US20130145531A1 - System and cincture to protect the upper torso of an individual - Google Patents
System and cincture to protect the upper torso of an individual Download PDFInfo
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- US20130145531A1 US20130145531A1 US13/374,134 US201113374134A US2013145531A1 US 20130145531 A1 US20130145531 A1 US 20130145531A1 US 201113374134 A US201113374134 A US 201113374134A US 2013145531 A1 US2013145531 A1 US 2013145531A1
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- individual
- wing
- neck
- cincture
- shoulder
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- 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
Definitions
- This invention relates to methods and apparatus to protect the body of an individual and to minimize the risk of injury when the body is hit.
- the invention relates to a cincture to protect the upper torso including the upper sternum, upper ribs, shoulder girdle, upper spine, brachial plexus and associated musculature.
- FIG. 1 is a front perspective view illustrating a substantially rigid, pliable, elastic polymer frame comprising part of a cincture constructed in accordance with the invention
- FIG. 2 is an edge view illustrating a portion of the frame of FIG. 1 and taken along section line 2 - 2 thereof;
- FIG. 3 is an edge view illustrating a portion of the frame of FIG. 1 and taken along section line 3 - 3 thereof;
- FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the frame of FIG. 1 illustrating additional construction details thereof;
- FIG. 5 is a right hand side view of the frame of FIG. 1 illustrating additional construction details thereof;
- FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the frame of FIG. 1 illustrating additional construction details thereof;
- FIG. 7 is a top view of the cincture frame of FIG. 1 illustrating additional construction details thereof;
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a primary epaulet comprising part of the cincture of the invention and utilized in conjunction with the frame of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 9 is a right hand side view of the epaulet of FIG. 8 illustrating further construction details thereof;
- FIG. 10 is a front view of the epaulet of FIG. 8 further illustrating the construction thereof;
- FIG. 11 is a left hand side view of the epaulet of FIG. 8 further illustrating the same;
- FIG. 12 is a partial front view illustrating the brachial plexus and clavicle in the neck and right shoulder of an individual;
- FIG. 13 is a side view of the neck of an individual illustrating the lessor occipital nerve, the great auricular nerve, and the supraclavicular nerves; and,
- FIG. 14 is a side view illustrating the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
- I provide an improved cincture to be worn on and protect the upper torso of an individual.
- the upper torso includes a sternum, a pair of clavicles each having a distal end, a pair of shoulder girdles, a pair of shoulders, an upper back, and a medial line.
- the torso interconnects the arms and neck of the individual.
- the improved cincture includes a frame and a primary epaulet.
- the frame includes a back portion. a sternum protector; and, a pair of spaced apart wing units. Each wing unit interconnects the back portion and the sternum protector; and, includes an upper wing and a lower wing spaced apart from the upper wing.
- the upper and lower wings co-terminate at an inner arcuate connector.
- the frame also includes an elastic shock absorbing structure connected to and extending outwardly from the upper wing.
- the cincture also includes a pair of primary epaulets each pivotally mounted on a different one of the wing units and shaped and dimensioned to conform to and seat on the elastic shock absorbing structure of the wing unit.
- the cincture is shaped and dimensioned such that when it is mounted on the upper torso of the individual, the neck of the individual extends upwardly between the inner arcuate connectors; each of said inner arcuate connectors is spaced apart from the neck; and, each of the lower wings at the midline of the shoulder contacted by the lower wing is spaced apart from the neck, extends at least partially above the distal end of the clavicle that is in the shoulder contacted by the lower wing, and does not extend outwardly past the distal end of the clavicle that is in the shoulder contacted by the lower wing.
- the lower wing is shaped and dimensioned freely to permit, when the individual is standing upright, abduction of the arm connected to the shoulder contacted by said lower wing and hanging downwardly vertically at the side of the individual through an angle of at least one hundred and sixty degrees.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a substantially rigid, pliable, elastic skeletal frame generally indicated by reference character 10 .
- the frame 10 is a key component of a cincture constructed in accordance with the invention.
- Another key component is the primary epaulet 40 illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 11 .
- epaulet 40 is pivotally attached to frame 10 such that when an individual abducts his arm up over his should, his arm upwardly displaces epaulet 40 through an arc such that the outer edge of epaulet 40 moves upwardly through the arc, first initially moving away from the individual's neck and then—after the outer edge moves upwardly past lateral alignment with the top of the cincutre—moving through an arc generally toward the neck of the individual.
- frame 10 While the material(s) utilized to construct frame 10 can vary as desired, a polymer is presently utilized. The polymer produces a frame 10 which is hard and relatively stiff. As will be described below, however, although the frame is relatively rigid, it also is preferably somewhat pliable and elastic and can flex to help absorb a blow that is directed toward the frame (and the individual on which frame 10 is mounted) and that contacts the frame 10 .
- the collar in Application 2006/001590 does not incorporate a channel over the cervical vertebra, and, Application 2006/001590 does not specifically address the structure of the collar with respect to the upper back.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a unitary frame 10 which, as noted, comprises one of the principal components of the cincture of the invention.
- Frame 10 can be produced in segments which are riveted or otherwise fastened together to produce frame 10 , or, frame 10 can, if possible, be molded or otherwise produced as a single piece.
- the cincture of the invention is generally illustrated herein without illustrating foam padding which normally would line at least a portion of the inner surfaces of the cincture.
- the inner surfaces of the cincture are the surfaces which would generally, when the cincture is warn by an individual, be closest to the individual's body and which would contact the individual's body if not lined with foam.
- the thickness of the foam lining can vary as desired, but typically is in the range of one-quarter of an inch to one inch. Closed or open celled foam can be utilized, but closed cell foam is presently preferred to minimize the amount of sweat or other liquids which can be absorbed by the foam.
- Frame 10 includes a sternum protector 11 , a back portion 12 , a first wing unit 13 spanning between and interconnecting protector 11 and portion 12 , and a second wing unit 14 spanning between and interconnecting sternum protector 11 and back portion 12 .
- Wing units 13 and 14 presently are mirror images of one another, although that need not necessarily be the case depending on the physiology of an individual being fitted with a frame 10 .
- Wing unit 13 includes upper wing 15 and lower wing 16 spaced apart from upper wing 15 .
- Upper and lower wings 15 and 16 respectively, co-terminate along inner arcuate connector 17 .
- Wing 16 includes arcuate foot 16 A which is connected to upper panel 35 of sternum protector 11 .
- Upper panel 35 is connected to lower panel 26 of protector 11 .
- Wing unit 14 includes upper wing 18 and lower wing 19 spaced apart from upper wing 18 .
- Upper and lower wings 18 and 19 respectively, co-terminate along inner arcuate connector 20 .
- Connector 20 is opposed to and spaced apart from connector 17 .
- Wing 19 includes arcuate foot 19 A which is connected to upper panel 24 A of sternum protector 11 .
- Upper panel 24 A is connected to lower panel 25 of protector 11 .
- Wing unit 13 also includes an upper operatively associated substantially rigid, flexible, elastic shock absorbing structure 21 that extends outwardly from upper wing 15 .
- Wing unit 13 also includes a lower operatively associated structure 24 ( FIG. 6 ) that extends outwardly from lower wing 16 and that is spaced apart from shock absorbing structure 21 .
- Wing unit 14 also include an upper operatively associated shock absorbing structure 22 that extends outwardly from upper wing 18 .
- Wing unit 14 also includes a lower operatively associated structure 23 that extends outwardly from lower wing 19 and that is spaced apart from shock absorbing structure 22 .
- shock absorbing structures 21 and 22 When frame 10 is worn by an individual and rests on the upper torso of the individual, shock absorbing structures 21 and 22 , in addition to extending outwardly from wings 15 and 18 , respectively, each extend substantially from the midline rearwardly over the posterior of a shoulder of the individual. Further, when frame 10 is worn by an individual, narrower portions of structures 16 and 19 cross the midline at points spaced away from the neck to avoid producing pressure in the directions indicated by arrows L, K, J in FIG. 12 against the side of the neck, the base of neck, and the portion of the shoulder adjacent the neck. This “crossing” of the midline by portions of structures 16 and 19 functions, when a striking force is applied to the cincture in the direction of arrow M in FIG.
- Lower wing 19 is preferably, although not necessarily, positioned in the manner illustrated in FIG. 12 wherein any downward pressure exerted by lower wing 19 , and the padding 19 B beneath wing 19 , is generally received by the clavicle.
- clavicle 52 acts as a stop which restricts such compression and which, therefore, minimizes any compression of the brachial plexus 53 .
- a lower supplemental sternum guard can, if desired, be pivotally or otherwise attached to sternum protector 11 .
- the inner surfaces of such a lower sternum guard 27 would normally also be lined with a layer of foam which would be intermediate guard 27 and an individual's body when the cincture of the invention was worn by the individual. Ventilation openings can, if desired, be formed through protector 11 , guard 27 and any other portion (including through any foam lining if desired) of the cincture of the invention.
- Sternum guard 27 can, if desired, include clips 28 , 29 which each detachably receive one end of an adjustable strap which extends around the sides and back of an individual's torso to help hold guard 27 in position against the front of the individual's torso.
- sternum protector 11 is fixedly secured to feet 16 A, 19 A.
- one side of protector 11 can be pivotally secured by a pin 30 to frame 10 such that protector 11 can be pivoted in the manner and direction indicated by arrow A in FIG. 1 to an open operative position indicated by dashed lines 11 A.
- the protector is pivoted in a direction opposite that of arrow A back to the position of protector 11 shown in FIGS. 1 , 6 , and 7 .
- upper wing 15 includes leading edge 32 . Edge 32 is spaced apart from foot 16 A.
- wing 15 has a limited flexibility in the area adjacent edge 32 , and, as a result, wing 15 can flex and permit edge 32 to be displaced toward and even against foot 16 A.
- wing 18 can, in a fashion similar to wing 15 , flex and permit edge 32 A to be displaced toward and even against foot 19 A.
- the primary flexing and force distribution members of the cincture of the invention are the shock absorbing structures 21 and 22 .
- FIGS. 2 and 3 are section views of the frame of FIG. 1 taken to illustrate how the width of each wing unit 13 , 14 generally increases as one moves along a wing unit 13 , 14 from front (i.e. from adjacent sternum protector 11 ) to back (i.e., to the back portion 12 ).
- the edge section view of FIG. 2 is taken closer to sternum protector 11 .
- the edge section view of FIG. 3 is taken at a location which is further from protector 11 and from the section view of FIG. 2 .
- the width, indicated by arrows B, of the lower portion of wing unit 14 in FIG. 2 is significantly less than the width, indicated by arrows C, of the wing unit 14 in FIG. 3 .
- the lesser width facilitates contacting the shoulder of an individual in the manner illustrated in FIG. 12 so that wing unit 14 is spaced apart from the side and base of an individual's neck and from the portion of the individual's shoulder that is immediately adjacent the base of the individual's neck 50 .
- the reduced width of unit 14 at the point where unit 14 crosses the midline of an individual's shoulder permits a much increased range of abduction, where abduction comprises moving the individual's arm upwardly away from his side and up past his shoulder. This increased abduction range enables to extend each of his arms vertically over his head, or at least to within fifteen to twenty degrees of vertical, to catch a football.
- the individual can, when wearing the cincture of the invention, freely abduct each of his arms upwardly through an arc of at least one hundred and thirty-five degrees, preferably at least one hundred and fifty degrees, more preferably at least one hundred and sixty degrees, and most preferably at least one hundred and seventy degrees.
- the cincture permits abduction of each arm from an individual's side upwardly through an arc of one hundred and eighty degrees.
- the width indicated by arrows B in FIG.
- the width, indicated by arrow W in FIG. 1 , of the upper wing 18 is presently three and one-half inches.
- the lower wing 19 preferably does not extend out past the distal end 52 A of clavicle 52 .
- wing 19 (1) partially extends over the end 52 A of clavicle 52 , (2) does not extend completely over end 52 A, and (3) does not extend outwardly past end 52 A.
- the width B of lower wing 19 (or 16 ) at the midline is in the range of one to seven inches, preferably one and one-half to six inches, and more preferably one and three-quarters to five inches. Wing 19 (or 16 ) typically maintains this width for at least one to two inches of travel forwardly toward protector 11 or rearwardly toward back portion 12 .
- the width W of upper wing 18 (or 15 ) at the midline is in the range of two to ten inches, preferably two and one-half to eight inches, and more preferably three to seven inches. Wing 18 (or 15 ) typically maintains this width for at least one to two inches of travel forwardly, as indicated by arrow X, toward protector 11 or rearwardly, as indicated by arrow Y ( FIG. 1 ), toward back portion 12 .
- the minimum distance, indicated by arrows P in FIG. 12 , of connector 20 (or 17 ) from the neck 50 of an individual is at least one inch, preferably one and one-half inch, and more preferably at least two inches.
- the primary epaulet 40 illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 11 includes a rear, or proximate, edge 44 and a front, or distal, edge 45 .
- Epaulet 40 seats on the top of wing 18 in the manner illustrated by dashed lines 40 in FIG. 3 , and rear edge 44 is hingedly secured to the top of wing 18 in the manner illustrated in FIG. 7 .
- a piece of pliable tape 41 attached both to epaulet 40 and to wing 18 can serve as the hinge, or any other desired structure can be utilized which permits epaulet 40 to pivot from the generally horizontal orientation illustrated by dashed lines 40 in FIG. 3 and dashed lines 40 in FIG. 7 upwardly in the direction of arrow D ( FIG. 3 ) through a desired angle.
- epaulet 40 would pivot from the horizontal orientation of FIG. 3 to a vertical orientation.
- the desired angle typically is something less than ninety degrees, usually at least forty-five degrees, preferably at least sixty degrees, more preferably at least seventy degrees, and most preferably at least eighty degrees.
- the ability of epaulet 40 to pivot upwardly through such an angle facilitates abduction of the arms of the individual wearing the cincture of the invention.
- Epaulet 40 is shaped and dimensioned such that when epaulet 40 is seated on wing unit 14 in the manner illustrated in FIG. 3 , portions of epaulet 40 that are positioned directly above an opposing portion of wing unit 14 (i.e., above upper wing 18 or flexible elastic shock absorbing structure 22 ) are shaped and dimensioned to conform to and seat on the opposing portions of wing unit 14 .
- a portion of epaulet 40 is shaped and dimensioned to seat on elastic shock absorbing structure 22 so that when a force is generated against epaulet 40 that presses epaulet downwardly against structure 22 , structure 22 resiliently flexes to absorb at least a portion of the force.
- structure 22 and structure 23 extend over the posterior of an individual's shoulder and over the individual's upper back, when the cincture of the invention is worn by the individual, force generated downwardly against structure 22 (and toward the shoulder girdle) is distributed over at least a portion of the posterior of the individual's shoulder and of the individual's upper back. Accordingly, the combination of frame 10 and primary epaulet 40 function to distribute contact forces away from an individual's neck, away from the portion of an individual's shoulder immediately adjacent the base of the neck, and over portions of the individual's posterior shoulder and upper back.
- Raised portion 36 ( FIGS. 1 , 4 , 6 , 7 ) is, when the cincture of the invention is worn by an individual, spaced away from cervical vertebra to minimize the likelihood that pressure will be produced against such vertebra.
- a space 37 ( FIG. 4 ) is created between portion 36 and the cervical vertebra. This is an important feature of the invention because it helps minimize the risk of an injury to the upper spinal column.
- a supplemental member(s) 60 can be, and typically is, fixedly or hingedly attached to back portion 12 to provide additional protection for the back of an individual.
- One example of such members comprises the back plate and side wings illustrated in FIG. 5 of Application Serial No. 2006/0010590.
- FIG. 5 is a right hand side view of the frame of FIG. 1 taken from the perspective indicated by arrow N.
- FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the frame of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 7 is a top view of the frame of FIG. 1 .
- epaulet 40 comprises a contoured plate including a rear or proximate edge 44 , a front or distal edge 45 , a first end 42 and a second end 43 .
- End 43 is not visible in FIG. 9 because it is obscured from view by the curvature of epaulet 40 .
- end 42 is not visible in FIG. 11 because it is obscured from view by the curvature of epaulet 40 .
- an epaulet comparable to epaulet 40 is used in conjunction with upper wing 15 and support structure 21 in the same manner that epaulet 40 is used in conjunction with upper wing 18 and support structure 22 .
- portions of the cincture are made to be removed and replaced by portions better adapted for a particular individual or for a particular condition.
- portions of the cincture are made to be removed and replaced by portions better adapted for a particular individual or for a particular condition.
- the padding on the inside (or outside) of the cincture is detachable so it can be readily removed and replaced with thicker padding.
- supplemental member 60 is detachable and can be replaced by a comparable member 60 which is more flexible and reduces the risk of injury during practice.
- a detachable supplemental member 60 is provided in a large size, a medium size, and a small size so that the cincture can be customized to better fit an individual.
- the entire cincture is made in large, medium and small sizes so the best size can be selected for a particular individual.
- measurements are made of an individual's body so that a custom fit cincture can be manufactured based on the measurement.
- a secondary epaulet can be pivotally attached at or near outer edge 45 of a primary epaulet 40 to extend outwardly and downwardly away from epaulet 40 and provide additional protection for an individual's arm.
- An example of such a secondary epaulet is “epaulet 3” in Application 2006/0010590.
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Abstract
A cincture is worn on and protects the upper torso of an individual. The cincture is spaced apart from the neck of the individual and contacts the individual's shoulder at points intermediate the individual's neck and distal end of the collarbone to protect the individual's neck from injury and to facilitate transmitting strike forces over the posterior of the shoulder and upper back of the individual.
Description
- This invention relates to methods and apparatus to protect the body of an individual and to minimize the risk of injury when the body is hit.
- More particularly, the invention relates to a cincture to protect the upper torso including the upper sternum, upper ribs, shoulder girdle, upper spine, brachial plexus and associated musculature.
- Those of skill in the art have for many years pursued systems to protect an individual engaged in football and other sports or endeavors.
- Accordingly, it would be highly desirable to provide an improved system to protect an individual when the individual is struck by an exterior force.
- Therefore, it is a principal object of the invention to provide an improved system to protect the upper torso of an individual's body.
- This, other and further objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description thereof, taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view illustrating a substantially rigid, pliable, elastic polymer frame comprising part of a cincture constructed in accordance with the invention; -
FIG. 2 is an edge view illustrating a portion of the frame ofFIG. 1 and taken along section line 2-2 thereof; -
FIG. 3 is an edge view illustrating a portion of the frame ofFIG. 1 and taken along section line 3-3 thereof; -
FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the frame ofFIG. 1 illustrating additional construction details thereof; -
FIG. 5 is a right hand side view of the frame ofFIG. 1 illustrating additional construction details thereof; -
FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the frame ofFIG. 1 illustrating additional construction details thereof; -
FIG. 7 is a top view of the cincture frame ofFIG. 1 illustrating additional construction details thereof; -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a primary epaulet comprising part of the cincture of the invention and utilized in conjunction with the frame ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 9 is a right hand side view of the epaulet ofFIG. 8 illustrating further construction details thereof; -
FIG. 10 is a front view of the epaulet ofFIG. 8 further illustrating the construction thereof; -
FIG. 11 is a left hand side view of the epaulet ofFIG. 8 further illustrating the same; -
FIG. 12 is a partial front view illustrating the brachial plexus and clavicle in the neck and right shoulder of an individual; -
FIG. 13 is a side view of the neck of an individual illustrating the lessor occipital nerve, the great auricular nerve, and the supraclavicular nerves; and, -
FIG. 14 is a side view illustrating the sternocleidomastoid muscle. - Briefly, in accordance with the invention, I provide an improved cincture to be worn on and protect the upper torso of an individual. The upper torso includes a sternum, a pair of clavicles each having a distal end, a pair of shoulder girdles, a pair of shoulders, an upper back, and a medial line. The torso interconnects the arms and neck of the individual. The improved cincture includes a frame and a primary epaulet. The frame includes a back portion. a sternum protector; and, a pair of spaced apart wing units. Each wing unit interconnects the back portion and the sternum protector; and, includes an upper wing and a lower wing spaced apart from the upper wing. The upper and lower wings co-terminate at an inner arcuate connector. The frame also includes an elastic shock absorbing structure connected to and extending outwardly from the upper wing. The cincture also includes a pair of primary epaulets each pivotally mounted on a different one of the wing units and shaped and dimensioned to conform to and seat on the elastic shock absorbing structure of the wing unit. The cincture is shaped and dimensioned such that when it is mounted on the upper torso of the individual, the neck of the individual extends upwardly between the inner arcuate connectors; each of said inner arcuate connectors is spaced apart from the neck; and, each of the lower wings at the midline of the shoulder contacted by the lower wing is spaced apart from the neck, extends at least partially above the distal end of the clavicle that is in the shoulder contacted by the lower wing, and does not extend outwardly past the distal end of the clavicle that is in the shoulder contacted by the lower wing. The lower wing is shaped and dimensioned freely to permit, when the individual is standing upright, abduction of the arm connected to the shoulder contacted by said lower wing and hanging downwardly vertically at the side of the individual through an angle of at least one hundred and sixty degrees.
- Turning now to the drawings, which illustrate the presently preferred embodiments of the invention by way of illustration and not limitation, and in which like reference characters refer to corresponding elements throughout the several views,
FIG. 1 illustrates a substantially rigid, pliable, elastic skeletal frame generally indicated byreference character 10. Theframe 10 is a key component of a cincture constructed in accordance with the invention. Another key component is theprimary epaulet 40 illustrated inFIGS. 8 to 11 . The inner edge ofepaulet 40 is pivotally attached toframe 10 such that when an individual abducts his arm up over his should, his arm upwardly displaces epaulet 40 through an arc such that the outer edge ofepaulet 40 moves upwardly through the arc, first initially moving away from the individual's neck and then—after the outer edge moves upwardly past lateral alignment with the top of the cincutre—moving through an arc generally toward the neck of the individual. - While the material(s) utilized to construct
frame 10 can vary as desired, a polymer is presently utilized. The polymer produces aframe 10 which is hard and relatively stiff. As will be described below, however, although the frame is relatively rigid, it also is preferably somewhat pliable and elastic and can flex to help absorb a blow that is directed toward the frame (and the individual on whichframe 10 is mounted) and that contacts theframe 10. - In further describing the structure and function of
frame 10, it is important to first note structure and functions in US Patent Application 2006/0010590, filed Jan. 19, 2006, that were, during development of the invention described herein, found to be contrary to the invention. - First, the system described in Application 2006/0010590 is described as extending over the base and sides of the neck:
-
- “The collar and the protective padding beneath it are anatomically specifically contoured so that this collar and padding assembly rests at the base of the neck posteriorly and arcs anteriorly on the sides of the neck anteriorly across the superior aspect of the sternum.”
Page 1, §[0002], item 2. - “The collar . . . is rounded on the sides of the neck in an outward facing “U” shape.”
Page 1, §[0002], item 5.
Second, the system described in Application 2006/0010590, further suggests (immediately after the language above) that the system directly contacts the shoulder adjacent the neck: - “The collar and padding supports the entire protection system and is the only point of direct contact across the shoulder.”
Page 1, §[0002], item 2.
- “The collar and the protective padding beneath it are anatomically specifically contoured so that this collar and padding assembly rests at the base of the neck posteriorly and arcs anteriorly on the sides of the neck anteriorly across the superior aspect of the sternum.”
- Third, the system described in Application 2006/0010590 suggests that the collar creates a protective space at a point higher up the neck where Erb's point is located:
-
- “ . . . the position and shape of the inside aspect of the sides of the collar create a protective space for the neck and the brachial plexus of nerves existing the neck at Erb's point. This collar configuration is intended to reduce neck abrasions and blunt trauma to Erb's Point that may result in the “stinger syndrome”.
Page 1, §[0002], item 8.
Erb's point is the point on the side of the neck above the base of the neck. Erb's point is two to three centimeters above the clavicle and in front of the transverse process of the sixth cervical vertebra. It is located on the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle midway between its attachments to the mastoid process, and the sternum and clavicle. At Erb's point, cutaneous branches of the cervical plexus emerge from behind the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The four cutaneous nerves of the cervical plexus are the lessor occipital nerve, great auricular nerve, transverse cervical nerve, and supraclavicular nerve.FIG. 13 illustrates theSternocleidomastoid muscle 55 and also illustrates the greatauricular nerve 56, the cervicalcutaneous nerve 57, andsupraclavicular nerves 58 emerging from behind the posterior border of the Sternocleidomastoid muscle in theneck 50 of an individual.FIG. 14 further illustrates theSternocleidomastoid muscle 55 attached to the bottom of the skull and thecollarbone 52.FIG. 12 illustrates thebrachial plexus 53 as it exits the lower portion ofneck 50 and extends into theshoulder 51 and behind theclavicle 52 of an individual.
- “ . . . the position and shape of the inside aspect of the sides of the collar create a protective space for the neck and the brachial plexus of nerves existing the neck at Erb's point. This collar configuration is intended to reduce neck abrasions and blunt trauma to Erb's Point that may result in the “stinger syndrome”.
- Fourth, the system described in Application 2006/0010590 facilitates adduction:
-
- “The epaulets . . . provide for unrestricted movement of the shoulder in the adduction (flexion) and rotational planes.”
Page 1, §[0002],item 12.
- “The epaulets . . . provide for unrestricted movement of the shoulder in the adduction (flexion) and rotational planes.”
- Fifth, the system described in Application 2006/0010590 states that the upper portion of the collar provides a shock absorbing platform for “
epaulet 1”: -
- “ . . . [the] upper portion of the “U” on the lateral aspect provides a spring shock absorbing platform that Epaulet 1 is rigidly affixed to.”
Page 1, §[0002], item 6.
- “ . . . [the] upper portion of the “U” on the lateral aspect provides a spring shock absorbing platform that Epaulet 1 is rigidly affixed to.”
- Sixth, the system described in Application 2006/0010590 describes the collar as having an outward facing “U” shape:
-
- “The collar . . . is rounded on the sides of the neck in an outward facing “U” shape.”
Page 1, §[0002], item 5.
- “The collar . . . is rounded on the sides of the neck in an outward facing “U” shape.”
- Seventh, the system described in Application 2006/0010590 attributes the absorption of impact to the flexing of three “epaulets”:
-
- “This 3 epaulet system . . . creates a supported channel of space between the epaulets and the superior shoulder from the outside (or lateral?) aspect of the collar allowing the epaulets to flex and absorb the impact before the shoulder is contacted.”
Page 1, §[0002],item 13.
- “This 3 epaulet system . . . creates a supported channel of space between the epaulets and the superior shoulder from the outside (or lateral?) aspect of the collar allowing the epaulets to flex and absorb the impact before the shoulder is contacted.”
- Eighth, the system described in Application 2006/0010590 describes the contour of “epaulet 2” as responsible for unrestricted superior adduction:
-
- “The contour of epaulet 2 . . . allows for unrestricted superior adduction (medial flexion) of the shoulder.”
Page 1, §[0002],item 17.
- “The contour of epaulet 2 . . . allows for unrestricted superior adduction (medial flexion) of the shoulder.”
- Ninth, the system described in Application 2006/001590 forms a complete protective channel for the entire length of each shoulder and collar bone:
-
- “This configuration in combination with the collar configuration of claim 3 forms a complete protective channel for the entire length of each shoulder and collar bone (clavicle).”
Page 1, §[0002],item 13.
- “This configuration in combination with the collar configuration of claim 3 forms a complete protective channel for the entire length of each shoulder and collar bone (clavicle).”
- Tenth, the system described in Application 2006/001590 only incorporates a channel over the spine in the back plate:
-
- “The Back Plate contains a space (channel) over the spine.” Page 2, ¶[0002],
item 28.
- “The Back Plate contains a space (channel) over the spine.” Page 2, ¶[0002],
- As can be seen in
FIG. 3 , the collar in Application 2006/001590 does not incorporate a channel over the cervical vertebra, and, Application 2006/001590 does not specifically address the structure of the collar with respect to the upper back. - Eleventh, the system described in Application 2006/001590 describes “
epaulet 1” as forming a channel over the superior aspect of the shoulder: -
- “These corresponding ridges allow epaulet 2 to sit firmly on
epaulet 1 strengthening the channel that these two epaulets form over the superior aspect of each shoulder.”Page 1, ¶[0002],item 15.
- “These corresponding ridges allow epaulet 2 to sit firmly on
- Twelfth, the system described in Application 2006/00590 does not describe where “ridges” on “
epaulet 1” correspond to “ridges” on “epaulet 2”: -
- “
Epaulet 1 . . . is formed with ridges that correspond directly to the ridges of epaulet 2.”Page 1, ¶[0002],item 15.
The location of such “ridges” (although that terminology is misleading) is critical in the functioning of the cincture of the invention described herein.
- “
- In contrast to the foregoing comments in Application 2006/00159, the cincture of the invention:
-
- 1. Does not contact the base or sides of the neck. The cincture of the invention is spaced apart from the neck.
- 2. Does not directly contact the shoulder adjacent the neck. The cincture of the invention is spaced apart from the portion of the shoulder adjacent the neck.
- 3. Does not create a protective space at a point higher up the neck where Erb's point is located.
- 4. Does not facilitate adduction. The cincture of the invention does the direct opposite, it facilitates abduction.
- 5. Does not focus on utilizing the inner “collar” part of the cincture as a spring shock absorbing platform to which an operatively associated shock absorbing structure somewhat similar to “
epaulet 1” is rigidly affixed. It is the operatively associated shock absorbing structure which functions as the spring shock absorbing platform. The operatively associated shock absorbing structure is not rigidly affixed in the apparatus of the invention. Instead, it flexes. - 6. Is, as noted, not on the sides of the neck and does not have a simple “U” shape. The cincture has an irregular wing shape critical to the functioning of the cincture.
- 7. Absorbs force largely due to the flexing of only the operatively associated shock absorbing structure.
- 8. Does not permit abduction due to the contour of a primary “epaulet” which is somewhat similar to “epaulet 2” in Application 2006/001590. In the cincture of the invention, the contour of the primary “epaulet” has nothing to do with abduction.
- 9. Does not form a protective channel over the complete length of the collar bone and shoulder. In the cincture of the invention, a protective channel of limited length is formed only over a portion of the shoulder and collar bone. This limited scope of the protective channel in the apparatus of the invention is critical in permitting largely unrestricted abduction.
- 10. Does incorporate a ridge that arches over and protects cervical vertebra.
- 11. Does not include a structure which is similar to “
epaulet 1” in Application 2006/001590 and which extends over the superior aspect of the shoulder. The portion of the cincture of the invention that in some respect is similar to “epaulet 1” extends from the midline of a portion of the shoulder over a portion of the posterior of the shoulder. As used herein, the midline comprises an imaginary line drawn from the end of the collarbone in the right shoulder, through the center of the neck, and through the end of the collarbone in the left shoulder. - 12. Includes an operatively associated shock absorbing structure and a primary epaulet which in some respects are similar to “
epaulets 1 and 2” in Application 2006/001590 but which have arcuate portions contoured such that the primary epaulet seats on and interlocks with the operatively associated shock absorbing structure at locations above the posterior of the shoulder.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates aunitary frame 10 which, as noted, comprises one of the principal components of the cincture of the invention.Frame 10 can be produced in segments which are riveted or otherwise fastened together to produceframe 10, or,frame 10 can, if possible, be molded or otherwise produced as a single piece. For purposes of clarity, the cincture of the invention is generally illustrated herein without illustrating foam padding which normally would line at least a portion of the inner surfaces of the cincture. The inner surfaces of the cincture are the surfaces which would generally, when the cincture is warn by an individual, be closest to the individual's body and which would contact the individual's body if not lined with foam. The thickness of the foam lining can vary as desired, but typically is in the range of one-quarter of an inch to one inch. Closed or open celled foam can be utilized, but closed cell foam is presently preferred to minimize the amount of sweat or other liquids which can be absorbed by the foam. -
Frame 10 includes a sternum protector 11, aback portion 12, afirst wing unit 13 spanning between and interconnecting protector 11 andportion 12, and asecond wing unit 14 spanning between and interconnecting sternum protector 11 and backportion 12. -
Wing units frame 10. -
Wing unit 13 includesupper wing 15 andlower wing 16 spaced apart fromupper wing 15. Upper andlower wings arcuate connector 17.Wing 16 includesarcuate foot 16A which is connected toupper panel 35 of sternum protector 11.Upper panel 35 is connected to lowerpanel 26 of protector 11. -
Wing unit 14 includesupper wing 18 andlower wing 19 spaced apart fromupper wing 18. Upper andlower wings arcuate connector 20.Connector 20 is opposed to and spaced apart fromconnector 17.Wing 19 includesarcuate foot 19A which is connected toupper panel 24A of sternum protector 11.Upper panel 24A is connected to lowerpanel 25 of protector 11. -
Wing unit 13 also includes an upper operatively associated substantially rigid, flexible, elasticshock absorbing structure 21 that extends outwardly fromupper wing 15.Wing unit 13 also includes a lower operatively associated structure 24 (FIG. 6 ) that extends outwardly fromlower wing 16 and that is spaced apart fromshock absorbing structure 21. -
Wing unit 14 also include an upper operatively associatedshock absorbing structure 22 that extends outwardly fromupper wing 18.Wing unit 14 also includes a lower operatively associatedstructure 23 that extends outwardly fromlower wing 19 and that is spaced apart fromshock absorbing structure 22. - When
frame 10 is worn by an individual and rests on the upper torso of the individual,shock absorbing structures wings frame 10 is worn by an individual, narrower portions ofstructures FIG. 12 against the side of the neck, the base of neck, and the portion of the shoulder adjacent the neck. This “crossing” of the midline by portions ofstructures FIG. 12 , to absorb and distribute the striking force over the middle shoulder and shoulder girdle to direct the force away from the side and base of the neck and from the brachial plexus in the neck. More particularly, due to the functioning of the flexible elasticshock absorbing structures - As can be seen in
FIG. 12 , as thebrachial plexus 53 exits the neck, it extends downwardly into the shoulder behindclavicle 52.Clavicle 52 shields and protects the brachial plexus from force acting downwardly in the direction of arrowM. Lower wing 19 is preferably, although not necessarily, positioned in the manner illustrated inFIG. 12 wherein any downward pressure exerted bylower wing 19, and the padding 19B beneathwing 19, is generally received by the clavicle. Although muscle and tissue above and to the sides ofclavicle 52 may be compressed, and, tend to be compressed against the portion of the brachial plexus extending away from theneck 50 and through the shoulder of an individual, theclavicle 52 acts as a stop which restricts such compression and which, therefore, minimizes any compression of thebrachial plexus 53. - A lower supplemental sternum guard, indicated by dashed
lines 27 inFIG. 1 , can, if desired, be pivotally or otherwise attached to sternum protector 11. The inner surfaces of such alower sternum guard 27 would normally also be lined with a layer of foam which would beintermediate guard 27 and an individual's body when the cincture of the invention was worn by the individual. Ventilation openings can, if desired, be formed through protector 11,guard 27 and any other portion (including through any foam lining if desired) of the cincture of the invention.Sternum guard 27 can, if desired, includeclips guard 27 in position against the front of the individual's torso. - In
FIG. 1 , sternum protector 11 is fixedly secured tofeet frame 10 and the cincture of the invention on the upper torso of an individual, one side of protector 11 can be pivotally secured by apin 30 to frame 10 such that protector 11 can be pivoted in the manner and direction indicated by arrow A inFIG. 1 to an open operative position indicated by dashed lines 11A. After the cincture is mounted on the upper torso of the individual, the protector is pivoted in a direction opposite that of arrow A back to the position of protector 11 shown inFIGS. 1 , 6, and 7. - In
FIG. 1 ,upper wing 15 includes leadingedge 32.Edge 32 is spaced apart fromfoot 16A. When a strike force acts againstwing 15 in a direction that tends to forcewing 15 toward the shoulder located directly beneathwing 15,wing 15 has a limited flexibility in the areaadjacent edge 32, and, as a result,wing 15 can flex and permitedge 32 to be displaced toward and even againstfoot 16A. When a similar strike force is directed againstwing 18,wing 18 can, in a fashion similar towing 15, flex and permit edge 32A to be displaced toward and even againstfoot 19A. As will be seen, however, the primary flexing and force distribution members of the cincture of the invention are theshock absorbing structures -
FIGS. 2 and 3 are section views of the frame ofFIG. 1 taken to illustrate how the width of eachwing unit wing unit FIG. 2 is taken closer to sternum protector 11. The edge section view ofFIG. 3 is taken at a location which is further from protector 11 and from the section view ofFIG. 2 . As a result, the width, indicated by arrows B, of the lower portion ofwing unit 14 inFIG. 2 is significantly less than the width, indicated by arrows C, of thewing unit 14 inFIG. 3 . The lesser width ofwing unit 14 inFIG. 2 is critical in the practice of the invention for at least two reasons. First, the lesser width facilitates contacting the shoulder of an individual in the manner illustrated inFIG. 12 so thatwing unit 14 is spaced apart from the side and base of an individual's neck and from the portion of the individual's shoulder that is immediately adjacent the base of the individual'sneck 50. Second, the reduced width ofunit 14 at the point whereunit 14 crosses the midline of an individual's shoulder permits a much increased range of abduction, where abduction comprises moving the individual's arm upwardly away from his side and up past his shoulder. This increased abduction range enables to extend each of his arms vertically over his head, or at least to within fifteen to twenty degrees of vertical, to catch a football. Accordingly, if an individual is standing with his arms hanging vertically downwardly at his sides, the individual can, when wearing the cincture of the invention, freely abduct each of his arms upwardly through an arc of at least one hundred and thirty-five degrees, preferably at least one hundred and fifty degrees, more preferably at least one hundred and sixty degrees, and most preferably at least one hundred and seventy degrees. In one embodiment of the invention, the cincture permits abduction of each arm from an individual's side upwardly through an arc of one hundred and eighty degrees. In order to facilitate this abduction range, the width, indicated by arrows B inFIG. 2 , of thelower wing 19 at the midline (when the cincture of the invention is being worn) is currently two inches, and, the width, indicated by arrow W inFIG. 1 , of theupper wing 18 is presently three and one-half inches. Further, thelower wing 19 preferably does not extend out past thedistal end 52A ofclavicle 52. InFIG. 12 , wing 19 (1) partially extends over theend 52A ofclavicle 52, (2) does not extend completely overend 52A, and (3) does not extend outwardlypast end 52A. The width B of lower wing 19 (or 16) at the midline is in the range of one to seven inches, preferably one and one-half to six inches, and more preferably one and three-quarters to five inches. Wing 19 (or 16) typically maintains this width for at least one to two inches of travel forwardly toward protector 11 or rearwardly towardback portion 12. The width W of upper wing 18 (or 15) at the midline is in the range of two to ten inches, preferably two and one-half to eight inches, and more preferably three to seven inches. Wing 18 (or 15) typically maintains this width for at least one to two inches of travel forwardly, as indicated by arrow X, toward protector 11 or rearwardly, as indicated by arrow Y (FIG. 1 ), towardback portion 12. - The minimum distance, indicated by arrows P in
FIG. 12 , of connector 20 (or 17) from theneck 50 of an individual is at least one inch, preferably one and one-half inch, and more preferably at least two inches. - The
primary epaulet 40 illustrated inFIGS. 8 to 11 includes a rear, or proximate,edge 44 and a front, or distal,edge 45.Epaulet 40 seats on the top ofwing 18 in the manner illustrated by dashedlines 40 inFIG. 3 , andrear edge 44 is hingedly secured to the top ofwing 18 in the manner illustrated inFIG. 7 . A piece ofpliable tape 41 attached both to epaulet 40 and towing 18 can serve as the hinge, or any other desired structure can be utilized which permitsepaulet 40 to pivot from the generally horizontal orientation illustrated by dashedlines 40 inFIG. 3 and dashedlines 40 inFIG. 7 upwardly in the direction of arrow D (FIG. 3 ) through a desired angle. If the desired angle is ninety degrees, then epaulet 40 would pivot from the horizontal orientation ofFIG. 3 to a vertical orientation. The desired angle typically is something less than ninety degrees, usually at least forty-five degrees, preferably at least sixty degrees, more preferably at least seventy degrees, and most preferably at least eighty degrees. The ability ofepaulet 40 to pivot upwardly through such an angle facilitates abduction of the arms of the individual wearing the cincture of the invention. -
Epaulet 40 is shaped and dimensioned such that whenepaulet 40 is seated onwing unit 14 in the manner illustrated inFIG. 3 , portions ofepaulet 40 that are positioned directly above an opposing portion of wing unit 14 (i.e., aboveupper wing 18 or flexible elastic shock absorbing structure 22) are shaped and dimensioned to conform to and seat on the opposing portions ofwing unit 14. In particular, a portion ofepaulet 40 is shaped and dimensioned to seat on elasticshock absorbing structure 22 so that when a force is generated againstepaulet 40 that presses epaulet downwardly againststructure 22,structure 22 resiliently flexes to absorb at least a portion of the force. In addition, sincestructure 22 andstructure 23 extend over the posterior of an individual's shoulder and over the individual's upper back, when the cincture of the invention is worn by the individual, force generated downwardly against structure 22 (and toward the shoulder girdle) is distributed over at least a portion of the posterior of the individual's shoulder and of the individual's upper back. Accordingly, the combination offrame 10 andprimary epaulet 40 function to distribute contact forces away from an individual's neck, away from the portion of an individual's shoulder immediately adjacent the base of the neck, and over portions of the individual's posterior shoulder and upper back. - Raised portion 36 (
FIGS. 1 , 4, 6, 7) is, when the cincture of the invention is worn by an individual, spaced away from cervical vertebra to minimize the likelihood that pressure will be produced against such vertebra. A space 37 (FIG. 4 ) is created betweenportion 36 and the cervical vertebra. This is an important feature of the invention because it helps minimize the risk of an injury to the upper spinal column. - A supplemental member(s) 60 (
FIG. 4 ) can be, and typically is, fixedly or hingedly attached to backportion 12 to provide additional protection for the back of an individual. One example of such members comprises the back plate and side wings illustrated in FIG. 5 of Application Serial No. 2006/0010590. -
FIG. 5 is a right hand side view of the frame ofFIG. 1 taken from the perspective indicated by arrow N. -
FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the frame ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 7 is a top view of the frame ofFIG. 1 . - In
FIGS. 8 to 11 ,epaulet 40 comprises a contoured plate including a rear orproximate edge 44, a front ordistal edge 45, afirst end 42 and asecond end 43.End 43 is not visible inFIG. 9 because it is obscured from view by the curvature ofepaulet 40. Similarly, end 42 is not visible inFIG. 11 because it is obscured from view by the curvature ofepaulet 40. - As would be appreciated by those of skill in the art, an epaulet comparable to
epaulet 40 is used in conjunction withupper wing 15 andsupport structure 21 in the same manner that epaulet 40 is used in conjunction withupper wing 18 andsupport structure 22. - In one embodiment of the invention, portions of the cincture are made to be removed and replaced by portions better adapted for a particular individual or for a particular condition. For example, during a football practice it may be desirable to reduce the risk of injury by providing a cincture with more padding. The padding on the inside (or outside) of the cincture is detachable so it can be readily removed and replaced with thicker padding. Or,
supplemental member 60 is detachable and can be replaced by acomparable member 60 which is more flexible and reduces the risk of injury during practice. In another embodiment of the invention, a detachablesupplemental member 60 is provided in a large size, a medium size, and a small size so that the cincture can be customized to better fit an individual. In another embodiment, the entire cincture is made in large, medium and small sizes so the best size can be selected for a particular individual. In a further embodiment of the invention, measurements are made of an individual's body so that a custom fit cincture can be manufactured based on the measurement. - As would be appreciated by those of skill in the art a secondary epaulet can be pivotally attached at or near
outer edge 45 of aprimary epaulet 40 to extend outwardly and downwardly away fromepaulet 40 and provide additional protection for an individual's arm. An example of such a secondary epaulet is “epaulet 3” in Application 2006/0010590. - Having described my invention in such terms as to enable those of skill in the art to make and use the invention, I Claim:
Claims (1)
1. A cincture to be worn on and protect the upper torso of an individual, the upper torso including a sternum, a pair of clavicles each having a distal end, a pair of shoulder girdles, a pair of shoulders, an upper back, and a medial line, the torso interconnecting the arms and neck of the individual, said cincture including
(a) a frame including
(i) a back portion,
(ii) a sternum protector;
(iii) pair of spaced apart wing units each
interconnecting said back portion and said sternum protector,
including an upper wing and a lower wing spaced apart from said upper wing, said upper and lower wings co-terminating at an inner arcuate connector,
(Iv) an elastic shock absorbing structure connected to and extending outwardly from said upper wing,
(b) a pair of primary epaulets each pivotally mounted on a different one of said wing units and shaped and dimensioned to conform to and seat on said elastic shock absorbing structure;
said cincture shaped and dimensioned such that when mounted on the upper torso of the individual,
(c) the neck of the individual extends upwardly between said inner arcuate connectors,
(d) each of said inner arcuate connectors is spaced apart from the neck;
(e) each of said lower wings at the midline of the shoulder contacted by said lower wing
(i) is spaced apart from the neck,
(ii) extends at least partially above the distal end of the clavicle that is in the should contacted by said lower wing, and
(iii) does not extend outwardly past the distal end of the clavicle that is in the shoulder contacted by said lower wing,
said lower wing being shaped and dimensioned freely to permit, when the individual is standing upright, abduction of the arm connected to the shoulder contacted by said lower wing and hanging downwardly vertically at the side of the individual through an angle of at least one hundred and sixty degrees.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US13/374,134 US20130145531A1 (en) | 2011-12-13 | 2011-12-13 | System and cincture to protect the upper torso of an individual |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US13/374,134 US20130145531A1 (en) | 2011-12-13 | 2011-12-13 | System and cincture to protect the upper torso of an individual |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20130145531A1 true US20130145531A1 (en) | 2013-06-13 |
Family
ID=48570674
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US13/374,134 Abandoned US20130145531A1 (en) | 2011-12-13 | 2011-12-13 | System and cincture to protect the upper torso of an individual |
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Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20160346663A1 (en) * | 2015-05-25 | 2016-12-01 | William A. Kucera | Systems and methods associated with shoulder protection devices |
US20180021161A1 (en) * | 2016-07-20 | 2018-01-25 | Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. | Wearable computing device having a curved back to reduce pressure on vertebrae |
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US20100095441A1 (en) * | 2007-05-03 | 2010-04-22 | James Calvin Wingo | Non-epaulet shoulder pad |
US7765624B1 (en) * | 2004-05-20 | 2010-08-03 | Adams Usa, Inc. | Shoulder pad |
US20100192287A1 (en) * | 2004-09-13 | 2010-08-05 | Nelson Kraemer | Shoulder pads |
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US20160346663A1 (en) * | 2015-05-25 | 2016-12-01 | William A. Kucera | Systems and methods associated with shoulder protection devices |
US10052546B2 (en) * | 2015-05-25 | 2018-08-21 | William A. Kucera | Systems and methods associated with shoulder protection devices |
US20180021161A1 (en) * | 2016-07-20 | 2018-01-25 | Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. | Wearable computing device having a curved back to reduce pressure on vertebrae |
US10561519B2 (en) * | 2016-07-20 | 2020-02-18 | Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. | Wearable computing device having a curved back to reduce pressure on vertebrae |
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Legal Events
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
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