CA2299542A1 - Neck guard device - Google Patents
Neck guard device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2299542A1 CA2299542A1 CA002299542A CA2299542A CA2299542A1 CA 2299542 A1 CA2299542 A1 CA 2299542A1 CA 002299542 A CA002299542 A CA 002299542A CA 2299542 A CA2299542 A CA 2299542A CA 2299542 A1 CA2299542 A1 CA 2299542A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- gorget
- protective device
- neck
- support means
- shield
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D13/00—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches
- A41D13/05—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches protecting only a particular body part
- A41D13/0512—Neck or shoulders area
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/08—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
- A63B71/12—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/22—Field hockey
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2243/00—Specific ball sports not provided for in A63B2102/00 - A63B2102/38
- A63B2243/0066—Rugby; American football
- A63B2243/007—American football
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Otolaryngology (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Textile Engineering (AREA)
- Professional, Industrial, Or Sporting Protective Garments (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention teaches a protective device for the neck, comprising support means and a gorget comprising a neck shield assembly suspended from the support means. The gorget is suspended from the support means, which preferably comprise a series of straps disposed around the wearer's head. The neck shield assembly is comprised of at least one shield component which is fixed to the gorget by either permanent or non-permanent means. In a preferred embodiment, the shield assembly is comprised of high-density foam and may be embedded with a layer of slash-resistant material such as graphite mesh or chain mail.
Description
~
NECK GUARD DEVICE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
S The present invention relates to a protective device which may be worn in situations posing a risk of injury to the neck or throat, such as blunt or sharp blows, slashes, stabs, or cuts.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It is well known that certain activities, in particular sports such as hockey, football, lacrosse or fencing, pose risk of injury to the participant's throat or neck. This risk arises from blunt or sharp impacts, for example, from a hockey puck or stick; or from slashes or cuts, for example, from a hockey skate blade.
There have been many devices developed for protecting the vulnerable neck.
Canadian Patent No. 1,053,402 issued to Crouch, for instance, teaches the use of a collar provided with a bib, said collar comprising a resilient cushion fitted against the front portion of the wearer's neck and fastened at the back of the neck. U.S.
Patents No.
4,686,710 and 4,449,251, issued to Marston et al. and Gauthier respectively teach similar protective devices, comprising a band wrapped and fastened around the neck with a bib or flap suspended from the front of the band. The apparatus taught by Marston is made from slash resistant material; the device taught by Gauthier is provided with padding.
A variant of the collar and bib device is the use of a turtleneck, as taught by Canadian Patent Application No. 2,054,639 (Schweda et al.) or Canadian Patent Application No. 2,236,055 (Snook). The protector taught by Schweda et al. is a dickey comprising a turtleneck and a bib; the turtleneck is composed of a fabric containing slash-resistant fibers. The turtleneck may be pulled over the head, or may be opened and fastened at the back with known fastening means. The protector in Snook is a complete turtleneck pullover garment which may be customized aesthetically with logos or colour;
the collar of the turtleneck comprises a perforated mesh liner to provide slash resistance.
NECK GUARD DEVICE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
S The present invention relates to a protective device which may be worn in situations posing a risk of injury to the neck or throat, such as blunt or sharp blows, slashes, stabs, or cuts.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It is well known that certain activities, in particular sports such as hockey, football, lacrosse or fencing, pose risk of injury to the participant's throat or neck. This risk arises from blunt or sharp impacts, for example, from a hockey puck or stick; or from slashes or cuts, for example, from a hockey skate blade.
There have been many devices developed for protecting the vulnerable neck.
Canadian Patent No. 1,053,402 issued to Crouch, for instance, teaches the use of a collar provided with a bib, said collar comprising a resilient cushion fitted against the front portion of the wearer's neck and fastened at the back of the neck. U.S.
Patents No.
4,686,710 and 4,449,251, issued to Marston et al. and Gauthier respectively teach similar protective devices, comprising a band wrapped and fastened around the neck with a bib or flap suspended from the front of the band. The apparatus taught by Marston is made from slash resistant material; the device taught by Gauthier is provided with padding.
A variant of the collar and bib device is the use of a turtleneck, as taught by Canadian Patent Application No. 2,054,639 (Schweda et al.) or Canadian Patent Application No. 2,236,055 (Snook). The protector taught by Schweda et al. is a dickey comprising a turtleneck and a bib; the turtleneck is composed of a fabric containing slash-resistant fibers. The turtleneck may be pulled over the head, or may be opened and fastened at the back with known fastening means. The protector in Snook is a complete turtleneck pullover garment which may be customized aesthetically with logos or colour;
the collar of the turtleneck comprises a perforated mesh liner to provide slash resistance.
Some of the above devices are intended to provide slash protection; others absorb the shock of impact. All the above devices, however, have a common support means for the protective element in that the device must be supported on or around the wearer's neck. With respect to the first group of prior art protective devices by Crouch, Marston et al. and Gauthier discussed above, the device is fastened closely about the neck. Two undesirable consequences of this close-fitting configuration are restriction of head and neck movements, and discomfort due to overheating and poor ventilation.
Other protective means for the neck are mounted on a helmet, since helmets or other head protection are often worn in conjunction with neck protection. One such device is taught in U.S. Patent No. 5,129,108 issued to Copeland et al., a goaltender's throat guard which is pivotably mounted to the lower portion of the plastic face frame attached to a helmet. This throat guard is a single piece of molded plastic which does not ride on or abut the wearer's neck, but is rather supported around the neck.
Another is taught by Canadian Patent Application No. 2,012,375 (Carveth), a neck guard that is preferably constructed of mesh, and mounted on the helmet with curved supports attached to the faceguard of the helmet. This neck guard flares outwards from the curved supports and latches to the helmet via cooperating recesses in the helmet. A third device is taught in Canadian Patent Application No. 2,286,588 (Viitalahti), a neck guard comprised of slash-resistant woven fabric, which hangs from the lower periphery of the helmet and around the neck.
These protective devices which are mounted to the helmet provide the advantage that the protective neck piece is no longer abutting the wearer's neck, thus providing less restriction of movement and reducing discomfort; however, a significant drawback is that accidental loss of the helmet, for example due to collision, will also result in a loss of neck protection. These devices also require retrofitting of the helmet, or redesign of the helmet, to accommodate the protective device. Furthermore, the use of a single molded piece such as in Copeland or rigid pieces such as Carveth may pose limitations with respect to the size or shape of the wearer; one size may not be adequate for all.
Other protective means for the neck are mounted on a helmet, since helmets or other head protection are often worn in conjunction with neck protection. One such device is taught in U.S. Patent No. 5,129,108 issued to Copeland et al., a goaltender's throat guard which is pivotably mounted to the lower portion of the plastic face frame attached to a helmet. This throat guard is a single piece of molded plastic which does not ride on or abut the wearer's neck, but is rather supported around the neck.
Another is taught by Canadian Patent Application No. 2,012,375 (Carveth), a neck guard that is preferably constructed of mesh, and mounted on the helmet with curved supports attached to the faceguard of the helmet. This neck guard flares outwards from the curved supports and latches to the helmet via cooperating recesses in the helmet. A third device is taught in Canadian Patent Application No. 2,286,588 (Viitalahti), a neck guard comprised of slash-resistant woven fabric, which hangs from the lower periphery of the helmet and around the neck.
These protective devices which are mounted to the helmet provide the advantage that the protective neck piece is no longer abutting the wearer's neck, thus providing less restriction of movement and reducing discomfort; however, a significant drawback is that accidental loss of the helmet, for example due to collision, will also result in a loss of neck protection. These devices also require retrofitting of the helmet, or redesign of the helmet, to accommodate the protective device. Furthermore, the use of a single molded piece such as in Copeland or rigid pieces such as Carveth may pose limitations with respect to the size or shape of the wearer; one size may not be adequate for all.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, the present invention provides a neck protection device that may be worn with or without a helmet, which provides slash or impact protection for the wearer's throat while minimizing discomfort or restriction of movement. The present invention further provides a device which is adaptable to different body shapes at a minimal cost of production.
The invention provides a protective device, comprising support means and a gorget comprising a neck shield assembly suspended from the support means.
The invention further provides a protective device with support means comprising a hood, which furthermore may be comprised of a knit fabric. In an alternative embodiment, the support means of the protective device comprises a plurality of straps fitted to the wearer's head, with at least a first strap which encircles the wearer's head, and at least a second strap which is fixed at one end to the first strap, and at the other end to a chin guard. The invention further provides a protective device with a gorget comprising ventilation means which is preferably composed of a knit fabric.
The invention further provides a protective advice with support means and a gorget with a neck shield assembly, where the neck shield assembly is comprised of at least one shield component disposed in at least one enclosure in the gorget.
The invention further provides that the shield component enclosure is sealed using a reusable closure, such as hook-and-loop fastening (e.g. VELCRO~ fastening).
The invention further provides that the shield components are comprised of foam, graphite mesh, or another slash-resistant or impact-resistant material.
The invention further comprises a support means and a gorget suspended from the support means, where the gorget comprises a neck shield assembly. The support means may be in the form of a hood; preferably, it is comprised of a system of straps which fit the wearer's head, in particular a headband and front and rear straps which are joined to the headband at one end and are joined to a chin cup at the other end. The gorget is preferably constructed from a knit fabric, and may be provided with ventilation apertures, and is suspended from the rear strap and chin guard. The neck shield assembly is comprised of at least one of shield component disposed within at least one pocket within the gorget, formed of two layers of gorget material, and the pocket is provided with resealable fastening means such as hook-and-loop tape so that the shield component may be removed. The shield component is a rigid piece which provides slash resistance and optionally impact resistance, and comprises foam padding.
The invention further comprises a protective device, comprising support means and a gorget comprising a neck shield assembly suspended from the support means, wherein the neck shield assembly is provided with creases or perforations through the neck shield assembly to improve the flexibility of the assembly. The neck shield assembly is fixed to the gorget by sewing means through the creases or perforations.
There is at least one series of perforations disposed along a longitudinal or crosswise direction of the neck shield assembly, and preferably several longitudinal or crosswise series of perforations. The neck shield assembly is preferably constructed of perforated, compressed foam, which may be embedded with a layer of graphite mesh.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In drawings which illustrate by way of example only a preferred embodiment of the invention, Figure 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of the invention, partially cutaway;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the neck shield component of the first embodiment;
Figure 3 is a side view of a second embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5 is a side view of the third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 6 is a front view of the third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 7 is a perspective view of a still further embodiment of Figure 2.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring to Figure 1, there is shown generally at 10 one embodiment of the neck guard device. This embodiment comprises a support means 12 which fits closely to the -$-wearer's head 11. Chin strap 16 secures support means 12 onto head 11. In this embodiment, support means 12 comprises a hood, provided with facial aperture through which the wearer's face and chin protrude. There is provided an optional aperture for the ear 14 to facilitate aural communication.
Support means 12 extends downward to gorget 18, which covers the wearer's neck and extends in front and in back to front drape 22 and rear drape 20.
Front drape 22 and rear drape 20 may optionally be provided with ventilation means, preferably apertures (not shown) in drapes 20 and 22, to facilitate passage of air and increase wearer's comfort. Interposed between gorget 18 and chin strap 16 is neck shield assembly 30, shown as a partial cutaway in Figure 1 so that it can be seen that neck shield assembly 30 generally does not abut the wearer's neck.
Hood 12 may be constructed from a known flexible material that permits 1 S conformance to the shape of the wearer's head 11. Suggested material for this embodiment is a cotton-polyester blend or other cotton-synthetic blend, or another synthetic component fabric which is capable of wicking moisture away from the skin.
Hood 12, chin strap 16 and gorget 18 may be constructed as a unitary piece, or as several pieces joined together using known sewing or fusing techniques.
Referring to Figure 2, neck shield assembly 30 in this embodiment is a unitary piece having an outer face 31 and an inner face 33 and arcuate edges, the upper edge 35 being slightly concave and the lower edge 37 more acutely convex. Each end 32 of neck shield assembly 30 is provided with a hook shape with arch 36 and extremity 34. Neck shield assembly 30 is comprised of a layer of flexible slash-resistant or impact resistant material, preferably graphite mesh, chain mail, or foam. In a preferred embodiment the neck shield assembly 30 is comprised of a flexible slash-resistant material, such as graphite mesh, adhered to a layer of compressed molded foam. The graphite mesh may be bonded to the compressed molded foam using a known adhesive, or alternatively by molding the foam around the mesh.
Refernng to Figure 7, in a preferred embodiment, the flexibility of neck shield assembly 30 is increased by providing at least one perforation or crease through the neck shield assembly 30. Preferably there is at least one generally longitudinal perforation or crease 40 and at least one generally crosswise perforation or crease 41.
Neck shield assembly 30 as a whole may be constructed in a bowed shape to correspond with the curvature of the gorget 18 when worn.
To secure neck shield assembly 30 to gorget 18, in a first embodiment the perimeter of the neck shield assembly outer face 31 is provided with reuseable fastening means (not shown) which coact with reusable fastening means provided on the gorget 18 and chin strap 16 (not shown). These coacting fastening means may consist of a hook-and-loop fastening, such as a VELCRO~ fastening, for easy removal. In a second embodiment, the neck shield assembly 30 does not have any fastening means upon its 1 S surfaces, and instead is fitted into a pocket (not shown) of at least the same size on gorget 18 which is sealed using reusable fastening means such as coacting hook and loop fastenings or press snaps.
In a third, preferred embodiment, neck shield assembly 30 is fixed to gorget 18 by sewing through all layers of neck shield assembly 30 and gorget 18, through the perforations or creases 40 and 41. When attached to outside of gorget 18 in this manner, the outer surface 31 of neck shield assembly 30 may be covered with a layer of protective fabric, which may be comprised of gorget fabric, or a slash-resistant or impact-resistant fabric. If neck shield assembly 30 is attached to the inside of gorget 18, the inner surface 33 of neck shield assembly 30 may be covered with a layer of fabric such as gorget fabric or padding to provide comfort or additional protection to the neck.
In use, this embodiment of the invention 10 is fitted onto the wearer's head 11 and chin strap 16 put in place; front and rear drapes 22 and 20 rest on the upper chest and back without fastening and optional aperture 14 corresponds to the ear. The neck guard 10 may be fitted onto the wearer with the neck shield assembly 30 in place on the gorget 18 or in the gorget pocket (not shown) first. If the neck guard 10 is fitted onto the wearer _7_ without the neck shield assembly 30 in place first, the neck shield assembly 30 may be installed after hood 12, chin strap 16 and gorget 18 are arranged in place on the wearer.
A helmet, not shown, may then be worn over top of hood 12. Removal of the helmet will not displace the neck guard device 10 unless the hood 12 and chin strap 16 are likewise S displaced.
A further embodiment is shown in Figures 4 through 6 and generally indicated as 60. In this embodiment, the support means comprises headband 50, forward straps 54 and rear straps 52. The use of straps rather than a hood provides improved air circulation and reduces heat retention. Headband 50 is a circular strap or narrow band joined at the ends to form a loop which stretches to fit comfortably around the forehead.
Forward strap 54 is a band joined to headband SO near the wearer's temples. Rear straps 52 (one on each side of the head) are attached at one end to headband 50 at a location between the centre back of the head, indicated by line 51 and a point corresponding to the back of the wearer's ear, indicated by line 53. In this embodiment, forward strap 54 and rear strap 52 are attached at their distal ends to a chin cup 59, a known device in the prior art which abuts the wearer's chin and provides some measure of protection of the chin from impact.
Gorget 62 in this embodiment comprises a lower front drape 64, upper rear drape 65, rear drape 66, with both lower front drape 64 and rear drape 66 provided with ventilation means 67 as in the prior embodiment, and neck shield assembly 70.
Gorget 62 is attached to a portion of rear straps 52. Gorget 62 may also be attached to chin cup 59.
In Figure 3, the upper edge 62a of the gorget 62 terminates below the headband 50 and is fixed only to a portion of rear straps 52, but the upper edge 62a of gorget 62 may extend higher to meet headband 50.
Neck shield assembly 70 is fixed at its lower edge to lower front drape 64 of gorget 62, and at its upper edge to upper front drape 65. Upper front drape 65 is in turn suspended from rear straps 52 and chin cup 59. In this embodiment, neck shield assembly 70 is comprised of a plurality of shield component pockets a through g. Each component pocket a through g comprises an opening at the top edge for retaining individual shield inserts, not shown but comprised preferably of similar materials as neck _g_ shield assembly 30 shown in Figures 2 and 7. Each individual shield insert has dimensions less than each shield component pocket a through g, such that each shield insert may fit into a corresponding shield component pocket a through g.
Retaining means (not shown) are provided in neck shield assembly 70 to prevent accidental removal of the individual shield inserts. These retaining means may comprise coacting fastening means attached to the top edges of the pocket, such as hook-and-loop fastenings or press snap fastenings, or a releasable flap which covers the opening at the top edge of the pocket.
While Figure 3 indicates a total of thirteen component pockets (a through f on each side, and g disposed in the centre), it is readily understood that this invention includes any number of component pockets. Furthermore, while Figure 3 indicates that these component pockets have vertical edges, the pockets may be provided on the neck shield assembly in generally trapezoidal shapes, having a longer or shorter top edge than bottom edge, or curved edges, which cooperate so as to shape the neck shield assembly 70 in its entirety in a bowed arrangement which follows the curves of the gorget 62 when worn.
Headband 50 and straps 52 and 54 may be composed of an elastic material or of a flexible, non-elastic material. An elastic material may have sufficient stretch that the support means and gorget may be put on by the wearer by pulling the gorget and support means over the head. If a non-elastic material is used, fastening means may have to be provided on the headband 50 or straps 52 and 54, as wells as on gorget 62, preferably at the centre back. Gorget 62 is preferably made of the type of fabrics suggested in the previous embodiment for hood 12. The component pockets a through g in this embodiment are formed from a double layer of gorget fabric, optionally reinforced on the outer layer with an interfacing, padding, or additional slash-resistant fabric, and stitched through all layers where each pocket abuts the next pocket. The individual shield inserts are comprised of materials similar to the neck shield assembly 30 of the previous embodiment.
Alternatively, this embodiment may incorporate the neck shield assembly 30 described with reference to Figure 7, wherein the neck shield assembly is sewn to the gorget 62 through the perforations or creases 40 and 41, thus eliminating the need for shield component pockets a through g.
S
When attached to outside of gorget 62 in this manner, the outer surface 31 of neck shield assembly 30 may be covered with a layer of fabric, which may be comprised of gorget fabric, or a slash-resistant or impact-resistant fabric. If neck shield assembly 30 is attached to the inside of gorget 62, the inner surface 33 of neck shield assembly 30 may be covered with a layer of fabric such as gorget fabric or padding to provide comfort or additional protection to the neck.
In use, the front and rear drapes 64 and 66 rest on the upper chest and back, headband 50 is placed around the forehead, and chin cup 59 is placed under the chin and held in place by straps 52 and 54, which are under tension. Individual shield inserts are placed in the pockets a through g and held in place by the reusable fastening means on the pockets a through g either before or after the protective device 60 is put on.
A helmet 90 may be worn over neck guard device 60 as shown in Figure 4. Removal of the helmet 90 will not affect the disposition of neck guard device 60 unless the head band 50 and straps 52, 54 are likewise displaced. Where the embodiment incorporating individual shield inserts is used, the shield inserts may be removed and the remainder of neck guard device 60 may be laundered without damage to the individual shield inserts.
Preferred embodiments of the invention having been thus described by way of example, modifications and adaptations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention includes all such modifications and adaptations as fall within the scope of the appended claims.
Accordingly, the present invention provides a neck protection device that may be worn with or without a helmet, which provides slash or impact protection for the wearer's throat while minimizing discomfort or restriction of movement. The present invention further provides a device which is adaptable to different body shapes at a minimal cost of production.
The invention provides a protective device, comprising support means and a gorget comprising a neck shield assembly suspended from the support means.
The invention further provides a protective device with support means comprising a hood, which furthermore may be comprised of a knit fabric. In an alternative embodiment, the support means of the protective device comprises a plurality of straps fitted to the wearer's head, with at least a first strap which encircles the wearer's head, and at least a second strap which is fixed at one end to the first strap, and at the other end to a chin guard. The invention further provides a protective device with a gorget comprising ventilation means which is preferably composed of a knit fabric.
The invention further provides a protective advice with support means and a gorget with a neck shield assembly, where the neck shield assembly is comprised of at least one shield component disposed in at least one enclosure in the gorget.
The invention further provides that the shield component enclosure is sealed using a reusable closure, such as hook-and-loop fastening (e.g. VELCRO~ fastening).
The invention further provides that the shield components are comprised of foam, graphite mesh, or another slash-resistant or impact-resistant material.
The invention further comprises a support means and a gorget suspended from the support means, where the gorget comprises a neck shield assembly. The support means may be in the form of a hood; preferably, it is comprised of a system of straps which fit the wearer's head, in particular a headband and front and rear straps which are joined to the headband at one end and are joined to a chin cup at the other end. The gorget is preferably constructed from a knit fabric, and may be provided with ventilation apertures, and is suspended from the rear strap and chin guard. The neck shield assembly is comprised of at least one of shield component disposed within at least one pocket within the gorget, formed of two layers of gorget material, and the pocket is provided with resealable fastening means such as hook-and-loop tape so that the shield component may be removed. The shield component is a rigid piece which provides slash resistance and optionally impact resistance, and comprises foam padding.
The invention further comprises a protective device, comprising support means and a gorget comprising a neck shield assembly suspended from the support means, wherein the neck shield assembly is provided with creases or perforations through the neck shield assembly to improve the flexibility of the assembly. The neck shield assembly is fixed to the gorget by sewing means through the creases or perforations.
There is at least one series of perforations disposed along a longitudinal or crosswise direction of the neck shield assembly, and preferably several longitudinal or crosswise series of perforations. The neck shield assembly is preferably constructed of perforated, compressed foam, which may be embedded with a layer of graphite mesh.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In drawings which illustrate by way of example only a preferred embodiment of the invention, Figure 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of the invention, partially cutaway;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the neck shield component of the first embodiment;
Figure 3 is a side view of a second embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5 is a side view of the third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 6 is a front view of the third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 7 is a perspective view of a still further embodiment of Figure 2.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring to Figure 1, there is shown generally at 10 one embodiment of the neck guard device. This embodiment comprises a support means 12 which fits closely to the -$-wearer's head 11. Chin strap 16 secures support means 12 onto head 11. In this embodiment, support means 12 comprises a hood, provided with facial aperture through which the wearer's face and chin protrude. There is provided an optional aperture for the ear 14 to facilitate aural communication.
Support means 12 extends downward to gorget 18, which covers the wearer's neck and extends in front and in back to front drape 22 and rear drape 20.
Front drape 22 and rear drape 20 may optionally be provided with ventilation means, preferably apertures (not shown) in drapes 20 and 22, to facilitate passage of air and increase wearer's comfort. Interposed between gorget 18 and chin strap 16 is neck shield assembly 30, shown as a partial cutaway in Figure 1 so that it can be seen that neck shield assembly 30 generally does not abut the wearer's neck.
Hood 12 may be constructed from a known flexible material that permits 1 S conformance to the shape of the wearer's head 11. Suggested material for this embodiment is a cotton-polyester blend or other cotton-synthetic blend, or another synthetic component fabric which is capable of wicking moisture away from the skin.
Hood 12, chin strap 16 and gorget 18 may be constructed as a unitary piece, or as several pieces joined together using known sewing or fusing techniques.
Referring to Figure 2, neck shield assembly 30 in this embodiment is a unitary piece having an outer face 31 and an inner face 33 and arcuate edges, the upper edge 35 being slightly concave and the lower edge 37 more acutely convex. Each end 32 of neck shield assembly 30 is provided with a hook shape with arch 36 and extremity 34. Neck shield assembly 30 is comprised of a layer of flexible slash-resistant or impact resistant material, preferably graphite mesh, chain mail, or foam. In a preferred embodiment the neck shield assembly 30 is comprised of a flexible slash-resistant material, such as graphite mesh, adhered to a layer of compressed molded foam. The graphite mesh may be bonded to the compressed molded foam using a known adhesive, or alternatively by molding the foam around the mesh.
Refernng to Figure 7, in a preferred embodiment, the flexibility of neck shield assembly 30 is increased by providing at least one perforation or crease through the neck shield assembly 30. Preferably there is at least one generally longitudinal perforation or crease 40 and at least one generally crosswise perforation or crease 41.
Neck shield assembly 30 as a whole may be constructed in a bowed shape to correspond with the curvature of the gorget 18 when worn.
To secure neck shield assembly 30 to gorget 18, in a first embodiment the perimeter of the neck shield assembly outer face 31 is provided with reuseable fastening means (not shown) which coact with reusable fastening means provided on the gorget 18 and chin strap 16 (not shown). These coacting fastening means may consist of a hook-and-loop fastening, such as a VELCRO~ fastening, for easy removal. In a second embodiment, the neck shield assembly 30 does not have any fastening means upon its 1 S surfaces, and instead is fitted into a pocket (not shown) of at least the same size on gorget 18 which is sealed using reusable fastening means such as coacting hook and loop fastenings or press snaps.
In a third, preferred embodiment, neck shield assembly 30 is fixed to gorget 18 by sewing through all layers of neck shield assembly 30 and gorget 18, through the perforations or creases 40 and 41. When attached to outside of gorget 18 in this manner, the outer surface 31 of neck shield assembly 30 may be covered with a layer of protective fabric, which may be comprised of gorget fabric, or a slash-resistant or impact-resistant fabric. If neck shield assembly 30 is attached to the inside of gorget 18, the inner surface 33 of neck shield assembly 30 may be covered with a layer of fabric such as gorget fabric or padding to provide comfort or additional protection to the neck.
In use, this embodiment of the invention 10 is fitted onto the wearer's head 11 and chin strap 16 put in place; front and rear drapes 22 and 20 rest on the upper chest and back without fastening and optional aperture 14 corresponds to the ear. The neck guard 10 may be fitted onto the wearer with the neck shield assembly 30 in place on the gorget 18 or in the gorget pocket (not shown) first. If the neck guard 10 is fitted onto the wearer _7_ without the neck shield assembly 30 in place first, the neck shield assembly 30 may be installed after hood 12, chin strap 16 and gorget 18 are arranged in place on the wearer.
A helmet, not shown, may then be worn over top of hood 12. Removal of the helmet will not displace the neck guard device 10 unless the hood 12 and chin strap 16 are likewise S displaced.
A further embodiment is shown in Figures 4 through 6 and generally indicated as 60. In this embodiment, the support means comprises headband 50, forward straps 54 and rear straps 52. The use of straps rather than a hood provides improved air circulation and reduces heat retention. Headband 50 is a circular strap or narrow band joined at the ends to form a loop which stretches to fit comfortably around the forehead.
Forward strap 54 is a band joined to headband SO near the wearer's temples. Rear straps 52 (one on each side of the head) are attached at one end to headband 50 at a location between the centre back of the head, indicated by line 51 and a point corresponding to the back of the wearer's ear, indicated by line 53. In this embodiment, forward strap 54 and rear strap 52 are attached at their distal ends to a chin cup 59, a known device in the prior art which abuts the wearer's chin and provides some measure of protection of the chin from impact.
Gorget 62 in this embodiment comprises a lower front drape 64, upper rear drape 65, rear drape 66, with both lower front drape 64 and rear drape 66 provided with ventilation means 67 as in the prior embodiment, and neck shield assembly 70.
Gorget 62 is attached to a portion of rear straps 52. Gorget 62 may also be attached to chin cup 59.
In Figure 3, the upper edge 62a of the gorget 62 terminates below the headband 50 and is fixed only to a portion of rear straps 52, but the upper edge 62a of gorget 62 may extend higher to meet headband 50.
Neck shield assembly 70 is fixed at its lower edge to lower front drape 64 of gorget 62, and at its upper edge to upper front drape 65. Upper front drape 65 is in turn suspended from rear straps 52 and chin cup 59. In this embodiment, neck shield assembly 70 is comprised of a plurality of shield component pockets a through g. Each component pocket a through g comprises an opening at the top edge for retaining individual shield inserts, not shown but comprised preferably of similar materials as neck _g_ shield assembly 30 shown in Figures 2 and 7. Each individual shield insert has dimensions less than each shield component pocket a through g, such that each shield insert may fit into a corresponding shield component pocket a through g.
Retaining means (not shown) are provided in neck shield assembly 70 to prevent accidental removal of the individual shield inserts. These retaining means may comprise coacting fastening means attached to the top edges of the pocket, such as hook-and-loop fastenings or press snap fastenings, or a releasable flap which covers the opening at the top edge of the pocket.
While Figure 3 indicates a total of thirteen component pockets (a through f on each side, and g disposed in the centre), it is readily understood that this invention includes any number of component pockets. Furthermore, while Figure 3 indicates that these component pockets have vertical edges, the pockets may be provided on the neck shield assembly in generally trapezoidal shapes, having a longer or shorter top edge than bottom edge, or curved edges, which cooperate so as to shape the neck shield assembly 70 in its entirety in a bowed arrangement which follows the curves of the gorget 62 when worn.
Headband 50 and straps 52 and 54 may be composed of an elastic material or of a flexible, non-elastic material. An elastic material may have sufficient stretch that the support means and gorget may be put on by the wearer by pulling the gorget and support means over the head. If a non-elastic material is used, fastening means may have to be provided on the headband 50 or straps 52 and 54, as wells as on gorget 62, preferably at the centre back. Gorget 62 is preferably made of the type of fabrics suggested in the previous embodiment for hood 12. The component pockets a through g in this embodiment are formed from a double layer of gorget fabric, optionally reinforced on the outer layer with an interfacing, padding, or additional slash-resistant fabric, and stitched through all layers where each pocket abuts the next pocket. The individual shield inserts are comprised of materials similar to the neck shield assembly 30 of the previous embodiment.
Alternatively, this embodiment may incorporate the neck shield assembly 30 described with reference to Figure 7, wherein the neck shield assembly is sewn to the gorget 62 through the perforations or creases 40 and 41, thus eliminating the need for shield component pockets a through g.
S
When attached to outside of gorget 62 in this manner, the outer surface 31 of neck shield assembly 30 may be covered with a layer of fabric, which may be comprised of gorget fabric, or a slash-resistant or impact-resistant fabric. If neck shield assembly 30 is attached to the inside of gorget 62, the inner surface 33 of neck shield assembly 30 may be covered with a layer of fabric such as gorget fabric or padding to provide comfort or additional protection to the neck.
In use, the front and rear drapes 64 and 66 rest on the upper chest and back, headband 50 is placed around the forehead, and chin cup 59 is placed under the chin and held in place by straps 52 and 54, which are under tension. Individual shield inserts are placed in the pockets a through g and held in place by the reusable fastening means on the pockets a through g either before or after the protective device 60 is put on.
A helmet 90 may be worn over neck guard device 60 as shown in Figure 4. Removal of the helmet 90 will not affect the disposition of neck guard device 60 unless the head band 50 and straps 52, 54 are likewise displaced. Where the embodiment incorporating individual shield inserts is used, the shield inserts may be removed and the remainder of neck guard device 60 may be laundered without damage to the individual shield inserts.
Preferred embodiments of the invention having been thus described by way of example, modifications and adaptations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention includes all such modifications and adaptations as fall within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (24)
1. A protective device, comprising:
support means; and a gorget suspended from said support means, said gorget comprising a neck shield assembly.
support means; and a gorget suspended from said support means, said gorget comprising a neck shield assembly.
2. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said support means is a hood.
3. The protective device of claim 2, wherein said hood is comprised of a knit fabric.
4. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said support means comprises a plurality of straps fitted to the wearer's head, wherein at least a first strap encircles the wearer's head, and at least a second strap is fixed at one end to the first strap, and at the other end to a chin guard.
5. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said gorget is comprised of a knit fabric.
6. The protective device of claim 5, wherein said gorget is provided with ventilation means.
7. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said neck shield assembly is comprised of at least one of shield component disposed within at least one pocket within the gorget.
8. The protective device of claim 7, wherein said pocket is sealed with a reusable closure.
9. The protective device of claim 7, wherein said shield components are comprised of foam.
10. The protective device of claim 9, wherein said shield components are comprised of compressed foam.
11. The protective device of claim 10, wherein said shield components are comprised of compressed foam bonded to graphite mesh.
12. The protective device of claim 7 having a plurality of shield components disposed within a plurality of pockets within the gorget, wherein said pockets are adjacent to one another.
13. The protective device of claim 11 wherein said pockets are resealable.
14. A protective device, comprising:
support means; and a gorget suspended from said support means, said gorget comprising a neck shield assembly;
wherein said support means comprises a headband, a rear strap, and a forward strap, said rear and forward straps being attached to said headband at their first ends and attached to a chin guard at their second ends; said gorget being suspended from said rear strap and said chin guard; said neck shield assembly comprising a slash-resistant component disposed within the fabric of said gorget such that said slash-resistant component may be removed from said fabric.
support means; and a gorget suspended from said support means, said gorget comprising a neck shield assembly;
wherein said support means comprises a headband, a rear strap, and a forward strap, said rear and forward straps being attached to said headband at their first ends and attached to a chin guard at their second ends; said gorget being suspended from said rear strap and said chin guard; said neck shield assembly comprising a slash-resistant component disposed within the fabric of said gorget such that said slash-resistant component may be removed from said fabric.
15. A protective device, comprising:
support means; and a gorget suspended from said support means, said gorget comprising a neck shield assembly;
wherein said support means comprises a hood provided with a chin strap, said gorget forming an integral part of said hood, and said neck shield assembly comprising a slash-resistant component disposed within the fabric of said gorget such that said slash-resistant component may be removed from said fabric.
support means; and a gorget suspended from said support means, said gorget comprising a neck shield assembly;
wherein said support means comprises a hood provided with a chin strap, said gorget forming an integral part of said hood, and said neck shield assembly comprising a slash-resistant component disposed within the fabric of said gorget such that said slash-resistant component may be removed from said fabric.
16. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said neck shield assembly is comprised of a shield component fixed to said gorget.
17. The protective device of claim 16, wherein said shield component is sewn to said gorget.
18. The protective device of claim 17, wherein said shield component is comprised of perforated foam and said shield component is fixed to said gorget by sewing through said gorget and said perforations.
19. The protective device of claim 17, wherein said shield component is comprised of perforated compressed foam.
20. The protective device of claim 17, wherein said shield component is comprised of foam fixed to a flexible slash-resistant fabric.
21. The protective device of claim 20, wherein said shield component is provided with at least one series of crosswise perforations.
22. The protective device of claim 20, wherein said shield component is provided with at least one series of longitudinal perforations.
23. The protective device of claim 20, wherein said shield component is provided with a series of perforations and is fixed to said gorget by sewing through said gorget and perforations.
24. A protective device, comprising:
support means; and a gorget suspended from said support means, said gorget comprising a neck shield assembly;
wherein said support means comprises a headband, a rear strap, and a forward strap, said rear and forward straps being attached to said headband at their first ends and attached to a chin guard at their second ends; said gorget being suspended from said rear strap and said chin guard; said neck shield assembly comprising a perforated, slash-resistant component fixed to the fabric of said gorget through said perforations.
support means; and a gorget suspended from said support means, said gorget comprising a neck shield assembly;
wherein said support means comprises a headband, a rear strap, and a forward strap, said rear and forward straps being attached to said headband at their first ends and attached to a chin guard at their second ends; said gorget being suspended from said rear strap and said chin guard; said neck shield assembly comprising a perforated, slash-resistant component fixed to the fabric of said gorget through said perforations.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002299542A CA2299542A1 (en) | 2000-02-25 | 2000-02-25 | Neck guard device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002299542A CA2299542A1 (en) | 2000-02-25 | 2000-02-25 | Neck guard device |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2299542A1 true CA2299542A1 (en) | 2001-08-25 |
Family
ID=4165381
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002299542A Abandoned CA2299542A1 (en) | 2000-02-25 | 2000-02-25 | Neck guard device |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2299542A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ES2451315A1 (en) * | 2013-12-04 | 2014-03-26 | Jaime ZABALA GARCÍA-OBREGÓN | Device for the prevention of cervical injuries (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) |
-
2000
- 2000-02-25 CA CA002299542A patent/CA2299542A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ES2451315A1 (en) * | 2013-12-04 | 2014-03-26 | Jaime ZABALA GARCÍA-OBREGÓN | Device for the prevention of cervical injuries (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Dead |