US20100251467A1 - Neck brace - Google Patents
Neck brace Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20100251467A1 US20100251467A1 US12/669,792 US66979208A US2010251467A1 US 20100251467 A1 US20100251467 A1 US 20100251467A1 US 66979208 A US66979208 A US 66979208A US 2010251467 A1 US2010251467 A1 US 2010251467A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- neck brace
- brake
- impact
- component
- wearer
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- LNOHWPPJDVDDJZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N C=C1C(C2)C2CC1 Chemical compound C=C1C(C2)C2CC1 LNOHWPPJDVDDJZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D13/00—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches
- A41D13/05—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches protecting only a particular body part
- A41D13/0512—Neck or shoulders area
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A42—HEADWEAR
- A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
- A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
- A42B3/04—Parts, details or accessories of helmets
- A42B3/0406—Accessories for helmets
- A42B3/0473—Neck restraints
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F5/00—Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
- A61F5/01—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces
- A61F5/04—Devices for stretching or reducing fractured limbs; Devices for distractions; Splints
- A61F5/05—Devices for stretching or reducing fractured limbs; Devices for distractions; Splints for immobilising
- A61F5/055—Cervical collars
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D2600/00—Uses of garments specially adapted for specific purposes
- A41D2600/10—Uses of garments specially adapted for specific purposes for sport activities
- A41D2600/102—Motorcycling
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S128/00—Surgery
- Y10S128/23—Cervical collars
Definitions
- This invention generally relates to protective equipment for inhibiting neck injuries while wearing a helmet, and more particularly, to a neck brace.
- a device in the form of a neck brace is disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/ZA04/00148, which is intended to be worn around the neck and to receive impact loads from the bottom edge of a full face helmet and to transfer these loads to the wearer's body along a load path.
- the main purpose of this earlier neck brace is to inhibit excessive movement of the helmet and thus of the wearer's head during impact, e.g. during a collision in motor sport.
- the disclosure and contents of International Patent Application No. PCT/ZA04/00148 is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
- the neck brace described in PCT/ZA04/00148 was designed to inhibit head and neck movement as little as possible during normal operation and it has largely achieved that purpose. However, in some exceptional cases, notably in high speed road motorcycling, the wearer needs to tilt his head more severely during normal operation than what is allowed by this earlier neck brace, typically to achieve higher aerodynamics.
- a neck brace comprises at least one impact surface which, when the brace is used with a helmet, limits movement of the helmet by contacting an underside of the helmet; at least one bearing surface shaped and configured for bearing on the body of a wearer of the brace; and a structure that extends between the impact surface and the bearing surface, the structure being sufficiently resilient to transfer impact loads of the helmet on the impact surface to the wearer's body, wherein at least part of the impact surface is displaceable towards an adjacent part of the bearing surface, and wherein the structure comprises at least one selective brake configured to permit the displacement and to selectively resist the displacement.
- FIG. 1 is a three dimensional perspective view of a neck brace in accordance with embodiments of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a side view of the neck brace of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a three dimensional view of the neck brace of FIG. 1 , taken from the front at an oblique angle;
- FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the impact brake element of the neck brace of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the impact brake element of the neck brace of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the impact brake element of the neck brace of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 5 is a sectional view of part of the neck brace of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 6A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 6B is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 6C is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 6D is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 6E is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 6F is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is a side view of a second embodiment of a neck brace in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 8A is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake element of the neck brace of FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 8B is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake element of the neck brace of FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 8C is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake element of the neck brace of FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 8D is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake element of the neck brace of FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 8E is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake element of the neck brace of FIG. 7 .
- Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to a neck brace for use with a helmet, such as a full face helmet.
- the neck brace comprises at least one impact surface which, when the brace is used with a helmet, which limits movement of the helmet by contacting an underside of the helmet, at least one bearing surface configured for bearing on the body of a wearer of the brace; and a structure that extends between the impact surface and the bearing surface.
- the structure is sufficiently resilient to transfer impact loads of the helmet on the impact surface to the wearer's body, and comprises part thereof that is displaceable towards an adjacent part of the bearing surface.
- the structure further comprises at least one brake configured to permit the displacement and to selectively resist the displacement.
- the structure may be configured to permit displacement at rates slower than a predetermined rate of displacement and to resist displacement if the rate of displacement exceeds the predetermined rate. Furthermore, the structure may be configured to resist said displacement in the event of an impact.
- impact refers to a situation when the neck brace, the wearer, the helmet and/or equipment such as a vehicle used by the wearer experiences rapid acceleration or deceleration. The term “impact” in this context does thus not necessarily refer to something making contact with the neck brace.
- the impact brake element comprises a first component which defines a first brake surface, and a second component which defines a second brake surface.
- the second brake surface is displaceable relative to said first component when said displaceable part is displaced relative to the remainder of said neck brace, said first and second braking surfaces extending at an acute angle relative to each other.
- the neck brace may further comprise at least one lock element disposed between said first and second brake surfaces.
- the lock element is configured to allow movement between said first and second components at rates lower than a predetermined rate and to engage said first and second brake surfaces in a taper lock, when displacement between said two components occurs at a rate exceeding said predetermined rate.
- the first embodiment of a neck brace in accordance with the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral 10 .
- the neck brace 10 includes a front section 12 and a rear section 14 which may be secured together at lateral hinge connectors 16 to form a ring that can extend around the neck of a wearer.
- the front section 12 is U-shaped in plan view and includes a top flange 20 defining part of a generally upwardly facing impact surface 30 that can receive impact loads from the bottom of a full face helmet worn by the wearer, a bottom flange 22 defining a cushioned chest bearing surface 44 that is configured to bear on the wearer's chest, and a structure in the form of a wall 24 that extends between the top and bottom flanges to transfer the impact loads from the helmet to the wearer's body.
- the rear section 14 is also U-shaped in plan view and includes a top flange 52 that is generally a continuation of the top flange 20 of the front section, with an upwardly facing impact surface 30 , and bottom flange 54 that is generally a continuation of the bottom flange 22 and that defines padded shoulder bearing surfaces 88 where it is configured to bear on the shoulders of the wearer.
- a structure in the form of a wall 66 extends between the top flange 52 and the bottom flange 54 .
- the rear section further includes two bars 68 that each extends from the rear of the bottom flange 54 along the upper back of the wearer with a padded back bearing surface 72 for bearing on the back of the wearer.
- top flanges 20 and 52 The purpose of the top flanges 20 and 52 is to limit movement of the wearer's helmet during impact, e.g. during high speed motor sport accidents, by contacting the underside of the helmet with the impact surface 30 and transferring the impact load to the wearer's body via the chest, shoulder and back bearing surfaces 44 , 88 , 72 to reduce the risk of injury to the neck and upper spine of the wearer.
- a rear part of the top flange 52 is pivotally connected to the remainder of the rear section 14 at pivotal joints 90 , so that it forms a rear displaceable part 92 that can pivot downwards towards the upper back of the wearer, i.e. towards the shoulder and/or back bearing surfaces 88 , 72 .
- Two impact brake elements 94 extend between the displaceable part 92 and each of the bars 68 , to permit at least some pivotal movement in the joints 90 , as well as to inhibit undesirable pivotal movement, as described in more detail below.
- Pivot joints 90 may be configured to permit pivotal, as well as sliding displacement of displaceable part 92 relative to the remainder of neck brace 10 .
- a front part of the top flange 20 is pivotally connected to the remainder of the front section 12 at pivotal joints 96 , so that it forms a front displaceable part 98 that can pivot downwards towards the chest of the wearer, i.e. towards the chest bearing surface 44 .
- the pivotal joints 96 are configured to allow the rear ends of the displaceable part 98 to slide rearwards relative to the remainder of the front section 12 to allow the displaceable part to slide rearwards and/or pivot downwards.
- Two impact brake elements 100 extend between the displaceable part 98 and lateral locations on the bottom flange 22 to permit at least some pivotal and/or sliding movement in the joints 96 , as well as to inhibit undesirable pivotal and/or sliding movement, as described in more detail below.
- the impact brake element comprises a first component which defines a first brake surface, and a second component which defines a second brake surface.
- each of the impact brake elements 94 , 100 include a first component in the form of an outer cylindrical sleeve 102 which defines a first, cylindrical brake surface 104 on the inside of the sleeve, and a second component in the form of an frusto-conical elongate probe 106 , most of which is receivable inside the sleeve and which is longitudinally (i.e. axially) displaceable relative to the sleeve.
- the probe 106 has an elongate protuberance 108 at its upper end that protrudes outside the sleeve 102 by a degree that varies depending on the position of the probe inside the sleeve.
- the probe 106 defines an annular recess 110 on its circumference, with a second, tapered (i.e. frusto-conical) brake surface 112 defined on the inner circumference of the annular recess.
- annular recess i.e. the tapered brake surface 12
- tapered brake surface 12 The inner circumference of the annular recess (i.e. the tapered brake surface 12 ) is tapered at a relatively small angle with the result that the recess is not strictly “annular” in shape, but for the purposes of this description, the term “annular” is to be interpreted to include an annulus with a slightly tapered inner wall.
- a number of lock elements in the form of balls 114 are held captive inside the annular recess 110 by the wall of the sleeve 102 , i.e. between the cylindrical and tapered brake surfaces 104 , 112 .
- the brake element 94 , 100 is shaped and dimensioned such that the balls 14 fit inside the recess 110 with a slight clearance at the wider, lower end of the recess, such that the balls fit inside the recess with an interference fit higher in the recess.
- the impact brake element 94 , 100 is shown in FIG. 4A in a fully extended condition, with the protuberance 108 extending far outside the top of the sleeve 102 .
- a compression coil spring 118 is provided inside the sleeve 102 , below the probe 106 , to urge the probe upwardly towards its fully extended position.
- the lower end of the sleeve 102 is attached to the bottom flange 22 or one of the bars 68 , as the case may be, and the top end of the protuberance 108 can be attached to the relevant displaceable part 92 , 98 or can simply be positioned so that the underside of the displaceable part can press longitudinally against the end of the protuberance.
- the balls 114 are held at the lower end of the recess 110 by gravity and there is thus a clearance between the balls and the respective braking surfaces 104 , 112 , so that the sliding movement can continue without interference.
- the inertia of the balls 114 cause them not to follow the rapid downward movement of the probe at the same rate, with the result that the balls slide upwardly relative to the recess 110 (because the probe and balls are sliding downwardly at different rates).
- the circumference of the tapered brake surface 112 is wider and the balls are urged outwardly by the tapered brake surface to become locked between the tapered and cylindrical brake surfaces 112 , 104 in a taper lock.
- the dimensions and particularly the tolerances and clearances of the balls 114 and brake surfaces 104 , 112 can be dimensioned to allow downward movement of the probe 106 relative to the sleeve 102 without interference if the rate of relative movement between the probe and the sleeve is below a predetermined rate and to activate the taper lock as described herein above, when the rate of relative movement of the probe into the sleeve exceeds the predetermined rate.
- the balls 114 are biased downwardly towards the wider end of the annular recess 110 by gravity. It is possible to enhance this bias or to replace it by using another biasing element such as a flexible element in the annular recess 110 that presses against the balls 114 .
- the head in use, when a wearer needs to tilt his head far backwards, e.g. when a motorcyclist is tucking into an aerodynamic position on the motorcycle and needs to get his torso as low as possible on the motorcycle, the head can be tilted backwards at a moderate (safe) rate.
- the bottom edge of the motorcyclist's helmet presses the rear displaceable part 92 to pivot downwardly at a rate lower than a predetermined rate, while pressing the probes of the rear impact brake elements 94 into their respective sleeves without interference, as described above with reference to FIG. 4B . If the rider tilts his head forward again, the impact brake elements 94 are extended by their coil springs 118 and the rear displaceable part 92 pivots upwards.
- the downward impact of the bottom of the helmet on the rear displaceable part 92 will cause the rapid downward movement of the displaceable part and of the probes 106 , at a rate that is higher than the predetermined rate.
- the downward movement of the probes relative to the sleeves 102 will be stopped by the taper lock as described above, with reference to FIG. 4C .
- the result is that the impact load from the helmet is transferred from the displaceable part 92 along a load path via the locked rear impact brake elements 94 to the bars 68 and thus to the rider's body. This inhibits excessive head movement and reduces the risk of injury to the rider's neck and upper spine.
- the front displaceable part 98 that can be pivoted downwardly and slid rearwards at rates lower than a predetermined rate by a pressing the bottom edge of the helmet against the front displaceable part.
- the front displaceable part 98 will be pressed towards the wearer's chest at a rate exceeding the predetermined rate.
- the front impact brake elements 100 will be locked by their taper lock and will transfer the impact load along a load path from the helmet and displaceable part 98 to the chest bearing surface 44 and to the chest of the rider, to inhibit excessive head movement and to reduce the risk of injury to the rider's neck and upper spine.
- the neck brace 10 has the further advantage that the provision of two bars 68 spaced from the center of the wearer's back allows the brace to be worn comfortably with clothing such as motorcycling apparel that includes an aerodynamic protuberance or “hump” on the wearer's back, for preventing a vacuum behind the wearer's helmet at high speed.
- the front bottom flange 22 defines a recess 116 which allows the wearer easy access to zippers or the like, that is often positioned centrally on the front of garments such as motorcycling apparel and/or to prevent discomfort by pressing on such zippers or the like.
- FIGS. 6A to 6F alternative embodiments of impact brake elements are shown that can be used in the neck brace 10 , instead of the impact brake elements 94 , 100 shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C .
- the same reference numerals are used in different embodiments of the impact brake elements, for features common to those shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C .
- the arcuate shape of the probe 106 and sleeve 102 allows the brake element to be fixedly attached to pivoting parts (the bars 68 and rear displaceable part 92 ) of the neck brace 10 , without a need for pivotal attachment as shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C .
- the impact brake element 94 , 100 of FIG. 6B includes a cylindrical sleeve 102 and a cylindrical probe 106 and a magnetic particle charged fluid 120 inside the sleeve.
- the probe 106 may slide axially inside the sleeve 102 while the fluid 120 flows around the lower end of the probe.
- the sleeve 102 is provided with electrodes 122 that are configured to apply an electrical charge to the fluid 120 that increases the viscosity of the fluid so that it cannot flow around the lower end of the probe 106 at the same rate.
- the probe 106 is allowed to slide up and down inside the sleeve 102 , but in the event of an impact, which could be determined in a variety of manners, including mechanical and/or electronic instruments or switches, a change is applied to the fluid 120 via the electrodes 122 and movement of the probe 106 into the sleeve 102 is inhibited by the higher viscosity of the fluid, to prevent the probe from sliding into the sleeve at a rate higher than a predetermined rate.
- the charge applied by the electrodes 122 and thus the extent to which movement of the probe 106 into the sleeve 102 is dampened, can also be variably controlled, if required.
- the impact brake element 94 , 100 of FIG. 6C includes a cylindrical sleeve 102 and a cylindrical probe 106 .
- the lower end of the probe 106 forms a top piston 124 that may slide inside the sleeve 102 with clearance and that is submerged in oil 121 .
- a bottom piston 126 seals against the inside of the sleeve 102 , with the oil held above the bottom piston and an air pocket 127 maintained below the bottom piston.
- the air pocket 127 is compressible and performs the same function as the coil spring 118 shown in FIGS.
- the oil 121 may slide through the clearance between the top piston 124 and the sleeve 102 at a rate limited by the viscosity of the oil and the size of the clearance, so that the oil acts as a damper, allowing sliding movement of the probe 106 relative to the sleeve, but limiting the maximum rate of the sliding movement, thus resisting sliding movement if it exceeds a predetermined rate.
- the impact brake element 94 , 100 of FIG. 6D includes a cylindrical sleeve 102 and a cylindrical probe 106 with a compression coil spring 118 inside the sleeve, functioning in the same way as their counterparts shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C .
- a displaceable catch 128 is provided in wall of the sleeve 102 and a number of axially spaced recesses 130 are defined along the length of the probe 106 , in which the catch may be received, in part. In use, the catch 128 remains in a retracted position as shown in FIG. 6D and the probe 106 is free to slide inside the sleeve 102 , against compression of the spring 118 .
- the catch 128 is urged (with suitable means such as a released spring, solenoid, etc.) inwardly and engages the first of the recesses 130 with which it comes into alignment, to lock the probe 106 against further sliding relative to the sleeve 102 .
- the impact brake element 94 , 100 of FIG. 6E is identical to that of FIG. 6D , except that instead of multiple recess 130 , the lower edge of the probe 106 acts as a recess in that the catch 128 is not received in part in a recess when it is activated, but engages the lower end of the probe and prevents the probe from sliding downwards past the catch. Accordingly, unlike the brake element of FIG. 6D that can be locked at various lockout positions, the brake element of FIG. 6E can only be locked out at a single (absolute) position.
- the impact brake element 94 , 100 of FIG. 6F includes a cylindrical sleeve 102 and a cylindrical probe 106 and inside the sleeve, below the lower end of the probe, there is a small pyrotechnic charge 132 .
- the probe 106 can slide relative to the sleeve 102 and in the event of an impact, the charge 132 is detonated and expanding gasses from the detonation causes the probe to be pushed upwards relative to the sleeve.
- FIG. 7 the second embodiment of a neck brace in accordance with the present invention is shown and parts that are common between this neck brace and the neck brace 10 shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 , are identified by the same reference numerals with a suffix “ 0 . 2 ”.
- the neck brace 10 . 2 is identical to the neck brace 10 shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 , except that the pivot joint 90 and rear impact brake elements 94 are replaced by a cylindrical pivot structure 134 on each side of the neck brace 10 . 2 .
- Cylindrical pivot structures 134 connect the rear displaceable part 92 . 2 to the rest of the rear section 14 . 2 .
- Each pivot structure 134 has a cylindrical housing 136 with impact brake elements 94 . 2 inside the housing, which serve the same function as the impact brake elements of the embodiments of the invention described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6 , of allowing pivotal movement between the displaceable part and the rest of the rear section of the neck brace during normal use and inhibiting such pivotal movement in the case of an impact.
- the impact brake elements include a body 138 that can rotate inside the housing 136 to allow pivotal movement.
- the housing 136 can be connected to the rest of the rear part 14 . 2 of the neck brace 10 . 2 and the body 138 can be connected to the rear displaceable part 92 . 2 , or vice versa.
- the impact brake elements 94 . 2 of FIG. 8A has a body 138 with an outer profile that defines tapered recesses 110 . 2 in which balls 114 . 2 are housed with clearance to allow free pivoting movement at low rates.
- the inertia of the balls 114 . 2 causes them to move slower than the body 138 , so that they move towards the narrower parts of their respective recesses 110 . 2 and engage the inside of the housing 136 , and the tapered surface of the recess, which act as brake surfaces, to lock the body and housing against further pivotal movement, in a taper lock.
- This mechanism is effectively a rotational equivalent of the impact brake elements 94 shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C .
- the impact brake element 94 . 2 of FIG. 8B has a body 138 with an outer profile that defines a recess 130 . 2 and a catch 128 . 2 that is connected to the housing 136 and is radially displaceable.
- the catch 128 . 2 is normally in a retracted position in which it is clear from the circumference of the body 138 , to allow pivotal movement.
- the catch 128 . 2 is activated, e.g. by releasing a spring or with a solenoid, to slide radially inwardly so that its end engages the recess 130 . 2 and locks the body 138 against rotation relative to the housing 136 .
- the catch 128 . 2 needs to be aligned with the recess 130 . 2 before it can engage it and the body 138 will typically be allowed to rotate until the catch and recess are aligned.
- the impact brake elements of FIG. 8C are identical to those of FIG. 8B , except that a number of circumferentially spaced recesses 130 . 2 are defined in the body 138 .
- the body 138 only needs to rotate through a small angle before the catch is aligned with one of the recesses 130 . 2 .
- the end of the catch 128 . 2 and the recess 130 . 2 can be shaped at an angle, to allow the catch to engage the recesses in a ratchet fashion, when the catch has been activated and thus to allow upward pivoting of the rear displaceable part 92 . 2 , but not downward pivoting.
- FIGS. 8D and 8E are functionally identical to those of FIGS. 8B and 8C , respectively, with the only difference that the respective catches 128 . 2 are displaceable in axial directions, rather than radial directions, relative to the respective bodies 138 .
- Suitable impact brake elements can operate by linear displacement and/or rotation, can operate as a result of its inherent geometry, can operate using built-in or external trigger mechanisms, can have absolute or variable lockout positions, and the like.
Abstract
A neck brace comprising an impact surface which that can limit movement of a helmet by contacting an underside of the helmet. The neck brace further comprises at least one bearing surface configured for bearing on the body of a wearer, and a structure extending between the impact surface and the bearing surfaces configured to transfer impact loads of the helmet on the impact surface to the wearer's body. A part of the impact surface is displaceable towards the wearer's body and the structure is configured to permit the displacement at rates slower than a predetermined rate, as well as to resist displacement if the rate exceeds the predetermined rate.
Description
- This application is a national stage application under 35 USC §371 (c) of International Application No. PCT/IB2008/052880, entitled “NECK BRACE,” filed on Jul. 17, 2008, which claims priority from U.S. application Ser. No. 11/778,840, entitled “NECK BRACE,” filed on Jul. 17, 2007. The entire disclosure and contents of the above applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- This invention generally relates to protective equipment for inhibiting neck injuries while wearing a helmet, and more particularly, to a neck brace.
- 2. Related Art
- A device in the form of a neck brace is disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/ZA04/00148, which is intended to be worn around the neck and to receive impact loads from the bottom edge of a full face helmet and to transfer these loads to the wearer's body along a load path. The main purpose of this earlier neck brace is to inhibit excessive movement of the helmet and thus of the wearer's head during impact, e.g. during a collision in motor sport. The disclosure and contents of International Patent Application No. PCT/ZA04/00148 is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
- The neck brace described in PCT/ZA04/00148 was designed to inhibit head and neck movement as little as possible during normal operation and it has largely achieved that purpose. However, in some exceptional cases, notably in high speed road motorcycling, the wearer needs to tilt his head more severely during normal operation than what is allowed by this earlier neck brace, typically to achieve higher aerodynamics.
- In one aspect of the present invention, a neck brace is provided. The neck brace comprises at least one impact surface which, when the brace is used with a helmet, limits movement of the helmet by contacting an underside of the helmet; at least one bearing surface shaped and configured for bearing on the body of a wearer of the brace; and a structure that extends between the impact surface and the bearing surface, the structure being sufficiently resilient to transfer impact loads of the helmet on the impact surface to the wearer's body, wherein at least part of the impact surface is displaceable towards an adjacent part of the bearing surface, and wherein the structure comprises at least one selective brake configured to permit the displacement and to selectively resist the displacement.
- Illustrative embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a three dimensional perspective view of a neck brace in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a side view of the neck brace ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a three dimensional view of the neck brace ofFIG. 1 , taken from the front at an oblique angle; -
FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the impact brake element of the neck brace ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the impact brake element of the neck brace ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the impact brake element of the neck brace ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5 is a sectional view of part of the neck brace ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; -
FIG. 6B is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; -
FIG. 6C is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; -
FIG. 6D is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; -
FIG. 6E is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; -
FIG. 6F is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; -
FIG. 7 is a side view of a second embodiment of a neck brace in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 8A is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake element of the neck brace ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 8B is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake element of the neck brace ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 8C is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake element of the neck brace ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 8D is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake element of the neck brace ofFIG. 7 ; and -
FIG. 8E is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of an impact brake element of the neck brace ofFIG. 7 . - Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to a neck brace for use with a helmet, such as a full face helmet. The neck brace comprises at least one impact surface which, when the brace is used with a helmet, which limits movement of the helmet by contacting an underside of the helmet, at least one bearing surface configured for bearing on the body of a wearer of the brace; and a structure that extends between the impact surface and the bearing surface. The structure is sufficiently resilient to transfer impact loads of the helmet on the impact surface to the wearer's body, and comprises part thereof that is displaceable towards an adjacent part of the bearing surface. The structure further comprises at least one brake configured to permit the displacement and to selectively resist the displacement.
- In embodiments of the present invention, the structure may be configured to permit displacement at rates slower than a predetermined rate of displacement and to resist displacement if the rate of displacement exceeds the predetermined rate. Furthermore, the structure may be configured to resist said displacement in the event of an impact. In this context, “impact” refers to a situation when the neck brace, the wearer, the helmet and/or equipment such as a vehicle used by the wearer experiences rapid acceleration or deceleration. The term “impact” in this context does thus not necessarily refer to something making contact with the neck brace.
- In certain embodiments of the present invention, the impact brake element comprises a first component which defines a first brake surface, and a second component which defines a second brake surface. The second brake surface is displaceable relative to said first component when said displaceable part is displaced relative to the remainder of said neck brace, said first and second braking surfaces extending at an acute angle relative to each other. In such embodiments, the neck brace may further comprise at least one lock element disposed between said first and second brake surfaces. The lock element is configured to allow movement between said first and second components at rates lower than a predetermined rate and to engage said first and second brake surfaces in a taper lock, when displacement between said two components occurs at a rate exceeding said predetermined rate.
- Referring to
FIGS. 1 to 5 , the first embodiment of a neck brace in accordance with the present invention is generally indicated byreference numeral 10. - The
neck brace 10 includes afront section 12 and arear section 14 which may be secured together atlateral hinge connectors 16 to form a ring that can extend around the neck of a wearer. Thefront section 12 is U-shaped in plan view and includes atop flange 20 defining part of a generally upwardly facingimpact surface 30 that can receive impact loads from the bottom of a full face helmet worn by the wearer, abottom flange 22 defining a cushionedchest bearing surface 44 that is configured to bear on the wearer's chest, and a structure in the form of awall 24 that extends between the top and bottom flanges to transfer the impact loads from the helmet to the wearer's body. - The
rear section 14 is also U-shaped in plan view and includes atop flange 52 that is generally a continuation of thetop flange 20 of the front section, with an upwardly facingimpact surface 30, andbottom flange 54 that is generally a continuation of thebottom flange 22 and that defines padded shoulder bearing surfaces 88 where it is configured to bear on the shoulders of the wearer. A structure in the form of awall 66 extends between thetop flange 52 and thebottom flange 54. The rear section further includes twobars 68 that each extends from the rear of thebottom flange 54 along the upper back of the wearer with a padded back bearingsurface 72 for bearing on the back of the wearer. - The purpose of the
top flanges impact surface 30 and transferring the impact load to the wearer's body via the chest, shoulder and back bearingsurfaces - Apart from the provision of two
bars 68 instead of one, the features of theneck brace 10 that have been described thus far, are substantially similar to the corresponding features of the earlier neck brace described in International Patent Application No. PCT/ZA04/000148, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Similar reference numerals have also been used in the present description, for ease of reference to said earlier international patent application. - Referring further to
FIGS. 1 to 3 and as can best be seen inFIG. 5 , in the illustrative embodiments of the present invention a rear part of thetop flange 52 is pivotally connected to the remainder of therear section 14 atpivotal joints 90, so that it forms a reardisplaceable part 92 that can pivot downwards towards the upper back of the wearer, i.e. towards the shoulder and/or back bearingsurfaces impact brake elements 94 extend between thedisplaceable part 92 and each of thebars 68, to permit at least some pivotal movement in thejoints 90, as well as to inhibit undesirable pivotal movement, as described in more detail below. Pivot joints 90 may be configured to permit pivotal, as well as sliding displacement ofdisplaceable part 92 relative to the remainder ofneck brace 10. - Similarly, a front part of the
top flange 20 is pivotally connected to the remainder of thefront section 12 atpivotal joints 96, so that it forms a frontdisplaceable part 98 that can pivot downwards towards the chest of the wearer, i.e. towards thechest bearing surface 44. In addition, thepivotal joints 96 are configured to allow the rear ends of thedisplaceable part 98 to slide rearwards relative to the remainder of thefront section 12 to allow the displaceable part to slide rearwards and/or pivot downwards. Twoimpact brake elements 100 extend between thedisplaceable part 98 and lateral locations on thebottom flange 22 to permit at least some pivotal and/or sliding movement in thejoints 96, as well as to inhibit undesirable pivotal and/or sliding movement, as described in more detail below. - As noted, in certain embodiments of the present invention, the impact brake element comprises a first component which defines a first brake surface, and a second component which defines a second brake surface. Referring to
FIGS. 4A to 4C , each of theimpact brake elements cylindrical sleeve 102 which defines a first,cylindrical brake surface 104 on the inside of the sleeve, and a second component in the form of an frusto-conicalelongate probe 106, most of which is receivable inside the sleeve and which is longitudinally (i.e. axially) displaceable relative to the sleeve. Theprobe 106 has anelongate protuberance 108 at its upper end that protrudes outside thesleeve 102 by a degree that varies depending on the position of the probe inside the sleeve. Theprobe 106 defines anannular recess 110 on its circumference, with a second, tapered (i.e. frusto-conical)brake surface 112 defined on the inner circumference of the annular recess. - The inner circumference of the annular recess (i.e. the tapered brake surface 12) is tapered at a relatively small angle with the result that the recess is not strictly “annular” in shape, but for the purposes of this description, the term “annular” is to be interpreted to include an annulus with a slightly tapered inner wall.
- A number of lock elements in the form of
balls 114 are held captive inside theannular recess 110 by the wall of thesleeve 102, i.e. between the cylindrical and tapered brake surfaces 104,112. Thebrake element balls 14 fit inside therecess 110 with a slight clearance at the wider, lower end of the recess, such that the balls fit inside the recess with an interference fit higher in the recess. - The
impact brake element FIG. 4A in a fully extended condition, with theprotuberance 108 extending far outside the top of thesleeve 102. Acompression coil spring 118 is provided inside thesleeve 102, below theprobe 106, to urge the probe upwardly towards its fully extended position. The lower end of thesleeve 102 is attached to thebottom flange 22 or one of thebars 68, as the case may be, and the top end of theprotuberance 108 can be attached to the relevantdisplaceable part - Each of the
impact brake elements coil spring 118, but as the relevantdisplaceable part brace 10, it presses theprobe 106 towards thesleeve 102, to slide further inside the sleeve against the bias of the spring. - Referring to
FIG. 4B , if theprobe 106 is caused to slide longitudinally downwardly into the sleeve at a relative low rate, theballs 114 are held at the lower end of therecess 110 by gravity and there is thus a clearance between the balls and the respective braking surfaces 104,112, so that the sliding movement can continue without interference. - However, referring to
FIG. 4C , if theprobe 106 is caused to slide longitudinally downwardly into thesleeve 102 at a relative high rate, e.g. under an impact load, the inertia of theballs 114 cause them not to follow the rapid downward movement of the probe at the same rate, with the result that the balls slide upwardly relative to the recess 110 (because the probe and balls are sliding downwardly at different rates). At the higher position of theballs 114 in therecess 110, the circumference of the taperedbrake surface 112 is wider and the balls are urged outwardly by the tapered brake surface to become locked between the tapered and cylindrical brake surfaces 112,104 in a taper lock. - The dimensions and particularly the tolerances and clearances of the
balls 114 andbrake surfaces probe 106 relative to thesleeve 102 without interference if the rate of relative movement between the probe and the sleeve is below a predetermined rate and to activate the taper lock as described herein above, when the rate of relative movement of the probe into the sleeve exceeds the predetermined rate. - It is to be understood that in the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the
balls 114 are biased downwardly towards the wider end of theannular recess 110 by gravity. It is possible to enhance this bias or to replace it by using another biasing element such as a flexible element in theannular recess 110 that presses against theballs 114. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 to 5 , in use, when a wearer needs to tilt his head far backwards, e.g. when a motorcyclist is tucking into an aerodynamic position on the motorcycle and needs to get his torso as low as possible on the motorcycle, the head can be tilted backwards at a moderate (safe) rate. In this configuration, the bottom edge of the motorcyclist's helmet presses the reardisplaceable part 92 to pivot downwardly at a rate lower than a predetermined rate, while pressing the probes of the rearimpact brake elements 94 into their respective sleeves without interference, as described above with reference toFIG. 4B . If the rider tilts his head forward again, theimpact brake elements 94 are extended by theircoil springs 118 and the reardisplaceable part 92 pivots upwards. - However, in the event that the rider's head is tilted backwards rapidly, e.g. during a rear impact collision, whether the
impact brake elements 94 are fully extended or only partly extended, the downward impact of the bottom of the helmet on the reardisplaceable part 92 will cause the rapid downward movement of the displaceable part and of theprobes 106, at a rate that is higher than the predetermined rate. The downward movement of the probes relative to thesleeves 102 will be stopped by the taper lock as described above, with reference toFIG. 4C . The result is that the impact load from the helmet is transferred from thedisplaceable part 92 along a load path via the locked rearimpact brake elements 94 to thebars 68 and thus to the rider's body. This inhibits excessive head movement and reduces the risk of injury to the rider's neck and upper spine. - The same applies to the front
displaceable part 98 that can be pivoted downwardly and slid rearwards at rates lower than a predetermined rate by a pressing the bottom edge of the helmet against the front displaceable part. In the event of an impact, e.g. a front impact collision that tends to cause the rider's head to rotate forward, the frontdisplaceable part 98 will be pressed towards the wearer's chest at a rate exceeding the predetermined rate. The frontimpact brake elements 100 will be locked by their taper lock and will transfer the impact load along a load path from the helmet anddisplaceable part 98 to thechest bearing surface 44 and to the chest of the rider, to inhibit excessive head movement and to reduce the risk of injury to the rider's neck and upper spine. - The
neck brace 10 has the further advantage that the provision of twobars 68 spaced from the center of the wearer's back allows the brace to be worn comfortably with clothing such as motorcycling apparel that includes an aerodynamic protuberance or “hump” on the wearer's back, for preventing a vacuum behind the wearer's helmet at high speed. Further, thefront bottom flange 22 defines arecess 116 which allows the wearer easy access to zippers or the like, that is often positioned centrally on the front of garments such as motorcycling apparel and/or to prevent discomfort by pressing on such zippers or the like. - Referring to
FIGS. 6A to 6F , alternative embodiments of impact brake elements are shown that can be used in theneck brace 10, instead of theimpact brake elements FIGS. 4A to 4C . The same reference numerals are used in different embodiments of the impact brake elements, for features common to those shown inFIGS. 4A to 4C . - The
impact brake element FIG. 6A includes an arcuateouter sleeve 102 and anarcuate probe 106 that can slide in the sleeve. Theprobe 106 defines atapered recess 110 in which one ormore balls 114 are held. The operation of this impact brake element is practically the same as that described with reference toFIGS. 4A to 4C , in that theprobe 106 can slide gradually up and down inside thesleeve 102, but if it is moved rapidly (faster than a predetermined rate), the inertia of theball 114 causes it to move downwards in the sleeve at a lower rate than the probe, i.e. to move upwards relative to the taper of therecess 110 and to lock the probe relative to the sleeve in a taper lock, between acylindrical brake surface 104 on the inside of the sleeve and a taperedbrake surface 112 in the recess. The arcuate shape of theprobe 106 andsleeve 102 allows the brake element to be fixedly attached to pivoting parts (thebars 68 and rear displaceable part 92) of theneck brace 10, without a need for pivotal attachment as shown inFIGS. 4A to 4C . - The
impact brake element FIG. 6B includes acylindrical sleeve 102 and acylindrical probe 106 and a magnetic particle chargedfluid 120 inside the sleeve. Theprobe 106 may slide axially inside thesleeve 102 while the fluid 120 flows around the lower end of the probe. However, thesleeve 102 is provided withelectrodes 122 that are configured to apply an electrical charge to the fluid 120 that increases the viscosity of the fluid so that it cannot flow around the lower end of theprobe 106 at the same rate. In use, theprobe 106 is allowed to slide up and down inside thesleeve 102, but in the event of an impact, which could be determined in a variety of manners, including mechanical and/or electronic instruments or switches, a change is applied to the fluid 120 via theelectrodes 122 and movement of theprobe 106 into thesleeve 102 is inhibited by the higher viscosity of the fluid, to prevent the probe from sliding into the sleeve at a rate higher than a predetermined rate. The charge applied by theelectrodes 122 and thus the extent to which movement of theprobe 106 into thesleeve 102 is dampened, can also be variably controlled, if required. - The
impact brake element FIG. 6C includes acylindrical sleeve 102 and acylindrical probe 106. The lower end of theprobe 106 forms atop piston 124 that may slide inside thesleeve 102 with clearance and that is submerged inoil 121. Below theoil 121, abottom piston 126 seals against the inside of thesleeve 102, with the oil held above the bottom piston and anair pocket 127 maintained below the bottom piston. Theair pocket 127 is compressible and performs the same function as thecoil spring 118 shown inFIGS. 4A to 4C , while theoil 121 may slide through the clearance between thetop piston 124 and thesleeve 102 at a rate limited by the viscosity of the oil and the size of the clearance, so that the oil acts as a damper, allowing sliding movement of theprobe 106 relative to the sleeve, but limiting the maximum rate of the sliding movement, thus resisting sliding movement if it exceeds a predetermined rate. - The
impact brake element FIG. 6D includes acylindrical sleeve 102 and acylindrical probe 106 with acompression coil spring 118 inside the sleeve, functioning in the same way as their counterparts shown inFIGS. 4A to 4C . Further, adisplaceable catch 128 is provided in wall of thesleeve 102 and a number of axially spacedrecesses 130 are defined along the length of theprobe 106, in which the catch may be received, in part. In use, thecatch 128 remains in a retracted position as shown inFIG. 6D and theprobe 106 is free to slide inside thesleeve 102, against compression of thespring 118. However, in the case of an impact, thecatch 128 is urged (with suitable means such as a released spring, solenoid, etc.) inwardly and engages the first of therecesses 130 with which it comes into alignment, to lock theprobe 106 against further sliding relative to thesleeve 102. - The
impact brake element FIG. 6E is identical to that ofFIG. 6D , except that instead ofmultiple recess 130, the lower edge of theprobe 106 acts as a recess in that thecatch 128 is not received in part in a recess when it is activated, but engages the lower end of the probe and prevents the probe from sliding downwards past the catch. Accordingly, unlike the brake element ofFIG. 6D that can be locked at various lockout positions, the brake element ofFIG. 6E can only be locked out at a single (absolute) position. - The
impact brake element FIG. 6F includes acylindrical sleeve 102 and acylindrical probe 106 and inside the sleeve, below the lower end of the probe, there is a smallpyrotechnic charge 132. Theprobe 106 can slide relative to thesleeve 102 and in the event of an impact, thecharge 132 is detonated and expanding gasses from the detonation causes the probe to be pushed upwards relative to the sleeve. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , the second embodiment of a neck brace in accordance with the present invention is shown and parts that are common between this neck brace and theneck brace 10 shown inFIGS. 1 to 5 , are identified by the same reference numerals with a suffix “0.2”. - The neck brace 10.2 is identical to the
neck brace 10 shown inFIGS. 1 to 5 , except that the pivot joint 90 and rearimpact brake elements 94 are replaced by acylindrical pivot structure 134 on each side of the neck brace 10.2.Cylindrical pivot structures 134 connect the rear displaceable part 92.2 to the rest of the rear section 14.2. Eachpivot structure 134 has acylindrical housing 136 with impact brake elements 94.2 inside the housing, which serve the same function as the impact brake elements of the embodiments of the invention described with reference toFIGS. 1 to 6 , of allowing pivotal movement between the displaceable part and the rest of the rear section of the neck brace during normal use and inhibiting such pivotal movement in the case of an impact. - Referring to
FIGS. 8A to 8E , five different embodiments of impact brake elements 94.2 are shown. In each embodiment, the impact brake elements include abody 138 that can rotate inside thehousing 136 to allow pivotal movement. Thehousing 136 can be connected to the rest of the rear part 14.2 of the neck brace 10.2 and thebody 138 can be connected to the rear displaceable part 92.2, or vice versa. - The impact brake elements 94.2 of
FIG. 8A has abody 138 with an outer profile that defines tapered recesses 110.2 in which balls 114.2 are housed with clearance to allow free pivoting movement at low rates. However, in the event of rapid pivoting, e.g. during an impact, the inertia of the balls 114.2 causes them to move slower than thebody 138, so that they move towards the narrower parts of their respective recesses 110.2 and engage the inside of thehousing 136, and the tapered surface of the recess, which act as brake surfaces, to lock the body and housing against further pivotal movement, in a taper lock. This mechanism is effectively a rotational equivalent of theimpact brake elements 94 shown inFIGS. 4A to 4C . - The impact brake element 94.2 of
FIG. 8B has abody 138 with an outer profile that defines a recess 130.2 and a catch 128.2 that is connected to thehousing 136 and is radially displaceable. The catch 128.2 is normally in a retracted position in which it is clear from the circumference of thebody 138, to allow pivotal movement. However, in case of an impact, the catch 128.2 is activated, e.g. by releasing a spring or with a solenoid, to slide radially inwardly so that its end engages the recess 130.2 and locks thebody 138 against rotation relative to thehousing 136. It is to be understood that the catch 128.2 needs to be aligned with the recess 130.2 before it can engage it and thebody 138 will typically be allowed to rotate until the catch and recess are aligned. - The impact brake elements of
FIG. 8C are identical to those ofFIG. 8B , except that a number of circumferentially spaced recesses 130.2 are defined in thebody 138. As a result, when the catch 128.2 is activated, thebody 138 only needs to rotate through a small angle before the catch is aligned with one of the recesses 130.2. The end of the catch 128.2 and the recess 130.2 can be shaped at an angle, to allow the catch to engage the recesses in a ratchet fashion, when the catch has been activated and thus to allow upward pivoting of the rear displaceable part 92.2, but not downward pivoting. - The impact brake elements of
FIGS. 8D and 8E are functionally identical to those ofFIGS. 8B and 8C , respectively, with the only difference that the respective catches 128.2 are displaceable in axial directions, rather than radial directions, relative to therespective bodies 138. - The invention described and claimed herein is not to be limited in scope by the specific embodiments herein disclosed, since these embodiments are intended as illustrations, and not limitations, of several aspects of the invention. Any equivalent embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this invention. Indeed, various modifications of the invention in addition to those shown and described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention.
- For example, referring to
FIGS. 4A to 4C , 6A to 6F and 8A to 8E, the principles of the present invention can be implemented using a variety ofimpact brake elements 94, of which the illustrated embodiments are mere examples. Suitable impact brake elements can operate by linear displacement and/or rotation, can operate as a result of its inherent geometry, can operate using built-in or external trigger mechanisms, can have absolute or variable lockout positions, and the like.
Claims (17)
1. A neck brace comprising:
at least one impact surface which, when said brace is used with a helmet, limits movement of said helmet by contacting an underside of said helmet;
at least one bearing surface shaped and configured for bearing on the body of a wearer of said brace; and
a structure that extends between said impact surface and said bearing surface, said structure being sufficiently resilient to transfer impact loads of said helmet on said impact surface to said wearer's body,
wherein at least part of said impact surface is displaceable towards an adjacent part of said bearing surface, and wherein said structure comprises at least one brake configured to permit said displacement and to selectively resist said displacement.
2. The neck brace of claim 1 , wherein said brake is configured to permit said displacement at rates slower than a predetermined rate of displacement and to resist said displacement at rates that exceed said predetermined rate.
3. The neck brace of claim 1 , wherein said brake is configured to resist said displacement in the event of an impact.
4. The neck brace of claim 1 , further comprising:
at least one pivotal joint disposed between said displaceable part and the non-displaceable part of said neck brace.
5. The neck brace of claim 4 , wherein said pivotal joint is configured to permit pivotal, as well as sliding displacement of said displaceable part relative to the non-displaceable part of said neck brace.
6. The neck brace of claim 1 , wherein said displaceable part comprises: a rear displaceable part at said rear of said neck brace which is downwardly pivotable towards the upper back of said wearer.
7. The neck brace of claim 1 , wherein said displaceable part comprises: a front displaceable part at said front of said neck brace which is downwardly pivotable towards the chest of said wearer.
8. The neck brace of claim 7 , wherein said front displaceable part is configured to slide rearwards towards said wearer's chest during said pivotal movement.
9. (canceled)
10. The neck brace of claim 1 , wherein said brake comprises:
a first component defining a first brake surface;
a second component defining a second brake surface and which is displaceable relative to said first component when said displaceable part is displaced relative to the non-displaceable part of said neck brace, said first and second braking surfaces extending at an acute angle relative to each other; and
at least one lock element disposed between said first and second brake surfaces;
wherein said lock element is configured to allow movement between said first and second components at rates lower than a predetermined rate and to engage said first and second brake surfaces in a taper lock, when displacement between said two components occurs at a rate exceeding said predetermined rate.
11. The neck brace of claim 10 , wherein said first brake surface is a cylindrical surface and said second brake surface is a frusto-conical surface.
12. The neck brace of claim 11 , wherein said first component is an outer cylindrical sleeve and said second component is elongate in shape and is longitudinally displaceable with at least part of said second component inside said sleeve, said second component including a protuberance that is configured to protrube outside said sleeve.
13. The neck brace of claim 10 , further comprising: an annular recess around the second component and wherein said second brake surface is defined on the inner circumference of said annular recess and wherein at least one lock element is held captive inside said annular recess.
14. The neck brace of claim 1 , wherein said selective brake further comprises: a catch connected to a first component of said impact brake element and a recess defined on a second component of said brake element, said catch being receivable in said recess to lock said first and second components against movement relative to each other.
15. The neck brace of claim 14 , further comprising: a plurality of said recesses formed in said second component.
16. The neck brace of claim 1 , wherein said selective brake further comprises: a first component and a second component received inside said first component and a fluid disposed in the brake between said first and second components, to dampen movement between said components.
17. The neck brace of claim 16 , wherein said fluid has a viscosity that can be varied by applying an electrical charge to said fluid.
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US7155747B2 (en) | 2001-08-17 | 2007-01-02 | Bhc Engineering, Lp | Head stabilizing system |
UA88626C2 (en) | 2003-11-26 | 2009-11-10 | Леатт Брейс Холдингз (Пти) Лтд | Neck brace |
WO2007120764A2 (en) | 2006-04-12 | 2007-10-25 | Jamshid Ghajar | Apparatus for reducing brain and cervical spine injury due to rotational movement |
JP5473057B2 (en) | 2006-10-26 | 2014-04-16 | エクシード ホールディングス クロース コーポレーション | Neck brace |
JP5160570B2 (en) | 2007-03-01 | 2013-03-13 | アルパインスターズ リサーチ ソシエタ ア レスポンサビリタ リミタータ | Neck brace |
-
2007
- 2007-07-17 US US11/778,840 patent/US7846117B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2008
- 2008-07-17 US US12/669,792 patent/US20100251467A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2008-07-17 EP EP08789345A patent/EP2170231A2/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2008-07-17 AU AU2008277318A patent/AU2008277318B9/en not_active Ceased
- 2008-07-17 WO PCT/IB2008/052880 patent/WO2009010936A2/en active Application Filing
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Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11076646B2 (en) | 2011-01-24 | 2021-08-03 | Guardian Athletics, Llc | Athletic collar |
US20160158630A1 (en) * | 2014-12-05 | 2016-06-09 | Schroth Safety Products Gmbh | Head and neck restraint device with dynamic articulation |
US10391382B2 (en) * | 2014-12-05 | 2019-08-27 | Schroth Safety Products Gmbh | Head and neck restraint device with dynamic articulation |
US9700094B2 (en) | 2015-01-26 | 2017-07-11 | Scott W. Nagely | Device for reducing head and neck injury for helmet wearer |
US10111485B2 (en) | 2015-01-26 | 2018-10-30 | Scott W. Nagely | Device for reducing head and neck injury for helmet wearer |
US10441870B2 (en) | 2017-05-05 | 2019-10-15 | Aexos Inc. | Protective articles and methods thereof |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU2008277318A1 (en) | 2009-01-22 |
WO2009010936A3 (en) | 2009-04-30 |
US7846117B2 (en) | 2010-12-07 |
US20080177209A1 (en) | 2008-07-24 |
AU2008277318B9 (en) | 2012-11-29 |
WO2009010936A2 (en) | 2009-01-22 |
EP2170231A2 (en) | 2010-04-07 |
AU2008277318B2 (en) | 2012-08-23 |
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