EP2672851B1 - Flexible protective armor - Google Patents
Flexible protective armor Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2672851B1 EP2672851B1 EP12726484.4A EP12726484A EP2672851B1 EP 2672851 B1 EP2672851 B1 EP 2672851B1 EP 12726484 A EP12726484 A EP 12726484A EP 2672851 B1 EP2672851 B1 EP 2672851B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- spring element
- force
- network
- flexible protective
- protective armor
- 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.)
- Active
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- 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
- 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
- A41D13/015—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches with shock-absorbing means
- A41D13/0156—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches with shock-absorbing means having projecting patterns
-
- 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
-
- 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
- A41D13/0531—Spine
-
- 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
- A41D13/0543—Legs
-
- 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
- A63B71/1225—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 for the legs, e.g. thighs, knees, ankles, feet
- A63B2071/1241—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 for the legs, e.g. thighs, knees, ankles, feet for the thigh
-
- 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
- A63B71/1225—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 for the legs, e.g. thighs, knees, ankles, feet
- A63B2071/1258—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 for the legs, e.g. thighs, knees, ankles, feet for the shin, e.g. shin guards
-
- 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
- A63B2243/0025—Football
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2244/00—Sports without balls
- A63B2244/19—Skiing
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Textile Engineering (AREA)
- Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
- Professional, Industrial, Or Sporting Protective Garments (AREA)
- Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)
Description
- The present disclosure relates generally to protective equipment and in particular to flexible protective body armor to be worn while engaging in sports activities for protecting against injury due to impact.
- It is common practice for athletes to wear protective guards and/or armor while participating in sports. This armor is intended to protect the athlete from the consequences of impact with both fixed hard structures, such as the ground, and with moving items, such as other people.
- Traditionally, protective guards have been comprised of a hard plastic outer shell, injection molded, blow molded or thermoformed, with a lining of a softer compressible material, such as padding or foam. In such arrangements, the lining provides cushioning while the outer shell protects against impact by distributing impact load across its surface. However, these guards tend to be bulky and may limit movement and flexibility. Additionally, the use of foam padding decreases ventilation, which may cause discomfort to the wearer.
- Various efforts have been made to create flexible, shock absorbing protection devices in body armor over the years. For instance,
U.S. Patent No. 4,610,034 issued to Johnson andU.S. Patent No. 7,150,217 issued to Kershaw are directed to flexible, shock absorbing protection devices in body armor, utilizing a honeycomb construction bonded to a rigid skin. Specifically, Johnson discloses a protective pad that is readily deformable. However, such a readily deformable pad does not provide the required protection from point loads. Kershaw teaches a protective body armor comprising various layers of a non-deformable material. -
DE 295 00 050 U1 (COMAX SPORTING GOOD CO) discloses a flexible protective armor comprising a plurality of beams and a plurality of spring elements, wherein each beam includes a spring element extending therefrom at a select angle, wherein the beams are arranged to form a select pattern, and whereby the plurality of beams and spring elements facilitates absorption and distribution of force such that each spring element absorbs a set amount of force and disperses such force to its corresponding beam. -
WO 2010/089556 A2 (SPRUNG L TO [GB]; WOOD JOHN [GB]) discloses a flexible protective armor comprising a mesh structure defining a plurality of apertures therein, said mesh structure further including a plurality of pillars situated at the vertex of each channel defined in the mesh structure, wherein said pillars inhibit longitudinal bending of the mesh structure. - However, when these layered armors are exposed to impact, such impact may produce a bulge which deforms the armor. Since the armor is worn adjacent to the body, such deformation may project into the body of the wearer, causing tissue damage or trauma to underlying organs. Therefore, although the honeycomb layered armor arrangements are flexible, they lack the necessary degree of stiffness to adequately protect a wearer from impact.
- Thus, to be most desirable to an athlete, protective armor must: not hinder movement; have the ability to mitigate impacts from both small and large hard objects without deforming; and be able to "breathe" by defining a plurality of apertures therein such that air may pass freely therethrough, thus providing ventilation to the wearer. Accordingly, the present application is directed to a protective armor to be worn during sporting activities to protect the wearer from impact. The object of the present disclosure is to provide a protective armor having the most desirable balance between flexibility and rigidity whilst being lightweight and breathable.
- The problems presented by existing protective guards are solved by the present protective armor. The present application is generally directed to protective body armor to be worn while engaging in sports activities to protect against injury due to impact. It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a flexible protective armor able to mitigate impacts from both small and large hard objects. The present protective body armor is intended to protect an athlete from the consequences of impact with both fixed hard structures, such as the ground, and with moving objects, such as other people. It is an object of the present protective body armor to: be flexible; have the ability to mitigate impacts from both small and large hard objects without bottoming out; and define a plurality of apertures therein such that air may pass freely therethrough, providing ventilation to the wearer.
- Accordingly, the present disclosure is directed to protective armor to be worn during sporting activities to adequately protect the wearer from impact, while allowing for freedom of movement. The protective armor is made of a network of beams and spring elements. The spring elements extend from beams at a select angle and are arranged to form a select pattern. This arrangement of beamsd spring elements facilitates absorption and distribution of force. Additionally, the present protective armor is comprised of a lightweight and breathable material such that the wearer is comfortable during exertion.
-
-
Figure 1a is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the present protective armor in use by a skier. -
Figure 1b is another perspective view of the first embodiment present protective armor in use by a soccer player. -
Figure 1c is a detailed perspective view of the first embodiment of network of beams and spring elements in accordance with the present protective armor. -
Figure 1d is a cross-sectional depiction of an aspect of the embodiment ofFigure 1c . -
Figure 2a is a front side view of a second embodiment of the present protective armor, including a transversally mounted sliding beam. -
Figure 2b is a side view of the second embodiment ofFigure 2a . -
Figure 2c is a front side view of the embodiment ofFigure 2a , illustrating free movement of the transversally mounted sliding beam. -
Figure 2d is a side view of the embodiment ofFigure 2a , illustrating application of force to the transversally mounted sliding beam. -
Figure 2e is a side view of the embodiment ofFigure 2a , illustrating application of force to the transversally mounted sliding beam. -
Figure 2f is a front side view of the embodiment ofFigure 2a , illustrating the transversally mounted sliding beam under tension. -
Figure 3a is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the present spring elements network. -
Figure 3b is a detailed perspective view of the connection junction of the third embodiment ofFigure 3a . -
Figure 4 is a perspective bottom view of a third embodiment of the present including a spring element network and a mesh structure. -
Figure 5 is a perspective top view of the embodiment ofFigure 4 . -
Figure 6a is a perspective front view of the embodiment ofFigure 4 , illustrating torsional flexibility. -
Figure 6b is another perspective front view of the embodiment ofFigure 4 , illustrating torsional flexibility. -
Figure 6c is another perspective top view of the embodiment ofFigure 4 . -
Figure 7a is a side view of the embodiment ofFigure 4 , illustrating application of force to the mesh network. -
Figure 7b is a side view of the embodiment ofFigure 4 being compressed. -
Figure 8 is a side view of the embodiment ofFigure 4 . -
Figure 9 is a side view of the embodiment ofFigure 4 , illustrating torsional flexibility. - Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to protective body armor to be worn while engaging in physical activities for protecting against injury due to impact. The following description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the present protective body armor and is provided in the context of a patent application and its requirements. Various modifications to the preferred embodiment and the generic principles and features described herein will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein. Advantages of the present protective body armor will now be described in detail with references to the accompanying drawings.
- The present protective body armor is intended to protect a person from the consequences of impact with both fixed hard structures, such as the ground, and with moving objects, such as other people. For example, an armor may be provided for a person participating in various physical activities (e.g., an
armor 100a-c for a person participating in skiing or soccer, as illustrated inFigures 1a and1b ). It is an object of the present protective body armor to: be flexible without hindering movement; have the ability to mitigate impacts from both small and large hard objects without bottoming out; and provide ventilation to the wearer. Accordingly, the present disclosure is directed to protective armor to be worn during sporting activities to adequately protect the wearer from impact, while allowing for freedom of movement. Additionally, the present protective armor is comprised of a lightweight and breathable material such that the wearer is comfortable during exertion. - In one embodiment, illustrated in
Figures 1a through 1d , the presentprotective body armor 100 is comprised of anouter border 107 and anetwork 103 ofbeams 102 andspring elements 101. Thenetwork 103 ofbeams 102 andspring elements 101 may be comprised of a plurality ofbeams 102 formed integrally with a plurality ofspring elements 101. Eachbeam 102 preferably includes aspring element 101 extending therefrom at a select angle. The outer periphery of thenetwork 103 is bound by theouter border 107, as specifically illustrated inFigure 1a . - The
network 103 ofbeams 102 andspring elements 101 may be composed of plastic, PVC, fiberglass, rubber, polycarbonate, polypropylene, Nylon, polyethylene, polyurethane or other similar materials. Moreover, thenetwork 103 material may be injection molded, blow molded, sintered, vacformed or compression molded as an integral construction. Theouter border 107 may be composed of a substantially soft and flexible material, such as Lycra®, rubber, foam, or fabric. - As shown in
Figure 1c , thebeams 102 are arranged to form adiamond pattern 105, or X-pattern, throughout thenetwork 103 ofbeams 102 andspring elements 101. As shown, eachdiamond shape 106 is bounded by fourbeams 102a-d. Thebeams 102 create longitudinal stiffness in thenetwork 103 such that it generally maintains its shape. Specifically, because thebeams 102 are rigid, they inhibit thenetwork 103 from bending in a longitudinal direction, meaning the network is generally longitudinally rigid. In this embodiment, the area defined within thediamond shape 106 is hollow, such that eachdiamond shape 106 defines an aperture therein. Thus, air is free to pass through thenetwork 103 via eachdiamond shape 106. As a result, the present armor is aerated and lightweight for the wearer's comfort, therefore being "breathable." In the embodiment ofFigure 1c , each ofbeams 102a-d preferably has a length of about 1.27 cm (0.5 inches), a height of about 0.635 cm (0.25 inches), and a thickness of about 0.07874 cm (0.031 inches). As a result, eachdiamond shape 106 defines an area of about 0.635 square cm (0.25 square inches) therein. - The hollow area defined by each
diamond shape 106 further allows lateral movement of thenetwork 103 ofbeams 102 andspring elements 101. Thus, the larger the aperture defined by each diamond shape, the more flexibility the wearer will have. As shown inFigure 1c , the sizes of the diamond shapes 106 are uniform over the surface of thenetwork 103. However, the sizes of the diamond shapes and of the spring elements may be non-uniform over the surface of the network to accommodate flexing and for the ergonomic function of the protective armor based upon the area of the body being protected. - Alternatively, in another embodiment (not shown), the beams may be arranged to form a circular, honeycomb or hexagonal pattern throughout the network of beams and spring elements. In this embodiment, each hexagon formed by the beams defines an aperture in its center, such that each hexagon is hollow.
- As described above, the
network 103 is further comprised of a plurality ofspring elements 101 in connection with and extending from the plurality ofbeams 102. Preferably, eachbeam 102 includes aspring element 101 extending therefrom at a select angle to facilitate distribution of a set amount of force. More specifically, eachspring element 101 includes a top portion 108 and a bottom portion 110. The top portion 108 is connected to and extends from thebeam 102 at a select fixed angle. The bottom portion 110 extends from the top portion at a select angle, and may be generally curved. In a collision, eachspring elements 101 absorbs the force of impact and distributes it to itscorresponding beam 102, such that the force is dispersed throughout thenetwork 103. Thus, the force of impact is sent away from the wearer, thereby protecting the wearer from injury. More specifically, as illustrated inFigure 1d , when force is applied to the network, eachspring element 101 compresses, with respect to itscorresponding beam 102, until the bottom portion 110 of thespring element 101 is flat. Thespring element 101 deflects in a linear and consistent manner such that the force is absorbed and dispersed to thebeam 102. Thus, eachbeam 102 deflects force, while eachspring element 101 absorbs force, acting to cushion impact for the wearer. - Each
spring element 101 in the network has a select stiffness for distributing a set amount of force. The stiffness of eachspring element 101 is a function of its width, depth, thickness, material composition and the angle at which it extends from thebeam 102. As described above, eachspring element 101 is positioned at a select angle to itscorresponding beam 102 to facilitate distribution of force. More specifically, the angle (A) at which the top portion 108 of thespring element 101 extends from thebeam 102 determines the compressibility of the bottom portion 110. Accordingly, the angle (A) defined between the top portion 108 of thespring element 101 and thebeam 102, in part, determines the stiffness of thespring element 101. - The angle (A) that the top portion 108 of the
spring element 101 is positioned relative tobeam 102 directly corresponds to the flexibility of thespring element 101, and inversely corresponds to impact force able to be dispersed. Thus, the smaller the angle (A) defined between the top portion 108 of thespring element 101 and thebeam 102, the less flexibility the wearer will have, and the more force will be able to be dispersed. The angle (A) defined between the top portion 108 of thespring element 101 and thebeam 102 is generally selected from an angle between about 0° and about 90°, where 0° provides the most rigidity to the spring and 90° provides the most flexibility. For example,Figure 1c illustrates aspring element 101 situated in-line with thebeam 102; that is, an angle of spring 0° is defined between the top portion 108 of thespring element 101 and thebeam 102. At this angle, thespring element 101 is generally stiff, meaning it is able to disperse a large amount of impact force. In contrast, a spring element situated at a larger angle, such that a 45° angle is defined between the top portion of the spring element and the beam, would be relatively more flexible. However, such a spring element would not be able to disperse as much impact force as thespring element 101 ofFigure 1 c. - Moreover, as described above, the stiffness of the
spring element 101 is further a function of its depth, width and thickness, and material composition thereof. Specifically, the dimensions of the spring element directly correspond to the stiffness of thespring element 101 and to the amount impact force it is able to absorb. For example, eachspring element 101 illustrated inFigure 1c has a depth (D) of about 0.635 cm (0.25 inches), a width (W) of about 0.635 cm (0.25 inches), and a thickness (T) of about 0.0762 cm (0.03 inches). This spring element is relatively stiff, and therefore able to absorb a relatively large amount of force. However,stiffer spring elements 101 may restrict movement of the wearer.Flexible spring elements 101 are not able to absorb and disperse as much force asstiff spring elements 101. However, suchflexible spring elements 101 facilitate movement of the wearer. - The
present armor 100 may also be comprised of variously shaped or angled spring elements selected for specific groupings within the network or on separate armors to provide for varying regions of impact protection and varying regions of flexibility. For example,Figure 1a illustrates the protective armor including aspinal guard 100a and athigh guard 100b being used by a skier having varied spring elements from one another. - Specifically, the
thigh guard 100b is generally rigid, as the thigh of a skier's body does not require much flexibility to perform the activity. In this example, thethigh guard 100b is comprised of anetwork 103 includingspring elements 101 having top portions 108 situated at a 0° angle relative to their corresponding beams. As a result, each spring element is generally stiff and thus able to absorb increased force, thus protecting the wearer from injury. Moreover, thenetwork 103 includes relatively small diamond shapes 106 to further limit flexibility. By contrast, thespinal guard 100a requires increased flexibility because a skier must be able to bend and move his spine freely. Therefore, the spinal guard ofFigure 1a is comprised of a network including relatively large diamond shapes to facilitate flexibility. However, because the spine is requires increased shock absorption and protection, the spinal guard includes spring elements situated at a marginally larger angle, such as 10°, relative to their corresponding beams (not shown). As a result, each spring element is generally stiff and thus able to absorb increased force, thus protecting the wearer from injury. - Additionally, the present protective armor may further include a means of securing the armor to a person's body. For example, as shown in
Figures 1a and1b , the protective armor may include a plurality ofstraps 111 affixed to thearmor 100a-couter border 107. In this example, theouter border 107 defines a plurality ofapertures 109 therein for receiving thestraps 111. Thestraps 111 may be threaded throughapertures 109 defined in theouter border 107 and then secured around the user's body. Thestraps 111 may be comprised of any suitable fabric or material, such as nylon. Alternatively, the present protective armor may be affixed to a garment. For example, the armor may be sewn, glued, laminated, or otherwise affixed to the outside of a shirt or pair of pants. The armor may also be situated internal to the article of clothing. -
Figures 2a through 2f illustrate another embodiment of the present protective armor comprised of anetwork 203 of a plurality ofbeams 202 formed integrally with a plurality ofspring elements 201. In this embodiment, the present protective armor may further include a plurality of transversally mounted slidingbeams 212 for locking a plane of movement in one direction only. For example, the transversally mounted slidingbeams 212 may be used to provide convex flexibility of thenetwork 203, while providing concave rigidity. The slidingbeam 212 is mounted at one end 213 to ananchor 214 situated adjacent to abeam 202 of thenetwork 203. Theother end 215 of the slidingbeam 212 is supported by aguide 216.End 215 of slidingbeam 212 has anend stop 217 dimensioned for engagingguide 216 and for inhibiting movement of slidingbeam 212 in a given direction. For example, end stop 217 can be dimensioned to engage the body or portion thereof or extension thereof such as a shoulder to prevent movement of slidingbeam 212 in a given direction. - As illustrated in
Figure 2c , when there is no load or force on the armor, the slidingbeam 212 is free to move at one end through aguide 216. Moreover, when load (Force A) is applied to the armor from one direction, as illustrated inFigure 2d , thenetwork 203 bends, becoming convex along the opposite axis to the bending force (Force A). Under the influence of force (Force A), the distance between the anchor and the guide decreases, allowing the sliding beam to move freely through the guide. The slidingbeam 212 does not provide any resistance to Force A. However, when load (Force B) is applied in the opposite direction, as illustrated inFigure 2e , the network attempts to bend with the force and, at the opposite axis, becomes concave. As a result, as shown inFigure 2f , the slidingbeam 212 is put under tension and cannot move past theguide 216. - Thus, the sliding
beam 212 only allows thenetwork 203 to bend on one plane. The transversally mounted sliding beams create concave stiffness in the armor such that it maintains its shape. Specifically, because the transversally mounted sliding beams are rigid, they prevent the armor from bending in a concave direction, meaning the armor is concavely rigid. For example, when the armor of the present embodiment is used as a spinal guard, the sliding beam allows the armor to bend convexly to allow the spine to bend forward freely. However, the sliding beam prevents concave bending, so that the wearer may not bend backwards. As a result, the spine is properly protected. -
Figures 3a and3b illustrate another embodiment of the present protective armor comprised of anetwork 303 and an outer border (not shown). Thenetwork 303 comprised of a plurality of beams 302 formed integrally with a plurality ofspring elements 301. In this embodiment, the beams 302 andspring elements 301 are modular such that thearmor 300 may be customized to fit the wearer. Each beam 302 may include aconnector 320 for selective adaptation of thenetwork 303. In this embodiment, theconnector 320 may be comprised of atongue 321a and groove 321b connection. Specifically, one beam 302 includes atongue 321a, whereas another beam 302 includes acorresponding groove 321b. As specifically illustrated inFigure 3b , thetongue 321a is received by thegroove 321b to form a connection between thebeams -
Figures 4-9 show yet another embodiment of the present protective armor including a plurality ofspring elements 401 extending from amesh structure 420. As illustrated inFigures 4-9 , themesh structure 420 may be comprised of a honeycomb or hexagonal pattern. In this embodiment, each hexagon formed by the mesh structure defines an aperture in its center, such that each hexagon is hollow. As a result, the mesh structure is lightweight and flexible. - Moreover, the
mesh structure 420 adds rigidity to the armor to provide more protection for the wearer upon impact. Additionally, as illustrated inFigure 4 , themesh structure 420 defines a plurality ofvertical channels 405 therein to provide lateral flexibility (407) of the mesh structure, while providing longitudinal rigidity. This flexibility is illustrated more specifically inFigures 6a-6c and9 . Thechannels 405 createunderlying pillars 413 situated at thevertex 412 of each v-shape 410 defined in the mesh structure. Thepillars 413 create longitudinal stiffness in themesh structure 420 such that it maintains its shape. Specifically, because thepillars 413 are rigid, they prevent themesh structure 420 from bending in a longitudinal direction, meaning themesh structure 420 is longitudinally rigid (409 shown inFig. 5 ). - As illustrated specifically in
Figures 7a and 7b , when force is applied to the mesh structure, the mesh structure disperses the initial impact throughout its network and the network of spring elements absorb the impact force such that the wearer is protected. Specifically, upon impact, eachspring element 401 compresses with respect to the mesh structure to deflect and disperse such force through the mesh structure. As force is applied, thespring element 401 deflects in a linear and consistent manner such that the force is absorbed and dispersed to the mesh structure. That is, upon impact thespring element 401 compresses and deflects force away from thewearer 422. At the same time, impact force is absorbed by themesh structure 420 and dispersed throughout. Therigid mesh structure 420 prevents deformation of thespring elements 420, and thus better protects thewearer 420 from impact force. - The stiffness of each
spring element 401 is a function of its width, depth, thickness, material composition and the angle at which it extends from the beam. Each spring element is positioned at a select angle to its corresponding beam to facilitate distribution of force. Specifically, the angle at which thespring element 401 is positioned, relative to the beam, directly corresponds to the flexibility of thespring element 401 and inversely corresponds to impact force able to be dispersed. Therefore, aspring element 401 that extends at a larger angle relative to the beam is generally flexible, but is unable to disperse a large amount of impact force. By contrast, aspring element 401 which extends at a smaller angle relative to the beam is generally stiff, and able to disperse a larger amount of impact force. - As described above, the stiffness of the
spring element 401 is further a function of its depth, width and thickness. Generally, a relativelystiff spring element 401 has a larger depth, width and thickness. By contrast, aflexible spring element 401 has a comparably smaller depth, width and thickness. Astiffer spring element 401, having a larger depth, width and/or thickness, provides a larger area for forces to be dispersed through. However,stiffer spring elements 401 restrict movement of the wearer.Flexible spring elements 401 are not able to deflect and disperse as much force asstiff spring elements 401. However, suchflexible spring elements 401 facilitate movement of the wearer. Accordingly, the present armor includes a select combination of flexible andstiff spring elements 401 in the network 400 such that force of impact may be effectively deflected and dispersed, while allowing ample freedom of movement for the wearer. - Additionally, the
spring elements 401 provide integrated cushioning in the armor, such that the wearer need not wear additional foam or padding to protect against chafing or other irritation from the armor. As a result, fabric breathability and ventilation is improved, preventing the wearer from over-heating during exertion. Moreover, as described above, the mesh structure defines a plurality of apertures therein. Each aperture defined in the mesh structure provides a passage for air to reach the wearer. As a result, the armor is aerated and comfortable for the wearer. - Various modifications to the preferred embodiments of the protective armor and the generic principles and features described above will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Thus, the present protective armor is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described above. The present protective armor has been described in accordance with the embodiments shown, and one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that there could be variations to the embodiments, and any variations would be within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, many modifications may be made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (15)
- A flexible protective armor (100) comprising a plurality of beams (102a, 102b, 102c, 102d) and a plurality of spring elements (101), wherein at least some of the beams (102b, 102d) include a spring element (101) extending therefrom at a select angle,
characterized in that the beams (102b, 102d) are arranged to form a select pattern throughout a network (103), and whereby the network of beams and spring elements (103) facilitates absorption and distribution of force such that each spring element (101) absorbs a set amount of force and disperses such force to its corresponding beam and throughout the network (103). - The flexible protective armor of claim 1, characterised by an outer border (107) for binding the network of beams and spring elements (103) therein to form a select shape thereof.
- The flexible protective armor of claim 1, characterised in that each spring element (101) has a select stiffness for distributing a select amount of force.
- The flexible protective armor of claim 3, characterised in that the spring element stiffness is a function of the size and shape of the spring element (101).
- The flexible protective armor of claim 3, characterised in that the spring element stiffness is a function of the angle the spring element (101) extends from its corresponding beam (102b, 102d).
- The flexible protective armor of claim 1, characterised in that the size and shape of each spring element (101) is non-uniform over the surface of the network (103).
- The flexible protective armor of claim 1, characterised in that the angle that each spring element is positioned relative to its corresponding beam (102) is non-uniform over the surface of the network (103).
- The flexible protective armor of claim 1, characterised in that the beams (102) are adapted to be transversally mounted for locking a plane of movement in one direction..
- The flexible protective armor of claim 8, characterised in that each beam (102) is mounted at one end to anchor (214) situated adjacent to a beam (102) of the network (103)an supported at the other end by a guide (216), and further includes an end stop (217) dimensioned for engaging said guide (216) and to inhibit movement of the beam in a given direction.
- The flexible protective armor of claim 9, characterised whereby applying load in one direction such that the network (103) bends to be convex along the opposite axis to the bending force, the beam (102) can move freely through the guide.
- The flexible protective armor of claim 9, characterised whereby applying load in one direction such that the network (103) bends to be concave along the opposite axis to the bending force, the beam (102) is put under tension and cannot move past the guide.
- The flexible protective armor of claim 1, characterised in that each beam (102) includes a connector for selective adaptation of the network (103).
- A flexible protective armor comprising a mesh structure (420) defining a plurality of apertures (109) therein,
Characterised in that the mesh structure (420) defines a plurality of vertical channels (405) therein to provide lateral flexibility thereof, said mesh structure (420) further including a plurality of pillars (413) situated at the vertex of each channel (405) defined in the mesh structure (420), wherein said pillars (413) inhibit longitudinal bending of the mesh structure (420), a plurality of spring elements (101) extending from the mesh structure (420) at a select angle, and whereby the mesh structure (420) facilitates absorption and distribution of force such that each spring element (101) absorbs a set amount of force and disperses such force to the mesh structure (420). - The flexible protective armor of claim 13, characterised in that each spring element (101) has a select stiffness for distributing a set amount of force.
- The flexible protective armor of claim 14, characterised in that the spring element stiffness is a function of the size and shape of the spring element (101) and of the angle the spring element (101) is positioned relative to the mesh structure (420).
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201161440031P | 2011-02-07 | 2011-02-07 | |
US13/367,933 US20120198594A1 (en) | 2011-02-07 | 2012-02-07 | Flexible protective armor |
PCT/IB2012/000354 WO2012107837A2 (en) | 2011-02-07 | 2012-02-07 | Flexible protective armor |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2672851A2 EP2672851A2 (en) | 2013-12-18 |
EP2672851B1 true EP2672851B1 (en) | 2015-06-17 |
Family
ID=46599622
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP12726484.4A Active EP2672851B1 (en) | 2011-02-07 | 2012-02-07 | Flexible protective armor |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20120198594A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2672851B1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2012107837A2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10034498B2 (en) * | 2011-07-25 | 2018-07-31 | Nike, Inc. | Articles of apparel incorporating cushioning elements |
US20130025036A1 (en) | 2011-07-25 | 2013-01-31 | Nike, Inc. | Articles Of Apparel Incorporating Cushioning Elements |
FR2998640B1 (en) | 2012-11-23 | 2014-12-26 | Holdiprotec | "MODULAR SOFT ABSORPTION PANEL AND BLOCK FOR MANUFACTURING SUCH A PANEL" |
US10021922B2 (en) * | 2013-07-01 | 2018-07-17 | Nike, Inc. | Modular impact protection system for athletic wear |
GB2522049A (en) * | 2014-01-10 | 2015-07-15 | John George Lloyd | Body protection |
US10576323B1 (en) * | 2015-08-19 | 2020-03-03 | Frank A. Latella, Jr. | Neuromuscular training system and method of training using same |
US20170106622A1 (en) * | 2015-10-14 | 2017-04-20 | Robert J. Bonin | Thermoregulatory impact resistant material |
EP3380204B1 (en) | 2015-11-23 | 2021-01-06 | Dick's Sporting Goods, Inc. | Vented shin guard |
US20230030890A1 (en) * | 2020-02-21 | 2023-02-02 | BLüCHER GMBH | Modular unit of protective clothing, and use thereof |
Family Cites Families (45)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3746602A (en) * | 1971-06-10 | 1973-07-17 | Officio Brevetti Dott Cildgna | Disc-like platelet fabric |
US4610034A (en) | 1982-09-07 | 1986-09-09 | Johnson Sam E | Shoulder protection device |
US4559251A (en) * | 1984-02-17 | 1985-12-17 | Kaoru Wachi | Material for accident protecting clothes with connected tile-like small nylon plates |
JPH0291203A (en) * | 1988-06-30 | 1990-03-30 | Shigeru Matsumori | Jacket for gunshotting and gun |
DE3935828A1 (en) * | 1989-10-27 | 1991-05-02 | Gericke Hein Gmbh Co Kg | SPINE PILLAR, IN PARTICULAR AS ACCIDENT PROTECTION FOR MOTORCYCLISTS |
US5381608A (en) * | 1990-07-05 | 1995-01-17 | L.A. Gear, Inc. | Shoe heel spring and stabilizer |
FR2684174A1 (en) * | 1991-11-26 | 1993-05-28 | France Etat | BALLISTIC SHIELDING OF BODY PROTECTION. |
CA2091140C (en) * | 1993-03-05 | 2003-01-28 | Frank Arnold Kapounek | Spine protector |
US5471905A (en) * | 1993-07-02 | 1995-12-05 | Rockwell International Corporation | Advanced light armor |
US5524641A (en) * | 1994-11-30 | 1996-06-11 | Battaglia; Arthur P. | Protective body appliance employing geodesic dome structures |
DE29500050U1 (en) * | 1995-01-03 | 1995-03-02 | Comax Sporting Good Co | Damping device with spring link to protect a part of the body against impact |
US5906873A (en) * | 1996-07-03 | 1999-05-25 | Higher Dimension Medical, Inc. | Puncture, pierce, and cut resistant fabric |
US5853863A (en) * | 1996-07-03 | 1998-12-29 | Higher Dimension Research, Inc. | Puncture, pierce, and cut resistant fabric |
US6159590A (en) * | 1996-07-03 | 2000-12-12 | Higher Dimension Medical, Inc. | Puncture and cut resistant fabric |
CA2263028A1 (en) * | 1999-02-25 | 2000-08-25 | Troysport Inc. | Protective guard |
IT248598Y1 (en) * | 1999-09-10 | 2003-02-06 | Spidi Sport Srl | SHIELD FOR BACK PROTECTION. |
US6830793B2 (en) * | 1999-09-27 | 2004-12-14 | The Aerospace Corporation | Composite damping material |
DE60036120T2 (en) * | 1999-10-29 | 2008-05-21 | Samsonite Corp., Denver | DIRECT FORMING OF NON-TEXTILE WOVEN ELEMENTS FROM THERMOPLASTIC PELLETS OR THE SAME |
US6418832B1 (en) * | 2000-04-26 | 2002-07-16 | Pyramid Technologies International, Inc. | Body armor |
WO2001087102A1 (en) * | 2000-05-19 | 2001-11-22 | Armadillo Sports Design Limited | A protective article of footwear |
US6962739B1 (en) * | 2000-07-06 | 2005-11-08 | Higher Dimension Medical, Inc. | Supple penetration resistant fabric and method of making |
ITTV20010113A1 (en) * | 2001-08-10 | 2003-02-10 | Alpinestars Res Srl | FREELY JOINTED PROTECTION DEVICE AGAINST BACK IMPACTS |
US6687920B2 (en) * | 2001-09-07 | 2004-02-10 | Salomon, S.A. | Spinal and back protection system |
US6519781B1 (en) * | 2001-09-07 | 2003-02-18 | Salomon S.A. | Energy absorbing protective device that protects areas of articulation |
GB0122328D0 (en) * | 2001-09-15 | 2001-11-07 | Sportsfactory Consulting Ltd | Protective body armour |
KR200265810Y1 (en) * | 2001-11-14 | 2002-02-25 | 김휘 | leg guards |
US7338038B2 (en) * | 2004-03-12 | 2008-03-04 | Dow Global Technologies, Inc. | Impact absorption structure |
US7363846B1 (en) * | 2004-07-14 | 2008-04-29 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Projectile resistant armor |
US8961733B2 (en) * | 2005-02-15 | 2015-02-24 | Pinwrest Development Group, Llc | Method of improving the impact-protective properties of a conformable substrate |
US8220072B2 (en) * | 2005-02-15 | 2012-07-17 | The Dodd Group, LLC | Protective shin guard |
US8661564B2 (en) * | 2005-02-15 | 2014-03-04 | Pinwrest Development Group, LLC. | Protective articles having a plurality of core members |
US7461726B2 (en) * | 2005-02-25 | 2008-12-09 | The Aerospace Corporation | Force diversion apparatus and methods |
US7367898B2 (en) * | 2005-02-25 | 2008-05-06 | The Aerospace Corporation | Force diversion apparatus and methods and devices including the same |
US7721348B2 (en) * | 2005-03-08 | 2010-05-25 | Adidas International Marketing B.V. | Protective element |
US8336117B2 (en) * | 2005-10-19 | 2012-12-25 | Nike, Inc. | Article of apparel with material elements having a reversible structure |
US7549236B2 (en) * | 2006-03-09 | 2009-06-23 | New England Footwear, Llc | Footwear with independent suspension and protection |
US7703375B1 (en) * | 2006-08-15 | 2010-04-27 | Lawrence Technological University | Composite armor with a cellular structure |
US20120177904A1 (en) * | 2006-09-25 | 2012-07-12 | Gehring Jr George | Under body armor cooling vest and fabric thereof |
WO2009048676A1 (en) * | 2007-08-16 | 2009-04-16 | University Of Virginia Patent Foundation | Hybrid periodic cellular material structures, systems, and methods for blast and ballistic protection |
GB0901923D0 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2009-03-11 | Sprung Ltd | A knee pad and knee pad assembly |
US20110189444A1 (en) * | 2009-03-09 | 2011-08-04 | Nike, Inc. | Material Element |
WO2010108130A1 (en) * | 2009-03-20 | 2010-09-23 | Warwick Mills, Inc. | Thermally vented body armor assembly |
US8425712B2 (en) * | 2010-04-07 | 2013-04-23 | Nike, Inc. | Method of manufacturing cushioning elements for apparel and other products |
US9345275B2 (en) * | 2011-02-18 | 2016-05-24 | Nike, Inc. | Lower body garment with elasticity-reducing panel |
US10159295B2 (en) * | 2012-03-08 | 2018-12-25 | Nike, Inc. | Protective pad using a damping component |
-
2012
- 2012-02-07 WO PCT/IB2012/000354 patent/WO2012107837A2/en active Application Filing
- 2012-02-07 EP EP12726484.4A patent/EP2672851B1/en active Active
- 2012-02-07 US US13/367,933 patent/US20120198594A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20120198594A1 (en) | 2012-08-09 |
WO2012107837A2 (en) | 2012-08-16 |
EP2672851A2 (en) | 2013-12-18 |
WO2012107837A3 (en) | 2012-11-08 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
EP2672851B1 (en) | Flexible protective armor | |
US11284653B2 (en) | Arm protector or other body part protector | |
US8959668B1 (en) | Chinstrap with jaw protection | |
US6625820B1 (en) | Protective headguard | |
US6182299B1 (en) | Baseball chest protector | |
US7937768B2 (en) | Flexible shin guard | |
KR100847186B1 (en) | Freely jointed arrangement for protecting the back against bumps | |
US5873130A (en) | Wrist guard for snowboarding | |
US8555426B2 (en) | Energy absorbing and displacing structure for athletic protective equipment | |
US5623729A (en) | Chest protector | |
EP1001688B1 (en) | Back protector, in particular for motorcyclists | |
US20040128748A1 (en) | Protective pad apparatus having air ventilating and restrictive radiant heat transfer/absorption aspects | |
US5337417A (en) | Rib protector | |
WO2006015883A1 (en) | A protective garment | |
US8370968B2 (en) | Cervical spine protection device | |
US11540565B2 (en) | Impact-resistant material and pad | |
CN201349539Y (en) | Shin guard with leg liner mounting strips | |
US20160270466A1 (en) | Waist belt for load bearing applications | |
JP4672051B2 (en) | Leg guard for ball game | |
KR100660405B1 (en) | Implement to protect body for martial art | |
ITMI20102019A1 (en) | BACK PROTECTION STRUCTURE | |
WO2023137031A1 (en) | Chest and shoulder protector | |
KR20130015030A (en) | Joint protector | |
GB2476960A (en) | A protective device comprising a resilient outer shell and an elastic digit restraining member | |
EP1220709A2 (en) | Ankle guard |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20130823 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A2 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
DAX | Request for extension of the european patent (deleted) | ||
17Q | First examination report despatched |
Effective date: 20140515 |
|
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
RIC1 | Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant |
Ipc: A41D 13/015 20060101AFI20141209BHEP Ipc: A63B 71/12 20060101ALI20141209BHEP Ipc: A41D 13/05 20060101ALI20141209BHEP |
|
INTG | Intention to grant announced |
Effective date: 20150109 |
|
GRAS | Grant fee paid |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3 |
|
GRAA | (expected) grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: B1 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: EP |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: REF Ref document number: 731390 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20150715 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R096 Ref document number: 602012008073 Country of ref document: DE |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: LT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: NO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150917 Ref country code: HR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: MK05 Ref document number: 731390 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20150617 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: LT Ref legal event code: MG4D Ref country code: NL Ref legal event code: MP Effective date: 20150617 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LV Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: BG Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150917 Ref country code: RS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: GR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150918 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: EE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CZ Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: PT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151019 Ref country code: IS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151017 Ref country code: PL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: AT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: ES Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: SK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: RO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150617 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 5 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R097 Ref document number: 602012008073 Country of ref document: DE |
|
PLBE | No opposition filed within time limit |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: IT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 |
|
26N | No opposition filed |
Effective date: 20160318 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20160229 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20160207 Ref country code: MC Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: PL |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20160229 Ref country code: CH Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20160229 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 6 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Payment date: 20170220 Year of fee payment: 6 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IE Payment date: 20170221 Year of fee payment: 6 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: NL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: HU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO Effective date: 20120207 Ref country code: CY Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: SM Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: TR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: MK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 Ref country code: MT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20160229 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: AL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150617 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: MM4A |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: ST Effective date: 20181031 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20180207 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20180228 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DE Payment date: 20190226 Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R119 Ref document number: 602012008073 Country of ref document: DE |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20200901 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GB Payment date: 20230317 Year of fee payment: 12 |