GB2624312A - Personal protection safety device - Google Patents

Abstract

A personal protection system comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion comprises at least one protective barrier member which can be deployed by inflation. The second portion comprises a handheld device 8. The at least one protective barrier member is mountable on the handheld device 8 and is movable from a stored position to a deployed position.

Description

Personal protection and safety device

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a personal protection and safety device for the protection of a user (for example a nurse) to provide the user with space (distance between user and another individual) and time to avoid or minimise contact with another individual (for example a patient), for example in a care setting. The device comprises an inflatable element intended to protect the user, wherein the inflatable element can form a barrier between at least a portion of the user and another individual. Also disclosed is a cartridge which can comprise the inflatable element -a protective barrier -wherein the cartridge can be used as part of the device, and the use of the device and cartridge.

Background of the invention

In a care setting, in particular within a psychiatric and forensic nursing setting, injuries can be sustained by the nursing staff, due to contact from patients or from objects held by or thrown by patients. For example, nursing staff may be struck by objects used in a care setting, for example such as a snooker ball thrown by patients, stabbed, physically assaulted, or killed by a patient. This obviously causes health and safety concerns for nurses. Psychiatric nurses are typically trained in the restraint of patients who exhibit violent or aggressive tendencies. Typically, such restraint requires at least two nurses to maintain safety standards. The ratio of nurses to patients can be legal decisions made by appropriate doctors or nurses involved in the care of patients. Staffing shortages can exacerbate safety issues, as if a patient requires two nurses to be present to allow adequate control, but only one nurse is available, this can lead to increased risk to the nursing staff.

In addition to care settings, it is understood that there may be other settings, for example care establishments, educational establishments, secure units, secure learning difficulty units in the community, penal establishments, retail / commerce establishments, forensic hospitals -such as Broadmoor hospital in the UK, forensic wards, homes of individuals recovering from head trauma or other environments in which staff or individuals may be at risk from other individuals. 1.

Summary of the invention

The present inventor has determined that there is a need for a device which can safeguard a user (operator such as a nurse) and provide cushioning from impact to the user. The impact may be from contact from another individual (for example a patient), an object thrown or held by other individual and / or impact from another object due to the actions of another individual to the user (nurse). The use of the device is also considered to be advantageous for the safety of the patient.

The present invention relates to a personal protection device to provide space and time to a user, and optionally to shield at least a portion of a body of a user from another individual.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a personal protection system comprising a first portion comprising at least one protective barrier member which can be deployed by inflation, and a second portion comprising a handheld device, the at least one protective barrier being mountable on the handheld device, wherein the protective barrier is movable from a stored position to a deployed position. Suitably the protective barrier may cause a predetermined distance to be created between the operator of the protective barrier and another individual due to the inflation of the protective barrier. Suitably in the deployed position the protective barrier may shield at least part of an operator (for example a nurse) holding the handheld personal protection device system, to prevent injury to the operator from another person. As will be understood, the protective barrier may be dimensioned such that it minimises or prevents the operator of the protective barrier from being in contact with another individual.

The operator will likely be a nurse. Suitably the nurse may be a nurse in a psychiatric facility. Suitably the handheld personal protection device system may comprise two main parts, wherein a first part is reusable, and a second part is disposable and advantageously can be recycled. Suitably the second part is reusable.

Suitably the system may be for use by individuals (operator) such as staff in psychiatric facilities to provide protection in the event of a physical assault.

Suitably the handheld personal protection device system may require to be held by both hands of the operator during deployment of the protective barrier.

Suitably in use, following inflation of the protective barrier, the protective barrier may be mounted on the handheld device.

Suitably the protective barrier may be provided by a single inflatable protective barrier, for example an inflatable cushion.

Suitably the at least one inflatable protective barrier may comprise front and rear inflatable barrier elements (rear barrier element extending toward the operator and front inflatable barrier element away from the operator). Suitably the front and rear inflatable barrier elements may be provided in the same or different parts of the body of the device. Suitably multiple inflatable barrier elements may be inflated at a similar time to provide as complete protection as possible to a user! operator. Suitably a protective barrier may have a curved top surface. Suitably there is provided a personal protection device wherein front and rear inflatable barrier elements are inflated in a particular order, suitably wherein a rear inflatable barrier element is inflated in advance of the front barrier element. Suitably the inflatable barrier may be sized to fit between a door frame to effectively block or jam a door. Suitably a barrier may be sized to effectively seal a door to minimise air flow through the door. Suitably such a barrier sized to fit a door frame to minimise air flow, may be used to block fire spread.

Suitably the protective barrier and / or device may comprise a trigger / trigger mechanism wherein the trigger is operable by a user to move a gas inlet port from a first position to a second position. Suitably, in use, prior to inflation, an inflatable protective barrier in a deflated position may be provided within an enclosure of the body of the device. Suitably the body of the device may be part of reuseable part of the handheld device. Alternatively the body may be part of a second part of the device, for example a recyclable part of the device. Suitably the inflatable protective barrier may be provided in a cartridge which can be mounted onto the handheld device, the cartridge forming an enclosure in which the deflated inflatable device is stored. Suitably an inflation gas or fluid may also be located in the cartridge. Suitably a cartridge can be recycled to allow an inflated protective barrier to be repackaged in the cartridge, and inflation fluid or gas to be provided to the cartridge to allow inflation of the repackaged barrier. Suitably the cartridge is connected to the handheld device such that the trigger of the device provides for the inflation of the protective barrier in the cartridge such that the protective barrier moves to an inflated position. Suitably the device or cartridge may comprise a cover section which in normal use closes the enclosure and contains at least one protective barrier. Suitably the cover section may comprise a tear seam formed by perforation or other mechanical weakening that is openable under pressure of the expanding inflatable protective barrier to allow the protective barrier to be released from within the enclose of the device. Suitably the device or cartridge may comprise a second inflatable protective barrier. Suitably a first inflatable protective barrier may be elongate in shape.

Suitably the device may comprise a power source, for example a battery. Suitably the battery may be rechargeable. In embodiments, a power source may provide power to the enclosure of the body of the device to allow a signal to be provided to allow inflation of the protective barrier, and / or to a cartridge to allow an inflation signal to be provided to the cartridge and allow inflation of the protective barrier. Suitably connections between the power source in the device and the cartridge may be provided. For example, in embodiments, the power source may be connected to the cartridge via power connectors provided on a or both cartridge mounting bars or a cartridge mounting plate of the device. Suitably a battery may be located within the handheld device. For example in embodiment a battery may be provided in a grip portion of the device. Suitably the trigger mechanism allows control of power from the power source to the cartridge.

Suitably the device may comprise propellant, inflation fluid or pressurised gas integrated into the device. This inflation causing portion suitably provides for inflation of the protective barrier following activation of the trigger! trigger mechanism by the operator. Alternatively, the device may comprise an enclosure to receive a cartridge or container wherein the cartridge or container comprises an inflation causing portion, for example propellant, inflation fluid or pressurised gas which can be placed into the device. Alternatively, the device may comprise a fixing to fix a cartridge or container, wherein the cartridge or container comprises propellant, inflation fluid or pressurised gas to the device, such that the cartridge or container can be arranged outside the device. Suitably a cartridge comprising an inflatable barrier for mounting onto a handheld device can comprise at least one inflatable barrier and a mechanism to allow inflation of the inflatable protective barrier such as propellant, inflation fluid or pressurised gas.

Suitably the protective barrier and / or the device may comprise a trigger catch (safety mechanism) to prevent the gas being moved to inflate the protective barrier, for example to inhibit a gas inlet port being moved from a first closed to a second open position. Suitably the device may comprise a trigger catch that interacts with the trigger or part of a trigger mechanism which prevents the trigger or trigger mechanism from being activated.

Suitably at least one inflatable protective barrier may be provided in an enclosure of a cartridge or container. Suitably the cartridge or container may further comprise pressurised gas or inflation fluid. Suitably the cartridge may comprise at least one pressurised gas container or inflation fluid container or a plurality, for example 2 or 3 pressurised gas containers or inflation fluid containers. Suitably the pressurised gas containers may be provided to the device such that when a gas inlet port is moved from a first position to a second position, gas can fluidly flow from the gas container into the gas inlet port and cause rapid inflation of the inflatable protective barrier.

Suitably the cartridge may comprise a cover section which in normal use closes the cartridge and contains the protective barrier. Suitably the cover section may comprise a tear seam formed by perforation or other mechanical weakening that is openable under pressure of the expanding inflatable protective barrier to allow the protective barrier to be released from within the cartridge.

Suitably the protective barrier, when deployed in use, extends from the handheld device towards the operator to create a support (stock) between the handheld device and the operator. Suitably the protective barrier, when deployed in use, creates a cushion backwards from the device such that the cushion extends towards the operator to act as a support and an ability to direct the protective barrier.

Suitably the protective barrier, when deployed in use, may extend from the handheld device away from the operator and forward of the handheld device. Suitably the protective barrier or elements of the protective barrier may extend toward and away from the operator.

Suitably there may be provided at least two protective barriers, the at least two protective barriers mountable or mounted on a handheld personal protection device, wherein the protective barriers are movable from a stored position to a deployed position, wherein in the deployed position they may advantageously shield at least part of a user (operator such as a nurse) holding the handheld personal protection device, to prevent injury to the user from another person and optionally create a specified distance between an operator and another individual and! or minimise the risk of the operator coming into contact with another object. Suitably a first protective barrier may deploy from the handheld device toward the operator (nurse) and a second protective barrier may deploy from the handheld device away from the operator. Suitably a single protective barrier may, when deployed in use, deploy from the handheld device toward the operator (nurse) and deploy from the handheld device away from the operator.

Suitably the handheld personal protection device comprises a body portion and the protective barrier is mounted on the body portion. In alternative embodiments the handheld personal protection device comprises a body portion and the protective barrier is mounted in the body portion. Suitably the protective barrier may be removably mounted to the handheld device. Suitably, after the protective barrier has been deployed it may be removed and refolded such that the re-folded protective barrier can be re-mounted in or on the device such that the re-folded protective barrier can be deployed a second time. Suitably the protective barrier may be removably mounted to the handheld device such that after the protective barrier has been deployed it may be removed and a new protective barrier may be mounted to the handheld device.

A suitable source of gas under pressure or inflation fluid or solid or liquid propellant is used to deploy the inflatable protection barrier. The gas under pressure may be provided by a solid propellant, a liquid propellant or a mixture thereof. Suitably an amount of inflation fluid or solid propellant is provided such that weight of the device is easily held by a user whilst allowing suitable inflation of the protective barrier. Suitably a solid propellant or inflation fluid for example as used in air bags may be used. Suitably an air bag system as used in automobiles may be utilised, and where suitable the trigger may be an electronic trigger or switch. Suitably a cartridge comprising a gas source to allow inflation of the protective barrier may be mounted onto the handheld device.

The protective barrier and source of gas under pressure or inflation fluid or propellant may be mounted in a housing of the handheld personal protection device. Alternatively the protective barrier and source of gas under pressure or inflation fluid or propellant may be provided as a cartridge which may be mounted onto the handheld device. Suitably a cartridge comprising a protective barrier and source of gas under pressure or inflation fluid or propellant is mountable onto a handheld device to provide the system of the first aspect of the invention. Suitably such a cartridge provides a second aspect of the system.

Suitably the cartridge may be an aspect of the invention on its own, separate to the device and as such forms a second aspect of the present invention. As would be understood, the cartridge may be provided as a consumable product. Suitably the cartridge may provide for forward and rearward deployment configuration of at least one protective barrier.

Accordingly, a second aspect of the present invention provides at least one inflatable protective barrier in an enclosure of a cartridge or container wherein the cartridge or container further comprises pressurised gas or inflation fluid. Suitably the cartridge may comprise at least one pressurised gas container or inflation fluid container or a plurality, for example 2 or 3 pressurised gas containers or inflation fluid containers. Suitably the cartridge or container is mountable on a handheld device to form a system of the first aspect of the invention.

Suitably the handheld device on which the protective barrier is mountable is reuseable. Suitably the protective barrier may be provided in a cartridge which is mountable to a handheld device wherein the cartridge is disposable for example following deployment of the protective barrier or which is reuseable. In a reuseable form, after deployment the protective barrier may be refolded and provided such that it can be reattached to a handheld device to form a system of the first aspect of the invention.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a device comprising a body portion wherein the body portion has at least one inflatable protective barrier member and a source of gas under pressure or an inflation fluid or a solid propellant, the device further comprising a gas inlet port wherein the gas inlet port is in fluid connection with the at least one inflatable protective barrier and a source of gas under pressure or an inflation fluid or solid propellant wherein the gas inlet port can be moved from a first position to a second position, wherein in use when the gas inlet port is moved from a first to a second position, gas can move from the source of gas under pressure or the inflation fluid into the inflatable barrier and the inflatable protective barrier is caused to move from a first deflated position to a second inflated position.

In an alternative embodiment, the body of the device may comprise a cartridge receiving portion. Suitably the cartridge receiving portion may receive a cartridge comprising pressurised gas or inflation fluid or propellant. Suitably the cartridge receiving portion may receive a cartridge comprising an inflatable protective barrier or element wherein the barrier or element is provided in a deflated position. Suitably the cartridge receiving portion can receive a cartridge of the second aspect of the device.

Suitably the device comprises a trigger! trigger mechanism, wherein the trigger is operable in use to move the gas inlet port from a first position to second position to cause inflation of the protective barrier. Suitably the gas inlet port is moveable from a first closed position to a second open position, wherein in a second open position gas can move into the protective barrier. Suitably, the trigger! trigger mechanism may be provided as part of a gas container or as part of the cartridge.

Suitably the inflatable protective barrier may be inflated using gas from a gas canister. Suitably a valve on the gas canister may be pushed to an open position to allow gas to move from gas to inflate barrier.

Suitably the at least one inflatable protective barrier may be provided in a cartridge which can be connected or mounted to the device. Suitably the cartridge may comprise a container with an inflatable protective barrier therein. Suitably a cartridge! container may comprise an inflatable protective barrier in a non-deployed / non-inflated form, suitably the inflatable protective barrier may comprise a single element or multiple elements, for example front and rear inflatable barrier elements folded to allow inflation when the gas is provided. The cartridge may also include one or more pressurised gas containers for the rapid automatic inflation and deployment of the inflatable protective barrier.

Suitably the base of the cartridge may be configured to secure the cartridge to the handheld device receiving surface (for example the base) of the cartridge to a cartridge receiving surface (an upper surface) of the handheld device. The cartridge receiving surface may comprises ears to locate the cartridge on the surface and catches to secure the cartridge to the surface. The cartridge may include a trigger mechanism that cooperates with a corresponding mechanism on the trigger mechanism of the handheld device, which when the trigger is operated activates a gas canister(s) to inflate the protective barrier. Suitably a valve on the gas canister may be pushed to an open position to allow gas to move from gas canister to inflate barrier when the cartridge or protective barrier is provided to the handheld device on movement of a further valve or closure. Suitably a trigger / trigger mechanism is then required to cause the gas to move from the gas canister or other inflation / propellant source to inflate the barrier. Suitably a cartridge comprising a protective barrier may also comprise a cover section which in normal use closes the cartridge and contains the protective barrier. The cover may include a tear seam formed by perforations or other mechanical weakening that tears in use under the pressure of the expanding protective barrier to allow the protective barrier to be released from within an enclosure of the cartridge.

Suitably the protective barrier when deployed may be about 36 -38 inches (91 -97 cm) in length, and 5-8 inches (12 -21 cm) wide. Suitably the inflatable protective barrier, when moved to a second inflated position is about 10-12 inches (25 -6 cm) high, 36-38 inches long (91 -97 cm), and about 8 toll inches (21 -28 cm) wide. Suitably the protective barrier may comprise a stock section from the device towards the user, which may be about 14-16 inches (35 -41 cm) in length from the trigger of the device towards the shoulder of the user when the protective barrier is deployed. The length of the device advantageously fits in users of typical height and build without significantly changing their centre of gravity or enabling the barrier to be used to alter the balance of the user by another individual.

Suitably the protective barrier may extend from the handheld device toward the operator. Suitably the protective barrier may extend from the handheld device toward the operator with about 14 inches from the handheld device to provide a stock back portion for the user (nurse) to firmly brace the protective barrier, for example to beheld against the operator's shoulder to stabilise the protective barrier.

Suitably the handheld device comprises a front end and rear end and in use, when the inflatable protective barrier is inflated, the inflatable protective barrier extends beyond the front of the device and beyond the rear of the device (for example to be used by the operator of the protective barrier to hold and / or stabilise the protective barrier).

Suitably the device comprises a trigger mechanism which can be used to move a gas inlet port from a first to a second position. Suitably in a second position, the protective barrier may be deployed -gas is moved into the protective barrier (thus a second position can be a deployed position). Suitably the handheld body of the device supports a cartridge containing an inflatable protective barrier. The trigger mechanism activates the cartridge to inflate a protective barrier which is released and deployed from within the cartridge. The inflated protective barrier can advantageously remain connected to the cartridge and / or the handheld device. The inflated protective barrier can include a forward element that deploys forwardly of the handheld trigger device away from the operator! user of the device. This can provide a barrier between the operator and another person and can force the other person to retreat. A further rear element can deploy rearwardly of the handheld device towards the operator.

Suitably to allow a gas to move into the protective barrier, an arming pin may be required to be removed. Suitably an arming pin may be moved from a first safe position to a second armed position by engaging a cartridge with the handheld device. Suitably an arming pin may be provided to prevent a gas from moving into the protective barrier to allow for removal of the cartridge from the handheld device. Suitably an arming pin may be moved from a second armed position to a first safe position by removing the cartridge from the handheld device. Suitably a cartridge comprising a protective barrier may comprise a side bar which can be moved to move an arming pin from a first safe position to a second armed position. Suitably a cartridge comprising a protective barrier may comprise a side bar wherein movement of a side bar may allow an arming pin to be moved from a second armed position to a first safe position. Suitably a second (spare) arming pin may be provided with the cartridge to allow an arming pin to be inserted into the cartridge when the cartridge is mounted onto to the device to lock the cartridge and prevent the inflatable protective barrier from being deployed.

It is advantageous if the device includes multiple safety mechanisms to inhibit accidental or non-intended deployment of the protective inflatable barrier.

Suitably the device may comprise a hand air pump. Suitably the hand air pump may be connected to an air line which is connected to an air outlet. Suitably when the hand air pump is depressed, air moved in the air line allows the air to cause a movement of a valve which allows a gas to move into the protective barrier to allow inflation of the barrier. Suitably when the hand air pump is not depressed the air does not move in the air line and this prevents movement of a valve and prevents a gas to move into the protective barrier to allow inflation of the barrier. In use, such a hand air pump will require an operator, for example a nurse, to hold the handheld device with both hands to allow deployment of the protective barrier. A first hand will be required to depress a hand air pump and second hand will be required to activate a trigger mechanism to allow inflation of the protective barrier. Such a first and second trigger arrangement or a first safety mechanism for ensuring grip of the device and a trigger mechanism to ensure that device is not activated by accident -at least two mechanisms to minimise the risk of non-intended deployment and requirement that the device is securely held in two hands -is considered to be advantageous. This can be considered as a pneumatic safety mechanism. The requirement that the device is held in two hands for operation advantageously minimises the risk of wrist injury to the user (nurse) when the device is deployed.

Suitably, in use, in such embodiments a cartridge comprising the inflatable barrier may be loaded onto the handheld device, a safety or arming pin (the safety pin when located in the cartridge preventing movement of a trigger catch and the movement of gas into the protective barrier) may be removed from the cartridge to allow the inflatable barrier to be inflated on actuation of a trigger mechanism and, in some embodiments, when the air pump is depressed by a second hand of the user. Suitably the inflatable protective barrier may only be inflated on both actuation of a trigger mechanism and when the air pump is depressed by a second hand of the user after a further safety catch (for example a safety pin or arming pin) on the device has been released.

Alternatively, rather than the pneumatic safety device or mechanism, the device may comprise a safety mechanism wherein at least two members are spaced a first distance apart and can be moved towards each other by a user, wherein when the members are moved toward each other they allow the activation of a trigger mechanism to allow inflation of the protective barrier. The at least two members may be spaced a first distance apart by a resilient material or a spring interposed between the two members. Suitably, a user can exert a pressure of the members when holding the device, such that when a pressure is applied to the members to cause the at least two members to be squeezed together (for example by a grip of a user of the device) the resilient member is deformed or moved and this can allow movement of a valve or a safety catch from a first position to a second position, and when the pressure is released, the at least two members move back to being spaced a first distance apart and the valve or safety catch to a first position. Alternatively the members may be spaced a first distance apart by a mechanical mechanism such as a spring (e.g. a coil spring or leaf spring or other mechanical mechanism which moves at least a first and second member apart to a first distance when an opposing force is not provided to move the members together), wherein when a pressure is applied to the members to cause the at least two members to be squeezed together (for example by a grip of a user of the device) the mechanical mechanism resiliently deforms and when the pressure is released the at least two members move back to being spaced a first distance apart. In use, the at least two members can be located on the device to require an operator, for example a nurse, to hold the handheld device with both hands to allow deployment of the protective barrier. A first hand will be required to press the at least two members together, and a second hand will be required to activate a trigger mechanism to allow inflation of the protective barrier.

Suitably the device comprises a manual safety mechanism. The manual safety mechanism interacts with triggering mechanism and prevents the trigger mechanism from being activated (wherein activation of the trigger mechanism causes the gas inlet to move from a first to a second position) without the safety mechanism first being deactivated. The manual safety mechanism may be a catch member or locking member that inhibits movement of the trigger.

Thus, suitably there may be provided a pneumatic safety mechanism or mechanical safety mechanism wherein an operator's (nurse's) grip on a portion of the handheld device causes an air pump to move air along an air line to allow an opening of a valve such that gas can move into the protective barrier or to move at least two members together which allows gas to move into the protective barrier after actuation of the trigger mechanism. In such an embodiment, should an operator (nurse) not be gripping the handheld device such that the air pump moves air along an air line to allow the opening of a valve or movement of a safety catch member or the at least two members are pushed together, then the protective barrier will not be deployed. Such embodiments provide for two handed use of the device such that a first hand requires to depress the air pump or press the at least two members together and a second hand is required to move the trigger mechanism to a deployed position. Deactivation of the safety catch or movement of the valve may only be achieved by the operator depressing an air pump, for example an inflatable bladder, built into the body of the device. In such embodiments, the bladder is arranged to necessitate the user to use two hands to activate the device, thus ensuring the device is held securely before activation.

Suitably a cartridge which comprises the protective barrier may be about 9.5 inches by 2.5 inches (5 -13 cm). Suitably the cartridge may have a top portion (a portion on a different face to that which is in abutment with the handheld device) that is perforated.

Suitably the device may comprise a non-friction strip pad on at least part of the device. Suitably the non-friction strip pad may comprise rubber or another resilient material such that if the device contacts an individual then damage or pain to the individual can be minimised.

Suitably the handheld device may be rounded to minimise catching on other objects Suitably the device, when deployed, can act as a barrier between two people. The device can comprise an inflatable protective barrier wherein, in use, the inflatable protective barrier can form a barrier between at least a portion of the user/ operator and another individual.

Suitably the device allows for the rapid inflation of the inflatable protective barrier to allow the inflatable protective barrier to be deployed between the user! operator and another individual. Moreover, the inflatable element or a portion thereof or a second inflatable element may be deployable by the user/ operator to protect the user/operator from an impact, for example due to slipping or falling of the user / operator.

Suitably inflation may be about a tenth of second or faster. Suitably inflation of the protective barrier may occur in a similar time scale as per a life jacket or airbag deployment.

Suitably the at least one inflatable protective barrier may be inflated by a source of gas under pressure or an inflation fluid or propellant external to the inflatable element. The source of the gas under pressure may be, for example a gas canister. Suitably, inflation fluid can comprise pyrotechnical or hybrid type inflation fluid. Suitably the pressurised gas may be 002. Advantageously when CO2 is used as the inflation gas, in addition to providing inflation of the inflatable barrier it also cools the inflatable barrier providing a "cold shock" to an individual in contact with or near to the inflatable barrier.

Suitably the device may comprise a handheld container and the at least one inflatable protective barrier may be contained in the handheld container, prior to inflation. Suitably the protective barrier is connected to the handheld container following inflation.

Suitably the device may be provided in a holster to allow ease of carrying by a user.

Suitably the inflatable protective barrier may be contained in a container worn by an operator. Suitably the protective barrier may be connected to the container following inflation.

Suitably the inflatable protective barrier may be formed from any suitable material, for example as would be known from air bag technology (for example as used in automobiles) or in safety equipment such as motorcycle airbag vest or horse riding vest or life jacket technology. Suitably the protective barrier may be formed from polyamide material. Suitably the protective barrier may be polyamide of about 600 denier. As will be appreciated, there is a balance of speed of inflation, and the capacity of the inflatable barrier. Suitably multiple inflatable barriers or shaped inflatable barriers (i.e. shaped to form a stock if back facing (extending toward device user) or if forward facing (directed away from user) to block a door). Suitably the inflatable barrier may be moved from an uninflated to an inflated position via a mechanical or electrical switch. Suitably the switch is connected to trigger mechanism. The movement of the inflatable barrier from an uninflated to an inflated position following actuation of a trigger mechanism may be inhibited by a safety catch or safety catches.

Suitably the inflatable barrier may be provided in different sizes. Suitably differently sized handheld devices may be provided on which to mount a differently sized inflatable barrier.

Suitably in the second inflated position, the protective barrier can provide effective absorption of energy to minimise injury to an operator upon impact from either an object or another individual on the protective barrier.

Suitably, in use the cartridge comprising the protective barrier may be mounted onto a handheld device. During mounting of the cartridge, the gas container or inflation fluid container or propellant container in the cartridge may be pushed into a receiving portion, causing a valve of the gas container or inflation fluid container or propellant container to be moved to an open position to allow gas to flow when a second trigger mechanism is moved to a deploy position. Suitably further safety mechanisms require to be moved to a deploy position to allow inflation and deployment of the protective actuated. Suitably the movement of the trigger mechanism to a deploy position moves a gas inlet port from a first closed position to a second open position, wherein in a second open position gas can move into the protective barrier.

Suitably the protective barrier may be deployed following activation of a trigger by a user. Suitably the activation of the trigger causes a release of gas from a cartridge and inflation of the protective barrier.

Suitably the protective barrier device may be used by individuals such as staff in a psychiatric facility to provide protection in the event of physical assault. The device comprises an inflatable protective barrier wherein on activation of a cartridge by an operator, a gas is released by the cartridge and the protective barrier is inflated. Suitably the protective barrier may be inflated such that the inflatable protective barrier is deployed between the operator (nurse) and a patient. The inflated protective barrier can then provide protection to the operator from assault by the patient. Suitably the protective barrier may be deployed forward of the operator such that it is provided between the operator (nurse) and patient. Suitably the protective barrier may be deployed to at least one side of the operator, suitably on at least two sides of the operator, suitably at least on one side and forward of the operator, suitably at least two sides and forward of the user. Suitably the protective barrier may be deployed rearwardly of the operator. Suitably the protective barrier may be deployed at least forward and rearward of the operator.

Suitably the rear of a protective barrier unfolds first to form a stock to provide support to the user / operator. Suitably a protective barrier may comprise a deflation mechanism According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a method of using a system of the first aspect wherein the method comprises: - holding the handheld device with one hand (first hand) on a first safety mechanism for example a hand air bulb, or mechanical mechanism comprising at least two members spaced apart from each other, - holding the handheld device with one hand (second hand) to move the trigger mechanism, - moving the trigger mechanism from a non-inflation to a protective barrier inflation (deployed) position, - inflating an inflatable protective barrier from a non deployed position to a deployed position.

As discussed herein an air bulb, for use in a pneumatic safety mechanism, may be formed from resilient material such that on constriction or compression of the bulb, air is caused to move and on non-constriction or compression allows the bulb to be filled with air. The air bulb may be a flexible bag that can be expanded and contracted by moving the portions of the bag away from each other and then together forcing air out of the bag and along the air pipe. When the bag is inflated or the portions of the bag are pulled away from each other then air is moved into the bulb / bag. This movement of air can be used to cause the release of a safety catch / opening of a valve which allows inflation of the protective barrier on actuation of the trigger mechanism by the user.

As discussed herein, in another embodiment, at least two members spaced a first distance apart may be provided, wherein an operator can exert a force on each of the two members to cause them to move towards each other-by gripping the device -causing the two members to move to a second position, the second position causing the members to be spaced apart a second distance wherein the second distance is less than the first distance. The movement of the members from the first to the second distance allows gas to be moved into the protective barrier when another trigger and / or safety mechanism is deployed.

Suitably in a non-deployed, non-inflated position the inflatable protective barrier is mounted on or is housed within the body of a device or in a cartridge or container which can be provided to the device.

Suitably the method may comprise a step of arming the protective barrier, for example by removing a pin from a cartridge to allow gas to move into the protective barrier.

Suitably, in use, the inflatable protective barrier, on inflating of the inflatable protective barrier, will expand away from the user operating the device. Suitably, in use, the inflatable protective barrier on inflating of the inflatable protective barrier will expand toward the user operating the device and then expand away from the user operating the device.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference, by way of example only, to the accompanying figures in which: Figure 1 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device. Figure 2 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device. Figure 3 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device. Figure 4 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device. Figure 5 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device. Figure 6 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device. Figure 7 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device.

Figure 8 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device with a cartridge mounted on the handheld device Figure 9 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device. Figure 10 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device. Figure 11 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device. Figure 12 is an illustration of an embodiment of the device.

Figure 13 is an illustration of an embodiment of a cartridge showing the protective barrier(s) contained therein.

Figure 14 is an illustration of a cartridge from a front left side view.

Figure 15 is an illustration of a cartridge from a right rear top view.

Figure 16 A is an illustration of a cartridge from a top view.

Figure 16 B is an illustration of a cartridge from a bottom view.

Figure 17 is an illustration of a cartridge from a plan view.

Figure 18 is an illustration of a cartridge from a side view.

Figures 19 A, B, C and D are an illustration of a safety device arming pin.

Figure 20 is an illustration of a cartridge.

Figure 21 is an illustration of an inflated cushion.

Figures 22 A, B and C are an illustration of a barrier mounted to a cartridge base.

Figure 23 is an illustration of a "hand bag" version of the device.

Figure 24 is an anti personnel version of the device.

Figure 25 is an illustration of a right rear view valve.

Figure 26 is an illustration of a further embodiment of the device.

Figure 27 is an illustration of the device wherein a mechanical safety mechanism is provided wherein at least two members are spaced a first distance apart and can be moved towards each other by a user wherein the members are biased apart by spring steel arms.

Figure 28 is an illustration of the device wherein a mechanical safety mechanism provided by at least two members, spaced a first distance apart, can be moved towards each other by a user, wherein the members are biased apart by sprung arms.

Figure 29 is an illustration of a mechanical safety mechanism as part of the handheld device.

Figure 30 is an illustration of the cartridge showing the cartridge cover and a cut away sectional view.

Figure 31 is an illustration of a cartridge being mounted onto the handheld device.

Figure 32 is an illustration of the cartridge being mounted onto the handheld device.

Figure 33 is an illustration of smaller handheld device. Figure 34 is an illustration of a smaller handheld device. Figure 35 is an illustration of a smaller handheld device.

Figure 36 is an illustration of a larger handheld device. Figure 37 is an illustration of a larger handheld device.

Figure 38 is an illustration of a larger handheld device. Figure 39 is an illustration of a cartridge return system. Figure 40 is an illustration of a cartridge return system. Figure 41 is a close up view of the envelope of a cartridge return system.

Figure 42 is an illustration of a cartridge return system.

Figure 43 is an illustration of a cartridge being engaged with the front mounting bar, which can also include power connectors to electrically connect the cartridge and the handheld device.

Figure 44 is an illustration of a handheld device wherein female cartridge connectors are provided to electrically connect the handheld device to a cartridge.

Figure 45 is an illustration of a cartridge with male electrical connectors to allow connection to a handheld device.

Figure 46 is an illustration of cutaway view of a cartridge showing the internal workings of a cartridge with a power line, inflation gas, and micro-switch to allow control of inflation of the inflatable barrier member via activation by a trigger mechanism on a handheld device.

Figure 47 is an illustration of a cartridge comprising an inflation gas, micro switch and inflatable barrier member folded such that the inflatable barrier member, when inflated, can extend from the cartridge via the perforated portions provided on the cartridge, and additionally illustrated is an arming pin holder and arming pin at one side of the cartridge.

Figure 48 is a side view illustration of a cartridge with male power connectors to electrically connect the cartridge to the handheld device and an arming pin holder and inserted arming pin indicated on a side of the device.

Figure 49 is a top view illustration of a cartridge showing a male power connector and inflation gas together with a folder inflatable barrier member.

Figure 50 illustrates a partial cutaway view of a cartridge. Figure 51 illustrates components of the cartridge.

Figure 52 is a photograph of a handheld device of the present invention Figure 53 is a photograph of the internal components of a cartridge (inflatable barrier not shown).

Figure 54 is a photograph of a handheld device of the present device with a portion of a cartridge as illustrated in figure 53 mounted to the handheld device.

Figure 55A is a photograph of a cutaway view of a handheld device as discussed herein wherein the handheld device comprises a batter power supply and B shows components of the handheld device including a mounting plate, trigger mechanism and pressure sensitive safety mechanism.

Figure 56 is a photograph with the components indicated in figure 55B being located in the device.

Figure 57 is a photograph of the handheld device showing the mounting plate, trigger mechanism and safety mechanism and the pressure sensitive safety mechanism.

Figure 58 A shows a hook and loop fixing to attach a rubber portion to the handheld device and B shows the rubber portion in place.

Figure 59 is a photograph showing the arming pin of the cartridge inserted to prevent movement of the trigger mechanism.

Figure 60 is an illustration of a right internal view of an embodiment of the handheld device wherein a long trigger mechanism is provided and activation of the cartridge is made by a mechanism provided front of the device at the portion of the device which in use is towards an end of the handheld device furthest from the user.

Figure 61 is an illustration of a left internal view of an embodiment of the handheld device wherein a long trigger mechanism is provided and activation of the cartridge is made by a mechanism provided front of the device at the portion of the device which in use is towards an end of the handheld device furthest from the user.

Figure 62 is an illustration of a long trigger embodiment showing internal elements of the handheld device.

Figure 63 is an illustration of a long trigger embodiment cartridge in cutaway view showing the internal elements in reverse orientation wherein the arming pin is provided at the portion of the device which in use is towards an end of the handheld device furthest from the user such that the trigger mechanism is inhibited in coming into contact with the inflation mechanism 400 such that actuation of the trigger mechanism does not cause inflation of the inflatable barrier. In such an embodiment if the arming pin is removed, then the trigger mechanism is able to coming into contact with the inflation mechanism 400 such that actuation of the trigger mechanism causes inflation of the inflation barrier. Suitably further safety catches (pneumatic safety mechanism, mechanical safety mechanism, safety catch) may be utilised which would require to be moved to allow the trigger mechanism to act on the inflation mechanism.

Detailed Description

A first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure will now be described with reference to Figure 1.

Figure 1 discloses a handheld device 8 comprising a body 10, a cartridge mounting plate 12, with cartridge front positioning ears 13, a cartridge front mounting bar 14, a trigger hammer 16, cartridge retaining catch 26 located therein, a handle 18, and arcuate portion 20 extending from the cartridge mounting plate 12 towards the handle 18. Within the body of the device there is located a hand grip portion 22, and a trigger mechanism 24. At an end of cartridge mounting plate opposite to the cartridge front positioning ears 13 and cartridge front mounting bar 14 are rear cartridge locating ears 28. As shown for example in Figure 1, Figure 3, and Figure 4 within the body 10 of the device 8, located between the trigger mechanism 24 and the trigger hammer 16, a safety catch release 30 is provided. The safety catch release can be moved from a first locked position 32 to a second unlocked position 38.

Figures 13 to 22 show an illustration of a cartridge or components thereof which can be used with the handheld device as part of a system. The cartridge comprises an inflation mechanism (gas source) 400 to allow inflation of the protective barrier and a protective barrier which can be inflated. The protective barrier 210 and 220 is folded within the cartridge 300. As illustrated in Figure 13 the cartridge may comprise first and second protective barriers or first and second portions of a protective barrier, wherein a first protective barrier or first part of a protective barrier 210 extends from a trigger mechanism forward of the device and away from the operator and a second protective barrier or second part of a protective barrier 220 extends rearward of a trigger mechanism toward an operator. The cartridge is mountable onto the mounting plate of the handheld device as illustrated in Figures 32 and 33. The cartridge is located onto the handheld device using cartridge positioning guide ears 13, 28 located on the handheld device Sand then mounted using a front cartridge mounting bar 14 and cartridge rear lock 48.

As illustrated in Figure 22 mounting wings 430 can be used to attach the cartridge to the mounting plate to provide a protective barrier member onto the handheld device. Suitably the protective barrier may be further bonded or fixed to the cartridge. The protective barrier when inflated, as it is mounted in the cartridge, inflates to provide a suitable rigidity of the barrier for use to hold the barrier as a stock against the operator's shoulder and to provide a barrier. The inflation of the protective barrier can cause the interior of the barrier to form a tunnel to allow easier and more rapid inflation. The protective barrier can extend both rearwardly and forward of the device and left to right of the device. Suitably the rearwardly inflating portion or element of the barrier may inflate or reach full inflation prior to the forwardly deploying portion of the protective barrier. This advantageously provides a stock to allow the operator to more easily guide the protective barrier. In embodiments, a side bar may be moved from a first position to a second position to move an arming pin in the cartridge from a first safe position to a second armed position. Movement of the side bar in reverse may allow an arming pin to be moved from a second armed position to a first safe position. In this embodiment, to allow a gas to move into the protective barrier, an arming pin is required to be removed or moved to a second armed position. As illustrated in Figures 19 and 20 an arming pin may be provided wherein in use the arming pin is moved from a first safe position to a second armed position after engaging a cartridge with the handheld device. The arming pin may be provided to prevent a gas from moving into the protective barrier to allow for removal of the cartridge from the handheld device. The arming pin may be removed during engagement of a cartridge with the hand held device. The arming pin can be an elongate member of steel which can be located in a cylindrical arming pin holder! resilient tube. Suitable the arming pin holder comprises a notch which aligns with the trigger mechanism of the device such that the trigger is held in a position that does not promote deployment of the protective barrier. On removal of the arming pin from the cylindrical arming pin holder! resilient tube, the trigger mechanism can be moved such that the trigger can promote opening of a valve to allow gas to be moved into the protective barrier.

Suitably the use of an arming pin 520, for example similar to a pin in a fire extinguisher, to prevent inflation of a protective barrier allows transport of the protective barrier or a cartridge comprising a protective barrier without risk of inflation. As indicated in Figure 19, the arming pin may be located with a resilient tube 500, wherein when the pin is located within the resilient tube the tube prevents the movement of a trigger mechanism. As illustrated in Figure 19, the tube 500 comprises an indentation or notch 510 to allow the trigger mechanism to form a fight abutment to the arming pin when the arming pin is provided in the tube. As shown in Figure 17 and Figure 20 the arming pin is located in the cartridge such that the arming pin can be located to prevent the barrier from being inflated. As illustrated in Figure 21, the cartridge may have a further safety mechanism 530 to minimise the risk of unintended deployment. Suitable safety mechanisms would be known in the art and may be locking pins or catches which block valve opening. As shown in Figure 19, to inhibit forward movement of the trigger when the arming pin 520 is inserted, the tube 500, can be formed out of a flexible material such as rubber. On insertion of the arming pin the tube becomes rigid. The indentation 510 in the tube 500 allows the trigger mechanism to be tightly held against the arming pin 520.

The handheld device 8 and mounted cartridge 300 together form a system according to the invention.

As shown in Figure 5, in a cutaway view of the device 8, under the handgrip 22, there is provided a hand air pump 100, suitably bellows or bulb which can be filled with air, which in use of the device can be moved by a user to provide air via a micro airline 102 to an air outlet 104. The air outlet 104 is fluidly connected to a piston assembly 116, wherein the air moves the piston against a return spring 108 moving a pneumatic safety catch within a pneumatic safety catch notch 112 from a locked to a deploy position. When the return spring is compressed, due to the piston movement from air movement into the micro air line 102, from compression of the hand air pump 100, the safety pneumatic safety catch is moved to an unlocked deploy position. When the return spring is released due to their being a lack of air movement into the micro air line 102, from no compression of the hand air pump 100, the safety pneumatic safety catch is moved to a locked position. This requires an operator (nurse) to hold the device via the handgrip should it be intended to inflate the protective barrier device.

As illustrated in more detail in Figure 6, the return spring holds the piston against the trigger mechanism preventing the trigger hammer from moving to a deploy position. \Mien the return spring is compressed, due to the piston movement from air movement into the micro air line 102, from compression of the hand air pump 100, the safety pneumatic safety catch is moved to an unlocked deploy position and this allows the trigger hammer to be moved via actuation of the trigger mechanism to a deploy position. As illustrated in Figure 6, a manual safety catch 30 can be moved from a manual safety catch first position 32 which stops the movement of the trigger hammer 16 via manual safety latch release 44 to a second position that allows the trigger hammer 16 to be moved to a deploy position when the trigger mechanism is moved to a deployed position.

As shown in Figures 27, 28 and 29, in an alternative embodiment under the handgrip 22, there is provided a mechanical safety mechanism which, in use of the device, can be moved by a user to bring first 540 and second 560 members together which in turn can move a cable 580 to allow release of a pressure safety catch 590 from a locked to a deploy position. Suitably for example a foam portion 570 or other suitably material can be positioned outwardly of the first and second member to allow the user to more easily grip the first and second members to allow them to be moved inwardly. When the cable is in a first position, due to the first and second members being in a first position, as they are biased apart from each other, the gas is inhibited from inflating the barrier; however pressure from a user gripping the device around the first 540 and second 560 members causes the first and second members to be moved together and in turn causes the cable 580 to be moved to a second position and a safety catch 590 to be moved to an unlocked deploy position. When the first and second members are released by the user, as there is no force provided to counteract the bias provided, for example by a leaf spring, butterfly spring or other mechanical arrangement, such as a biased pivot, and the first and second members move apart, wherein the safety catch is moved to a locked position. This requires an operator (nurse) to hold the device via the handgrip should it be intended to inflate the protective barrier device As illustrated in Figure 23 a different embodiment of the device may be provided which may be shorter from front to back. Such an embodiment may have a safety mechanism which can be released by a user's thumb. Such an embodiment may be attached to an operator via a holster arrangement. In an alternative embodiment, Figure 24 provides a device which is longer front to back and in which the front grip portion is differently arranged to be more central in the body of the device. Such an embodiment of the device may allow the device to be wielded more defensively and with greater force, for example in penal or military, or policing situations.

In a further embodiment of the device 1000, as illustrated in figures 33 to 35, the device has been developed in which the centre of gravity of the device and the pivot point of the trigger have been moved forward closer to the front of the device. This provides for a smaller device, for example which may be suited for those with smaller hands, such as ladies, and may be provided in a handbag or the like.

As illustrated in figures 33 and 34, this embodiment shows the use of a powered firing mechanism (electrically powered such that trigger actuation provides an electrical signal and can activate an electrical switch such as a micro switch and provide for inflation of a barrier member) wherein a power connection 1010 to activate the inflation of the cartridge is provided at the front of the device (where the inflatable barrier would extend away from the user following inflation) where the cartridge is fitted to the mounting plate.

In such an embodiment, a power supply, for example a battery 1015, may be provided within the handheld device (for example in the grip portion) to provide power to activate the inflation of the cartridge. Suitably the cartridge in a first uninflated size is around 5 cm to 6 cm in width and 15 to 18 cm in length.

As illustrated in figure 35, in an embodiment of the device, a power light or ready light 1020 is provided to show that the device can activate a cartridge. As discussed in relation to previous embodiments a manual safety catch 1030 is provided on the device, along with a rubber panel 1040 which the user can grip to action a safety catch. An arming pin 1060 is provided in the cartridge, wherein the arming pin can be removed and stored in the arming pin wallet 1070 when the device is to be used. The arming pin wallet can be formed from a stretchable fabric or material fixed to the cartridge wherein the fabric or material is arranged to form a pocket or recess and the pocket or recess having at least one open end into which an arming pin can be provided. The cartridge 1080 comprising the inflatable barrier is located on a mounting plate via back 1050 and front 1010 mounting portions. Suitably a battery located in the device may be charged and in embodiments a battery charging socket 1110 is located in a grip portion of the device.

In another embodiment, as illustrated in figure 36, a larger device can be provided in which the handheld device is around 30 cm to 36 cm in length and around 5 to 6 cm in width. This size would allow a larger inflatable portion to be used with the device. The larger inflatable portion may be formed from heavier material. In embodiments the large cartridge provides an inflatable barrier which when inflated can act as a door jam -for example blocking or inhibiting movement of a person, an object, or for example fire or smoke through a doorway. Suitably, the inflatable barrier may be sized to be about 700mm to 950mm in width to 2000mm to 2500mm in height such that it can be placed across a doorway. In embodiments the inflatable barrier may be sized about 900mm to 2400mm (about 3 feet by 8 feet) in width and height.

As illustrated in Figure 36, in such an embodiment of a device, a pressure pad portion (to provide a pneumatic safety mechanism) to be gripped by a second hand of a user to allow a safety catch to be released can be provided in a second grip portion of the device which allows the device to be held more securely in two hands.

As discussed, in previously described embodiments, the cartridge may include a cartridge arming pin. As described in other embodiments, the cartridge may be mounted onto the device. When the cartridge is mounted on the device, power may be provided to the cartridge via power contacts, for example as provided by mounting bars at the front of the device. It would be understood that power may be provided to the cartridge from the device by any suitable means. Suitably a handheld device can comprise female electrical connectors which can contact mail electrical connectors on a cartridge mounted on the handheld device such that an electrical signal can move from the handheld device to the cartridge such that a signal to cause inflation of a barrier member can be provided. As previously described the device can include a safety catch, trigger and second pressure sensitive safety mechanism. In figure 38 illustrated, the handheld device comprises a cartridge mounting plate 12, cartridge positioning ears 13, retaining catch 28 and other features as previously described, with the front mounting bar providing electrical contacts, for example female electrical contacts to allow connection to male electrical contacts provided on a cartridge to allow electrical connection from the handheld device to a mounted cartridge. The larger embodiment of the device provides a second grip portion which comprises at least two apertures 2000 and 2002 extending from a first side of the device to a second side of the device, wherein, in use, a first aperture allows a user's hand to extend through the device such that the palm of the user can come into contact with a central portion 2006 of the second grip and the user's fingers can extend around the central portion to allow a pressure sensitive safety mechanism to be depressed. The aperture or inset in the second grip portion allows the pressure sensitive safety catch 100 to be gripped by the user when holding the device.

The user's other hand can grip a first grip portion 22 and a finger or fingers of the user's other hand can be used to depress the trigger mechanism 14 as required. The requirement that the user's first and second hands must depress a trigger and pressure sensitive safety catch at the same time, inhibits the accidental activation or firing of the inflation mechanism 400 As illustrated in figure 44, suitable a power supply such as a battery 1015 is provided in a handheld device to allow an electrical trigger mechanism 24 to be used to allow activation of a cartridge mounted onto the device and electrically connected to the device via a power connection 1010 such that activation of the cartridge causes an inflatable barrier to be moved from a first non-inflated to a second inflated position.

An embodiment of a cartridge for use in the device is provided in Figure 39. In embodiments, the cartridge is designed to allow easy return of activated cartridges. As illustrated in figure 41 a cartridge return system can comprise an envelope 1500 which can include return address details. The envelope can include a box pleat 1510 which allows the envelope to be close around the cartridge and a glue line 1520 and stitching 1530 which can allow a part of the envelope to be folded out to form an overall cover and seal the cartridge inside the envelope to surround the used cartridge with the envelope. The spent cartridge is rolled up and placed inside the envelope via an opening 1540 with the spent inflation mechanism to allow return of the used cartridge. The envelope or a portion thereof may be formed from stretch material. Suitably the spent inflatable portion of the protective barrier can be used to form the envelope 2000 to return the cartridge and sealed using a glue line 2010 as illustrated in Figure 42. In such an embodiment the return details are provided on the inflatable bag such that the inflatable portion can wrap around the inflation mechanism and allow the used cartridge to be returned for refilling to allow it be activated. In embodiments, the inflatable portion can include inverted pleats 2020 which enable the formation of end caps of the wrapping around the inflation mechanism before sealing using a glue line 2010 to allow the wrapping to be provided around the inflation mechanism. Suitably, in use, the inflation mechanism may be wrapped by the inflatable barrier to allow the return of the cartridge in under 5 minutes, under 2 minutes, under 1 minute. Suitably the simplicity of wrapping the inflation mechanism with the inflatable barrier allows for increased speed of preparing the used cartridge for dispatch to allow it to be repacked, recharged, and / or recycled.

In embodiments the handheld device can comprise a trigger mechanism that interacts with the cartridge at the portion of the cartridge toward the front of the device (at the portion of the device which in use is towards an end of the handheld device furthest from the user). In such an embodiment the trigger can directly interact with the inflation mechanism (gas cartridge) to allow activation of the inflation mechanism. In such an embodiment (a long trigger embodiment), as illustrated in figures 60 to 62 the trigger mechanism may comprise a first end which is actuated by the user of the device, a second end which in use can be brought into contact with an inflation barrier and an elongate portion that extends between the first and second ends. Suitably the trigger mechanism may be fixed to the mounting plate by one or more brackets, wherein the one or more brackets support the trigger mechanism along the elongate portion. In such an embodiment, movement of the trigger mechanism from a first position to a second position causes the first end when actuated by a user to move within a trigger slot, the elongate portion to move in the one or more brackets and a second end of the trigger mechanism to come into contact with an inflation causing portion, for example pressurised gas container or inflation fluid or the like to cause inflation of the protective barrier. Suitably in such an embodiment, the device can also include one or more safety catches, for example pneumatic safety catch, mechanical actuated arms safety catch, arming pin to prevent movement of the trigger mechanism, safety catch as discussed herein to prevent movement of trigger mechanism.

As illustrated in figures 60 and 61, in a long trigger embodiment, the inflation causing portion of the cartridge may be activated at the front of the device (at the portion of the device which in use is towards an end of the handheld device furthest from the user). In such an embodiment the features of the cartridge will require to be move moved -for example provided in a reverse orientation.

The subject of the present disclosure has been described with reference to preferred embodiments thereof. It is understood that other embodiments might exist, all falling within the concept of the same invention and comprised within the scope of the claims hereinafter.

Claims (20)

1. Claims 1 A personal protection system comprising a first portion comprising at least one protective barrier member which can be deployed by inflation, and a second portion comprising a handheld device, the at least one protective barrier being mountable on the handheld device, wherein the protective barrier is movable from a stored position to a deployed position.
2. 2 The personal protection device system of claim 1 wherein a second portion comprising the handheld device is reusable and a first portion is disposable, optionally wherein the first portion is recyclable.
3. 3 A personal protection device system of claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the device is required to be held by an operator using two hands to enable deployment of the protective barrier, optionally wherein a first hand of a user is required to depress a first portion of the device and a second hand of the user is required to actuate a trigger mechanism at a second portion of the device to deploy the protective barrier.
4. 4 A personal protection device system of any preceding claims wherein the device comprises at least one inflatable protective barrier, wherein the at least protective barrier comprises front and rear inflatable barrier elements.
5. 5. A personal protection device system of claim 1 wherein front and rear inflatable barrier elements are inflated in a particular order.
6. 6. A personal protection device system of any one of the preceding claims wherein the protective barrier, when deployed in use, extends from the handheld device towards the operator to create a support (stock) between the handheld device and the operator.
7. 7. A personal protection device system of any one of the preceding claims wherein the protective barrier extends from the handheld device towards the operator to create a support (stock) between the handheld device and the operator and forward of the handheld device to form a protective barrier.
8. 8 A cartridge for use in a system of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the cartridge comprises at least one inflatable protective barrier and a pressurised gas or inflation fluid.
9. 9 A cartridge of claim 8 wherein the cartridge further comprises a gas inlet port wherein the gas inlet port is in fluid connection with the at least one inflatable protective barrier and a source of gas under pressure or an inflation fluid wherein the gas inlet port can be moved from a first position to a second position, wherein in use when the gas inlet port is moved from a first to a second position, gas can move from the source of gas under pressure or the inflation fluid into the inflatable barrier and the inflatable protective barrier is caused to move from a first deflated position to a second inflated position.
10. 10. A handheld device for use in the system of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the device comprises a cartridge receiving portion wherein the cartridge receiving portion is configured to receive a cartridge comprising pressurised gas or inflation fluid or propellant and an inflatable protective barrier.
11. 11. The handheld device of claim 10 wherein the cartridge receiving portion allows a cartridge comprising pressurised gas or inflation fluid or propellant and an inflatable protective barrier to be mounted onto the device.
12. 12. The handheld device of claim 10 wherein the cartridge receiving portion allows a cartridge comprising pressurised gas or inflation fluid or propellant and an inflatable protective barrier to be mounted into the device.
13. 13. A system, cartridge or device of any one preceding claim wherein the protective barrier when moved to a second inflated position is about 36 -38 inches (91 -97 cm) in length, and 5-8 inches (12 -21 cm) wide.
14. 14. A system, cartridge or device of any one preceding claim wherein the protective barrier when moved to a second inflated position is about 10 -12 inches (25-6 cm) high, 36-38 inches long (91 -97 cm), and about 8 toll inches (21 -28 cm) wide.
15. 15. A system, cartridge or device of any one preceding claim wherein the protective barrier, when moved to a second inflated position, comprises a rearwardly directed inflatable barrier element that is about 14-16 inches (35 -41 cm) in length from the trigger of the device towards the shoulder of the user.
16. 16. A system, cartridge or device of any one preceding claim comprising multiple safety mechanisms to inhibit accidental or non-intended deployment of the protective inflatable barrier.
17. 17. A system, cartridge or device of any one preceding claim comprising a safety mechanism for ensuring grip of the device and a separate trigger mechanism to ensure that device is not activated by accident wherein at least two mechanisms require to be actuated to minimise the risk of non-intended deployment.
18. 18. A system, cartridge or device of any one preceding claim comprising a pneumatic safety mechanism.
19. 19. A system, cartridge or device of any one preceding claim comprising a safety mechanism wherein at least two members are spaced a first distance apart and can be moved towards each other by a user, wherein when the members are moved toward each other they allow the activation of a trigger mechanism to allow inflation of the protective barrier.
20. 20. A method of using a system of any of claims 1 to 7 or 13 to 19 wherein the method comprises: - holding the handheld device with one hand on a first safety mechanism for example a hand air bulb or mechanical mechanism comprising at least two members spaced apart from each other, - holding the handheld device with one hand to move the trigger mechanism, - moving the trigger mechanism to a deployed position, - inflating an inflatable protective barrier from a non deployed position to a deployed position