet of its surface to the large hole (as shown in figure 6 by part 6.6, where a pair of eccentric hexagonal pieces can preferably offer three differentiated adjustments) or by tightening an element with a conical section towards the interior of a cavity with a conical section of large dimensions. Also shown in Figure 6 is a close-up of eccentric hex insert 6.6, providing an illustrative example of suitable dimensions. The nominal pivot limit is intended as plus or minus about 3 degrees of rotation, six degrees total. In the illustration, a bottom plate 6.3 is shown as a possible means of providing a low friction bearing, extending laterally in each direction to maximize the bearing surface in order to increase structural stability. The plates 6.3 and 6.4 can be composed of any material compatible with the system and that provides the described or desired functionality. An acetal polymer, such as Delrin®, is an example of a suitable material.

Superiorly, the vertical spar systems connect ventrally to the lower point of belly plate 3 and dorsally to the lower point of the dorsal plate 4. The same limited pivot system is applied and identified

ES 2 633 176 T3 as 6C, 6D in Figure 1. As with the lower pivot system 6A, 6B, the nominal pivot limit is intended as plus or minus about 3 degrees of rotation, six degrees in total.

This combination of features allows the vest to be substantially rigid in its load-bearing and torque resistance capabilities, to still accommodate natural human movements, and to ensure that its load-bearing attachment points are largely isolated. , of these movements.

Emergency quick release / hinge system

Figures 7A-F depict a combination quick release and hinge mechanism in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. To allow entry into and exit from the vest, both in normal circumstances and in emergencies, the Exovest device employs a unique and novel combination of emergency quick release and hinge 7. As shown in figure 1, two hinges 7A, 7B are placed on one or the other coronal side of the vest, one (7B) superiorly on the dorsal plate 4 (7B), just below its connection point with a shoulder strap, and a (7A) lower over the sacral plate 6.2 just midway from its connection to waistband 1. In the illustrated design, both hinges are located on the left side of the vest.

In Figures 7A-B, the hinge in sacral plate 6.2 is seen operating in its normal function as a means of assisting normal vest entry and exit. In this position, the pin 7.1 is held securely within a single or any suitable number of closed pelican clamps 7.2 to maintain the necessary rigidity for the vest to function optimally. The pelican claws 7.2 are in turn held in place by a catch 7.3.

In an emergency, it is possible to dispose of all the supported load, including the vest, leaving the user free of loads to escape from any circumstance or dangerous environment. To activate the emergency quick release, the user manipulates a handle or lever (not shown) located within reach on the ventral side of the vest, for example. That handle or lever action is transmitted via cords or cables (not shown) to both hinge / release mechanisms simultaneously. The transmitted action moves the catch 7.3 away from the hinge releasing the pelican clamp (s) 7.2 as shown in Figure 7C. Since the pin 7.1 is held eccentrically within the clamps 7.2, the tension within the vest forces the clamp (s) to open, as shown in figure 7D, releasing the pin, as shown in figure 7E and allowing it to disengage completely from its hinge, as shown in FIG. 7E. When both sacral and dorsal quick releases 7A, 7B are activated, the supported load causes the vest to move rapidly towards the load. If the user leaves the load at the same time, the device is uncoupled from the user, leaving him free.

Embodiments of the invention as defined in the appended claims have been described with numerous possible elements. The invention is not limited to the specific embodiment disclosed, and may include different combinations of the disclosed elements or omissions of some elements, and the equivalents of all these structures. Although an ideal result is described with respect to minimizing or reducing pressure on various parts of a user's body, and it is possible to achieve this result with certain elements described, not all embodiments will necessarily have characteristics that overcome all problems with the prior art.