FR2966702A1 - CONFORMABLE DEVICE FOR PROTECTING A HUMAN BODY JOINT AREA - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for protecting an area of the human body comprising a hinge, which comprises a semi-rigid outer shell (10) formed in an elastically deformable material and an internal protection element (20) with absorption capacity. shock, intended to be placed opposite the body. The device is adapted to be deformed laterally so as to match the shape of the body in the area comprising the joint. It further comprises means adapted to ensure its maintenance in each given lateral deformation position, in the form of deformable rigid transverse inserts, and means (105, 205) for its folding along a transverse axis.

Description

The present invention is in the field of personal protection. More particularly, it relates to a device for protecting an area of the human body of the type comprising a hinge. A particularly preferred field of application of this device is the protection of an area of the body which comprises a joint connecting two parts of a limb, of the knee or elbow type. The device according to the invention may however equally well be used for the protection of other parts of the body including a joint, for example the shoulder, the hip, the kick, etc.

The device of the invention finds application for personal protection in any field, for example, but not limited to, in the military, paramilitary, security, but also in the field of sport, work, or generally in any field where it may be desired to protect a part of the body.

Known protective devices of the knee or elbow type are known from the prior art, for example intended to enter into the constitution of military combat suits. In the most common types, these devices are formed of a rigid outer shell, which is shaped in the general shape of a knee or elbow, and lined internally with padding, on a face to be placed vis-à-vis the body of the user. These articles also include side straps for their establishment and their maintenance on the body. Such kneepads or elbows of the prior art have many disadvantages. In particular, they are uncomfortable to use and they cause discomfort for the movements of the user, which, for the user, for example for a military or a civil protection officer in operation, can be penalizing. The present invention aims to overcome the disadvantages of the protective devices of an area of the human body comprising a joint, for example the knee or the elbow, existing, by proposing such a device that is comfortable to use and that hinders as little as possible. movements of the person who is equipped. For this purpose, it is proposed according to the present invention a device for protecting an area of the human body comprising a hinge. This device comprises an outer shell formed in an elastically deformable material, semi-rigid, and a flexible internal protection element with shock absorbing capacity, intended to be placed opposite the body. This device is adapted to be deformed laterally so as to match the shape of the body in said area comprising the joint, and it comprises holding means in each given lateral deformation position. The device according to the invention may advantageously be shaped laterally, so that it is able to present any desired lateral deformation position, and thus to adapt to the particular morphology of any user, by marrying the shape of the body of this body. last in the area including the articulation that it is desired to protect. It is specified here that the device according to the invention is intended to be placed against the body of the user in a position in which its longitudinal axis is substantially parallel to the axis of the part of the body to be protected, for example a leg or an arm. Once conformed in this optimal position, the device is advantageously held frozen by the holding means, so that, tailor-made to conform to the shape of the body of each given user, it provides the latter with great comfort of use, together with a high degree of protection, by its semi-rigid hull and its internal shock absorption element.

According to preferred embodiments, the invention also satisfies the following characteristics, implemented separately or in each of their technically operating combinations. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the device comprises folding means along a transverse axis. Preferably, the device comprises, along a longitudinal axis, a first portion intended to cover the target joint, for example the patella or elbow, and a second portion intended to cover a part of a member adjacent to this articulation, for example the upper zone of the tibia or of the forearm, so as to protect this area during a support on a hard surface, for example when the user kneels or leans on such a surface. The first portion and the second portion are advantageously connected by a so-called folding zone along a transverse axis of the device, intended to be positioned at the fold zone of the joint. This folding zone advantageously constitutes a hinge hinge, along a transverse axis of the device, the first portion and the second portion relative to each other. The hinge thus formed allows the device to deform at the same time as the body of the user according to the movements of the latter, including its flexion and extension of its articulation, continuing to marry the shape the part of the body against which it is applied. The device according to the invention therefore does not advantageously impede the movements of the user, but on the contrary it accompanies them, so that it gives him optimal protection whatever the circumstances, at the same time as a large one. comfort in use. The folding zone preferably has a width, measured along a transverse axis of the device, which is smaller than the width of the first portion and the second portion. The device thus advantageously has, at the level of the folding zone, two lateral indentations. The folding zone preferably also has a height, measured along a longitudinal axis of the device, which is large enough so that the first portion and the second portion never overlap, even in the complete folding position of the device on itself . Preferably, the device has an outer contour adapted to the shape of the member. In particular, it has generally curved shapes, so as not to injure the user, and / or respectively concave upper and lower edges.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, the means for holding the device in each given lateral deformation position comprise at least one, preferably a plurality, rigid deformable transverse inserts, preferably metal, integral with the shell. These inserts may as well be assembled on one side of the shell, preferably on a so-called internal face disposed vis-à-vis the internal protection element, that integrated into the thickness of the shell. They have a rigidity both low enough to be manually deformed, and large enough to, once deformed, to retain the shape permanently imposed on them, regardless of the movements of the user equipped with the device. In the normal configuration of use of the device, the inserts are then arranged transversely to the member, and deformed so as to marry locally the contour of the latter. Preferably, the device comprises at least two holding inserts respectively disposed on either side of the folding zone. Such a configuration makes it particularly advantageous to hold the device firmly against the limb of the user in the area most in motion, around the fold zone of the joint. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the device further comprises an additional insert disposed at its lower edge, so as to marry closer to the shape of the body at this location. This insert preferably has a lower edge of the same shape as the lower edge of the outer shell, preferably a concave edge. According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the shell comprises, on a so-called internal face vis-à-vis the inner protection element, a peripheral edge in extra thickness, advantageously to strengthen it. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the shell is provided on its contour with folding notches. These notches are preferably arranged in the peripheral rim in excess thickness. Their number and their positioning on the periphery of the shell may vary, and are preferably chosen so as to promote the articulation of the device along axes determined adequately to allow optimal freedom of movement of the user who is equipped . Preferably, the shell comprises at least one, preferably a plurality, of series of through slots forming fold lines. These fold lines are arranged to facilitate the movements of the user, preferably in the continuity of the folding notches. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the shell is further pierced with a plurality of so-called ventilation orifices distributed over its surface, and advantageously promoting the evacuation of sweat. The shell preferably further comprises, on a so-called external face, shock-absorbing means, in particular in the form of hollow cells, extending from this external face in the direction opposite to the internal protection element. These cells can be of any shape, for example round, oval, square, triangular, etc. The device corresponding to one or more of the above features advantageously offers a high degree of protection of the joint and a part of an adjacent limb, together with a high level of comfort, in that meaning that it causes little inconvenience to the user in motion. It is also adapted to be adapted to the particular morphology thereof, and to deform at the same time as the joint and the adjacent limb portion that it aims to protect. The outer shell and the internal protection element may be secured to one another by any conventional fastening means in itself, it being understood that this fastening means must not cause any hindrance and no risk of injury to the body. 'user. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the device further comprises means for assembling a fastening system on the body, including loops for the insertion of fastening straps around the target member.

The invention will now be more specifically described in the context of preferred embodiments, which are in no way limiting, represented in FIGS. 1 to 3, in which: FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of a device for protection according to the invention, seen from the side of the outer shell; FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the device of FIG. 1, seen from the side of the internal protection element; and FIG. 3 shows the so-called internal face of the outer shell of the device of FIG. 1.

A device according to the invention for protecting an area of the human body comprising a joint, for example a knee or an elbow, which can also be, in particular but not exclusively, referred to as a toggle or elbow pad, is shown in the figures. 1 to 3. This device comprises an outer shell 10 and an inner protective element 20, which have substantially identical general shapes and which are assembled against each other by their respective faces said inner face 101 for the outer shell 10 and in the normal position of use of the device for protecting a hinge area of the human body, the internal protection element 20 is intended to be applied by a inner face 201, visible in Figure 2, against the joint to be protected, an outer face 102 of the outer shell 10 then being disposed on the outside of the body. The device is further intended to be positioned on the body part to be protected so that its longitudinal axis X is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the part in question, for example to the longitudinal axis of a lower limb. , leg, or upper limb, arm. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the outer shell 10 and the internal protection element 20 have generally curved outer contours, without projecting corners, so as not to create a risk of injury for the user.

Both the outer shell 10 and the inner protection element 20 comprise two portions extending one from the other along the longitudinal axis X, a first portion of which, said upper portion, respectively 103, 203, is intended to be arranged at the level of the joint itself, for example the ball or elbow, and a second portion, said lower portion, respectively 104, 204, intended for its part to be disposed at a portion of an adjacent member at the joint, for example the upper part of the tibia or forearm. These two portions are interconnected by a so-called folding zone, respectively 105, 205, which is preferably formed at two lateral notches facing the device. This folding zone 105, 205 thus preferably has a width less than that of the first and second portions. It is configured to allow the folding of the device along a transverse axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, and therefore the relative movements of the first portion and the second portion relative to each other. The outer shell 10 is formed of an elastically deformable semi-rigid material, so that it is able to be deformed, in particular to a position in which it is able to conform to the shape of the member against which the device is applied. It is especially formed in a polymeric material, preferably compatible with an injection molding process, preferably based on a thermoplastic polymer, for example of the polyolefin or polyurethane type. The protective element 20 is preferably in the form of a shock-absorbing foam sheet formed of a flexible material, for example of the polyolefin, polyethylene or polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride or rubber type. , polyurethane, etc. Its density is preferably between 30 and 300 kg / m3. This foam is preferably covered, at the inner face 201 of the protective element, with a protective layer, especially fabric, which ensures its cohesion during use of the device.

In variants of the invention, the internal protection element 20 is formed of the superposition of several foam plates of different constitutions, for example a more comfortable foam plate, disposed on the side of its inner face 201, and a foam plate with greater shock absorption capacity, disposed on the side of its outer face. The device according to the invention, comprising this outer shell 10 and this internal protection element 20, is particularly capable of being deformed laterally, that is to say by folding on itself parallel to the longitudinal axis X, if although it can advantageously be deformed so as to adopt a shape complementary to the shape of the member against which it must be applied, and whatever the particular morphology of the user. The respectively upper edges 106, 206, and lower 107, 207, of the shell 10 and the internal protection element 20, are also preferably slightly concave, so as to be able to follow the contours of the member, for example arm or leg, against which is applied the device and laterally deformed. The outer shell 10 has at least one series of through slots 108 constituting a fold line. Preferably, a fold line 110 transverse to the longitudinal axis X, visible in FIG. 3, is thus formed at the level of the folding zone 105. Other fold lines may be formed on the outer shell 10, so that to favor its folding according to given axes. By way of example, FIG. 3 shows, in addition to the fold line 110, a transverse fold line 111 disposed in the second lower portion 104, and two longitudinal fold lines 112, 112 ', extending over the entire length of the shell 10 substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X, preferably symmetrically with respect thereto. All of these fold lines favor the preferred articulation of the device according to different predetermined axes, and advantageously allow it to be deformed according to the movements of the user, while continuing to marry the shape of its limb thus protected. The shell 10 further comprises a peripheral rim 109 in extra thickness, which reinforces it by stiffening it locally. At this rim, it is preferably pierced with so-called folding notches 120, preferably distributed over its contour, which advantageously favor the folding of the shell on itself along given axes. The number and arrangement of these notches may vary. Notches 120 are preferably arranged in alignment with each fold line 110, 111, 112, 112 '.

The shell 10 is also preferably pierced with through holes 113 distributed on its surface, which promote the evacuation of sweat. Cavities 114 are formed on the outer face of the shell 10. These cells advantageously participate in the damping of shocks exerted on the shell from the outside environment. Their number and their shape, as well as their positioning on the surface of the hull, are easily determinable by those skilled in the art so as to ensure the best shock absorbing capacity by the hull 10. The device further comprises means able to ensure its maintenance in each position of lateral deformation given. In the particularly preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 3, these holding means are formed of inserts 30, in the form of bars, arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis X, preferably so as to extend substantially over all the width of the device, and having a sufficiently low rigidity to be deformed manually, but high enough to maintain the position that is printed to them under the normal conditions of use of the device, that is to say when it is arranged on a limb of the human body such as the leg or the arm, to protect the joint and the part of limb which is adjacent to it. These strips 30 are preferably made of metal, for example aluminum.

Preferably, at least two bars 30 are respectively disposed on either side of the folding zone 105, so as to keep the device in shape in the position of lateral deformation which has been imposed on both sides the zone of folding of the joint, zone in which the device is the most strongly stressed by the effects of the movements of the user. In the preferred embodiment shown in Figure 3, a third bar 30 'is disposed near the lower edge 107 of the shell. It preferably has a lower edge 302 'of concave shape similar to the shape of this lower edge 107. This bar 30' ensures a shape of the device at its lower edge. The bars 30, 30 'are assembled in the device in a region in which they do not pose any risk of injury to an individual wearing the device, or to a nearby individual.

Preferably, these bars 30, 30 'are arranged between the internal protection element 20 and the outer shell 10, preferably fixed against the inner face 101 of the latter. In alternative embodiments, the bars 30, 30 'can be integrated in the thickness of the shell itself, during a manufacturing process of the latter, for example an injection molding process. The bars 30, 30 'can be assembled to the shell 10 by any conventional means in itself. Likewise, the internal protection element 20 can be assembled to the shell 10 by any conventional means in itself.

In the preferred embodiment which is the subject of the figures, the means for fixing on the one hand the protection element 20 and on the other hand the bars 30, 30 'to the shell 10 are the same. As illustrated in Figure 3, these fastening means comprise a plurality of fixing studs 115 disposed on the peripheral edge of the shell, on the inner face 101 of the latter. Each of these studs is pierced at its center with a bore 116 inside which is adapted to snap a lug 117 carried at the end of a lug 118 integral with the shell 10 in an area near the stud 115 cooperating . The protection element 20 is in turn pierced with holes, in zones placed opposite the pads 115 when the shell 10 and the protective element 20 are aligned with each other so that to put their outer contours substantially in correspondence. The assembly of the protection element 20 and the shell 10 is made by inserting the pads 115 of the shell into the cooperating orifices on the protection element 20, then folding the tabs 118 so as to insert each lug 117 into a piercing 116. A solid attachment can then be performed, in particular by ultrasonic or high frequency welding, by gluing, thermal welding, clipping of the lugs 117 in the holes 116, or by any other conventional fastening means in itself. The length of the tabs 118 is preferably advantageously fixed so that, when the lugs 117 snap into the holes 116, the internal protection element 20 is pressed by the tabs 118 against the shell 20, as shown in FIG. Figure 2, in several areas of its periphery. The pads 115 are furthermore preferably arranged in such a way that at least one pair of pads is respectively inscribed on each of the transverse lines coinciding with the desired position for each strip 30, 30 'along the inner face 101 of shell. Each bar is pierced at its opposite ends by a through-light 301 adapted to receive a stud 115.

Before the assembly of the protection element 20 on the shell 10, each bar 30, 30 'is positioned against the shell 10, by inserting a pad 115 in each cooperating lumen 301. The protection element 20 is then in turn put in place on the pads 115, so that the bars are then held wedged between the shell 10 and the protective element 20. The attachment is then implemented as described above.

For its use, the device according to the invention may for example be inserted into a pocket of a clothing worn by the user, in particular in a pocket provided for this purpose on a military combat suit. It can alternatively be fixed directly around the area of the body to be protected. For this purpose, it is provided with assembly means to a fastening system on the body. This system consists in particular of fastening straps resealable on themselves, in particular by fastening means such as self-gripping tapes, of the type with loops and hooks, or any other conventional fastening means in themselves, such as as for example buttons called pressures. For this purpose, the shell 10 may for example be provided with pairs of side passers 121 cooperating for such fastening straps. The device according to the invention can advantageously be delivered in a flat, compact form. When an individual wishes to use it, he applies it against the part of his desired limb, at the joint, positioning the first portion 103, 203 at the joint itself, and the second portion 104, 204 at the associated member portion. It conforms the device, deforming it laterally, to bring it into a position in which it locally marries the shape of its member. This operation is easy and quick to perform. At its end, the device advantageously retains this position of lateral deformation. The device held against the user's limb gives the user effective protection against shock and external pressure. It is also comfortable to use, since on the one hand it is adapted to the particular morphology of the user, and on the other hand it is able to deform at the same time as the area of the body against which it is applied, in particular, but not only, at the crease zone of the joint, in particular thanks to the presence of the various folding lines and folding notches formed on the shell 10. In particular, the device is articulated to the level of the folding zone 105, 205, which allows the relative movements of the first portion and the second portion during bending movements and extension of the joint. The above description clearly illustrates that by its different characteristics and advantages, the present invention achieves the objectives it has set for itself. In particular, it provides a device for protecting an area of the human body including a joint, which is especially particularly suitable for military or paramilitary use, in that it effectively protects the joint and a part of an associated limb while allowing the flexion and extension movements and hindering very little freedom of movement of the user.

Claims (10)

REVENDICATIONS1. Device for protecting an area of the human body comprising a hinge, characterized in that it comprises an outer shell (10) formed of an elastically deformable material and an internal protection element (20) with shock absorption capacity intended to be placed facing the body, said device being adapted to be deformed laterally so as to match the shape of the body in said area, and having means (30) for holding in each given lateral deformation position. 2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises, along a longitudinal axis (X), a first portion (103, 203) for covering said hinge, and a second portion (104, 204) intended to cover a portion of a member adjacent to said hinge, said first portion and said second portion being connected by a folding zone (105, 205) along a transverse axis of the device. 3. Device according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the means (30) for holding the device in each given lateral deformation position comprise at least one deformable rigid transverse insert integral with said shell (10). 4. Device according to claims 2 and 3, characterized in that it comprises at least two holding inserts (30) respectively disposed on either side of the folding zone (105, 205). 5. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the shell (10) comprises, on a so-called inner face (101) vis-à-vis the inner protective element (20), a peripheral rim in excess thickness (109). 6. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the shell (10) is provided on its contour with unfolding notches (120). 7. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the shell (10) comprises at least one series of through slots (108) forming a fold line (110, 111, 112, 112 '). 8. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the shell (10) is further pierced with a plurality of through holes (113) distributed on its surface. 9. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the shell (10) comprises on a so-called outer face (102) 10 shock absorbing means (114). 10. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises means (121) for assembly to a fastening system on the body. 15