WO2022036324A1 - Breakaway carrier - Google Patents

Abstract

A breakaway carrier having a front panel with front shoulder strap extensions, one or more front shoulder strap apertures are formed through the front shoulder strap extensions; a back panel having back shoulder strap extensions, each of the back shoulder strap extensions having a shoulder strap channel formed such that at least a portion of one of the front shoulder strap extensions may be received within at least a portion of each respective shoulder strap channel, wherein one or more shoulder strap release loops are formed within each shoulder strap channel; and at least one cable, wherein at least a portion of the at least one cable is removably positionable through each of the one or more shoulder strap release loops positioned through the front shoulder strap apertures, to keep the one or more shoulder strap release loops from being withdrawn from the front shoulder strap apertures.

Description

BREAKAWAY CARRIER

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 63/065,803, filed August 14, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not Applicable.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX

[0003] Not Applicable.

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL

[0004] The disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. Unless otherwise noted, all trademarks and service marks identified herein are owned by the applicant.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

1. Field of the Present Disclosure

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to breakaway carriers. In particular, the present invention relates to improved releasable, breakaway, or cutaway carriers having components that, upon release, are able to separate from one another.

2. Description of Related Art

[0006] Military and law enforcement personnel, particularly those attached to special operations units, carry body armor and/or numerous specially designed and adapted pieces of gear on various carriers. Because of the bulk and weight of certain carriers, it is sometimes necessary or desirable to be able to quickly remove the carrier, particularly in an emergency situation.

[0007] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles, or the like, which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0008] However, known breakaway carriers have a variety of shortcomings and deficiencies.

[0009] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the breakaway carriers of the present disclosure each comprise at least some of a front panel, a back panel, and at least one cummerbund element extending from or coupled between the front panel and/or the back panel.

[0010] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the breakaway carrier comprises at least some of a front panel, a back panel, and at least one cummerbund element extending from or coupled to either the front panel or the back panel. A flexible cable is used in combination with a release loop, such that when various components of the breakaway carrier are assembled, the components can be maintained in an assembled relationship. When the flexible cable is pulled from the release loop, select components of the breakaway carrier are released from the assembled relationship and can separate from each other.

[0011] In various exemplary, In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the breakaway carrier comprises at least some of a front panel having an outer front panel and a front attachment layer, wherein two front shoulder strap extensions extend from a portion of the front panel, wherein at least one front shoulder strap aperture is formed through each of the front shoulder strap extensions; a back panel having an outer back panel and a back attachment layer, wherein two back shoulder strap extensions extending from a portion of the back panel, wherein each of the back shoulder strap extensions includes a shoulder strap channel formed through at least a portion of the back shoulder strap extension, between a portion of the outer back panel and the back attachment layer such that at least a portion of one of the front shoulder strap extensions may be received at least partially within at least a portion of a respective shoulder strap channel, wherein one or more shoulder strap release loops extend from the back attachment layer within each shoulder strap channel, and wherein at least a portion of each of the one or more shoulder strap release loops is repeatably releasably positionable through a respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture; and a cable assembly having one or more cables extending from the cable assembly, wherein at least a portion of one of the cables is removably positionable through a respective one of the shoulder strap release loops positioned through the respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture, to keep the shoulder strap release loop from being withdrawn from the front shoulder strap aperture.

[0012] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the front shoulder strap extensions extend, as a monolithic, integrally formed portion of the outer front panel and/or the front attachment layer.

[0013] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the front panel is formed of a unitary body or a one-piece article.

[0014] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the back shoulder strap extensions extend, as a monolithic, integrally formed portion of the outer back panel and/or the back attachment layer.

[0015] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the back panel is formed of a unitary body or a one-piece article.

[0016] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, at least one cummerbund element is releasably attached or coupled to the front panel and the back panel. [0017] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the at least one cummerbund element includes at least two interlocking coupling portions, wherein each of the interlocking coupling portions comprises a series of spaced apart fingers, wherein each finger comprises a loop of material having or forming an aperture therethrough, wherein a recess is formed between adjacent fingers, wherein the interlocking coupling portions are alignable such that portions of the fingers from one of the interlocking coupling portion extend within portions of corresponding recesses of another of the interlocking coupling portion and such that the apertures of the adjacent fingers are aligned and at least a portion of one of the cables of the cable assembly is able to be repeatably slidably positioned within the aligned apertures to maintain the interlocking coupling portions in a releasably attached or coupled relationship.

[0018] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the cable assembly further comprises a cable handle and wherein the one or more cables extend from the cable handle.

[0019] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, a plurality of front shoulder strap apertures are formed through each of the front shoulder strap extensions at spaced apart locations. [0020] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, a plurality of attachment apertures are formed through at least a portion of the front panel.

[0021] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, each attachment aperture is defined by two substantially equal length, substantially parallel sides, an arcuate side joining respective upper terminal ends of the substantially parallel sides, and an arcuate side joining respective lower terminal ends of the substantially parallel sides. [0022] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the attachment apertures are arranged in a repeating sequence of spaced rows and spaced columns.

[0023] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, a plurality of attachment apertures are formed through at least a portion of the back panel.

[0024] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, each attachment aperture is defined by two substantially equal length, substantially parallel sides, an arcuate side joining respective upper terminal ends of the substantially parallel sides, and an arcuate side joining respective lower terminal ends of the substantially parallel sides. [0025] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the attachment apertures are arranged in a repeating sequence of spaced rows and spaced columns.

[0026] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the breakaway carrier comprises at least some of a front panel, wherein two front shoulder strap extensions extend from a portion of the front panel, wherein at least one front shoulder strap aperture is formed through each of the front shoulder strap extensions; a back panel having an outer back panel and a back attachment layer, wherein two back shoulder strap extensions extending from a portion of the back panel, wherein each of the back shoulder strap extensions includes a shoulder strap channel formed through at least a portion of the back shoulder strap extension, between a portion of the outer back panel and the back attachment layer such that at least a portion of one of the front shoulder strap extensions may be received at least partially within at least a portion of a respective shoulder strap channel, wherein one or more shoulder strap release loops extend from the back attachment layer within each shoulder strap channel, and wherein at least a portion of each of the one or more shoulder strap release loops is repeatably releasably positionable through a respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture; and a cable assembly having one or more cables extending from the cable assembly, wherein at least a portion of one of the cables is removably positionable through a respective one of the shoulder strap release loops positioned through the respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture, to keep the shoulder strap release loop from being withdrawn from the front shoulder strap aperture.

[0027] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the breakaway carrier comprises at least some of a front panel, wherein two front shoulder strap extensions extend from a portion of the front panel, wherein at least one front shoulder strap aperture is formed through each of the front shoulder strap extensions; a back panel having an outer back panel and a back attachment layer, wherein two back shoulder strap extensions extending from a portion of the back panel, wherein each of the back shoulder strap extensions includes a shoulder strap channel formed through at least a portion of the back shoulder strap extension, between a portion of the outer back panel and the back attachment layer such that at least a portion of one of the front shoulder strap extensions may be received at least partially within at least a portion of a respective shoulder strap channel, wherein one or more shoulder strap release loops extend from the back attachment layer within each shoulder strap channel, and wherein at least a portion of each of the one or more shoulder strap release loops is repeatably releasably positionable through a respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture; a cable assembly having one or more cables extending from the cable assembly, wherein at least a portion of one of the cables is removably positionable through a respective one of the shoulder strap release loops positioned through the respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture, to keep the shoulder strap release loop from being withdrawn from the front shoulder strap aperture; and at least one cummerbund element releasably attached or coupled to the front panel and the back panel, wherein the at least one cummerbund element includes at least two interlocking coupling portions, wherein each of the interlocking coupling portions comprises a series of spaced apart fingers, wherein each finger comprises a loop of material having or forming an aperture therethrough, wherein a recess is formed between adjacent fingers, wherein the interlocking coupling portions are alignable such that portions of the fingers from one of the interlocking coupling portion extend within portions of corresponding recesses of another of the interlocking coupling portion and such that the apertures of the adjacent fingers are aligned and at least a portion of one of the cables of the cable assembly is able to be repeatably slidably positioned within the aligned apertures to maintain the interlocking coupling portions in a releasably attached or coupled relationship.

[0028] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the breakaway carrier also includes at least one cummerbund element releasably attached or coupled to the front panel and the back panel.

[0029] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the at least one cummerbund element includes one or more interlocking coupling portions, releasably attached or coupled together via at least a portion of the at least one cable.

[0030] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the breakaway carrier includes a cable positioned relative to the front panel and extending over the shoulders.

[0031] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the shoulders have two lock cords for cable.

[0032] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, two or more cables allow for release of left side, right side, or both sides of the breakaway carrier.

[0033] In various exemplary embodiments, the cables are replaceable.

[0034] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the size of the breakaway carrier is adjustable, using Velcro.

[0035] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the cable is at least partially hidden and routed between layers of the front panel and/or back panel. [0036] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the cummerbund elements of the breakaway carrier are easily separable, via cobra buckles.

[0037] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the breakaway carrier can be taken off or put on without the front panel flap or the back panel flap having to be lifted.

[0038] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the cable handle is secured to the front panel or back panel until it is to be deployed.

[0039] Accordingly, the present disclosure provides breakaway carriers of improved design.

[0040] The present disclosure separately provides breakaway carriers that are easier for a user to operate.

[0041] The present disclosure separately provides breakaway carriers that have components that separate from each other. [0042] These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure are described in or are apparent from the following detailed description of the exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure and the accompanying figures. Other aspects and features of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the following description of specific, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure in concert with the figures.

[0043] While features of the present disclosure may be discussed relative to certain embodiments and figures, all embodiments of the present disclosure can include one or more of the features discussed herein. Further, while one or more embodiments may be discussed as having certain advantageous features, one or more of such features may also be used with the various embodiments of the systems, methods, devices, and/or apparatuses discussed herein. In similar fashion, while exemplary embodiments may be discussed below as system, method, device, and/or apparatus embodiments, it is to be understood that such exemplary embodiments can be implemented in various systems, methods, devices, and/or apparatuses of the present disclosure.

[0044] Any benefits, advantages, or solutions to problems that are described herein with regard to specific embodiments are not intended to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature(s) or element(s) of the present disclosure or the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] As required, detailed exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms, within the scope of the present disclosure. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized to illustrate details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present disclosure.

[0046] The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, and wherein:

[0047] FIG. 1 shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a front panel of a breakaway carrier, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; [0048] FIG. 2 shows a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a front panel of a breakaway carrier, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; [0049] FIG. 3 shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a back panel of a breakaway carrier, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; [0050] FIG. 4 shows a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a back panel of a breakaway carrier, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; [0051] FIG. 5 shows a front view of exemplary cummerbund elements, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0052] FIG. 6 shows a front view of exemplary cummerbund elements, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0053] FIG. 7 shows a front view of exemplary cummerbund elements, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] FIG. 8 shows a front view of an exemplary flexible cable assembly and a cable handle platform, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0055] FIG. 9 shows a more detailed front view of an exemplary flexible cable assembly and a cable handle platform, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; [0056] FIG. 10 shows a front view of an exemplary flexible cable assembly and a cable handle platform, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0057] FIG. 11 shows a more detailed front view of an exemplary cable handle fitted within a cable handle platform, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0058] FIG. 12 shows a more detailed view of an exemplary embodiment of the back shoulder strap extension of a back panel, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0059] FIG. 13 shows a more detailed view of an exemplary embodiment of the back shoulder strap extension of a back panel and a front shoulder strap extension of a front panel, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0060] FIG. 14 shows an exemplary embodiment of a front shoulder strap extension of a front panel at least partially positioned within a back shoulder strap extension of a back panel, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0061] FIG. 15 shows a more detailed view of an exemplary embodiment of a front shoulder strap extension of a front panel at least partially positioned within a back shoulder strap extension of a back panel, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0062] FIG. 16 shows an exemplary embodiment of a front panel releasably attached or coupled to a back panel, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0063] FIG. 17 shows an exemplary embodiment of a front panel releasably attached or coupled to a back panel, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0064] FIG. 18 shows a more detailed view of components of an exemplary embodiment of a cummerbund element aligned with one another and a front panel, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0065] FIG. 19 shows a more detailed view of components of an exemplary embodiment of a cummerbund element aligned with a front panel, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; [0066] FIG. 20 shows a more detailed view of the front panel flap released from the front panel layer, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0067] FIG. 21 shows an exemplary embodiment of components of a first cummerbund element aligned with a front panel and components of an exemplary embodiment of a second cummerbund element aligned with the front panel, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0068] FIG. 22 shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a back panel releasably attached or coupled to a front panel, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0069] FIG. 23 shows a more detailed view of the back panel flap released from the back panel layer, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0070] FIG. 24 shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of an assembled breakaway carrier, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0071] FIG. 25 shows a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of an assembled breakaway carrier, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0072] For simplicity and clarification, the design factors and operating principles of the breakaway carrier of the present disclosure are explained with reference to various exemplary embodiments of a breakaway carrier. The basic explanation of the design factors and operating principles of the breakaway carrier is applicable for the understanding, design, and operation of the breakaway carrier of the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that the breakaway carrier can be adapted to many applications where a breakaway carrier or vest can be used.

[0073] As used herein, the word "may" is meant to convey a permissive sense (i.e., meaning "having the potential to"), rather than a mandatory sense (i.e., meaning "must"). Unless stated otherwise, terms such as “first” and “second”, “right” and “left”, “front” and “rear”, “top” and “bottom”, “upper” and “lower”, and “horizontal” and “vertical” are used as a naming convention to arbitrarily distinguish between the exemplary embodiments and/or elements such terms describe. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other prioritization of such exemplary embodiments and/or elements, but are used to help differentiate between certain of the components of the present disclosure and are not to be construed as limiting the present disclosure.

[0074] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term “coupled” is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). The term coupled, as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The terms "a" and "an" are defined as one or more unless stated otherwise.

[0075] The terms "comprise" (and any form of comprise, such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and any form of have, such as "has" and "having"), "include", (and any form of include, such as "includes" and "including") and "contain" (and any form of contain, such as "contains" and "containing") are used as open-ended linking verbs. It will be understood that these terms are meant to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer, step, or group of elements, integers, or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer, step, or group of elements, integers, or steps. As a result, a system, method, device, and/or apparatus that "comprises”, "has”, "includes”, or "contains" one or more elements possesses those one or more elements but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Similarly, a method or process that "comprises," "has," "includes" or "contains" one or more operations possesses those one or more operations but is not limited to possessing only those one or more operations.

[0076] It should also be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarification, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described using the terms “front” and “back”. However, it should be understood that these terms are merely used to aid in understanding of the present disclosure are not to be construed as limiting the systems, methods, devices, and/or apparatuses of the present disclosure. Thus, it should be appreciated that the design factors and operating principles of the breakaway carrier described herein may be used in a “mirror image” breakaway carrier, where in the elements described as being included in or on the front panel are included in or on the rear or back panel. Alternatively, certain of the elements that are described as being included in or on the back of the breakaway carrier may be included in or on the front of the breakaway carrier, or vice versa.

[0077] Furthermore, it should be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarification, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be shown and/or described with reference to one or more attachment arrays being included on various portions of the breakaway carrier. However, it should be appreciated that the inclusion and/or placement of any passion array is not essential to the breakaway carrier of the present disclosure. In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure, the breakaway carrier may incorporate any type of known or later developed system capable of allowing any number of exterior pouches, pockets, carriers, or the like to be permanently or releasably coupled or attached to the breakaway carrier. Alternatively, the design factors and principles of the present disclosure may be utilized in a breakaway carrier that does not include any attachment array, exterior pouches, pockets, or carriers, but is used as, for example, a ballistic breakaway carrier or a floatation device.

[0078] It should also be appreciated that the terms “breakaway”, “carrier”, “panel”, and “cummerbund” are used for basic explanation and understanding of the operation of the systems, methods, devices, and/or apparatuses of the present disclosure. Therefore, the terms “breakaway”, “carrier”, “panel”, and “cummerbund” are not to be construed as limiting the systems, methods, devices, apparatuses, and/or applications of the present disclosure.

[0079] Turning now to the drawing figures, FIGS. 1-25 show various exemplary elements and/or features of an exemplary embodiment of a breakaway carrier 100, according to the present disclosure. As illustrated in the drawing figures, the breakaway carrier 100 includes at least some of a front panel 110 having front shoulder strap extensions 125 extending therefrom, a back panel 130 having back shoulder strap extensions 145 extending therefrom, two cummerbund elements 150, and a cable assembly 160.

[0080] As illustrated most clearly in FIGS. 1-2, the front panel 110 comprises at least some of a front attachment layer 112, an outer front panel 113, and an inner front panel 114. The front attachment layer 112 is attached or coupled atop the outer front panel 113 and is secured proximate a perimeter of the front attachment layer 112 and the outer front panel 113.

[0081] In various exemplary embodiments, as illustrated herein, a carrier pocket 115 may optionally be formed between a lower portion of the outer front panel 113 and the front attachment layer 112. A carrier pocket opening 116 is provided to allow access to at least a portion of the carrier pocket 115.

[0082] The inner front panel 114 is attached or coupled to at least a portion of the outer front panel 113 such that an inner front panel plate cavity 117 may optionally be formed between the outer front panel 113 and the inner front panel 114.

[0083] In various exemplary embodiments, the inner front panel 114 may be attached or coupled to the front attachment layer 112 and the outer front panel 113 by a front panel gusset 118. While the inner front panel 114 may be attached or coupled to the front attachment layer 112 and the outer front panel 113, by including a front panel gusset 118 between the inner front panel 114, the front attachment layer 112, and outer front panel 113, added strength or expansion may optionally be provided by the front panel gusset 118 and the front panel gusset 118 may optionally provide a side wall of the inner front panel plate cavity 117 that more accurately mimics the side profile of a ballistic or other plate that is to be inserted within the inner front panel plate cavity 117. Furthermore, the inclusion of the front panel gusset 118 may optionally also provide a more wear resistant edge or side portion to the exterior area surrounding the edge or side portion of the inner front panel plate cavity 117.

[0084] In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the front panel gusset 118 comprises a substantially rectangular portion of material that extends around the outer perimeter of the inner front panel 114.

[0085] In various exemplary embodiments, an inner front panel flap 120 extends from a bottom portion of the outer front panel 113 to wraparound and be attached or coupled to a bottom portion of the inner front panel 114. The inner front panel flap 120 may be an integral extension of the outer front panel 113 or may comprise a separate portion of material that is attached or coupled to a bottom portion of the outer front panel 113.

[0086] A front panel plate cavity opening 119 is provided proximate a bottom or open edge of the inner front panel 114, between a terminal or overlapping end portion of the inner front panel 114 and the inner front panel flap 120.

[0087] In various exemplary embodiments, an inner front panel plate cavity 117 releasable fastener element 111 , such as, for example, corresponding portions of a hook and loop fastener or Velcro is provided proximate the front panel plate cavity opening 119 (on an exterior surface of the inner front panel flap 120 and an interior surface of the inner front panel 114) to allow for closure of the front panel plate cavity opening 119.

[0088] It should be appreciated that, in various exemplary embodiments the inner front panel plate cavity 117 releasable fastener element 111 may comprise other releasable devices or releasable fasteners, such as, for example, male/female snaprelease buckles, a Ziplock fastening device, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other fastening, closure, or attachment devices known by those skilled in the art.

[0089] The front panel plate cavity opening 119 may optionally be formed so as to allow a ballistic plate or other panel or plate to be inserted through the front panel plate cavity opening 119 and into the inner front panel plate cavity 117. Once properly inserted, the inner front panel plate cavity 117 releasable fastener element 111 may optionally be utilized to maintain the front panel plate cavity opening 119 in an engaged or closed position.

[0090] The front panel flap 121 is attached or coupled, at an upper portion of the front panel flap 121 , to the front attachment layer 112. The front panel flap 121 then extends downward, so as to be secured or releasably coupled to the front attachment layer 112 by mating portions of a front panel flap releasable fastener portion 123. In various exemplary embodiments, the front panel flap releasable fastener portion 123 may comprise a hook and loop fastener, such as Velcro. It should be appreciated that, in various exemplary embodiments the front panel flap releasable fastener portion 123 may comprise other releasable coupler or releasable fasteners, such as, for example, male/female snap-release buckles, a ziplock fastening device, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other fastening, closure, or attachment device known by those skilled in the art.

[0091] An inner surface of the front panel flap 121 (i.e. , the inner surface of the front panel flap front panel 126) includes a front panel flap releasable fastener portion 123 and the outer surface of the front attachment layer 112 also includes a mating front panel flap releasable fastener portion 123.

[0092] In various exemplary embodiments, the front panel flap 121 comprises a front panel flap front panel 126 having a front panel flap attachment layer 122 attached or coupled atop the front panel flap front panel 126. One or more attachment apertures 180 may optionally be formed through the front panel flap attachment layer 122.

[0093] The front panel 110 includes two, integrally informed, front shoulder strap extensions 125 that extend from an upper portion of the front panel 110 to front shoulder strap terminating ends 129 of the front shoulder strap extensions 125. In various exemplary embodiments, the front shoulder strap extensions 125 may optionally be formed as an integral extension of the outer front panel 113 and the front attachment layer 112. Alternatively, the front shoulder strap extensions 125 may be an integral extension of the outer front panel 113 or the front attachment layer 112

[0094] Thus, the front shoulder strap extensions 125 extend, as a monolithic, integrally formed portion of the outer front panel 113 and/or the front attachment layer 112, such that the front panel 110, including the front shoulder strap extensions 125, is formed of a unitary body or a one-piece article.

[0095] One or more front shoulder strap apertures 127 is/are formed through at least a portion of each front shoulder strap extension 125. In various exemplary embodiments, each front shoulder strap aperture 127 comprises an aperture formed through each of the layers forming the front shoulder strap extension 125. If more than one front shoulder strap aperture 127 is formed through each front shoulder strap extension 125, the front shoulder strap apertures 127 are formed through said front shoulder strap extensions 125 at spaced apart locations, allowing for adjustability of the front shoulder strap extensions 125 relative to the back shoulder strap extensions 145.

[0096] In various exemplary embodiments, each of the front shoulder strap extensions 125 includes a plurality of front shoulder strap apertures 127. In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the front shoulder strap apertures 127 comprise slits or openings formed through the material of the front shoulder strap extensions 125. In certain exemplary embodiments, the front shoulder strap apertures 127 are reinforced by, for example, stitching, a grommet, or other reinforced eyelet.

[0097] Each front shoulder strap aperture 127 is formed so as to allow a portion of a shoulder strap release loop 148 to be passed therethrough.

[0098] As illustrated most clearly in FIGS. 3-4, the back panel 130 comprises at least some of a back attachment layer 132, an outer back panel 133 and an inner back panel 134. The back attachment layer 132 is attached or coupled atop the outer back panel 133 and is secured proximate a joint perimeter of the back attachment layer 132 and the outer back panel 133. In various exemplary embodiments, a carrier pocket 115 may optionally be formed between a lower portion of the outer back panel 133 and the back attachment layer 132. A carrier pocket opening 116 may optionally be provided to allow access to at least a portion of the carrier pocket 115.

[0099] The inner back panel 134 is attached or coupled to at least a portion of the outer back panel 133 such that a back panel plate cavity 137 may optionally be formed between the outer back panel 133 and the inner back panel 134.

[00100] In various exemplary embodiments, the inner back panel 134 is attached or coupled to the back attachment layer 132 and the outer back panel 133 by a back panel gusset 138. While the inner back panel 134 may be or coupled directly to the back attachment layer 132 and the outer back panel 133, by including a back panel gusset 138 between the inner back panel 134 and the back attachment layer 132 and outer back panel 133, added strength or expansion may optionally be provided by the back panel gusset 138 and the back panel gusset 138 may optionally provide for a side wall of the back panel plate cavity 137 that more accurately mimics the side profile of a ballistic or other plate that is to be inserted within the back panel plate cavity 137. Furthermore, the inclusion of the back panel gusset 138 may optionally also provide a more wear resistant edge or side portion to the exterior area surrounding the edge or side portion of the back panel plate cavity 137.

[00101] In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the back panel gusset 138 comprises a substantially rectangular portion of material that extends around the outer perimeter of the inner back panel 134.

[00102] In various exemplary embodiments, an inner back panel flap 140 extends from a bottom portion of the outer back panel 133 to wraparound and be attached or coupled to a bottom portion of the inner back panel 134. The inner back panel flap 140 may be an integral extension of the outer back panel 133 or may comprise a separate portion of material that is attached or coupled to a bottom portion of the outer back panel 133.

[00103] A back panel plate cavity opening 139 is provided proximate a bottom or open edge of the inner back panel 134, between a terminal or overlapping end portion of the inner back panel 134 and the inner back panel flap 140.

[00104] In various exemplary embodiments, a back panel plate cavity releasable fastener element 131 , such as, for example, corresponding portions of a hook and loop fastener or Velcro is provided proximate the back panel plate cavity opening 139 (on an exterior surface of the inner back panel flap 140 and an interior surface of the inner back panel 134) to allow for closure of the back panel plate cavity opening 139. [00105] It should be appreciated that, in various exemplary embodiments the back panel plate cavity releasable fastener element 131 may comprise other releasable devices or releasable fasteners, such as, for example, male/female snap-release buckles, a Ziplock fastening device, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other fastening, closure, or attachment devices known by those skilled in the art.

[00106] The back panel plate cavity opening 139 may optionally be formed so as to allow a ballistic or other panel or plate to be inserted through the back panel plate cavity opening 139 and into the back panel plate cavity 137. Once properly inserted, the back panel plate cavity releasable fastener element 131 may optionally be utilized to maintain the back panel plate cavity opening 139 in an engaged or closed position. [00107] The back panel flap 141 is attached or coupled, at an upper portion of the back panel flap 141 , to the back attachment layer 132. The back panel flap 141 then extends downward, so as to be secured or releasably coupled to the back attachment layer 132 by mating portions of a back panel flap releasable fastener portion 143. In various exemplary embodiments, the back panel flap releasable fastener portion 143 may comprise a hook and loop fastener, such as Velcro. It should be appreciated that, in various exemplary embodiments the back panel flap releasable fastener portion 143 may comprise other releasable coupler or releasable fasteners, such as, for example, male/female snap-release buckles, a ziplock fastening device, a zipper, buttons, snaps, or other fastening, closure, or attachment device known by those skilled in the art.

[00108] An inner surface of the back panel flap 141 (i.e. , the inner surface of the back panel flap front panel 146) includes a back panel flap releasable fastener portion 143 and the outer surface of the back attachment layer 132 also includes a mating back panel flap releasable fastener portion 143.

[00109] In various exemplary embodiments, the back panel flap 141 comprises a back panel flap front panel 146 having a back panel flap attachment layer 142 attached or coupled atop the back panel flap front panel 146. One or more attachment apertures 180 may optionally be formed through the back panel flap attachment layer 142.

[00110] The back panel 130 includes two, integral informed, back shoulder strap extensions 145 that extend from an upper portion of the back panel 130 to the back shoulder strap terminating ends 149 of the back shoulder strap extensions 145. In various exemplary embodiments, the back shoulder strap extensions 145 may optionally be formed as an integral extension of the outer back panel 133 and the back attachment layer 132.

[00111] Thus, the back shoulder strap extensions 145 extend, as a monolithic, integrally formed portion of the outer back panel 133 and/or the back attachment layer 132, such that the back panel 130, including the back shoulder strap extensions 145, is formed of a unitary body or a one-piece article.

[00112] A shoulder strap channel 147 is formed between the outer back panel 133 and the back attachment layer 132 within a portion of each of the back shoulder strap extensions 145. [00113] At least one shoulder strap release loop 148 is attached to a portion of a surface of the back attachment layer 132 within the shoulder strap channel 147 formed between the outer back panel 133 and the back attachment layer 132. Each shoulder strap release loop 148 comprises a loop a portion of material that is able to be at least partially urged through a front shoulder strap aperture 127 of the front shoulder strap extension 125. In various exemplary embodiments, each shoulder strap release loop 148 allows at least a portion of the cable 162 to be slidably passed therethrough and optionally slidably releasably removed from the shoulder strap release loop 148.

[00114] Each front shoulder strap aperture 127 allows a shoulder strap release loop 148 to pass through the front shoulder strap extension 125. In various exemplary embodiments, a single front shoulder strap aperture 127 may be included on each front shoulder strap extension 125. However, a plurality of front shoulder strap apertures 127 may be included to allow selection of a single front shoulder strap aperture 127 to pass the shoulder strap release loop 148 through. Alternatively, as illustrated, a plurality of alignable front shoulder strap apertures 127 and shoulder strap release loops 148 may be included to allow two or more front shoulder strap apertures 127 to pass through to or more respective shoulder strap release loops 148. By providing a plurality of alignable front shoulder strap apertures 127 and a plurality of shoulder strap release loops 148, a measure of adjustment to the effective length of the front shoulder strap extensions 125 and the overall fit of the breakaway carrier 100.

[00115] A release loop access aperture 186 is formed in the back attachment layer 132, proximate each shoulder strap release loop 148. Each release loop access aperture 186 provides access, through at least a portion of the back attachment layer 132, to each shoulder strap release loop 148. In this manner, each shoulder strap release loop 148 can be accessed for positioning of the cable 162 through each shoulder strap release loop 148.

[00116] A front shoulder strap entry slot 136 may optionally be formed in each back shoulder strap extensions 145, proximate a terminal end of the back shoulder strap extensions 145. The front shoulder strap entry slot 136 permits access to the shoulder strap channel 147 proximate the back shoulder strap terminating end 149 of the back shoulder strap extensions 145. A front shoulder strap exit slot 144 may optionally be formed in the back shoulder strap extensions 145 proximate the back panel plate cavity 137. The front shoulder strap exit slot 144 permits access to the shoulder strap channel 147 proximate the back panel plate cavity 137. A front shoulder strap carrier slot 135 may optionally be formed in the back attachment layer 132 and provides access to the back panel plate cavity 137, formed between the outer back panel 133 and the back attachment layer 132.

[00117] In certain exemplary embodiments, one or more of the outer front panel

113, front attachment layer 112, inner front panel 114, outer back panel 133, back attachment layer 132, and/or the inner back panel 134 may optionally be formed of a portion of a fabric-type or other material, such as, for example, chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSPE) synthetic rubber (CSM). In certain exemplary embodiments, one or more of the outer front panel 113, front attachment layer 112, inner front panel

114, outer back panel 133, back attachment layer 132, and/inner back panel 134 may optionally be formed of a portion of Hypalon fabric. However, the present disclosure is not so limited. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, one or more of the outer front panel 113, front attachment layer 112, inner front panel 114, outer back panel 133, back attachment layer 132, and/or inner back panel 134 may optionally be formed of a rigid material, a semi-rigid material, or a substantially flexible material.

[00118] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, all or portions of one or more of the outer front panel 113, front attachment layer 112, inner front panel 114, outer back panel 133, back attachment layer 132, and/or inner back panel 134 may optionally be formed of may be made of any fabric or other material, such as, for example, woven fabrics, canvas, acrylics, sheet fabrics, films, nylon, spandex, vinyl, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), neoprene, or the like. Alternatively, all or portions of one or more of the outer front panel 113, front attachment layer 112, inner front panel 114, outer back panel 133, back attachment layer 132, and/inner back panel 134 may optionally be formed of may be formed from multiple, similar or dissimilar materials. In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, one or more of the outer front panel 113, front attachment layer 112, inner front panel 114, outer back panel 133, back attachment layer 132, and/inner back panel 134 may optionally be formed of may be water-resistant or may include a cushion material.

[00119] It should be appreciated that the terms fabric and material are to be given their broadest meanings and that the particular fabric(s) or material(s) used to form one or more of the outer front panel 113, front attachment layer 112, inner front panel 114, outer back panel 133, back attachment layer 132, and/inner back panel 134 may optionally be formed of is a design choice based on the desired appearance and/or functionality of the breakaway carrier 100.

[00120] Additionally, the material used to form the inner front panel 114 and the inner back panel 134 may comprise certain elastic properties, allowing the inner front panel 114 and the inner back panel 134 to expand or contract to better accommodate a ballistic panel or plate.

[00121] The cummerbund elements 150 serve to couple the front panel 110 to the back panel 130. As illustrated, each cummerbund element 150 is releasably attached or coupled to the inner front panel 114 of the front panel 110 and each cummerbund element 150 is releasably attached or coupled to the inner back panel 134 of the back panel 130, via interaction of the front panel flap releasable fastener portions 123 and cummerbund releasable fastener portions 153 at a first end portion of a cummerbund element 150 and interaction of the back panel flap releasable fastener portions 143 and cummerbund releasable fastener portions 153 at a second end portion of a cummerbund element 150.

[00122] The cummerbund releasable fastener portions 153 include a releasable fastener portion on both sides of the cummerbund releasable fastener portions 153. The releasable fastener portions are selected to mateingly engage the front panel flap releasable fastener portion 123 of the front panel flap 121 and the front panel flap releasable fastener portion 123 of the front attachment layer 112 and/or the back panel flap releasable fastener portion 143 of the back panel flap 141 and the back panel flap releasable fastener portion 143 of the back attachment layer 132.

[00123] In various exemplary embodiments, not illustrated herein, one or more of the cummerbund elements 150 may be formed as an integral portion or extension of the outer front panel 113 or the front attachment layer 112 of the front panel 110 and merely extend from the front panel 110. Alternatively, one or more of the cummerbund elements 150 may be formed as an integral portion or extension of the outer back panel 133 or the back attachment layer 132 of the back panel 130 and merely extend from the back panel 130.

[00124] In various exemplary embodiments, the front panel flap releasable fastener portions 123 and/or the cummerbund releasable fastener portions 153 comprising Velcro or other hook-and-loop fasteners, buttons, rivets, snaps, or other known or later developed fastening device.

[00125] Each of the cummerbund elements 150 may optionally comprise a mating pair of coupling elements 154, a male coupling element 154 and a corresponding female coupling element 154, positioned within at least a portion of each cummerbund element 150. In this manner, the male coupling element 154 may be attached or coupled to a corresponding female coupling element 154, to maintain the cummerbund element 150 in attached configuration. If the female coupling element

154 is released from the corresponding male coupling element 154, the cummerbund element 150 may be separated into two separate elements.

[00126] By including a mating pair of coupling elements 154, each of the cummerbund elements 150 may be separated, allowing the breakaway carrier 100 to be put on or taken off without the need to detach the cummerbund releasable fastener portions 153 from the front panel 110 or the back panel 130.

[00127] In various exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of each cummerbund may comprise a releasable, interlocking coupling portion 155. Each releasable, interlocking coupling portion 155 comprises a series of fingers 156, extending from the cummerbund releasable fastener portion 153 or other portions of the cummerbund element 150. A corresponding recess 157 is formed between adjacent fingers 156. Each finger 156 comprises a loop or other portion of material, having or forming an aperture 158 therethrough.

[00128] In certain exemplary embodiments, the interlocking coupling portions 155 are able to be aligned such that fingers 156 from one interlocking coupling portion

155 extend within corresponding recesses 157 of another interlocking coupling portion 155. When appropriately aligned, the apertures 158 of the adjacent fingers

156 are aligned with one another. In various exemplary embodiments, the interlocking coupling portions 155 are similar to elements of a piano hinge and each finger 156 is similar to a knuckle of a piano hinge.

[00129] When appropriately aligned, at least a portion of a cable 162 of the cable assembly 160 is able to be repeatably slidably positioned within the aligned apertures 158 to maintain the interlocking coupling portions 155 in attached or coupled relationship. When the cable 162 is withdrawn from the aligned apertures 158 of the fingers 156, the interlocking coupling portions 155 are able to be separated from one another. In this manner, the cable 162 can be used to maintain the interlocking coupling portions 155 in attached or coupled relationship or allow the interlocking coupling portions 155 to be separated from one another.

[00130] In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the cummerbund elements 150 optionally include an outer cummerbund attachment layer 151 and an inner cummerbund attachment layer 152. The outer cummerbund attachment layer 151 and the inner cummerbund attachment layer 152 optionally extend to include elastic portions at or proximate either terminated end.

[00131] Attachment apertures 180 may optionally be formed in the inner cummerbund attachment layer 152 and/or the outer cummerbund attachment layer 151. In various exemplary embodiments, the attachment apertures 180 may optionally be formed in various aperture matrix arrays 187. For example, the cummerbund attachment apertures 180 may optionally be arranged in an aperture matrix array 187 that allows accessories to be attached or coupled to the outer cummerbund attachment layer 151 or the inner cummerbund attachment layer 152. [00132] The cable assembly 160 comprises a cable handle 163 and one or more cables 162 extending from the cable handle 163. Each cable 162 comprises an elongate portion of material having a first end portion, an intermediate portion, and a second end portion. In various exemplary embodiments, as illustrated, four cables 162 extend from the cable handle 163. The four cables 162 may comprise two cables 162, each having at least a portion of the intermediate portion positioned within the cable handle 163, such that the first end portion and the second end portion extend from the cable handle 163. Alternatively, the four cables 162 may each include a discrete cable 162, each having a first end portion (or a second end portion) extending from the cable handle 163 to a second end portion (or a first end portion). [00133] Thus, the cable 162 may comprise a single piece of material that extends from a cable handle 163 to a terminal end. Alternatively, the cable 162 may comprise a variety of materials that are attached or coupled together to form the cable 162.

[00134] The cable 162 comprises an elongate piece of material having a relatively thin profile or small outer diameter. By utilizing a cable 162 having a relatively thin profile, the possibility of the cable 162 producing a pressure point on the user is greatly reduced. In various exemplary embodiments, the cable 162 may optionally have a round or oval shaped profile and comprises a material or includes an outer covering having a relatively low coefficient of drag.

[00135] In various exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the cable 162 includes a frictional surface. The frictional surface, if included, can provide a certain amount of resistance to the cable 162 being pulled from the breakaway carrier 100, when the breakaway carrier 100 is fully assembled.

[00136] The cables 162 are secured within or to the cable handle 163, such that the cables 162 are not slidable, relative to the cable handle 163, but are maintained in a discrete position relative to the cable handle 163.

[00137] In various exemplary embodiments, a cable handle platform 165 is included, which may be attached or coupled, via one or more cable handle attachment elements 167, to a portion of the front panel 110 or rear panel. In various exemplary embodiments, the cable handle attachment elements 167 are able to interact with one or more attachment apertures 180 of the front panel 110 or rear panel to secure the cable handle platform 165 to the front panel 110 or rear panel. [00138] The cable handle platform 165 allows the cable handle 163 to be releasably attached or coupled to or within at least a portion of the cable handle platform 165. In this manner, the cable handle 163 can be releasably secured to a portion of the front panel 110 or rear panel, so as to be easily and repeatably accessed.

[00139] During assembly or attachment of the front panel 110 to the back panel 130, the front shoulder strap terminating end 129 of each front shoulder strap extension 125 is urged through the front shoulder strap entry slot 136 and into the shoulder strap channel 147 between the outer back panel 133 and the back attachment layer 132. The front shoulder strap terminating end 129 of each front shoulder strap extension 125 is then passed through the shoulder strap channel 147 and exits the front shoulder strap exit slot 144. Once the front shoulder strap extension 125 is appropriately inserted within or through the shoulder strap channel 147, the front shoulder strap terminating end 129 of the front shoulder strap extension 125 may optionally be positioned through the front shoulder strap carrier slot 135 (if there is a sufficient length of the shoulder front shoulder strap extension 125), such that an excessive amount of the front shoulder strap extension 125 may optionally be tucked under the front attachment layer 112 of the front panel 110. [00140] Once the front shoulder strap extension 125 is appropriately inserted within or through the shoulder strap channel 147, one or more shoulder strap release loops 148 are positioned at least partially through corresponding front shoulder strap apertures 127, such that the shoulder strap release loops 148 extend from the front shoulder strap apertures 127. It should be appreciated various shoulder strap release loops 148 may be aligned with various shoulder strap apertures 158 to provide a measure of adjustability to the effective length of the front shoulder strap extension 125 and the overall fit of the breakaway carrier 100.

[00141] The cable handle 163 is positioned within the cable handle platform 165 and a first cable 162 is urged through the front shoulder strap entry slot 136 and into the shoulder strap channel 147 between the outer back panel 133 and the back attachment layer 132 until the terminal end of the cable 162 reaches a first shoulder strap release loop 148. When the terminal end of the cable 162 reaches the first shoulder strap release loop 148, the cable 162 is positioned through the aperture 158 of the first release loop and urged toward any second or subsequent shoulder strap release loop 148. The cable 162 is positioned through the aperture 158 of any second or subsequent shoulder strap release loop 148 as the second or subsequent shoulder strap release loop 148 is encountered.

[00142] Engagement between the shoulder strap release loop 148 and the front shoulder strap aperture 127 maintains the position of the front shoulder strap extension 125 relative to the back shoulder strap extensions 145. And positioning of the cable 162 through the shoulder strap release loop 148(s) keeps the shoulder strap release loop 148(s) from being withdrawn from the front shoulder strap aperture 127(s).

[00143] As the terminal end of the cable 162 continues to be urged through the shoulder strap channel 147, the terminal end of the cable 162 the cable 162 is then laced through the front shoulder strap carrier slot 135 of the back panel 130 and between the back attachment layer 132 and the outer back panel 133. In various exemplary embodiments, the terminal end of the cable 162 is urged through at least one cable routing aperture 161 formed in the back attachment layer 132 and positioned between the back panel flap 141 and the back attachment layer 132, proximate the back panel flap releasable fastener portion 143. [00144] A cummerbund releasable fastener portion 153 is then attached or coupled to the back panel flap releasable fastener portion 143 of the back attachment layer 132. The cummerbund releasable fastener portion 153 may also be further attached or coupled to the back panel flap releasable fastener portion 143 of the back panel flap 141.

[00145] The interlocking coupling portions 155 of the cummerbund element 150 are then aligned and the terminal end of the cable 162 is interlaced within the tunnel segment formed by the aligned and corresponding apertures 158 of the fingers 156, positioned within the corresponding recesses 157. The terminal end of the cable 162 may then optionally be positioned within one or more cable securing loops 159 to maintain the cable 162 in a desired position.

[00146] When the first cable 162 is appropriately woven and interlaced to secure a first front shoulder strap extension 125 and a first end portion of a cummerbund element 150 to the back panel 130, a second cable 162 is similarly woven and interlaced to secure the second shoulder strap extension and a first end portion of a second cummerbund element 150 to the back panel 130.

[00147] When the front shoulder strap extensions 125 are releasably attached or coupled to the back panel 130, portions of the cable 162 can be utilized to releasably attach or couple a second end portion of the cummerbund elements 150 to the front panel 110. To secure the cummerbund elements 150 to the front panel 110, a terminal end of a third cable 162 is urged between the front attachment layer 112 and the outer front panel 113. In various exemplary embodiments, the third cable 162 is urged through an attachment aperture 158 180 to be positioned between the front attachment layer 112 and the outer front panel 113. In various exemplary embodiments, the terminal end of the cable 162 is urged through at least one cable routing aperture 161 formed in the front attachment layer 112 and positioned between the front panel flap 121 and the front attachment layer 112, proximate the front panel flap releasable fastener portion 123.

[00148] A cummerbund releasable fastener portion 153 is then attached or coupled to the front panel flap releasable fastener portion 123 of the front attachment layer 112. The cummerbund releasable fastener portion 153 may also be further attached or coupled to the front panel flap releasable fastener portion 123 of the front panel flap 121. [00149] The interlocking coupling portions 155 of the cummerbund element 150 are then aligned and the terminal end of the cable 162 is interlaced within the tunnel segment formed by the aligned and corresponding apertures 158 of the fingers 156, positioned within the corresponding recesses 157. The terminal end of the cable 162 may then optionally be positioned within one or more cable securing loops 159 to maintain the cable 162 in a desired position.

[00150] When the third cable 162 is appropriately woven and interlaced to secure a second end portion of a cummerbund element 150 to the front panel 110, a fourth cable 162 is similarly woven and interlaced to secure the second end portion of a second cummerbund element 150 to the front panel 110.

[00151] It should be appreciated that the method for assembling the elements of the breakaway carrier 100 wherein the front shoulder strap extensions 125 are secured first and the cummerbund elements 150 are subsequently secured to the rear panel and front panel 110, respectively, is merely exemplary. Therefore, it should be appreciated that the elements of the breakaway carrier 100 may be assembled in alternate manners. For example, the cummerbund elements 150 may first be secured to the front panel 110, the front shoulder strap extensions 125 may then be secured, and the cummerbund elements 150 may finally be secured to the back panel 130. [00152] Thus, it should be understood that the order in which the components of the breakaway carrier 100 are assembled may be altered so that a user is able to achieve the best fit of the breakaway carrier 100.

[00153] In various exemplary embodiments, various cable guides are included on exterior surfaces of the front panel 110 and/or back panel 130 and/or in the interior of the front panel 110 or the back panel 130.

[00154] When the elements of the breakaway carrier 100 have been assembled, the assembled breakaway carrier 100 may be donned or removed by a user utilizing the coupling elements 154 of the cummerbund elements 150.

[00155] If a wearer wishes to quickly remove the breakaway carrier 100, the cable 162 need only be pulled a determined distance. When the cable handle 163 is pulled away from the front panel 110 and back panel 130, the cables 162 are first slidably pulled from the interlocking coupling portions 155 of the cummerbund elements 150 and the cummerbund elements 150 are able to separate from the front panel 110 and back panel 130. As the cable handle 163 continues to be pulled away from the front panel 110 and back panel 130, the cables 162 are slidably pulled from the shoulder strap release loops 148 and the front panel 110 is able to separate from the back panel 130. Thus, when the cable handle 163 is pulled, a sufficient distance the elements of the breakaway carrier 100 are released, and the carrier can “break away” from one another and from the body of the user.

[00156] While the presently disclosed systems, methods, devices, and/or apparatuses have been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments outlined above, the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting and the fundamental disclosed systems, methods, devices, and/or apparatuses should not be considered to be necessarily so constrained. It is evident that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular variation set forth and many alternatives, adaptations modifications, and/or variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[00157] Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, it is understood that every intervening value, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the present disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and is also encompassed within the present disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the present disclosure.

[00158] It is to be understood that the phraseology of terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. [00159] In addition, it is contemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variations described herein may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein.

[00160] Accordingly, the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments will reveal the general nature of the present disclosure, such that others may, by applying current knowledge, change, vary, modify, and/or adapt these exemplary, non-limiting embodiments for various applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure and elements or methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in practicing the present disclosure. Any and all such changes, variations, modifications, and/or adaptations should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed exemplary embodiments and may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[00161] Also, it is noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “and”, “said”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Conversely, it is contemplated that the claims may be so- drafted to require singular elements or exclude any optional element indicated to be so here in the text or drawings. This statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely”, “only”, and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements or the use of a “negative” claim limitation(s).

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1 . A breakaway carrier, comprising: a front panel having an outer front panel and a front attachment layer, wherein two front shoulder strap extensions extend from a portion of said front panel, wherein at least one front shoulder strap aperture is formed through each of said front shoulder strap extensions; a back panel having an outer back panel and a back attachment layer, wherein two back shoulder strap extensions extending from a portion of said back panel, wherein each of said back shoulder strap extensions includes a shoulder strap channel formed through at least a portion of said back shoulder strap extension, between a portion of said outer back panel and said back attachment layer such that at least a portion of one of said front shoulder strap extensions may be received at least partially within at least a portion of a respective shoulder strap channel, wherein one or more shoulder strap release loops extend from said back attachment layer within each shoulder strap channel, and wherein at least a portion of each of said one or more shoulder strap release loops is repeatably releasably positionable through a respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture; and a cable assembly having one or more cables extending from said cable assembly, wherein at least a portion of one of said cables is removably positionable through a respective one of said shoulder strap release loops positioned through said respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture, to keep said shoulder strap release loop from being withdrawn from said front shoulder strap aperture.

2. The breakaway carrier of claim 1 , wherein said front shoulder strap extensions extend, as a monolithic, integrally formed portion of said outer front panel and/or said front attachment layer.

3. The breakaway carrier of claim 1 , wherein said front panel is formed of a unitary body or a one-piece article.

4. The breakaway carrier of claim 1 , wherein said back shoulder strap extensions extend, as a monolithic, integrally formed portion of said outer back panel and/or said back attachment layer.

5. The breakaway carrier of claim 1 , wherein said back panel is formed of a unitary body or a one-piece article.

6. The breakaway carrier of claim 1 , further comprising at least one cummerbund element releasably attached or coupled to said front panel and said back panel.

7. The breakaway carrier of claim 6, wherein said at least one cummerbund element includes at least two interlocking coupling portions, wherein each of said interlocking coupling portions comprises a series of spaced apart fingers, wherein each finger comprises a loop of material having or forming an aperture therethrough, wherein a recess is formed between adjacent fingers, wherein said interlocking coupling portions are alignable such that portions of said fingers from one of said interlocking coupling portion extend within portions of corresponding recesses of another of said interlocking coupling portion and such that said apertures of said adjacent fingers are aligned and at least a portion of one of said cables of said cable assembly is able to be repeatably slidably positioned within said aligned apertures to maintain said interlocking coupling portions in a releasably attached or coupled relationship.

8. The breakaway carrier of claim 1 , wherein said cable assembly further comprises a cable handle and wherein said one or more cables extend from said cable handle.

9. The breakaway carrier of claim 1 , wherein a plurality of front shoulder strap apertures are formed through each of said front shoulder strap extensions at spaced apart locations.

10. The breakaway carrier of claim 1 , wherein a plurality of attachment apertures are formed through at least a portion of said front panel.

11 . The breakaway carrier of claim 10, wherein each attachment aperture is defined by two substantially equal length, substantially parallel sides, an arcuate side joining respective upper terminal ends of said substantially parallel sides, and an arcuate side joining respective lower terminal ends of said substantially parallel sides.

12. The breakaway carrier of claim 10, wherein said attachment apertures are arranged in a repeating sequence of spaced rows and spaced columns.

13. The breakaway carrier of claim 1 , wherein a plurality of attachment apertures are formed through at least a portion of said back panel.

14. The breakaway carrier of claim 13, wherein each attachment aperture is defined by two substantially equal length, substantially parallel sides, an arcuate side joining respective upper terminal ends of said substantially parallel sides, and an arcuate side joining respective lower terminal ends of said substantially parallel sides.

15. The breakaway carrier of claim 13, wherein said attachment apertures are arranged in a repeating sequence of spaced rows and spaced columns.

16. A breakaway carrier, comprising: a front panel, wherein two front shoulder strap extensions extend from a portion of said front panel, wherein at least one front shoulder strap aperture is formed through each of said front shoulder strap extensions; a back panel having an outer back panel and a back attachment layer, wherein two back shoulder strap extensions extending from a portion of said back panel, wherein each of said back shoulder strap extensions includes a shoulder strap channel formed through at least a portion of said back shoulder strap extension, between a portion of said outer back panel and said back attachment layer such that at least a portion of one of said front shoulder strap extensions may be received at least partially within at least a portion of a respective shoulder strap channel, wherein one or more shoulder strap release loops extend from said back attachment layer within each shoulder strap channel, and wherein at least a portion of each of said one or more shoulder strap release loops is repeatably releasably positionable through a respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture; and a cable assembly having one or more cables extending from said cable assembly, wherein at least a portion of one of said cables is removably positionable through a respective one of said shoulder strap release loops positioned through said respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture, to keep said shoulder strap release loop from being withdrawn from said front shoulder strap aperture.

17. The breakaway carrier of claim 16, wherein said front shoulder strap extensions extend, as a monolithic, integrally formed portion of said front panel.

18. The breakaway carrier of claim 16, wherein said back shoulder strap extensions extend, as a monolithic, integrally formed portion of said outer back panel and/or said back attachment layer.

19. The breakaway carrier of claim 16, further comprising at least one cummerbund element releasably attached or coupled to said front panel and said back panel, wherein said at least one cummerbund element includes at least two interlocking coupling portions, wherein each of said interlocking coupling portions comprises a series of spaced apart fingers, wherein each finger comprises a loop of material having or forming an aperture therethrough, wherein a recess is formed between adjacent fingers, wherein said interlocking coupling portions are alignable such that portions of said fingers from one of said interlocking coupling portion extend within portions of corresponding recesses of another of said interlocking coupling portion and such that said apertures of said adjacent fingers are aligned and at least a portion of one of said cables of said cable assembly is able to be repeatably slidably positioned within said aligned apertures to maintain said interlocking coupling portions in a releasably attached or coupled relationship.

20. A breakaway carrier, comprising: a front panel, wherein two front shoulder strap extensions extend from a portion of said front panel, wherein at least one front shoulder strap aperture is formed through each of said front shoulder strap extensions; a back panel having an outer back panel and a back attachment layer, wherein two back shoulder strap extensions extending from a portion of said back panel, wherein each of said back shoulder strap extensions includes a shoulder strap channel formed through at least a portion of said back shoulder strap extension, between a portion of said outer back panel and said back attachment layer such that at least a portion of one of said front shoulder strap extensions may be received at least partially within at least a portion of a respective shoulder strap channel, wherein one or more shoulder strap release loops extend from said back attachment layer within each shoulder strap channel, and wherein at least a portion of each of said one or more shoulder strap release loops is repeatably releasably positionable through a respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture; a cable assembly having one or more cables extending from said cable assembly, wherein at least a portion of one of said cables is removably positionable through a respective one of said shoulder strap release loops positioned through said respective at least one front shoulder strap aperture, to keep said shoulder strap release loop from being withdrawn from said front shoulder strap aperture; and at least one cummerbund element releasably attached or coupled to said front panel and said back panel, wherein said at least one cummerbund element includes at least two interlocking coupling portions, wherein each of said interlocking coupling portions comprises a series of spaced apart fingers, wherein each finger comprises a loop of material having or forming an aperture therethrough, wherein a recess is formed between adjacent fingers, wherein said interlocking coupling portions are alignable such that portions of said fingers from one of said interlocking coupling portion extend within portions of corresponding recesses of another of said interlocking coupling portion and such that said apertures of said adjacent fingers are aligned and at least a portion of one of said cables of said cable assembly is able to be repeatably slidably positioned within said aligned apertures to maintain said interlocking coupling portions in a releasably attached or coupled relationship.