WO2021107858A1

WO2021107858A1 - Head and neck protector

Info

Publication number: WO2021107858A1
Application number: PCT/SG2019/050577
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sanjay AMARASINGHE
Original assignee: Amarasinghe Sanjay
Priority date: 2019-11-26
Filing date: 2019-11-26
Publication date: 2021-06-03

Abstract

This application discloses a head and neck protector or system comprising of both an inflatable cervical collar to stabilize the neck during trauma and a tension connection system to resist the external forces to the head and neck. The head and neck protector comprises a craniocervical part protecting the craniocervical junction; a cervicothoracic part protecting the cervicothoracic junction; and an inflatable cervical part connecting the craniocervical part, the cervicothoracic part, a subaxillary thoracic belt for transmitting the tension connectors to the locking device, and a cranial part working together with a helmet. The tension connection system comprises tension cable systems connected to a locking system, resisting both unidirectional and rotational forces to the head. The whole system comprises the head and neck protector and other accessories. This application also relates to methods of making the head and neck protector system.

Description

HEAD AND NECK PROTECTOR

[0001] The present application relates to a head and neck protector, which is also known as head and neck system. The present application also relates to a method of making the head and neck protector or system.

[0002] Head injuries are associated with more than 90% of pre-hospital trauma-related deaths. Cervical spine injuries are associated with 5% of head injuries, and are a major cause of long-term morbidity following trauma. Approximately 55% of spinal trauma is sustained in the cervical spine. The pattern and severity of injuries sustained depend on the mechanism of injury and the energy imparted to the head and cervical spine. Intrinsic brain injuries are caused by both direct physical trauma and acceleration- deceleration processes shifting the brain within the skull, resulting in brain contusions, haemorrhage and shearing injuries to the brain (diffuse axonal injury). Injuries to the cervical spine broadly entail spinal fractures with or without dislocations and soft tissue injuries including disc disruptions, ligamentous injuries, facet joint injuries and muscular injuries. In particular, a cervical spine injury incurred may render a spine unstable which further poses a risk of neurological injury, i.e. spinal cord or nerve root injury. The neurological injury incurred can manifest as limb pain, weakness, sensory disturbance, paralysis or bladder/bowel dysfunction. High cervical spinal cord injuries might also cause severe cardiorespiratory complications.

[0003] Therefore, the subject application proposes a head and neck protector or system to minimize the force imparted to the head and cervical spine, for preserving spinal alignment and limiting excessive spinal motions. The head and neck protector or system is applicable to many applications, such as cyclists, motorcyclists, e-scooter riders, contact sports (such as rugby, American football, etc.) or any other high-speed activity requiring a helmet (such as skiing, watersport activities, winter sports, and motor racing).

[0004] The head and neck protector or system functions as a protective garment and system for the head, neck and upper thorax of a user to withstand an external shock or attack and prevent any traumatic injury to these body parts. In particular, the head and neck protector can resist both unidirectional and rotational forces applied to it. The head and neck protector thus prevents traumatic injuries such as fracture and dislocation by absorbing or dissipating energy transferred to it and minimizing excessive spinal motions respectively. The head and neck protector also has other functions such as preserving spinal alignment, providing post-traumatic cervical collar support (instead of using a hard cervical collar), and enabling a rapid surgical airway access in emergency situation. In addition, the head and neck protector or system may also work in conjunction with a helmet for providing further protection to the head of the user.

[0005] In accordance with their structures, the head and neck protector or system also have many advantages such as being lightweight, flexible and durable, reusable, non- biodegradable and washable, inert, inflammable, and waterproof. In particular, the head and neck protector is configured to be variable in fitting size for suiting to a specific user’s body habitus. The user may select an appropriate size (such as S, M, L, XL, etc.) or even customize to his size. In addition, the user may ask for a trial testing at purchase to ensure that the head and neck protector fits snugly during and after inflation. The inflation is a process of inflating an object with one or more types of gas, with air, hydrogen, helium and nitrogen, etc.

[0006] As a first aspect, the present application discloses an head and neck protector that is effective for preventing hyperflexion, hyperextension or excessive lateral flexion or rotation being applied to the neck of the user. The head and neck protector for a wearer (also known as user) comprises a tension connection system for decelerating the head and cervical spine of the wearer and preventing excessive motion of the head and the cervical spine under an external force; a cranial part for fixing the tension connection system; and a subaxillary thoracic belt or thoracic belt (also known as upper thoracic part) for fixing the tension connection in the thoracic region. The tension connection system counteracts the external force applied to the wearer from any direction.

[0007] The thoracic belt may minimize rotational, flexion, extension or lateral flexion movements. However, the thoracic belt should not incorporate the whole chest otherwise it would restrict chest expansion. In addition, the upper thoracic part is configured to be integrated with daily clothing such as balaclava, vest, jersey or jacket. The head and neck protector can absorb or efficiently transmit an axial loading stress from the vertex of the head, downwards along the cervical part until the upper thoracic part and shoulder of the user. Therefore, the head and neck protector can effectively reduce intracranial injuries and axial loading stresses to the cervical spine.

[0008] The cranial part optionally works in conjunction with a helmet (such as the trilaminar crash helmet). When the user adopts the helmet, the cranial part is inflatable for firmly adhering itself to an inner shell or inner liner of the helmet. In this way, the head and neck protector will absorb the external shock more efficiently in conjunction with the helmet. Meanwhile, the cranial part should not expand in a large extent in order to minimize external compression on the head. The expansion of the cranial part is optionally minimal in order to prevent compression on the head of the user when inflated; meanwhile sufficient to achieve a firm adherence between inflated cranial part and the helmet.

[0009] The cranial part optionally comprises an equatorial ring, a forehead ring and a crown ring, wherein the equatorial ring, the forehead ring and the crown ring are interconnected. The equatorial part, the forehead part and the crown part may have a ring structure. The equatorial part, the forehead part and the crown part are interconnected. The equatorial part has a large closed-loop configuration that surrounds the head at its maximum circumference; while both the forehead part and the crown part have a small closed-loop configuration that surrounds the forehead and back of the head, respectively. The equatorial part, the forehead part and the crown part are connected to a subaxillary thoracic belt via tension cables.

[0010] The head and neck protector optionally comprises a craniocervical part for fixing the tension connection system at a craniocervical junction; a cervicothoracic part for fixing the tension connection at a cervicothoracic junction. The tension connection system passes through the craniocervical part and cervicothoracic part. The craniocervical part and cervicothoracic part may protect the craniocervical junction and the cervicothoracic junction respectively. The craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part are connected to a top side and a bottom side of the neck, respectively. [0011] The head and neck protector may comprise a tension connection system (such as band, wire, rope, cable, cord) (also known as tension connection) for absorbing the external shock. The tension connection is designed to maximize force absorption and works in conjunction with the other parts of the head and neck protector, including the cranial part, the craniocervical part, the cervicothoracic part and the upper thoracic part. The other parts also absorb force, as well as provide structural support and preserve structural alignment of the cervical spine. In addition, the other parts of the head and neck protector also serve as stabilizing features through which tension forces can be acted upon and thus help to minimize bucking of the cervical spine when the external shock is absorbed through the tension connection. The tension connection work in conjunction with the other parts of the head and neck protector for limiting excessive motions in all directions (such as forward flexion, extension, lateral flexion, rotation). In particular, the tension connection may be adjusted to achieve a desired limit of the excessive motions in a particular direction for a specific user. In addition, the tension connection provides an initial absorption of the external shock before other parts of the head and neck protector are fully inflated for providing further absorption and structural support.

[0012] The tension connection system counteracts an externally applied unidirectional force, a rotational force or both. An externally applied unidirectional force and rotational force induces a unidirectional motion (such as extension, forward flexion and lateral flexion) and a rotational motion, respectively. The tension connection system is optionally strategically designed to counteract the external shock from both the unidirectional force and the rotational force, and thereby restrict excessive unidirectional movements (such as extension, forward flexion and lateral flexion), and rotational movement (i.e. rotation).

[0013] The tension connection system optionally comprises an extension connector for limiting an extension motion, comprises a forward flexion connector for limiting a forward flexion motion; a lateral flexion connector for limiting a lateral flexion motion; and a rotational connector for limiting a rotational motion. The extension connector, the forward flexion connector, the lateral flexion and the rotational connector are configured to be connected between the cranial part and the upper thoracic part by passing through the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part. The extension connector, the forward flexion connector, the lateral flexion connector and the rotational connector may comprise a continuous stream of string (such as band, wire, rope, cable, cord) respectively. The continuous stream of string is anchored along its course for preventing the tension connector becoming slack and compromising its ability to withstand an external force.

[0014] The tension connector system essentially serves as a decelerating component or “brake" to the suit, thereby minimising any acceleration-deceleration injuries to the brain and also minimising excessive cervical spinal motions. All the cables of the tension connection system are connected from their respective cranial components to a locking mechanism situated posteriorly over the thoracic region, via cables passing through conduction tubes in the subaxillary thoracic belt and transmitted to the locking device through a cable connector. The tension connection system permits free uniform velocity motions in all directions but when an external force or accelerated motion is incurred to the head and neck, the tension applied to this cable system triggers the locking mechanism, thereby halting motion in the direction of the applied force.

[0015] The extension connector comprises a first set of cords running from the crown ring to the subaxillary thoracic belt. This system optionally comprises two cables running along each side of the crown ring in front and behind the ear (anterior and posterior auricular cords before combining into a single cable on each side and running through anchoring points in the lateral top aspect of the craniocervical part. These cables diagonally traverse the neck anteriorly before passing through another anchoring point on the opposite side of the lower lateral aspect of the cervicothoracic part and continuing into the subaxillary thoracic belt on that side. Therefore, the extension connector limits excessive extension of the cervical spine by stretching the first set of cables. In addition, the extension connector may also help restrict the rotational motion or movement.

[0016] The forward flexion connector optionally comprises a second set of cords passing from the forehead ring and equatorial ring through anchoring points posteriorly at the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part to the posterior aspect of the subaxillary thoracic belt. Therefore, the forward flexion connector limits excessive forward flexion of the cervical spine by stretching the second set of cords. [0017] In particular, the second set of cords may comprise a second lateral sub-set extending downwardly at a lateral side of the head; and a second posterior sub-set extending downwardly at a posterior side of the head. The two lateral subset of cords extend circumferentially around the equatorial ring down to the posterior aspect of the subaxillary thoracic belt via lateral anchoring points in the craniocervical and cervicothoracic parts. The two posterior sub-set of cords extend from the forehead ring to the posterior aspect of equatorial ring before descending into the subaxillary thoracic belt via medial posterior anchoring points in the craniocervical and cervicothoracic parts.

[0018] The lateral flexion connector optionally comprises a third set of cords extending on both sides laterally and downwardly from the vertex (top of head) and top of the crown ring to anchoring points in the craniocervical and cervicothoracic junctions before extending to the lateral aspect of the subaxillary thoracic belt. Therefore, the lateral flexion connector limits excessive lateral flexion of the cervical spine by stretching the third set of cords. From a lateral perspective, the third set of cords is optionally positioned between the first and the second set of cords. The third set of cords may comprise a second anterior auricular rope and a second posterior auricular rope that are configured to connect to and extend downwards from the vertex and crown part. Cords running on the opposite side of the body mirror these lateral cords described above and merge with their complementary counterparts at the vertex and top of the crown ring.

[0019] The rotational connector optionally comprises a fourth set of cords connected to the equatorial ring, passing laterally through the craniocervical and the diagonally opposite cervicothoracic anchoring points before descending over the anterior thoracic wall into the subaxillary thoracic belt on that side.

[0020] In particular, the fourth set of cords may comprise a fourth anterior left cord extending from the left side of the head to the right side of the cervicothoracic part before descending over the thoracic wall onto the right anterior aspect of the subaxillary belt; and a fourth anterior right cord extending from the right side of the head to the left side of the cervicothoracic part before descending onto the left side of the belt. Furthermore, the fourth anterior left and fourth anterior right cords decussate at a neck of the wearer for allowing the user to rotate the neck in both a clockwise direction and an anti-clockwise direction when the head and neck protector is not inflated.

[0021] The cords of the extension connector, the forward flexion connector, the lateral flexion connector and the rotational connector systems are separately organized into conduction channels or tubes which run circumferentially within the subaxillary thoracic belt in order to prevent entanglement and optimize the efficacy of transmitted tension from the cables to the locking device. In some implementations, the head and neck protector may comprise an inner conduction tube for enclosing the extension and rotational connectors; a central tube for enclosing the lateral flexion connector; and an outer tube for enclosing the forward flexion connector. From front to back on the wearer’s left side, the cords of each connector system will run round in an anticlockwise direction within their respective conduction tubes; similarly, the cords of each connectors system on the wearer’s right side will run round in a clockwise direction. All the cords for each system will merge in the posterior thoracic region. More specifically, the extension and rotational connectors entering the right anterior aspect of the thoracic belt will travel in a clockwise direction; similarly, the extension and rotational connectors entering the left anterior aspect of the thoracic belt will travel in an anticlockwise direction. The left lateral tension connectors will run anticlockwise; the right lateral tension connectors will run clockwise. The left posterior and lateral subsets of the forward flexion connectors will run anticlockwise; the right posterior and lateral subsets of the forward flexion connectors will run clockwise. The inner tube, the central tube and the outer tubes are configured to be separated for preventing entanglement. Therefore, the tension connectors separately pass through the tubes inside the thoracic belt before merging in the posterior thoracic region and entering into the locking system via a cable connector.

[0022] The wearer may wear the device as part of a balaclava, vest or suit that has an inner lining, an outer lining and an intermediate layer between the inner and outer linings. The tension connection system including all the tension connectors described above are contained with the intermediate layer (between the inner and outer linings) of the balaclava, vest or suit. The cords of the connector system are anchored by multiple hooks or fasteners to minimize excessive motion of the cords when they are pulled into traction by an externally applied force.

[0023] The head and neck protector optionally further comprises a locking system for halting the excessive motion of the head and the cervical spine. In some implementations, the locking system comprises a pulley mechanism for directing movement of the tension connection system; a locking mechanism for locking the tension connection system; and a casing or cassette for enclosing the pulley mechanism and the locking mechanism. The tension connection system is configured to connect the pulley mechanism and the locking mechanism in sequence. The locking system operates by merging the tension cable system into one single cable, which is connected to a spring coil-loaded mechanism via a pulley system. When an accelerated motion above a certain threshold is applied to the tension cable system, the spring coil loaded mechanism is also accelerated, resulting in a freely attached bridging bar (adjoined to a pendulum) to forcibly strike the locking teeth causing the attached pendulum to swing out and lock into the adjacent teeth below. This halts the accelerated motion applied to the head and neck.

[0024] In particular, the pulley mechanism may comprise a first pulley and a second pulley located at a same height. The locking mechanism may comprise a locking plate fixed to the casing; a running track fixed to the casing, a spring coil having one end fixed to the casing; and a bridging bar with pendulum connected to another end of the spring coil and the tension connection system. The locking plate and the running track form a tunnel for the tension connection system passing through; and the pendulum is configured to be caught and held by the locking plate. The locking plate has a plurality of locking teeth. Each locking tooth has a tooth contour complementary to the pendulum for catching and holding the pendulum firmly when the attached bridging bar forcibly strikes a locking tooth after application of a force or accelerated motion to the tension connection system. A wheel-axle runs along a running track when tension is applied to the tension connection system. The spring coil together with elastic tethers are also attached to the axle and permit retraction of the pendulum when tension on the tension connection system is released. [0025] The head and neck protector optionally further comprises a pelvic part surrounding the pelvis of the wearer; and at least two decussating straps for connecting the pelvic part to the upper thoracic part for stabilizing the tension connection system under the external force. The head and neck protector may also further comprise two or more thigh straps connected to the pelvic part for further stabilizing the tension connection system under the external force. The waterproof casing, within which the locking system is contained and anchored to the posterior thoracic region via diagonally traversing anchoring straps connecting the subaxillary thoracic belt and pelvic ring. The pelvic ring with the thigh straps can be connected to further stabilise the tension connector system and locking system. The pelvic ring and thigh straps can also be connected to the subaxillary thoracic ring via a series of anterior and posterior straps or columnar supports. This can serve to apply a counteractive resistive force applied to the tension connector system.

[0026] The head and neck protector optionally further comprises an inflatable cervical part between the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part. All 3 parts are simultaneously inflated in order to counteract the effect of an external shock from causing significant cervical spine injuries. In particular, inflation of the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part prevent any dislocation or buckling at their respective junctions by minimising motion and stabilizing these junctions when the tension connection system is activated

[0027] The cervical part comprises an innermost lining, an inner lining and an outer lining; wherein the outer lining is inflatable; and the innermost lining and the inner lining are substantially not inflatable. The cervical part optionally further comprises a first intermediate layer between the innermost lining and the inner lining; and a second intermediate layer between the inner lining and the outer lining. In particular, the second intermediate layer is configured to accommodate the tension connection system in order to prevent it from penetrating into the neck and the other parts of the head and neck protector. The tension connection may be made of a material having a high tensile strength meanwhile not penetrating through the inner lining under tension to avoid direct neck injuries or suffocation of the user. The tension connection is anchored to the head and neck protector via multiple points along its course using fixtures such as hinges, loops or latches. The tension connection can also be integrated into daily clothing such as cycling vest, jersey or jacket. In addition, the tension exerted on the tension connection system can be adjusted to achieve a desired limit of the motions in a particular direction for a specific user. The cervical part further comprises a plurality of fixing devices (hooks) for holding the tension connection inside the second intermediate layer.

[0028] The cervical part optionally comprises a first set of tubular components forming a top portion, a second set of tubular components forming a bottom portion, and a plurality of columnar components for connecting the first set of tubular components and the second set of tubular components. In either the top portion or the bottom portion, the tubular components are connected in a head-to-tail configuration. In other words, a head of one tubular component is connected to a tail of another adjacent tubular component at a cross point such that the top portion or the bottom portion forms a closed loop structure (such as a “donut” structure). One of the columnar components is further connected to the cross point. Therefore, the cervical part has a hollow structure having a central cavity for fitting the neck of the user. In particular, the columnar components are strategically placed for providing the most stability against a range of motions imparted by an external shock, including cervical forward flexion, lateral flexion, extension and rotation.

[0029] The columnar components include an anterior columnar component and a posterior component. The columnar component optionally has an adjustable length for preserving the natural lordotic curvature of the cervical spine, since lengths of the anterior columnar component and the posterior columnar component can be adjusted. In addition, the posterior columnar component optionally has a posterior wall that is pleated to help preserve the natural lordotic curvature. In particular, the tubular components and the columnar components can be inflated by fluid (gas/liquid).

[0030] The craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part are connected to the top portion and the bottom portion of the cervical part respectively to form the neck protector component. Alternatively, the top portion and the bottom portion are adopted as the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part of the neck protector. In the latter case, the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part comprise the first set and the second set of the tubular components respectively; while the cervical part comprises the columnar components for connecting the tubular components of the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part at two ends.

[0031] The cervical part (including both the columnar components and the tubular components) optionally has a three-layer structure, comprising an innermost lining, inner lining and an outer lining. The outer lining is located away from the central cavity; while the inner lining is located towards the central cavity of the cervical part. The outer lining is made of a thin, flexible, and expansile material such as nylon. The outer lining thus has a lower elastic modulus in order to accommodate a large volume of gas that rapidly expands the cervical part. In particular, the outer lining can have two layers: in the event that one of the two layers’ ruptures, the other layer can still maintain the normal function of the outer lining. In contrast, the inner lining is made of a thick, tough, stretch-resistant material, including ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) (such as Dyneema/Spectra), poly-paraphenylene terephthalamide (such as Kevlar), poly-p-phenylene benzobisoxazole (PBO) (such as Zylon), vulcanized rubber or a combination thereof. The inner lining thus has a high elastic modulus or stretch-resistance to resist an expansile force more effectively when the cervical part undergoes a rapid inflation process. Therefore, the outer lining is easily expanded by the gas; while the inner lining substantially does not expand in order to protect the head, neck and upper thorax from explosive trauma. The inner lining is configured (such as by molding) to fit the contour of the neck of the user. Therefore, the outer lining is compliant, while the inner lining is resistant to inflation.

[0032] In addition to the three layers, the cervical part optionally has a first intermediate layer and a second intermediate layer. The first intermediate layer is located between the innermost lining and the inner lining. The second intermediate layer is located between the inner lining and the outer lining. The innermost lining is made of a flexible, soft, light and inert material, including nylon, polyether-polyurea copolymer (such as Spandex) or nomex (an example of flame-retardant material). The innermost lining is in direct contact with the scalp or cutaneous surface of neck and upper thorax. The first intermediate layer comprises a frictionless lubricant or shock-absorptive material such as silicone, gel, oil or Akton polymer. The first intermediate layer is adopted for minimizing cutaneous trauma such as abrasions. The second intermediate layer comprises a gaseous expansion material such as Zetix or nylon thread crosslinks. The second intermediate layer is adapted for providing a blast-resistant layer.

[0033] The columnar component optionally has a hexagonal or honeycomb configuration in a cross-sectional plane. The hexagonal configuration provides a stable structure against various compressive forces out of the cross-sectional plane, such as cervical flexion, extension, lateral flexion or rotational movement. In addition, a columnar construction is a suitable lightweight design of the cervical part.

[0034] The columnar component optionally comprises a plurality of stacked units. The units are stacked along an imaginary axis of the cervical part. In particular, the units are independently inflatable and thus provide ballast but preserve the natural contour of the cervical spine. Furthermore, if one or more of these fail the remaining units can still provide structural support to the cervical part. The units are configured as a stack of hexagonal prisms to optimize the structural integrity of each columnar component.

[0035] Each unit optionally comprises two or more crosslinks for diagonally bridging opposite corners anteroposteriorly and laterally.. As a result, the crosslinks preserve the structural integrity of the unit within the columnar component during rapid inflation. The crosslinks may be composed of nylon or similar fabric of high tensile strength which can resist rapid expansion.

[0036] The columnar component further comprises a plurality of fibers for forming walls and a core of the columnar component. The fibers are optionally adjusted to suit variations in the user’s neck size and configuration. The fibers are optionally made of a material which substantially reaches a maximum tension when the columnar component is fully expanded in order to prevent over-inflation of the cervical part. Therefore, the fiber helps make a balance between stability of the cervical part and flexibility fitting to the lordotic curvature. In particular, the posterior columnar component comprises a rear fiber extending throughout a stem in the posterior wall for preserving the posterior columnar component to the lordotic curvature.

[0037] The columnar component optionally comprises one or more sets of diagonal fibers traversing the columnar components for providing stability during rapid inflation. The craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part pull the sets of diagonal fibers of each columnar component into maximum tension during inflation. Meanwhile the sets of diagonal fibers allow the neck of the user to rotate in both directions when the head and neck protector is not inflated.

[0038] The cervical part optionally further comprises a tightener (also known as fiber tightener) for controlling the fibers of the columnar components. The fiber tightener extends along a mid-axial plane anteriorly and posteriorly -this can be adjusted to conform to length and natural curvature of the spine.

[0039] The cervical part further optionally comprises an aperture or a hole for exposing the neck of the user after inflation. The aperture functions as a port for rapid surgical airway access in an emergency situation. The aperture is located within the ventral aspect of the cervical part and serves as a route for an emergent operation of tracheostomy or cricothyroidotomy.

[0040] The head and neck protector of the subject application has a maximum connectivity among all parts of its structure, including the cranial part, the craniocervical part, the cervical part, the cervicothoracic part and the upper thoracic part in order to allow the gas to expand and diffuse rapidly such that an optimal neck position and stability are established within the shortest possible time frame before the external shock compromises the neck of the wearer.

[0041] The head and neck protector may also comprise other accessories. The head and neck protector optionally comprises a gas source connected to the and neck protector, an igniter connected to the gas generator, and a detection device connected to the igniter. Upon detection of an approaching object or external shock, the igniter heats the gas generator, resulting in liberation and rapid expansion of gas to inflate the head and neck protector.

[0042] The gas source may comprise a plurality of pockets of sodium azide for generating nitrogen gas. The pockets of sodium azide are optionally placed on a circumference of the outer lining of the cervical part for minimizing explosive trauma to the neck. The mass of sodium azide for each pocket is precisely calculated and loaded to rapidly and maximally insufflate the head and neck protector in order to achieve a fixed volume of expanding gas within the shortest time. The igniter activates the pockets of sodium azide by heating the sodium azide that would be dissociated into nitrogen gas. In addition, the gas source may further comprise dispersal agents such as talcum powder or corn starch for smoothening out explosive impacts when the head and neck protector is rapidly inflated by the nitrogen gas.

[0043] The pockets of sodium azide are evenly distributed in a plurality of columnar components of the cervical part. For example, the pockets are distributed in the cervical part at nine locations, i.e. at a superior level, a middle level, and an inferior level in an axial direction; and in an anterior section, a middle section and a posterior section in a planar direction. Therefore, the gas generator can enable a smooth, even simultaneous expansion of nitrogen gas throughout the cervical part firstly and then expansion of other parts of the head and neck protector.

[0044] Alternatively, the gas source optionally comprises a gas insufflation canister for providing gas (such as nitrogen gas, carbon dioxide gas, or argon gas) to the head and neck protector. Adopting either the pockets of sodium azide or the gas insufflation canister, all parts of the head and neck protector are expanded equally during the inflation process.

[0045] The detecting device comprises a plurality of sensors for detecting the external shock earlier before the external shock touches the user (i.e. early detection). The sensors receive a signal from the external shock, and then activate an electrical circuit which feeds into the igniter. The sensors may be placed at one or more suitable locations of the head and neck protection system or other accessories such as the helmet. In some implementations, the sensors are spread around an external surface of the helmet. The sensors can be distributed over a grid embedded within a covering, lining or netting of the helmet that are optionally waterproof, flouroscent and reflective. Alternatively, the sensors are concentrated at several selected locations such as the vertex, a left lateral side, a right lateral side, an anterior side, and a posterior side of the helmet. The sensors may comprise a large number of small sensors, a few large sensors or a combination of both in order to maximize the surface area covered by the external shock. [0046] The sensors may comprise a pressure sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an electromagnetic sensor, or any combination of the foregoing objects. The pressure sensor is activated by a pressure or pressure rise of the external shock; while the ultrasonic sensor and the electromagnetic sensor are activated by ultrasound waves and electromagnetic waves respectively. The ultrasound waves and the electromagnetic waves are reflected or received from an approaching object, respectively. In particular, the pressure sensor is sensitive enough to detect a pressure or pressure rise for activating the head and neck protector when the pressure change is greater than a set threshold. The threshold is optionally adjustable to suit a variety of conditions. When a specific pressure or pressure rise is detected above a certain threshold, the pressure sensors activate the electrical circuit, which feeds into the igniter.

[0047] Alternatively, the detection system may comprise a plurality of ultrasound sensors. Each ultrasound sensor comprises a transducer for emitting ultrasonic waves and a receiver for receiving reflected ultrasonic waves. In particular, the transducer emits the ultrasonic waves in pulses in order to pick up incremental changes in the reflected ultrasonic waves. Once the incremental changes are received by the receiver, the ultrasound sensor will send a signal for indicating that the external shock is approaching the user. The ultrasound sensors have a detection range of more than 1 meter such that the head and neck protection system can be activated before the external shock reaches the user. The ultrasound sensors are convex and distributed over a wide angle in order to receive any deflections such as skewed reflected ultrasound signals from the approaching object.

[0048] The ultrasound sensor optionally has an analog output mechanism where a voltage or a current is correlated with a distance of the external shock to the user. Alternatively, the head and neck protection system optionally comprises a switch/relay output mechanism which activates the head and neck protector when an approaching object is within a specific distance of the wearer. In some implementations, the head and neck protection system has two switch/relay outputs mechanism with two different predetermined distances for detecting and confirming the external shock. For example, the head and neck protection system has a first switch/relay output mechanism with a first predetermined distance of 1 meter and a second switch/relay output mechanism with a second predetermined distance of 0.65 meter. A combination of both the analog output mechanism and the switch/relay output mechanism is optionally adopted to activate the head and neck protector.

[0049] The head and neck protection system optionally comprises multiple electrical wires for connecting the sensors with the igniter. In some implementations, the electrical wires originate from the sensors, then run along the circumference of an external surface to the posterior aspect of the helmet, and finally merge together to form a single stripe. The single stripe runs downward to the igniter in the cervical part of the head and neck protector. The configuration of the electrical wires may form a grid circuit. The grid circuit is insulated or protected from any element that may damage the grid circuit. The single stripe has a length sufficient for permitting an adequate motion of the neck during a resting non-activated state when the head and neck protector is not inflated by the gas. A distal end of the single stripe divides and runs along a circumference of the cervical part in either a middle level or all three levels (i.e. the middle level, a superior level, and an inferior level) and will simultaneously ignite the pockets of sodium azide for enabling a smooth, even, and simultaneous expansion of nitrogen gas throughout the head and neck protector such that the whole head and neck protector is evenly distributed.

[0050] The head and neck protection system optionally comprises a processor for controlling the head and neck protection. The processor is electrically connected to the sensors via a first cable and to the igniter via a second electrically cable. Therefore, the signal of the external shock is detected by the sensors, and then transmitted to the processor via the first cable. The processor then decides whether to activate the igniter. If yes, the activation signal is generated by the processor and transmitted to the igniter which then informs the gas source to release the gas. In some implementations, the processor taking multiple readings of the sensors when the external shock approaches to the user. For example, the processor takes two readings of the two ultrasound sensors when the external shock is 1 meter and 0.65 meter away from the user respectively. The processor may be placed at any suitable location. For example, the processor may be optionally attached to the first cable at the posterior side or occipital aspect of the helmet. Alternatively, the processor optionally functions as a separate attachment which receives, analyses and initiates the inflation when the external shock (such as an approaching object) is confirmed.

[0051] The head and neck protection system optionally comprises an internal cooling system configured within the inner lining for cooling the user. The detecting device may comprise a temperature sensor for detecting a temperature inside the head and neck protector. When the temperature is higher than a predetermined value, the internal cooling system is activated for cooling the user, especially the head and the neck of the user. The head and neck protection system optionally comprises an energy source such as a battery for providing electricity to the internal cooling system.

[0052] The head and neck protection system may work in conjunction with the helmet. The trilaminar crash helmet can translate the external shock between the outer shell and inner shell of the trilaminar crash helmet, thereby buying time to activate the head and neck protection system and inflate the head and neck protector. The outer shell sustains the external shock and the inner shell remains fixed to the user’s head, thereby minimizing or even avoiding cervical spine movements incurred as a result of head injuries. There should be compromise between laxity of matrix fibres in order to enable translation between inner and outer shells but not too lax such that no energy is absorbed when the matrix fibres are stretched.

[0053] The head and neck protection system optionally comprises a deflation means for discharging the head and neck protector. In some implantations, the deflation means comprises an outlet that only opens when the head and neck protector has an internal pressure larger than a predetermined value. Therefore, the user is protected by preventing over-inflation of the head and neck protector.

[0054] The head and neck protection system is designed to maximally inflate by increasing the time interval between a first time point of inflating the head and neck protector and a second time point when the external shock touches inner shell (i.e. the head of the user ).

[0055] As a summary, the head and neck protector or system of the subject application is new and useful for the following reasons. Firstly, the tension connector system provides an internalised restraining framework to withstand an externally applied unidirectional and rotational force to the head and neck, thereby minimising acceleration-deceleration injuries to the brain and preventing excessive cervical spinal motions. Secondly, the head and neck protector comprises multiple inflatable parts (such as the cranial part, the craniocervical part, the cervical part, the cervicothoracic part and the upper thoracic part) that are inflated or expanded on activation to stabilize the cervical spine and particularly the junctional zones (i.e. the craniocervical junction and the cervicothoracic junction) of the wearer. Thirdly, the head and neck protector may work in conjunction with the helmet (such as the trilaminar crash helmet). The cranial part is inflated and then adhered tightly to an inner liner of the trilaminar crash helmet. In this way, the external shock is transmitted across the trilaminar crash helmet more effectively and also redistributed to other parts of the head and neck protector. Fourthly, the columnar components of the cervical part are strategically placed in four regions to minimize the forward flexion, extension and right or left lateral flexion and axial loading stresses on the cervical spine. Finally, the internal cooling system can be incorporated within the inner lining of the cervical part to keep the head and the neck cool.

[0056] The head and neck protector or system works by the following mechanism: The external shock firstly induces a unidirectional, rotational or tangential force applied to the helmet of the user. The detecting device (such as the pressure sensors) integrated into the outer shell of the helmet detect the external shock and then activates the electrical circuit which triggers the igniter for the sodium azide pockets scattered evenly throughout the cervical collar, resulting in liberation and rapid expansion of nitrogen gas within the second intermediate layer. The pressure sensors and the head and neck protector are connected by the electrical wires. The expanded cranial part is adhered to the inner shell of the helmet. The expansion of the cervical part adopts a rigid conformation to minimize the unidirectional, tangential or rotational force to the cervical spine. Both the craniocervical and cervicothoracic junctions are areas of junctional mobility - inflating the craniocervical and cervicothoracic parts can therefore stabilize these vulnerable regions when a traumatic insult is incurred to head and neck.

[0057] As a second aspect, the present application discloses a method of testing the head and neck protector. The method of testing the head and neck protector comprises a step of applying an external force to a wearer; a step of taking track of a head movement and a neck movement of the wearer by at least one slow motion camera; and a step of measuring a head movement parameter and a neck movement parameter. The efficacy of the head and neck protector can be tested using the following proposed experimental setup to ascertain: firstly, an ability to act as a decelerant on the head and cervical spine; and secondly, an ability to reduce (or eliminate) excessive range of neck motions on impact. Slow motion cameras can be used to film and measure head and neck movements during and after impact. When a specific force is applied, a rate of change of momentum is achieved, which induces a change in velocity up to a maximum velocity. The reduction in acceleration or deceleration achieved compared to a control model can be determined by measuring the distance the head moves each second up to the maximum distance travelled per second (i.e. maximum velocity achieved). Measurements can be taken from a position of neutral alignment. The distance measured can be a linear or angular distance from fixed point on dummy model head, such as the nasion or inion. If the body also translocate on impact, the relative linear or angular distance (from the new axis perpendicular to the midpoint between the anterior and posterior aspects of the neck on lateral view) or absolute linear or angular distance (from the original axis of neutral alignment) can be measured. The axial rotation of the head can be assessed by measuring the change in angulation per second up to maximum angulation. The angulation is measured from either the anteroposterior (Nasion to inion) or lateral axes (from tragus to tragus) intersecting at the midpoint of both axes. Angular distance can be measured but is difficult to factor translocation of the body on impact as well. For the neck: the craniocaudal height per second from beginning of impact to maximum/minimum (sustained) height and craniocaudal angulation formed between the craniocervical junction and cervicothoracic junction per second up to maximum angulation can be measured. Test can be repeated for range of forces of varying magnitude and direction in order to determine the versatility of the design. A variety of trauma settings can be constructed involving a dummy pedestrian, cyclist, e-scooter rider, car and other vehicles. The assessment can be conducted for both acceleration and deceleration phases of a traumatic injury.

[0058] The head movement parameter optionally comprises a linear distance and/or an angular distance for an extension motion, a forward flexion motion or a lateral flexion motion; and an axial rotation degree for a rotational motion. The neck movement parameter comprises a craniocaudal height and a craniocaudal angulation. The following graphs (test vs control) can be produced to illustrate these results. For the head, firstly, flexion, extension, lateral flexion: linear or angular distance vs time; linear/angular velocity-time graph; and secondly, axial rotation: degree of angulation vs time. For the neck, firstly, craniocaudal height vs time; and secondly, craniocaudal angulation vs time. The deceleration and stability achieved by the device can be confirmed by firstly, reduced distance per second graphically expressed); reduced maximal velocity achieved for the head; and secondly, reduced maximal angulation and lesser craniocaudal height reduction for the neck.

[0059] As a third aspect, the present application discloses a method of making the head and neck protector of the first aspect. The method of making the head and neck protector comprises a step of providing a tension connection system, a cranial part and an upper thoracic part; a step of fixing the tension connection system to the cranial part; and a step of fixing the tension connection to the upper thoracic part. The method of making may further comprise a step of providing a craniocervical part, a cervicothoracic part and a cervical part; and a step of connecting the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part to a top end and a bottom end of the cervical part. The craniocervical part, the cervicothoracic part and the cervical part are inflatable or expandable to stabilize the neck and its junctions from an external shock.

[0060] The cervical part is optionally provided by a step of providing a first set of tubular components; a step of providing a second set of tubular components; a step of providing a plurality of columnar components; and a step of connecting the first set of tubular components and the second set of tubular components with the columnar components. In particular, each columnar component comprises a plurality of stacked compartments. In some implementations, the cervical part is constructed by firstly making the tubular component from an inner lining and an outer lining; and then connecting the columnar component with the tubular component. Alternatively, the cervical part is constructed by firstly providing a plurality of columnar components, and then connecting the columnar components with an inner lining and an outer lining. The columnar component is provided by a step of stacking a plurality of units of hexagonal prism configuration and bridging opposing ends of these prisms with crosslinks. [0061] The method of making may further comprise a step of providing a craniocervical part and a cervicothoracic part; and a step of passing the tension connection system through the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part in sequence. The method of making may also comprise a step of providing a cervical part; and a step of connecting the cervical part between the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part.

[0062] The method of making optionally comprises a step of providing a cranial part; and a step of connecting the cranial part to the craniocervical part. The cranial part is provided by a step of providing an equatorial part, a forehead part and a crown part; and a step of interconnecting each two of the equatorial part, the forehead part and the crown part. The method of making optionally comprises a step of providing an upper thoracic part; and a step of connecting the upper thoracic part to the cervicothoracic part.

[0063] The method of making optionally comprises a step of providing a tension connection; and a step of assembling the tension connection into the head and neck protector. The unidirectional force and the rotational force generated by the external shock causes unidirectional movements (such as extension, forward flexion and lateral flexion) and rotational movement (i.e. rotation).

[0064] The tension connector is optionally provided by a step of providing an extension connector for limiting an extension motion; a step of providing a forward flexion connector for limiting a forward flexion motion; a step of providing a lateral flexion connector for limiting a lateral flexion motion; and a step of assembling the extension connector, the forward flexion connector and the lateral flexion connector into the head and neck protector together. Therefore, the head and neck protector can resist the unidirectional force of various forms.

[0065] The tension connector is optionally provided by a step of providing a rotational connector for preventing a rotational motion; and a step of assembling the rotational connector into the head and neck protector. Therefore, the head and neck protector can resist the rotational force. In addition, the tension connector may comprise all the extension connector, the forward flexion connector, the lateral flexion and the rotational connector such that the head and neck protector resist both the unidirectional force and the rotational force of the external shock.

[0066] The method of making optionally comprises a step of providing a locking system for halting an excessive motion of the wearer; and a step of passing the tension connection system into the locking system. The locking system is provided by a step of providing a pulley mechanism for directing movement of the tension connection system; a step of providing a locking mechanism for locking the tension connection system; a step of assembling the pulley mechanism and the locking mechanism together by the tension connection system; and a step of enclosing the pulley mechanism and the locking mechanism into a casing. The locking mechanism is provided by a step of providing a locking plate, a running track, a spring coil and a bridging bar combined with pendulum; a step of fixing the locking plate, the running track and the spring coil to the casing; and a step of fixing the bridging bar/pendulum to the spring coil. The tension connection system is configured to be connected to the wheel axle, to which the bridging bar/pendulum is freely attached.

[0067] The method of making may further comprise a step of providing a pelvic part and two straps; a step of surrounding the pelvic part to the pelvis of the wearer; and a step of decussating the two straps for connecting the pelvic part to the subaxillary thoracic belt. The method of making optionally further comprises a step of providing at least two thigh straps; and a step of connecting these two thigh straps to the pelvic part.

[0068] The method of making optionally comprises a step of assembling a gas source to the head and neck protector; a step of assembling an igniter to the gas source; and a step of connecting a detecting device to the igniter.

[0069] The gas source is provided by evenly disturbing a plurality of pockets of sodium azide. The pockets of sodium azide would generate nitrogen gas once heated by the igniter for expanding the head and neck protector. [0070] The method of making optionally comprises a step of electrically connecting a processor to the detecting device and the igniter. The detecting device may comprise a plurality of sensors, such as a pressure sensor, an ultrasound sensor or an electromagnetic sensor.

[0071] The method of making optionally comprises a step of installing an internal cooling system into the inner lining. The method of making may also comprise a step of providing a temperature sensor and a step of electrically connecting the temperature sensor with the internal cooling system for initiating or terminating the internal cooling system.

[0072] The method of making optionally comprises a step of connecting a deflation device for discharging the head and neck protector. The head and neck protection system may comprise a step of placing an internal pressure sensor inside the head and neck protector for detecting the internal pressure of the inflation protection.

[0073] The accompanying figures (Figs.) illustrate embodiments and serve to explain principles of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that these figures are presented for purposes of illustration only, and not for defining limits of relevant applications.

Fig. 1 illustrates a side view of a tension connection system;

Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of an extension connector;

Fig. 3 illustrates a side view of a lateral forward flexion connector;

Fig. 4 illustrates a rear view of a posterior forward flexion connector;

Fig. 5 illustrates a side view of a lateral flexion connector;

Fig. 6 illustrates a front view of a rotational connector;

Fig. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an upper thoracic part and the tension connection system;

Fig. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a locking system in a resting state;

Fig. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a locking mechanism in an unlocked steate under a small external force;

Fig. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the locking mechanism in a locked state under a large external force; Fig. 11 illustrates a rear view of the locking system encased in a cassette over the posterior thoracic region anchored by two diagonal straps;

Fig. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a cervical part;

Fig. 13 illustrates a first embodiment of a set of diagonal crosslinks;

Fig. 14 illustrates a second embodiment of a set of diagonal crosslinks;

Fig. 15 illustrates a third embodiment of a set of diagonal crosslinks;

Fig. 16 illustrates a top view of the cervical part in a deflation state;

Fig. 17 illustrates a top view of the cervical part in an inflation state;

Fig. 18 illustrates a side view of a head and neck protector in a deflation state;

Fig. 19 illustrates a side view of the head and neck protector in an inflation state;

Fig. 20 illustrates an enlarged side view of the head and neck protector in the inflation state;

Fig. 21 illustrates a top view of a trilaminar crash helmet with multiple pressure sensors;

Fig. 22 illustrates a side view of the trilaminar crash helmet with multiple pressure sensors;

Fig. 23 illustrates a top view of a cranial part;

Fig. 24 illustrates a side view of a head and neck protector;

Fig. 25 illustrates a top view of the cervical part with a gas source;

Fig. 26 illustrates a side view of another columnar component under a deflation state and an inflation state.

Fig. 27 illustrates a side view of an angular measurement under a unidirectional head motion;

Fig. 28 illustrates a side view of a craniocaudal angulation measurement under a craniocaudal motion;

Fig. 29 illustrates a side view of a craniocaudal height measurement under the craniocaudal motion;

Fig. 30 illustrates an aerial view of the angular measurement under a rotational head motion.

[0074] Fig. 1 illustrates a side view of a tension connection system 300 for a head and neck protector 200. An equatorial part 250 and a forehead part 252 are connected with a crown part 254 at a first connecting point 266 and a second connecting point 268 respectively; while the equatorial part 250 and the forehead part 252 are also connected at a third connecting point 270. The tension connection system 300 comprises multiple connectors for interconnecting a cranial part 210, a craniocervical part 202, a cervical part 100, a cervicothoracic part 204 and a subaxillary thoracic belt (also known as upper thoracic part) 260 craniocaudally in order to limit excessive motions in the following motions: an extension motion, a forward flexion motion, a lateral flexion motion and a rotational motion. Accordingly, the tension connection system 300 further comprises an extension connector 302 for preventing the extension motion; the forward flexion connector 303 for preventing a forward flexion motion; a lateral flexion connector 306 for preventing the lateral flexion motion and a rotational connector 308 (not shown) for preventing the rotational motion when the user is struck by an external shock.

[0075] Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of the extension connector 302. The extension connector 302 of the tension system connection 300 works under the extension motion as indicated by an extension arrow 310 for limiting excessive extension of the cervical spine. The extension connector 302 further comprises a first set of cords 312 surrounding the head and a first band 314 connected to the first set of cords 312. It is understood that the first set of cords 312 and the first band 314 may be a single continuous stream of cord running from the cranial ring 210 to the subaxillary thoracic belt 260 and the locking system 700. The first band 314 is anchored to an anterior aspect 322 of the upper thoracic part 260 after running anteriorly through the craniocervical part 202, the cervical part 100 and the cervicothoracic part 204, crossing over an anterior thorax 324, and latching to an anterior circumference of the upper thoracic part 260. The first set of cords 312 is specially configured to connect to and extend downwardly from the crown part 254, then loop around the chin of the user from one side to the other side of the user; and finally extend upwards and return to the crown part 254. In detail, the first set of cords 312 comprises a first anterior auricular cord 316 and a first posterior auricular cord 318 connected with the crown part 254 at the first connection point 266 and the second connection point 268 respectively. The first anterior auricular cord 316, the first posterior auricular cord 318 and the first band 314 are interconnected at a fourth connection point 320. Under the extension motion, the crown part 254, the first set of cords 312 and the first band 314 are all stretched as indicated by black arrows in Fig. 2. [0076] The forward flexion connector 303 comprises a lateral sub-set 304 and a posterior sub-set 305 at the lateral side and the posterior side of the wearer respectively. Fig. 3 illustrates a side view of the lateral sub-set 304. The lateral sub-set

304 of the forward flexion connector 303 works under the forward flexion motion as indicated by a forward flexion arrow 330 for preventing excessive forward flexion of the cervical spine. The lateral sub-set 304 further comprises a second set of cords 332 and a second band 334 connected to the second set of cords 332 at a fifth connecting point 336. It is understood that the second set of cords 332 and the second band 334 may be a single continuous stream of cord running from the cranial ring 210 to the subaxillary thoracic belt 260 and the locking system 700. The second set of cords 332 is connected to the equatorial part 250 and the crown part 254 at the second connecting point 268. The second band 334 is anchored to a posterior aspect 338 of the upper thoracic part 260 after running posteriorly from the fifth connecting point 336, through the craniocervical part 202, the cervical part 100 and the cervicothoracic part 204, crossing over the posterior thorax 340, and latching to the posterior circumference of the upper thoracic part 260. Under the forward flexion motion, the equatorial part 250, the forehead part 252, the crown part 254, the second set of cords 332 and the second band 334 are all stretched as indicated by black arrows in Fig. 3.

[0077] Fig. 4 illustrates a rear view of the posterior sub-set 305. The posterior sub-set

305 further comprises a second posterior set of cords 399 and a second posterior band 400 at a posterior side of the body. The second posterior set of cords 399 further comprises a second left cord 395, a second left inner cord 396, a second right inner cord 398 and a second right cord 397. While the posterior band 400 further comprises a second posterior left band 402, a second posterior left inner band 404, a second posterior right inner band 406 and a second posterior right band 408 connected to the second left cord 395, the second left inner cord 396, the second right inner cord 398 and the second right cord 397, respectively. The second posterior left band 402, the second posterior left inner band 404, the second posterior right inner cord 406 and the second posterior right cord 408 extend from the craniocervical part 202 and the cervicothoracic part 204, then cross over a posterior thoracic wall 410, and finally anchor to the posterior circumference of the upper thoracic part 260 at an eleventh connecting point 412, a twelfth connecting point 414, a thirteenth connecting point 416 and a fourteenth connecting point 418, respectively. [0078] Fig. 5 illustrates a side view of the lateral flexion connector 306. The lateral flexion connector 306 of the tension connection 300 under the lateral flexion motion as indicated by a lateral flexion arrow 350 for preventing excessive left or right lateral flexion of the cervical spine. The lateral flexion connector 306 further comprises a third set of cords 352 running laterally across the cranial part 210 and a third band 354 connected to the third set of cords 352. It is understood that the third set of cords 352 and the third band 354 may be a single continuous stream of cord running from the cranial ring 210 to the subaxillary thoracic belt 260 and the locking system 700. The third set of cords 354 further comprises a third anterior auricular cord 356 and a third posterior auricular cord 358. The third band 354 further comprises a third anterior band 360 and a third posterior band 362 connected to the third anterior auricular cord 356 and the third posterior auricular cord 358 respectively. The third anterior band 360 and the third posterior band 362 extend downwardly through lateral aspects of the craniocervical part 202 and the cervicothoracic part 204, and then latch to the lateral circumference of the upper thoracic part 260 at a first lateral aspect 364 and a second lateral aspect 366 respectively. Under the lateral flexion motion, the third set of cords 352 and the third band 354 are both stretched as indicated by black arrows in Fig. 5.

[0079] Fig. 6 illustrates a front view of the rotational connector 308. The rotational connector 308 of the tension connection 300 works under the rotational motion as indicated by a rotational arrow 370 for preventing excessive rotation of the cervical spine. The rotational connector 308 comprises a fourth set of cords 372 from an occiput 374 running anteriorly and downwardly across the cranial part 210; and a fourth anterior band 376 connected to the fourth set of cords 372. It is understood that the fourth set of cords 372 and the fourth band 374 may be a single continuous stream of cord running from the cranial ring 210 to the subaxillary thoracic belt 260 and the locking system 700. The fourth set of cords 372 further comprises a fourth anterior left cord 378 and a fourth anterior right cord 380. The fourth anterior band 376 further comprises a fourth anterior left band 382 and a fourth anterior right band 384 connected to the fourth anterior left cord 378 and the fourth anterior right cord 380 respectively. The fourth anterior left band 382 and the fourth anterior right band 384 extend from the craniocervical part 202, decussate or diagonally cross over the neck, and thus anchor to the cervicothoracic part 204 at a sixth connecting point 386 and the seventh connecting point 388 respectively. The fourth anterior left band 382 and the fourth anterior right band 384 further cross over an anterior thoracic wall 390 on a right side along the right shoulder 264 and a left sided along the left shoulder 262 respectively, and finally implant into the upper thoracic part 260 at an eighth connecting point 392 and a tenth connecting point 394, respectively. In particular, the decussating bands 382, 384 limit contralateral lateral rotation of the cervical spine. In addition, the decussating bands 382, 384 also allow the user to rotate the neck in both a clockwise direction and an anti-clockwise direction when the head and neck protector is not inflated.

[0080] Fig. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an upper thoracic part 260 and the tension connection system 300. As shown in Fig. 7 (a), the tension connection system 300 comprises an inner conduction tube (also known as front tube) 612 for enclosing the extension connector 302 and the rotational connector 308; a central tube (also known as middle tube) 614 for enclosing the lateral flexion connector 306; and an outer tube (also known as rear tube) 616 for enclosing the forward flexion connector 308. The inner tube 612, the central tube 614 and the outer conduction tube 616 run within the subaxillary thoracic belt 260. It is clearly shown that all the cables in the conduction tube 612, 614, 616 converge in a posterior thoracic region 750 before merging with their respective connectors from an opposite side. The cables merge and pass into the locking system 700 via a cable connector (not shown). Fig. 7 (b) shows that the extension connector 302 and the rotational connector 308 pass from an anterior circumference of the upper thoracic part (also called subaxillary thoracic belt) 260 round to the posterior thoracic region 750 as a hatched area where the extension connector 302 and the rotational connector 308 run into the locking system 700 via a cable connector (not shown). In particular, the inner tube 612 has anterior entry points 420, 422 for the extension connector 302 to enter therefrom. Similarly, the inner tube 612 also has anterior points 424, 426 for the rotational connector 308 to enter therefrom. Fig 7 (c) shows that the lateral flexion connector 306 passes from the lateral circumference of the subaxillary thoracic belt 260 round to the posterior thoracic region 750 where the lateral flexion connector 306 runs into the locking system 700 via the cable connector (not shown). In particular, the central tube has anterior entry points 430, 434 and posterior entry points 428, 432 for the lateral flexion connector 306 to enter therefrom. Fig 7 (d) shows that the forward flexion connector 303 (including the lateral sub-set 304 and the posterior sub-set 305) passes from a posterior circumference of the subaxillary thoracic belt 260 to the posterior thoracic region 750 where the forward flexion connector 303 runs into the locking system 700 via the cable connector (not shown). In particular, the outer tube 616 has anterior entry points 438, 442 and posterior entry points 436, 440 for the forward flexion connector 303 (including the lateral sub-set 304 and the posterior sub-set 305) to enter therefrom.

[0081] Fig. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a locking system 700 in a resting state. The locking system 700 comprises a pulley mechanism 702 and a locking mechanism 704 enclosed into a casing 706. The casing has an opening 708 for introducing a continuous stream of string 710 for connecting the pulley mechanism 702 and the locking mechanism 704 in sequence. The continuous stream of string 710 is formed from the tension connection system 300 by combing all the four connectors, i.e. the extension connector 302, the forward flexion connector 303, the lateral flexion connector 306 and the rotational connector 308. The pulley mechanism 704 comprises a first pulley 712 and a second pulley 714 located at a same height. The arrow 716 shows a moving direction of the continuous stream of string 710 under the external force. In this way, the external force is transmitted from the tension connection system 300 to the locking system 700 via the upper thoracic part 260. The locking mechanism 704 comprises a locking plate 718 vertically fixed to the casing 706, a running track 720 vertically fixed to the casing 706, a spring coil 722 having a top end 724 fixed to the casing 706, and a pendulum 728 connected to a wheel-axle 730. A bridging bar 758 is adjoined to the pendulum 728. A bottom end 726 of the spring coil 722 and the continuous stream of string 710 are also connected to the wheel-axle 730. The pendulum 728 is hung from the wheel-axle 730 in a gravity-dependent position and thus pendulum 728 remains in a neutral alignment. The locking plate 718 and the running track 720 form a tunnel 732 for the continuous stream of string 710 to pass through. In particular, the running track 720 has a plurality of cogs 734 configured along the running track 720; while the wheel-axle 730 also has a plurality of gears 736 on an outside surface of the wheel. Since the gears 736 match the cogs 734, the wheel-axle 730 runs along the running track 720. In other words, the running track 720 is tethered with the spring coil 722 via the wheel-axle 730. In addition, the locking plate 718 has a plurality of locking teeth 742 for catching and holding the pendulum 728 once the pendulum 728 swings until getting in touch with the locking plate 718. [0082] Fig. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the locking mechanism 704 in an unlocking state under a small external force. The wheel-axle 720 runs upwardly along the running track 720 when the spring coil 722 is compressed (shown in Fig. 9(a)); while the wheel-axle 720 runs downwardly along the running track 720 when the spring coil 722 is stretched (shown in Fig. 9(b)). When the external force is small below the threshold, the pendulum 728 moves freely in the tunnel 732 along with the wheel-axle 720. The bridging bar 725 stays at a position perpendicular to the pendulum 728 and brushes the locking teeth of locking plate 718 when a uniform velocity motion or external force below a set threshold is applied to the system. Therefore, a uniform motion is applied to the locking mechanism 704; and a uniform velocity motion produces traction on the cogs 734. The arrow 716 and the arrow 738 show motion directions of the continuous stream of string 710 and the top end 724 of the spring coil 722.

[0083] Fig. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the locking system 700 in a locked state under a large external force above a set threshold. Similar to Fig. 9(a), the wheel-axle 720 runs upwardly along the running track 720 when the spring coil 722 is compressed (shown in Fig. 10(a)). The pendulum 728 also moves longitudinally in the tunnel 732; and the bridging bar 725 still keeps at the perpendicular position to the pendulum 728. However, when the external force exceeds the threshold, the freely attached bridging bar 758 forcibly strikes the locking teeth 742 causing the attached pendulum 728 to swing out and lock into the adjacent locking teeth 742 below the pendulum 728 (shown in Fig. 10 (b)). The locking action halts the accelerated motion applied to the head and neck protector 200. As a result, motions of the continuous stream of string 710 and the locking system 700 are restricted for mitigating an accelerated motion induced by the external force.

[0084] Fig. 11 illustrates a rear view of the locking system 700 encased in a cassette over the posterior encased in a cassette over the posterior thoracic region anchored by two diagonal straps, i.e. a left thigh strap 742 and a right thigh strap 744 surrounding a left thigh 746 and a right thigh 748, respectively. The locking system 700 is attached to the posterior thoracic region 750 and anchored by a first thoracic strap 752 and a second thoracic strap 754. The two thoracic strap 752, 754 are connected between the upper thoracic part 260 and a pelvic part 756 in a decussating configuration. The pelvic part is fixed at a pelvis of the wearer. In particular, the tension connection system 300 extended from the upper thoracic part 260 are conducted to the locking system 700.

[0085] Fig. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a cervical part 100. The cervical part 100 comprises a first set of multiple tubular components 102 for forming a top portion 104, a second set of multiple tubular components 106 for forming a bottom portion 108, and a plurality of columnar components 110 for connecting the first set of tubular components 102 and the second set of tubular components 106. The tubular components 102, 106 and the columnar components 110 are inflatable. The columnar component 110 has a hexagonal or honeycomb configuration. The tubular component 110 further comprises a plurality of units 112 that are vertically stacked from the bottom portion 108 to the top potion 104. The units 112 communicate and thus inflate simultaneously. The unit 112 further two parallel sheets, i.e. a top sheet 114 and a bottom sheet 116. Each of the sheets 114, 116 further comprises four sub-units 118 having a hexagonal shape. In addition, the cervical part 100 further comprises an aperture 120 for exposing the anterior neck of the user after inflation.

[0086] The compartment 112 further comprises diagonally opposite crosslinks bridge within the compartment 112. In detail, the compartment 112 comprises a first crosslinks 122 and a second crosslink 124. The crosslinks 122, 124 are configured to diagonally bridge along the sheets 104, 106 within the unit 112. The sub-units 118 of the top sheet 114 comprise a top outer sub-unit 126, a top left sub-unit 128, a top left sub-unit 130 and a top right sub-unit. The sub-units 118 of the bottom sheet 116 further comprises a bottom outer sub-unit 134, a bottom left sub-unit 136, a bottom left sub unit 138 and a bottom right sub-unit 140. Fig. 13 illustrates a first embodiment 142 of a set of diagonal crosslinks 122, 124 that link the top outer sub-unit 126 and the bottom outer sub-unit 134. Fig. 14 illustrates a second embodiment 144 of a set of diagonal crosslinks 122, 124 that link the top right sub-unit 132 and the bottom left sub-unit 138. Fig. 15 illustrates a third embodiment 146 of a set of diagonal crosslinks 122, 124 that link the top left sub-unit 130 and the bottom right sub-unit. The crosslinks 122, 124 preserve a structural integrity of the compartment 112 within the columnar component 110. [0087] Fig. 16 illustrates a top view of the cervical part 100 in a deflation state or before inflation of the cervical part 100. The top portion 104 of the cervical part 100 comprises six columnar compartments 110 for connecting the first set of six tubular components 102. In particular, each of the first set of six tubular components 102 comprises an outer lining 148 and an inner lining 150. The outer lining 148 is made of nylon as a thin, flexible, and expansile material; while the inner lining 150 is made of a thick, tough, stretch-resistant material such as Kevlar, dyneema, spectra or zylon. Therefore, the outer lining 148 thus has a lower elastic modulus for accommodating a large volume of gas that rapidly expands the cervical part 110. In contrast, the inner lining 150 has a high elastic modulus or stretch-resistance to resist an expansile force more effectively when the cervical part 100 undergoes a rapid inflation process. In the deflation state, the inner lining 150 has a molded configuration to fit to a contour of the neck. The top portion 104 has a hexagonal or honeycomb shape that provides a primary supporting structure for limiting body motions such as neck flexion, extension, right and left lateral flexions. In addition, the top portion 104 comprises the aperture 120 between two columnar compartments 1 10.

[0088] Fig. 17 illustrates a top view of the cervical part 100 in an inflation state or after inflation of the cervical part 100. As shown by a cervical inflation arrow 152, the first set of six tubular components 102 is inflated in a rapid manner by expanding the outer lining 148 outwardly away from the inner lining 150. While the inner lining 150 keep almost unexpanded for protecting the head and neck of the user from an explosive trauma.

[0089] Fig. 18 illustrates a side view of an head and neck protector 200 in a deflation state or before inflation of the head and neck protector 200. In addition to the cervical part 100 described above with the columnar components 110, the head and neck protector 200 comprises a craniocervical part 202 that provides structural support to a craniocervical junction for protecting the craniocervical junction from excessive junctional motions; and a cervicothoracic part 204 that provides support to a cervicothoracic junction for protecting the cervicothoracic junction from excessive junctional motions. The craniocervical part 202 and the cervicothoracic part 204 are connected to a top end 206 and a bottom end 208 of the cervical part 100 respectively. In particular, the craniocervical part 202, the cervicothoracic part 204 and the cervical part 100 are all inflatable for providing stability against an external shock. The head and neck protector 200 works in conjunction with a cranial part 210 for protecting the head of the user.

[0090] Fig. 19 illustrates a side view of the head and neck protector 200 in an inflation state or after inflation of the head and neck protector 200. In addition to the cervical part 100, the craniocervical part 202, the cervicothoracic part 204 and the cranial part 210 are all inflatable. In particular, the craniocervical part 202 and the cervicothoracic part 204 expand in all four directions as shown by a first inflation arrow 212 indicating a left inflation, a right inflation arrow 214 indicating a right inflation, a third inflation arrow 216 indicating an upward inflation and a fourth arrow 218 indicating a downward inflation. In contrast, the cervical part 100 and the cranial part 210 expand only outwardly as indicated by the cervical inflation arrow 152 and the cranial inflation arrow 220 respectively. In addition to the external shock, the head and neck protector 200 also resist an axial loading stress on the cervical spine after inflation by transmitting the axial loading stress from the cranial part 210 to the craniocervical part 202, the cervical part 100 and the cervicothoracic part 204. Moreover, the cervicothoracic part 204 and the cranial part 210 work in continuation with a shoulder vest (not shown) and a trilaminar crash helmet (not shown) respectively.

[0091] Fig. 20 illustrates an enlarged side view of the head and neck protector 200 in the inflation state. It is clearly shown that the columnar component 110 is compartmentalized into six units vertically stacked from the cervicothoracic part 204 to the craniocervical part 202. The compartmentalization of the columnar component 110 enables each compartments 112 to expand simultaneously, to provide ballast by structurally supporting adjacent units and to preserve the natural configuration of the cervical spine. Furthermore, if one or more of the compartments 112 fail, the remaining compartments 112 can compensate to provide structural support within the same columnar component. The units 112 also preserve their configuration during a rapid inflation due to the crosslinks 122, 124 within each unit 112. The crosslinks 122, 124 is made of nylon or similar fabrics of high tensile strength which resist the rapid expansion when the head and neck protector 200 is inflated. [0092] Fig. 21 illustrates a top view of a trilaminar crash helmet 222 with multiple pressure sensors 224. The pressure sensors 224 are distributed on an exterior shell 226 of the trilaminar crash helmet 222, spreading from a front end 228 to a rear end 230 of the trilaminar crash helmet 222. The pressure sensors 224 are electrically connected by five electrical circuit respectively, i.e. a first electrical circuit 232, a second electrical circuit 234, a third electrical circuit 236, a fourth electrical circuit 238 and a fifth electrical circuit 240. The electrical circuit 232, 234, 236, 238, 240 converges at a front pressure sensor 242 at the front end 228 and at a rear pressure sensor 244 at the rear end 230. The electrical circuits 232, 234, 236, 238, 240 are not inferenced with each other since they are separated by multiple air vents 246 of the trilaminar crash helmet 222, respectively. The electrical wires 232, 234, 236, 238, 240 are further electrically connected to a first electrical cable 248 for transmitting a pressure change to a processor (not shown).

[0093] Fig. 22 illustrates a side view of the trilaminar crash helmet 222 with multiple pressure sensors 224. The pressure sensors 224 are strategically distributed along the exterior shell 226 of the trilaminar crash helmet 222. The pressure sensors 224 detect the pressure change around the trilaminar crash helmet 222. The pressure change is then transmitted to the processor (not shown) via the electrically circuits 232, 234, 236, 238, 240 and the first electrical cable 248. The processor then compares the pressure change with a threshold value. If the pressure change is caused by the external shock, the pressure change would be more than the threshold value, and then the process would activate an igniter 250 by sending off an inflation signal to the igniter 250. The igniter 250 then heats a plurality of pockets containing sodium azide circumferentially distributed within the head and neck protector 200. Dissociation of sodium azide results in a rapid liberation and expansion of the explosive nitrogen gas that causes all the inflatable parts of the head and neck protector 200 to rapidly inflate for resisting the external shock.

[0094] Fig. 23 illustrates a top view of the cranial part 210. The cranial part 210 comprises an equatorial part 250, a forehead part 252 and a crown part 254. The equatorial part 250 covers almost all the head; while the forehead part 252 and the crown part 254 cover a front portion 256 and a rear portion 258 of the head, respectively. In other words, the forehead part 252 and the crown part 254 overlap with the equatorial part 250 at the front portion 256 and the rear portion 258 of the head respectively, since the equatorial part 250 surrounds a maximum circumference of the head. In particular, the forehead part 252 and the crown part 254 are configured to overlap for anchoring an upper thoracic part 260 (not shown) via the craniocervical part 202 and the cervicothoracic part 204. Fig. 23 also shows a left should 262 and a right should 264 of the user.

[0095] Fig. 24 illustrates a side view of an head and neck protection system500. The head and neck protection system500 further comprises a second electrical cable 502 for transmitting the inflation signal from the process (not shown) to the igniter (not shown) at a posterior aspect of the cervical part 100. The head and neck protection system500 further comprises a gas source 504 having eighteen pockets of sodium azide evenly distributed in the columnar components 110 of the inside the cervical part 100 for generating nitrogen gas smoothly and uniformly. The eighteen pockets of sodium azide are arranged in a cubic grid configuration. In Fig. 24, nine pockets 506 to 522 of the eighteen pockets are shown on one side of the cervical part 100, comprising a first pocket 506, a second pocket 508 and a third pocket 510 at a superior level 524; a fourth pocket 512, a fifth pocket 514 and a sixth pocket 516 at a middle level 526; and a seventh pocket 518, an eighth pocket 520 and a ninth pocket 522 at an inferior level 528. The first pocket 506, the fourth pocket 512 and the seventh pocket 518 are arranged in an anterior section 530; the second pocket 508, the seventh pocket 514 and the eighth pocket 520 are arranged in a middle section 532; and the third pocket 510, the sixth pocket 516 and the ninth pocket 522 are arranged in a posterior section 534. While the other nine pockets of the eighteen pockets (not shown) are located on the other side of the cervical part 100.

[0096] Fig. 25 illustrates a top view of the cervical part 100 with the gas source 504. In addition to the first pocket 506, the second pocket 508, the third pocket 510, the gas source 504 further comprises a tenth pocket 536, an eleventh pocket 538 and a twelfth pocket 540 in the superior level 524. The first pocket 506 and the tenth pocket 536 are arranged in the anterior section 530; the second pocket 508 and the eleventh pocket 538 are arranged in the middle section 532; and the third pocket 510 and the twelfth pocket 540 are arranged in the posterior section 534, respectively. As described above, the pockets of sodium azide 506, 508, 510, 536, 538, 540 would inflate almost the outer lining 148 exclusively of the columnar component 110.

[0097] Fig. 26 illustrates a side view of another columnar component 600 under a deflation state (a) and an inflation state (b). In addition to the inner lining 150 and the outer lining 148, the tubular component 600 further comprises an innermost lining 602 internal to the inner lining 150, a first intermediate layer 604 between the innermost lining 602 and the inner lining 150, a second intermediate layer 606 between the inner lining 150 and the outer lining 148. As described above, the inner lining 150 and the innermost lining 602 are made of a thick material having a high modulus for resisting the expansion of the head and neck protector 200 and thereby preserving the natural neck configuration of the user. The outer lining 148 is made of a thin material having a low elastic modulus for permitting the expansion to a great extent. The first intermediate layer 604 comprises a frictionless lubricant which helps minimize cutaneous abrasions when the columnar component 110 inflates. Alternatively, the first intermediate layer is composed of a shock absorption material to minimize an energy transfer to the user during inflation. In particular, a pocket of sodium azide 608 is positioned inside the second intermediate layer 606 which is made of an expansile blast-resistant material. In addition, the tension connection 300 is also positioned inside the second intermediate layer 606. Furthermore, the columnar component 600 comprises hooks 610 which anchor the tension cables to the inner lining, thereby preventing a specific tension cable system from being compromised when the head and neck are pulled in the opposing direction by an external force.

[0098] Fig. 27 illustrates a side view of an angular measurement 800 under a unidirectional head motion induced by the external force 802. In a neutral position 804 (Fig. 27 (a)) before the impact, the head 810, the neck 811 and the upper thorax 812 are configured in a neutral alignment; and in a translocated position 806 (Fig. 27 (b)) after the impact, the head 814, the neck 815 and the upper thorax 816 are configured in a translocated alignment. The angular measurement 800 is conducted by recording an angular motion following the impact of the external force 802 by a set of slow motion cameras. The first angular measurement 800 is taken by measuring the distance along an angular trajectory (a) per second of a fixed reference point 808 on the head 810, 814 such as a nasion or an inion. [0099] Fig. 28 illustrates a side view of a craniocaudal angulation measurement 820 under a craniocaudal motion induced by the externai force 802. The craniocaudal angulation measurement 801 is conducted by recording a craniocaudal angulation per second from a neutral angle (m) 822 before the impact (Fig. 28(a)) to a translocated angle (d) 824 after the impact (Fig. 28 (b)) by the set of slow motion cameras.

[0100] Fig. 30 illustrates a side view of a craniocaudal height measurement 830. The craniocaudal height measurement 830 is conducted by recording a craniocaudal height per second from a neutral height 832 before the impact (Fig. 29 (a)) to a translocated height 834 after the impact (Fig. 29 (b)) by the set of slow motion cameras.

[0101] Fig. 30 illustrates an aerial view of a second angular measurement 840 under a rotational head motion induced by the external force 802. In a neutral position 842 (Fig. 28(a)) before the impact, the head 810 is configured in a neutral alignment; and in a translocated position 844 (Fig. 27 (b)), the head 813 is configured in a translocated alignment. The angular measurement 840 is conducted by recording an angular motion following the impact of the external force 802 by the set of slow motion cameras. The angular measurement 840 is taken by measuring a degree of angulation (b) per second as the head rotates from the neutral position 842 to the translocated position 844.

[0102] In the application, unless specified otherwise, the terms "comprising", "comprise", and grammatical variants thereof, intended to represent "open" or "inclusive" language such that they include recited elements but also permit inclusion of additional, non-explicitly recited elements.

[0103] As used herein, the term "about", in the context of concentrations of components of the formulations, typically means +/- 5% of the stated value, more typically +/- 4% of the stated value, more typically +/- 3% of the stated value, more typically, +/- 2% of the stated value, even more typically +/- 1% of the stated value, and even more typically +/- 0.5% of the stated value. [0104] Throughout this disclosure, certain embodiments may be disclosed in a range format. The description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the disclosed ranges. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible sub-ranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed sub-ranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0105] It will be apparent that various other modifications and adaptations of the application will be apparent to the person skilled in the art after reading the foregoing disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the application and it is intended that all such modifications and adaptations come within the scope of the appended claims.

Reference Numerals

100 inflatable cervical part;

102 first set of tubular components;

104 top portion;

106 second set of tubular components; 108 bottom portion;

110 columnar component;

112 compartment;

114 top sheet;

116 bottom sheet;

118 sub-unit;

120 aperture;

122 first crosslink;

124 second crosslink;

126 top outer sub-unit;

128 top inner sub-unit;

130 top left sub-unit;

132 top right sub-unit;

134 bottom outer sub-unit;

136 bottom inner sub-unit;

138 bottom left sub-unit;

140 bottom right sub-unit;

142 first embodiment;

144 second embodiment;

146 third embodiment;

148 outer lining;

150 inner lining;

152 cervical inflation arrow;

200 head and neck protector;

202 craniocervical part;

204 cervicothoracic part;

206 top end;

208 bottom end; 210 cranial part;

212 first inflation arrow;

214 second inflation arrow;

216 third inflation arrow;

218 fourth inflation arrow;

220 cranial inflation arrow;

222 trilaminar crash helmet;

224 pressure sensor;

226 exterior shell;

228 front end;

230 rear end;

232 first electrical circuit;

234 second electrical circuit;

236 third electrical circuit;

238 fourth electrical circuit;

240 fifth electrical circuit;

242 front pressure sensor;

244 rear pressure sensor;

246 air vent;

248 first electrical cable;

250 equatorial part;

252 forehead part;

254 crown part;

256 front portion;

258 rear portion;

260 subaxillary thoracic belt (also known as upper thoracic part);

262 left shoulder;

264 right shoulder;

266 first connecting point;

268 second connecting point;

270 third connecting point;

300 tension connection;

302 extension connector;

303 forward flexion connector; 304 lateral sub-set of the forward flexion connector;

305 posterior sub-set of the forward flexion connector;

306 lateral flexion connector;

308 rotational connector;

310 extension arrow;

312 first set of cords;

314 first band;

316 first anterior auricular cord;

318 first posterior auricular cord;

320 fourth connecting point;

322 anterior aspect;

324 anterior thorax;

330 forward flexion arrow;

332 second set of cords;

334 second band;

336 fifth connecting point;

338 posterior aspect;

340 posterior thorax;

350 lateral flexion arrow;

352 third set of cords;

354 third band;

356 third anterior auricular cord;

358 third posterior auricular cord;

360 third anterior band;

362 third posterior band;

364 first lateral aspect;

366 second lateral aspect;

370 rotational arrow;

372 fourth set of cords;

374 occiput;

376 fourth anterior band;

378 fourth anterior left cord;

380 fourth right cord;

382 fourth anterior left band; 384 fourth anterior right band;

386 sixth connecting point;

388 seventh connecting point;

390 anterior thoracic wall;

392 eighth connecting point;

394 tenth connecting point;

395 second left cord’

396 second left inner rope;

397 second right cord;

398 second right inner rope;

399 second posterior set of cords;

400 second posterior band;

402 second posterior left fiber;

404 second posterior left inner fiber;

406 second posterior right inner fiber;

408 second posterior right fiber;

410 posterior thoracic wall;

412 eleventh connecting point;

414 twelfth connecting point;

416 thirteenth connecting point;

418 fourteenth connecting point;

420, 422 anterior entry points of the extension connector;

424, 426 anterior entry points of the rotational connector;

428, 432 posterior entry points of the lateral flexion connector; 430, 434 anterior entry points of the lateral flexion connector; 436, 440 posterior entry points of the forward flexion connector; 438, 442 anterior entry points of the forward flexion connector; 500 head and neck protection;

502 second electrical cable;

504 gas source;

506 first pocket;

508 second pocket;

510 third pocket;

512 fourth pocket; 514 fifth pocket;

516 sixth pocket;

518 seventh pocket;

520 eighth pocket;

522 ninth pocket;

524 superior level;

526 middle level;

528 inferior level;

530 anterior section;

532 middle section;

534 posterior section;

536 tenth pocket;

538 eleventh pocket;

540 twelfth pocket;

600 columnar component;

602 innermost lining;

604 first intermediate layer;

606 second intermediate layer;

608 pocket of sodium azide;

610 hook;

612 inner conduction tube (also known as front tube);

614 central tube (also known as middle tube);

616 outer tube (also known as rear tube);

700 locking system;

702 pulley mechanism;

704 locking mechanism;

706 casing;

708 opening;

710 continuous stream of string;

712 first pulley;

714 second pulley;

716 arrow;

718 locking plate;

720 running track; 722 spring coil;

724 top end of the spring;

726 bottom end of the spring;

728 pendulum;

730 wheel-axle;

732 tunnel;

734 cog;

736 gear;

738 arrow;

740 locking teeth;

742 left thigh strap;

744 right thing strap;

746 left thigh;

748 right thing;

750 posterior thoracic region;

752 first thoracic strap;

754 second thoracic strap;

756 pelvic part;

758 bridging bar;

800 first angular measurement;

802 external force;

804 neutral position;

806 translocation position;

808 fixed reference point;

810 head in the neutral position;

811 neck in the neutral position;

812 upper thorax in the neutral position;

813 head in the translocated position;

814 neck in the translocated position;

815 upper thorax in the translocated position;

820 craniocaudal angulation measurement;

822 neutral angle before the impact (m);

824 translocated angle after the impact ( );

830 craniocaudal height measurement; 832 neutral height before the impact; 834 translocated height after the impact; 840 angular measurement;

842 neutral position;

844 translocated position;

846 head in the neutral position;

848 head in the translocated position;

Claims

1 . A head and neck protector for a wearer, comprising

> a tension connection system for preventing excessive motion of a head and a cervical spine of the wearer by an external force;

> a cranial part for fixing the tension connection system onto the wearer; and

> a subaxillary thoracic belt for fixing the tension connection system in the thoracic region; wherein the tension connection system is configured to counteract the external force when in use.

2. The head and neck protector of claim 1 , wherein the cranial part comprises an equatorial ring, a forehead ring and a crown ring, wherein the equatorial ring, the forehead ring and the crown ring are interconnected.

3. The head and neck protector of claim 1 , further comprises

> a craniocervical part for fixing the tension connection system at a craniocervical junction;

> a cervicothoracic part for fixing the tension connection system at a cervicothoracic junction; wherein the tension connection system is configured to pass through the craniocervical part and cervicothoracic part when in use.

4. The head and neck protector of claim 1 , wherein the tension connection system comprises

> an extension connector for limiting an extension motion,

> a forward flexion connector for limiting a forward flexion motion;

> a lateral flexion connector for limiting a lateral flexion motion; and

> a rotational connector for limiting a rotational motion; wherein the extension connector, the forward flexion connector, the lateral flexion, the rotational connector or a combination of any of these are configured to be connected between the cranial part and the subaxillary thoracic belt by passing through the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part.

5. The head and neck protector of claim 4, wherein the extension connector comprises a first set of cords running from the crown ring to the subaxillary thoracic belt.

6. The head and neck protector of claim 4, wherein the forward flexion connector comprises a second set of cords passing from the forehead ring and the equatorial ring through anchoring points posteriorly at the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part to the posterior aspect of the subaxillary thoracic belt.

7. The head and neck protector of claim 4, wherein the lateral flexion connector comprises a third set of cords extending on both sides laterally and downwardly from the vertex (top of head) and top of the crown ring to anchoring points in the craniocervical and cervicothoracic junctions before extending to the lateral aspect of the subaxillary thoracic belt.

8. The head and neck protector of claim 4, wherein the rotational connector comprises a fourth set of cords top portion connected to the equatorial ring; and a fourth bottom portion connected to an anterior side of the upper thoracic part by passing through laterally anteriorly through the craniocervical part and the diagonally opposite cervicothoracic anchoring points before descending over the anterior thoracic wall into the subaxillary thoracic belt on that side part.

9. The head and neck protector of claim 4, wherein the extension connector, the forward flexion connector, the lateral flexion connector and the rotational connector are configured to be separated within the subaxillary thoracic belt for preventing entanglement and optimizing an efficacy of transmitted tension from the cables to the locking device.

10. The head and neck protector of claim 9, further comprising

> an inner conduction tube for enclosing the extension and rotational connectors;

> a central conduction tube for enclosing the lateral flexion connector; and

> an outer conduction tube for enclosing the forward flexion connector.

11 . The head and neck protector of claim 1 , further comprising a locking system for halting the excessive motion of the head and the cervical spine.

12. The head and neck protector of claim 14, wherein the locking system comprises

> a pulley mechanism for directing movement of the tension connection system;

> a locking mechanism for locking the tension connection system; and

> a casing for enclosing the pulley mechanism and the locking mechanism; wherein the tension connection system is configured to connect the pulley mechanism and the locking mechanism in sequence.

13. The head and neck protector of claim 3, further comprising

> a pelvic part surrounding a pelvis of the wearer; and

> at least two decussating straps for connecting the pelvic part to the subaxillary thoracic belt for stabilizing the tension connection system under the external force.

14. The head and neck protector of claim 13, further comprising at least two thigh strap connected to the pelvic part for further stabilizing the tension connection system under the external force.

15. The head and neck protector of claim 3, further comprising an inflatable cervical part between the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part, wherein the craniocervical part and the cervicothoracic part are configured to be inflatable for counteracting the external shock.

16. The head and neck protector of claim 15, further comprising

> a gas source connected to the inflatable cervical part;

> an igniter connected to the gas generator; and

> a detecting device connected to the igniter; wherein the gas generator generates gas for inflating the head and neck protector before an external force touches the head and the neck protector.

17. The head and neck protector of claim 16, wherein the gas source comprises a plurality of pockets of sodium azide for generating nitrogen gas.

18. The head and neck protector of claim 16, further comprising the detecting device comprises a plurality of sensors for detecting an external force.

19. A method of testing the head and neck protector of any preceding claim, comprising

> applying an external force to a wearer;

> taking track of a head movement and a neck movement of the wearer by at least one slow motion camera; and

> measuring a head movement parameter and a neck movement parameter.

20. The method of testing the head and neck protector of claim 19, wherein the head movement parameter comprises

> a linear distance and/or an angular distance for an extension motion, a forward flexion motion or a lateral flexion motion; and

> an axial rotation degree for a rotational motion.

21 . The method of testing the head and neck protector of claim 19, wherein the neck movement parameter comprises a craniocaudal height and a craniocaudal angulation.

22. A method of making the head and neck protector, comprising

> providing a tension connection system, a cranial part and a subaxillary thoracic belt;

> fixing the tension connection system to the cranial part; and

> fixing the tension connection to the subaxillary thoracic belt.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the tension connection system is provided by

> providing an extension connector for limiting an extension motion;

> providing a forward flexion connector for limiting a forward flexion motion;

> providing a lateral flexion connector for limiting a lateral flexion motion;

> providing a rotational connector for limiting a rotational motion; and

> assembling the extension connector, the forward flexion connector, the lateral flexion connector and the rotational connector together.

24. The method of claim 22, further comprising

> providing a pelvic part and two straps;

> surrounding the pelvic part to a pelvis of the wearer; and

> decussating the two straps for connecting the pelvic part to the subaxillary thoracic belt.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising

> providing at least two thigh strap; and

> connecting the at least two thigh strap to the pelvic part.