CN101262795B - Outerwear for storing and/or carrying items - Google Patents

Abstract

A garment for storing and/or carrying one or more items, including a torso receiving portion for wearing on at least part of a wearer's torso; and one or more receptacles for receiving said item/s, the or each receptacle being at least partially comprised of a semi-rigid polymeric material, the or each receptacle being integrated with said torso receiving portion.

Description

Outerwear for storing and/or carrying items

technical field

The present invention relates to an outer garment for storing and carrying items on the wearer's body. In particular, the present invention relates to an outer garment for storing and carrying items, such as tools and equipment required for performing a particular occupation or activity, where the stored items require quick and easy access and replacement.

Background technique

Many portable items are required in certain occupations and activities in order to conduct business or activities. It may be convenient or even necessary to carry these items on or around the user's body so that they are readily available when needed. Examples of these occupations are law enforcement officers, military, retailers, firefighters, ambulance officers, emergency responders, etc. Although the following description focuses on equipment used by the police, it will be readily understood that similar situations apply to other professions.

In law enforcement situations, police officers typically use a variety of "tools of the trade" such as handcuffs, pistols, extendable batons, non-lethal chemical sprayers for crowd control such as OC (chili oil) or CS sprayers, rubber gloves, Mask and radio handset. Conventionally, some or most of these items are carried on a belt that wraps around the policeman's waist. The disadvantage of this arrangement is that it is impractical to suspend so many items on a single belt: each item is only supported on a limited area, which means that each item is significantly unstable and generates movement, and the belt and the wearer's There is severe strain on the body. Also, the means of securing items to the belt, such as through belt holders or gear pockets entirely within snap-held cover flaps, do not allow easy access and removal of the items by the wearer. This may be particularly problematic when, for example, a police officer is making an arrest and needs quick access to his or her handcuffs, when only one hand may be free while the other hand restrains the suspect.

Other items commonly used by the police may be carried in the pockets of the police uniform. However, the material and/or design of the pocket and/or the type of flap used to close the pocket (eg buttons, zippers) often again may prevent easy access to the items therein.

There is therefore a need for a device for storing and carrying one or more items on the wearer's body, but which does not suffer from the aforementioned disadvantages. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an outer garment for storing and/or carrying one or more items which overcomes or at least alleviates one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art.

Contents of the invention

According to the present invention, there is provided:

An outer garment for storing and/or carrying one or more items, including:

a torso receiving portion for being worn over at least a portion of the wearer's torso; and

One or more receptacles for receiving the item or items, the or each receptacle comprising at least in part a semi-rigid polymer material integrally formed with the torso receiving portion.

wherein the or each receptacle is integrally formed with the stem receiving portion by integrally formed or molded methods, wherein at least a portion of the receptor and at least a portion of the stem receiving portion are formed or molded together into one or more a whole piece.

The following description of the invention generally focuses on items for storing and/or carrying items for use in law enforcement. It should be clearly understood, however, that the invention is not limited to this use.

Typically, the or each receptacle is constructed at least in part from a laminate comprising at least said semi-rigid polymer material and a flexible material.

The torso receiving portion may also comprise at least said laminate of semi-rigid material and flexible material. The semi-rigid laminate may also include other materials or components that produce desired properties. For example, the laminate may include protective material such as steel mesh or Kevlar to render the garment stab or cut resistant. Also, the semi-rigid laminate may include a fire resistant material. Additionally, cooling tubes may be included in the semi-rigid laminate to help regulate the wearer's body temperature.

The torso receiving portion typically comprises the main components of a garment for covering a quantity of the wearer's torso. It is generally formed to substantially conform to at least a portion of the wearer's torso. It may comprise a plurality of panels joined together, for example by sewing, welding, lamination or other bonding methods, or it may comprise a unitary piece. Each panel may comprise the same or different materials. When the panels are of different materials, they are preferably panels or panels of material comprising semi-rigid material and panels or panels of flexible material. A panel or panels comprising a semi-rigid material may comprise a laminate of semi-rigid and flexible materials.

的商标名出售。The flexible material is typically one or more synthetic fabrics having desired properties to match the intended end use of the garment. Such properties can include light weight, water resistance, ultraviolet (UV) protection, and good mechanical properties. Preferably, the flexible material is a synthetic material, although natural materials such as cotton may also be used in some embodiments. Suitable synthetic materials include materials comprising nylon and polyester. Other flexible materials include aramids such as sold under the trade name NOMEX. The flexible material preferably may comprise two or more layers of fabric, which may be laminated together. In one embodiment, the flexible material is a laminate of nylon and polyester, such as a laminate of 200 denier nylon and 600 denier polyester cloth. In some embodiments, the flexible material may have a grid structure. Preferred flexible materials are nylon or polyester, preferably woven or knitted nylon or polyester. More preferably, the flexible material is knitted nylon, such as CORDURA by DuPont

sold under the trade name.

The torso-receiving portion of the garment typically includes: a front region for at least partially covering the front of the wearer's torso; a back region for at least partially covering the back of the wearer's torso; two side regions; and at least one A shoulder region for extending over and supported by the wearer's shoulders. The torso receiving portion also includes an inner surface for facing the wearer's body and an outer surface. The torso receiving portion typically also includes a fastenable opening that enables the garment to be donned or removed. Preferably, the fastenable opening is located in the front region of the garment for easy access. Preferably, the opening is fastenable by a fastener, preferably by a zipper. More preferably, the fastener is adjustable so that it can be used under garments of different thicknesses. An example of an adjustable fastener is a double zipper.

Preferably, the torso receiving portion includes two side apertures through which the wearer's arms can pass. The arm holes are preferably shaped and sized so as not to substantially impede the movement of the wearer's arms during walking and running. Also, it is preferred that the length of the garment is such that the bottom edge of the garment does not fall below the waist of the wearer when worn so as not to impede the movement of the wearer's torso when in use.

The garment of the present invention also includes one or more receptacles for receiving items to be stored and/or carried. Each receptacle is at least partially constructed of a semi-rigid polymer material and is integral with the torso receiving portion of the garment.

The or each receiver typically takes the form of a pocket or holder. Receptacles project from the outer surface of the torso receiving portion. The receptacle includes at least one outer wall and may also include an inner wall. Each receptacle has an opening for receiving an item. At least part of the material of each receptacle is a semi-rigid polymer material. Typically, at least part of the outer wall of each receptacle comprises a semi-rigid polymer material. Preferably, the semi-rigid material is molded or formed into a three-dimensional shape. The use of a semi-rigid material will allow the outer walls of each receptacle to be rigid enough to define and maintain the shape of the receptacle, yet flexible enough to deform sufficiently when the corresponding item in the receptacle is removed or replaced.

The receptacle may also include a cover for the opening. The cover preferably also comprises formed semi-rigid material.

When the receptacle includes an inner wall, it may only include a portion of the bottom torso receiving portion of the garment. However, in other embodiments, the inner wall may be different from the torso receiving portion. The inner wall may comprise only flexible material. However, some receptacles may also advantageously at least partially comprise a semi-rigid material.

In some embodiments, the inner wall at least partially includes a breathable material, such as mesh, to enhance air circulation between the garment and the wearer's body.

The inner wall may preferably be of a contrasting colour, so that the wearer can clearly see when the receptacle is on.

Preferably, the shape of each receptacle is complementary to the shape of the item it is designed to hold. This, together with the at least partially semi-rigid nature of the outer wall, can prevent or reduce excessive movement of the item within its receptacle.

The or each receiver is integral with the torso receiving portion. This means that the material of the receiver is fixed on or in the material of the receiving part of the torso. The or each receptacle is integrally formed with the torso receiving portion by integral forming or moulding. In this method, at least a portion of the receptacle is formed or molded together with at least a portion of the torso receiving portion as one or more integral pieces.

Preferably, the semi-rigid material is based on synthetic polymers. More preferably, the semi-rigid material is based on a foamed (expanded) plastic material due to its generally lower density and lighter weight. More preferably, the semi-rigid material is based on polyolefin foam, such as polyethylene foam or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. Particularly preferred semi-rigid materials include EVA foam. EVA foam has many properties suitable for the requirements of the present invention, including good durability and chemical resistance, low water absorption, good mechanical properties, excellent thermoforming characteristics, flexibility, elasticity, and very strong after compression. Shape Restoration. More preferably, the EVA foam is compressed EVA foam, which is typically formed by applying pressure to the foam during the application of heat. During the compression process, the EVA foam is formed or molded into the desired shape. By varying the thickness, temperature and/or pressure of the foam, the density and mechanical properties of the resulting molded EVA foam can be controlled.

的商标名出售的尼龙。Semi-rigid materials may include laminates. When it comprises EVA, the semi-rigid laminate preferably comprises at least a first layer of fabric bonded to a first side of the EVA layer. Preferably, the semi-rigid laminate of the receptacle comprises an outer layer of flexible material. Where the torso-receiving portion of the garment comprises one or more panels of flexible material or a laminate of flexible material, the outer layer of the semi-rigid laminate preferably corresponds to the outer layer of flexible material, or corresponds to an outer layer of a laminate of flexible material, In order to give the overall uniformity and overall appearance of the garment. Preferably, the outer layer of the fabric has inherent protective properties. Examples of suitable materials for the first layer are woven or knitted nylon, preferably knitted nylon, such as CORDURA® by DuPont.

sold under the trade name Nylon.

More preferably, the semi-rigid laminate further includes a second layer of fabric bonded to the second side of the EVA layer, thereby creating a three-layer structure with an EVA core. Preferably, the second layer of fabric comprises the padding of the receptacle. Examples of suitable materials for the second layer fabric include polyester, cotton, nylon, polyester cotton and wool. The second layer of fabric may advantageously comprise a mesh, such as a nylon mesh, which helps to strengthen the semi-rigid laminate and maintain its shape.

As previously stated, many desirable properties of EVA foam include good thermoforming characteristics. This allows the receptacle walls formed of EVA foam to be molded and formed into a three-dimensional unitary piece, preferably if desired conforming to the shape of the item to be held in the receptacle. This feature is advantageous because it ensures that the items are securely stored in the desired orientation and can be easily accessed and removed for use. It also reduces or eliminates unwanted movement of the item within the receptacle, thereby reducing wear and tear on the item and garment. Also, it contributes to the comfort of the wearer.

The above described reduction or elimination of unwanted movement of items stored in the receptacle has the further advantage that the receptacle opening may not need to be closed. The presence of the outer and inner walls of the receptacle may be sufficient to securely hold the item in place. However, due to its semi-rigid nature, the walls of the receptacle are still flexible enough to deform to the desired extent, for example, when the wearer's hand is inserted into the receptacle to remove the item if desired.

While the above still provides a cover over the receiver opening. The cover may include one or more flaps. The closure may be fastened using conventional fasteners, preferably hook and loop material such as sold under the trade name VELCRO, or zippers. The closure typically also includes a semi-rigid material. Preferably the cover comprises the same material as the outer wall of the receptacle. Therefore, the preferred material for the wrapper is EVA foam or EVA foam laminate.

The receiver is generally arranged in the front area and can extend towards the shoulder area of the garment. All openings of the receiver are arranged to be easily accessible by the wearer's hand. Typically, this means that the opening of the receiver in the upper front area or on the shoulder area will have its opening towards its bottom, while the opening of the receiver in the bottom front area will have it The opening is towards its top.

Depending on the wearer's left- or right-handedness, receivers for storing specific items can also be located on the left or right side of the front area. For example, a right-handed police officer is likely to use his or her right hand to restrain a suspect when making an arrest, thus requiring his or her left hand to access the handcuffs. Therefore, it is convenient to locate the handcuff receiver on the right side of the wearer for easy access. The same ergonomic considerations apply to positioning receivers on garments used in occupations other than law enforcement.

In a preferred embodiment, the garment includes a receptacle that will store a set of handcuffs. The handcuff receiver includes inner and outer walls and an opening. The shape and size of the handcuff receiver is approximately the same as a folded pair of handcuffs, and the inner dimensions of the receiver are only slightly larger than the handcuffs to ensure a snug fit. The receptacle also preferably includes a generally central hub sized and shaped to fit within the central opening of the collapsible shackle. The hub includes one or more hub elements projecting from the inner and/or outer walls. Preferably, a single hub element protrudes from the inner wall. Preferably the surface of the or each hub element comprises a flexible material. Preferably the outer wall of the receptacle comprises at least partly a semi-rigid material, preferably foam plastic, more preferably shaped EVA foam. More preferably, it comprises EVA foam and elastomeric material. More preferably, the outer wall is formed from at least one panel of semi-rigid material and elastomeric material. More preferably, the receiver opening is located in the elastomeric material. The elastomeric material is preferably one of the types sold under the trade names LYCRA, ELASTANE or SPANDEX. Elastomeric materials may also be chosen, for example of the type sold under the trade name NEOPRENE.

The receiver opening is preferably slightly smaller than the largest dimension of the folded shackle. However, since the opening is formed from an elastomeric material, it can stretch sufficiently to allow passage of the handcuff, and then return to its original size. Thus, the handcuff is held in the receptacle by the semi-rigid nature of the hub, at least part of the outer wall, and the small opening.

The secondary function of the small opening of the handcuff receiver is to ensure that the handcuffs are difficult to see by a third person, thereby reducing the possibility of unauthorized removal of the handcuffs.

When the hub comprises a single hub element protruding from the inner or outer wall, the distance between the free end of the hub and the opposite wall is small. Similarly, when the hub comprises two or more hub elements protruding from the inner and outer walls, there is a small distance between the free ends of the hub elements. This distance is generally less than the thickness of the folded handcuffs. The interior of the hub element is preferably filled with an elastic material, such as silicone gel. The silicone gel is preferably laminated on one side to the flexible material on the surface of the hub and on the other side to the back layer of semi-rigid material. Thus, the hub is sufficiently elastically deformable to allow the thickness of the folding shackle to be forced through the hub.

In one form of the invention, the inner wall of the handcuff receptacle comprises a laminate of a flexible material such as nylon and a semi-rigid material such as EVA foam in the area around the hub.

The handcuff receiver may be located in the lower front region of the garment with the opening of the handcuff receiver positioned towards or at the top thereof.

The garment typically includes multiple receivers. Other items that may be stored in the receiver include: extendable batons, non-lethal chemical sprayers, first aid items (such as rubber gloves and masks), radio handsets, logs, mobile phones, and various personal items.

Receptacles for storing extendable batons and chemical sprayers are also shaped and sized to be complementary to the shape and size of the received items and thus are typically generally elongated. Also, each receiver is preferably positioned and oriented on the garment in such a way as to maximize accessibility and ensure that the article is in an orientation ready for use when approached. Preferably the outer wall of the receptacle comprises a semi-rigid material, preferably EVA foam. The receiver is preferably located in the upper front region of the garment. Preferably the longitudinal axis of each receptacle is oriented at an oblique angle to the midline of the torso when worn. More preferably, the lower end of each receiver is positioned closer to the midline of the torso than the upper end. More preferably, the opening of each receptacle is located at or towards its lower end. This positioning and orientation has been found to enable smooth and rapid removal and use of the items in a downward lateral pull motion without interference with the walls of the receptacle.

In a particularly preferred embodiment at least one receptacle located in the upper front region of the garment comprises an outer wall comprising shaped EVA foam material with a cover integral at or towards its lower end. The cover is preferably also formed from shaped EVA foam. The closure is hinged for outward rotational movement from the closed position to the open position. It has been found that an outwardly opening flap enables removal of items from the receptacle with minimal hindrance. The opening of the receptacle may extend a greater distance from the lower end towards the upper end of the outer wall of the receptacle so that there is sufficient room to access and remove the item. In this case, the integral cover therefore needs to be large enough to cover the opening. The cover may include fasteners. Preferably the fastener comprises a hook and loop fastener.

Preferably each closure includes a release flap or tab which can be grasped by the wearer when opening the closure. The release tab preferably includes distinct indicia indicating the contents of each receptacle. Thus, the wearer is able to receive tactile feedback from the release tab, which can help ensure the correct item is being used in low visibility situations.

The inner surface of the receptacle may include gripping means to help retain the item therein. The gripping device may consist of one hook or loop material and another material which is glued to the article. Preferably the hook or loop material present is laminated to the inner surface of the receptacle.

Preferably, the garment also includes a receptacle for holding a first aid kit, eg comprising rubber gloves and a mask. The receiver is advantageously similar in shape, orientation and structure to that which would hold batons and OC injectors.

The outer garment may also optionally include receptacles for storing various sundries and/or personal items, such as journals, wallets, keys, and the like. Preferably, such receivers are positioned towards the center of the frontal area. However, since the items in the debris receptacle may not require quick access, its construction need not be in accordance with the invention, and it may be of conventional design. Preferably however, the outer wall of the debris receptacle is similar in appearance to the rest of the garment. Thus, it may comprise semi-rigid laminates or panels of flexible material similar to that used in other parts of the garment. The debris receptacle advantageously includes an upwardly facing opening so that the wearer can look down to open the receptacle. Preferably the debris receptacle conceals a fastenable opening in the front region of the garment.

The garment also typically includes a receiver for holding a radio handset. Preferably the radio receiver includes a guide, which may only include an open end holder, which receives and holds the radio handset in the desired orientation. Preferably, however, the radio receiver further comprises a pocket member suspended on the open end of the guide. Preferably the guide comprises a semi-rigid material. More preferably, it comprises the same semi-rigid material as the other receptacles described above. The pocket part may comprise the same material as the guide support. Preferably, however, it comprises a flexible material such as an elastic mesh. A suitable material is a 3-dimensional mesh, preferably a padded mesh, eg a mesh comprising foam parts, in order to protect the radio from damage. The pocket part may be continuous with the retainer, where they are all the same material, or the pocket part may be secured to the retainer by sewing or gluing. Preferably, the pocket member hangs substantially freely from the open end of the holder.

The garments of the present invention may advantageously include a number of other features.

Preferably the garment includes light emitting means. The light emitting device preferably comprises a flexible light mounted on the garment. Preferably the flexible light comprises a flexible arm having a light source arranged at one end thereof. The other end of the flexible arm is mounted on the outer garment. The operation and intensity of the light source may be manually controlled by the wearer, preferably using one or more switches provided on the flexible light. The one or more switches may conveniently be located near the light source. In a preferred embodiment, the flexible arms are mounted on the shoulder region and extend downwardly towards the upper front region of the garment. The arm may be secured along its length by securing means, such as hook and loop fasteners. It is preferred that the arms protrude from the reinforcement holes of the garment in order to reduce damage to the garment due to the use of the flexible light. The power supply for the light is preferably rechargeable and integral to the garment. The power source can be solar energy, or a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium battery.

The garment may also advantageously include garment lighting to enhance the wearer's visibility at night or when visibility is poor. Preferably the garment lighting device comprises one or more light emitting components integrally formed with the garment. More preferably, the or each light emitting component comprises a transparent window or tube through which light is transmitted and emitted. The light emitting component may include a window containing a plurality of light emitting diodes. The garment lighting device is preferably powered by a rechargeable power source, preferably the same power source used to power the lighting device, as described above. The operation of the garment lighting unit is preferably also controlled by a switch located on the lighting unit.

The garment lighting device may alternatively or additionally include areas of reflective material. Preferably they comprise a strip of reflective material arranged in the back region of the garment. Preferably the garment includes means, such as flaps, for covering the reflective area if desired.

The garments of the present invention may include ventilation means to allow air to circulate between the garment and the body of the wearer. The vent typically includes an opening in the torso receiving portion. The opening preferably comprises a vent hole disposed in the flexible material of the torso receiving portion. The vent may be formed separately in the flexible material, or advantageously may comprise a separate panel comprising an integral vent material such as mesh. The ventilation means are advantageously arranged in areas of the garment which coincide with areas of the user's body where more perspiration occurs, for example around the neck and on the back.

In one form of the invention, the ventilation means further includes a microjet fan embedded in the garment to help circulate air between the garment and the body of the wearer.

The garment of the present invention preferably further includes size adjustment means for adjusting the size of the garment to fit a particular wearer's torso size. Preferably adjustment means are provided on each side of the garment. Preferably, each adjustment means comprises a first and a second adjustment member, with the first adjustment member being arranged in the front region and the second adjustment member being arranged in the back region of the garment. The first and second adjustment members of each adjustment device are releasably separable and movable relative to each other in order to increase or decrease the side room in the front and back regions.

It is preferred that the first and second adjustment parts of each adjustment device comprise flaps which can be connected to each other, with the first flap being arranged in the lower front region and the second flap being arranged in the corresponding lower back region. The first and second flaps may be attached to each other, preferably by hook and loop fasteners, although other types of fasteners such as clasps or snaps may also be used. More preferably, at least one of the first and second flaps includes a size indicator indicating the proper relative position of the first and second flaps when attached to obtain a particular garment size. The size indicator may be printed or embossed on the first and/or second flap. In a preferred embodiment, the size indicators are welded or heat pressed in the area of the hook or loop fastener of each second flap.

The garment of the present invention may also include anchoring means for securing the garment to the wearer's belt or similar item of clothing. The anchoring device generally includes one or more adjustable strips that extend from the lower end of the garment. And can be connected with the wearer's belt. The adjustable strips are preferably extendable and retractable so that they retract over the lower end of the garment when not in use. Preferably, the adjustable strips comprise elastic mesh straps.

The garment of the present invention may optionally further include means for attaching it to various devices such as holsters, tasers, water packs, radio packs, reflective straps, shoulder straps, GPS packs, and emergency signal lights . The attachment means may include flaps with hook and loop fasteners, or areas of fabric that mate with hook and loop fasteners. Preferably said area of matching fabric is laminated to the garment material.

The garment preferably also includes audio and visual recording means. Preferably, the recording device is a digital camera. The digital camera is preferably mountable substantially centrally on the front of the garment. A convenient location is on or in the debris receptacle, such as in a recess in the receptacle cover.

The inner surface of the garment may be provided with raised areas which distance the inner surface of the garment from the wearer's body to facilitate and enhance air circulation therebetween. These areas may be padded to enhance the wearer's comfort. Also, the raised area may include impact resistant material for increased protection of the wearer. The raised areas are preferably located in the shoulder area and the front area of the inner surface. The raised area in the shoulder area is preferably padded and advantageously comprises an integral pad comprising a cushioning padding, in particular a gel, such as silicone gel. The raised area in the front region preferably coincides with the chest and rib regions of the wearer's torso. The raised areas are preferably segmented so as to reduce contact between the garment and the wearer's body. The raised area in the front region is preferably also padded, and advantageously includes impact resistant material, so as to provide body protection to the wearer from injury or attack. An example of such a material is a 3-dimensional impact net (a 3D net with a convex profile as opposed to a flat and fabric-like profile).

Description of drawings

The invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 shows the front view of the first embodiment of the garment of the present invention;

Figure 2 shows the back of the garment in Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the receiver shown in Figure 1 for holding a pair of handcuffs;

Figure 4 is a detailed view of the receiver shown in Figure 1 for holding a baton;

Figure 5 shows the back of a first embodiment of a garment including a water pack;

Figure 6 shows the opposite side of the front of the first embodiment of the garment;

Figure 7a is a front view of a second embodiment of the garment of the present invention;

Figure 7b shows the direction of opening and closing the receiver of the second embodiment;

Fig. 8 is the rear view of the second embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 9a and 9b represent the integral molding used to manufacture the second embodiment;

Fig. 10 shows in detail the camera function in the second embodiment.

Detailed ways

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2 , the garment of the present invention includes a vest 10 (vest), shown as donned by a wearer 12 . The vest 10 includes a torso receiving portion 14 that includes a semi-rigid material and a substantially flexible material. Vest 10 also includes a plurality of receptacles 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, and 25 each constructed at least in part of a semi-rigid material. The semi-rigid material comprises compressed EVA foam, and is preferably a laminate of compressed EVA foam having at least an outer layer of polyester material. Each receiver 16 , 18 , 20 , 22 , 24 and 25 is integral with the torso receiving portion 14 .

Vest 10 includes: front region 16 (shown in FIG. 1 ), for at least partially covering the front of the torso of wearer 12; Back; two side regions 30 , 32 and two shoulder regions 34 , 36 . The front region 26 of the torso receiving portion 14 also includes a fastenable opening 38 so that the vest 10 can be put on or taken off.

Receptacle 16 is located in lower front region 26 of vest 10 and includes opening 44 near its top. The receptacle 16 will hold a handcuff, so it is shaped and sized to approximately correspond to a folded handcuff. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the handcuff receiver 16 along line III in FIG. 1 . The handcuff receptacle 16 includes an outer wall 40 , an inner wall 42 and an opening 44 . The outer wall 40 includes a semi-rigid member 46 comprising a molded laminate of at least compressed EVA foam and a polyester outer layer; elastomeric material. The opening 44 is provided in the elastomeric member 48 and is slightly smaller than the largest dimension of the folded handcuff 50 .

The inner wall 42 also includes a laminate of a layer of flexible material 43 and a bottom layer 45 of EVA foam material. The inner wall 42 includes a generally central hub including a hub element 52 sized and shaped to fit within the central opening of the folding handcuff 50 . The hub element 52 is hollow and filled with silicone gel 54 which is laminated on the bottom layer 43 . The minimum distance between the hub element 52 and the inner surface 56 of the outer wall 40 is less than the thickness of the folding handcuff 50 . However, since the hub element 52 is filled with elastic gel, the hub element 52 is sufficiently elastically deformable to enable the folding handcuff 50 to be forced through it.

When using the handcuff receiver 16, since the opening 44 is arranged in the elastomeric part 48 of the outer wall 40, the opening 44 can be stretched sufficiently to allow the folded handcuff to pass through, and then the handcuff due to the hub, the semi-rigidity of the outer wall 40 The combination of part 46 and smaller opening 44 is retained in the receptacle.

Receptacles 18, 20 and 22 are used to hold an extendable baton, an OC sprayer and a first aid kit including rubber gloves/mask, respectively. Because the features of these receivers are similar, the following description will focus on baton receiver 18 , with the understanding that similar features are shared with receivers 20 and 22 as well.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the baton receptacle 18 is generally elongated and located in the upper front region 26 of the vest 10. The baton receptacle 18 is shaped and sized to complement the shape and size of the extendable baton. It is positioned and oriented on the vest 10 so that its longitudinal axis is oriented at an oblique angle to the median line X-X of the wearer's torso. The baton receptacle 18 has an upper end 62 and a lower end 64 , the lower end 64 being positioned closer to the median line X-X than the upper end 62 .

Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the baton receiver 18 holding a baton 58, only the handle of which can be seen. The baton receptacle includes an outer wall 60 made of shaped compressed EVA foam with polyester laminated on its outer surface. The baton receiver 18 is integral with the torso receiving portion 14 by being integrally formed with the torso receiving portion 14 during the molding process. The arcuate opening 66 extends a longer distance from the lower end 64 to the upper end 62 to allow sufficient room to access and remove the baton. The baton receptacle also includes a shaped cover 68 shaped and dimensioned to cover opening 66 . A cover 68 is hinged to lower end 64 for outward rotational movement from a closed position (shown in FIG. 1 ) to an open position (shown in FIG. 4 ). Cover 68 also includes hook and loop fasteners 70 for retaining cover 68 in its closed position.

The vest 10 also includes a receiver 24 for holding a radio handset 72 . The radio receiver 24 includes a guide support that includes an open end retainer 74 made of molded compressed EVA foam laminated with polyester, which is bonded to the torso during the molding process. The receiving portion 14 is formed integrally with the torso receiving portion 14 . The receptacle 24 also includes a pocket member 76 suspended from the lower end of the open end retainer 74 . The pocket member 76 includes an elastic mesh. The receptacle 24 also includes a flap cover 78 that may be fastened by hook and loop fasteners (not shown).

The vest 10 also includes a light emitting device comprising a flexible light 80 comprising a flexible arm 82 mounted at one end on the shoulder region 36 and having a light source 84 at its other end, The light source 84 extends downwardly towards the upper front region 26 of the vest 10 . Flexible light 80 includes manual controls (not shown) to enable the wearer to control the operation and intensity of light source 84 . The flexible arm 82 is secured along its length by securing means comprising a flexible strap 86 secured to the torso receiving portion 14 by hook and loop fasteners. The lighting device also includes a rechargeable power source 86 that is integral to the vest 10 and includes a rechargeable lithium battery.

Another feature of the vest 10 is the garment lighting, which includes a light emitting member 88 located in the back region 28 . The light emitting part 88 is an integral transparent polymer window with a flexible PCB in it that has an array of LED lights mounted on its surface. It is also powered by a rechargeable power source 86 and is connected to the rechargeable power source 86 through an embedded flexible printed circuit board 87 with strain relief 89 built into it to avoid strain-induced damage.

Vest 10 also includes ventilation means comprising panels of material, such as meshes 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d and 90e, disposed in torso receiving portion 14 that generally contain ventilation holes. The panels of material comprising ventilation holes throughout are located in areas of the vest 10 that coincide with areas of the wearer's body that undergo more perspiration, such as panels 90a and 90b located on the wearer's neck as shown in Figures 1 and 2 Around, panels 90c, 90d and 90e are located on the back of the wearer.

The vest 10 additionally includes a size adjustment device 92 arranged in each side region 30 , 32 . Each size adjustment means includes releasably mounted first and second adjustment members which include interconnectable flaps 94,96. Flaps 94 , 96 may be connected by hook and loop fasteners, with hook members disposed on flap 94 and loop members disposed on flap 96 . The flap 96 also includes a size indicator generally indicated at 98 . The size indicators 98 include spaced apart size lines 100 and associated wearer chest sizes embossed in the flaps 96 that describe the position in which the corresponding flaps 94 need to be in order to obtain a particular size of vest 10. relative position. The size indicators are arranged at the lowermost portion of the connecting flaps 94, 96 at such a position that when the two flaps 94, 96 are connected, a special size line 100 corresponding to the wearer's chest size is visible.

Another feature of the vest 10 is the anchoring arrangement, which includes two adjustable straps 102 for securing the vest 10 to the wearer's belt 104 . Figure 6 shows the adjustment bar 102 in more detail. They each comprise a retractable part 106 secured to the lower edge of the vest 10 and an attachment part 108 for fastening to the belt 104 of the wearer. Each retractable member 106 and its corresponding connecting member 108 may be connected to each other by hook and loop connection means indicated at 110a, 110b. Each retractable member 106 includes an elastic portion 112 that functions to retract the retractable member 106 over the lower edge of the vest 10 when not in use.

FIG. 5 shows a variation of the vest 10 including a water pack 112 for mounting on the back region 28 . Hydration pack 112 includes a fluid conduit 114 that extends over shoulder region 34 for access to the wearer's mouth. The hydration pack 112 is secured to the vest 10 by hook and loop fasteners, so the vest 10 includes attachment tabs 116a, 116b and 116c having hook members for engaging the loop material on the hydration pack 112.

FIG. 6 shows the opposite side of the vest 10 from the front. A plurality of raised padded regions 120a, b, c, and d and 122a, b, and c are disposed on the inner surface 118 of the vest 10 to distance the inner surface 118 from the body of the wearer, thereby facilitating and strengthening the Air circulates between them. The raised areas 122a, 122b, and 122c in the shoulder areas 34, 36 include integral padding that includes cushioning silicone gel padding that improves comfort for the wearer. The raised regions 120a, b, c, and d are provided in segmented form that conforms to the chest and rib regions of the wearer's torso. They are also padded and also include impact resistant material that includes a three-dimensional impact mesh for increased wearer comfort and body protection.

A second embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 7a and 7b and FIG. 8 . In these figures, like reference numerals indicate like parts of the first embodiment, such that each reference numeral in FIGS. 7 and 8 is 200 greater than the corresponding reference numeral in FIGS. 1 to 6 . The following description will generally focus on those aspects of the second embodiment that differ from those in the first embodiment.

 购得。为了容易制造，半刚性面板215a与至少部分接收器216、220和222模制在一起，半刚性面板215b与至少部分接收器218和224模制在一起，这样，各半刚性面板215a和215b以及它的相应接收器部分形成整体模制件。图9a和9b分别表示了各整体模制件230和232，它们与相应接收器部分一起分别构成半刚性面板215a和215b。The vest 210 includes a torso receiving portion 214 and a plurality of receivers 216 , 218 , 220 , 222 and 224 . The torso receiving portion 214 includes molded semi-rigid panels 215a, 215b, and 215c and flexible panels of mesh material 290a, 290b, 290c, 29Od, and 29Oe. The semi-rigid panels 215a, 215b, and 215c comprise formed laminates of EVA foam and nylon material under the trade name CORDURA

purchased. For ease of manufacture, semi-rigid panel 215a is molded together with at least some of receivers 216, 220, and 222, and semi-rigid panel 215b is molded together with at least some of receivers 218 and 224, such that each of semi-rigid panels 215a and 215b and Its corresponding receiver part forms an integral moulding. Figures 9a and 9b show respective unitary moldings 230 and 232 which, together with corresponding receiver portions, form semi-rigid panels 215a and 215b, respectively.

In Figure 9a, the unitary molding 230 together with the outer walls of the receptacles 216 and 220 comprises a semi-rigid panel 215a. For the outer wall of the receptacle 216, the integral molding 230 also includes an area 216a marked in white which will be cut away and replaced by an elastomeric member 248 during the vest manufacturing process. Similarly, the outer wall of the receptacle 220 includes a region 220a marked in white that will be cut away and form a portion for the receptacle opening. The unitary molding 230 also includes an inner wall 348 of the central receptacle 225 and a portion 350 for extending over one shoulder of the wearer.

In FIG. 9 b , unitary molding 232 includes semi-rigid panel 215 b and outer wall 260 of receiver 218 and open end retainer member 274 of radio receiver 224 . The outer wall 260 of the receptacle 218 also includes a region 260a marked in white that will be cut away during the vest manufacturing process and form the open portion of the receptacle 218 . The unitary molding 232 also includes a portion 352 for extending over the other shoulder of the wearer. It includes an integrally molded pocket 354 for receiving a rechargeable lithium battery pack 286 .

During construction of the vest 210, the two semi-rigid shoulder portions 350, 352 are connected to a flexible back panel 356 which together with the mesh panels 290c and 290d form the back region 228 of the vest 210.

Referring to Figures 7a and 7b, it can be seen that the relative positions of the receivers 218, 220 and 222 in the second embodiment are reversed compared to the first embodiment. Furthermore, the position of the hinges connecting the respective shaped covers 268, 221 and 223 has been shifted relative to the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 7b, where the opening and closing directions of the respective covers are indicated by arrows. In the case of the shaped covers 268 and 221 (both shown in their open positions in FIG. 7a ), they are hinged along the outer lateral sides of the respective receptacles 218 and 220 , respectively. As for the first aid kit receptacle 222 , its cover 223 (shown in its closed position in FIG. 7 a ) is hinged on the upper side of the receptacle 222 , in the area generally indicated by reference numeral 227 . All formed closures are held in their closed position by hook and loop fasteners (not shown).

Each shaped closure 268, 221 and 223 includes a release tab 268a, 221a and 223a that can be grasped by the wearer to open the respective closure. Each release tab includes embossed indicia indicating the contents of a particular receptacle, for example, release tab 223a includes an embossed first aid cross to indicate that the contents of that receptacle 222 is a first aid kit.

The radio receiver 224 differs from the radio receiver 24 by a corresponding cover device. Unlike the radio receiver 24 which includes a flap 78 secured by hook and loop fasteners, the radio receiver 224 is closed by a zipper 279 arrangement.

The flexible light 280 includes a manual control including a switch 285 that controls the operation of a light source 284 and a light emitting member 288 located on a back region 288 of the vest 210 . The flexible arms 282 extend from molded holes 287 which help reduce wear and tear on the arms 282 .

The central receptacle 225 for holding general or personal items such as journals, wallets, keys etc. also includes a shaped cover 229 along the lower edge of the receptacle 225 in the area indicated by reference numeral 231 Articulate. The outside of the formed cover 229 is embossed with a logo or emblem, in this example identifying a special police agency.

The shaped cover 229 of the central receiver also includes means for housing a digital camera inside, as shown in FIG. 10 . Camera 340 is shown in dotted lines and fits into a complementary recess 342 (also shown in dashed lines) provided in cover 229 . The lens 344 of the camera coincides with a hole 346 provided in the cover 229 when fitted into the notch 342 . The central positioning of the camera allows for adequate framing and reduces image instability due to wearer motion. Having the camera inside will hide it from view and help protect it from damage. The camera can be manually operated by the wearer to record still and video footage when desired. The camera 340 can be removed from the vest 210 when needed, and images recorded by it can be downloaded directly from the camera or from its memory card. A system could be set up at police headquarters so downloaded information is recorded with the relevant police name and date. The camera is then recharged and placed back into the vest 210 .

Finally, it should be understood that various other modifications and/or substitutions may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims (52)

1. An outer garment for storing and/or carrying one or more items, comprising: a torso receiving portion for being worn over at least a portion of the wearer's torso; and one or more receptacles for receiving said article, the or each receptacle comprising at least in part a semi-rigid polymer material, the or each receptacle integrally formed with said torso receiving portion; Wherein the or each receptacle is integrally formed with the stem receiving portion by an integral forming method wherein at least a portion of the receptor and at least a portion of the stem receiving portion are formed together as one or more integral pieces. 2. The garment of claim 1, wherein said forming is by moulding. 3. A garment according to claim 1 , wherein the or each receptacle is at least partially constructed of a laminate comprising at least the semi-rigid polymer material and a flexible material. 4. The garment of claim 1, wherein the torso receiving portion also includes a laminate comprising at least the semi-rigid polymer material and a flexible material. 5. The garment of claim 1, wherein the garment is shaped to substantially conform to the at least a portion of the wearer's torso. 6. The garment of claim 3, wherein the flexible material is nylon or polyester. 7. The garment of claim 3, wherein the flexible material is woven or knitted nylon or polyester. 8. The garment of claim 3, wherein the flexible material is knitted nylon. 9. The garment according to claim 1 , wherein the torso receiving portion of the garment comprises: a front region for at least partially covering the front of the wearer's torso; a back region for at least partially covering the wearer's torso the back of the torso; the two side regions; and at least one shoulder region for extending over and supported by the wearer's shoulders. 10. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the torso receiving portion includes two side holes through which the wearer's arms may pass, the holes being shaped and dimensioned to allow for movement during walking and running. The middle does not substantially hinder the movement of the wearer's arm. 11. The garment of claim 1, wherein the garment has a length such that the lower edge of the garment does not fall below the waist of the wearer when worn so as not to impede movement of the wearer's torso when in use . 12. A garment according to claim 1, wherein the or each receptacle takes the form of a retainer extending from an outer surface of the torso receiving portion. 13. The garment of claim 12, wherein the retainer is a pocket. 14. The garment of claim 1, wherein each receptacle includes at least one outer wall and has an opening for receiving an item. 15. The garment of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the outer wall of each receptacle comprises a semi-rigid polymer material that forms a three-dimensional shape. 16. The garment of claim 15, wherein said forming is by moulding. 17. The garment of claim 1, wherein the receptacle further comprises a cover for the opening comprising a shaped semi-rigid material. 18. The garment of claim 1, wherein the receptacle includes an inner wall. 19. The garment of claim 18, wherein the inner wall comprises a breathable material. 20. The garment of claim 1, wherein each receptacle has a shape that is complementary to the shape of the item it is to hold. 21. The garment of claim 1, further comprising anchoring means for securing the garment to belts of the wearer, said anchoring means comprising one or more belts extending from the lower end of the garment and attachable to the wearer Adjustable strips on the top, wherein the adjustable strips can be extended and retracted so that they retract over the lower end of the garment when not in use. 22. The garment of claim 1, wherein the semi-rigid polymer material is a foam-based plastic material. 23. The garment of claim 1, wherein the semi-rigid polymer material is based on polyolefin foam. 24. The garment of claim 3, wherein the semi-rigid polymer material is based on polyethylene foam or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. 25. The garment of claim 1, wherein the semi-rigid polymer material is a layer of compressed EVA foam. 26. The garment of claim 24, wherein the semi-rigid polymeric material comprises a semi-rigid laminate comprising at least a first fabric layer bonded to a first side of an EVA layer. 27. The garment of claim 26, wherein the first fabric layer is of the same material as the flexible material. 28. The garment of claim 26, wherein the semi-rigid laminate includes a second fabric layer bonded on a second side of the EVA layer to form a pad for the receptacle. 29. The garment of claim 28, wherein the second fabric layer includes mesh to help strengthen the semi-rigid laminate. 30. The garment of claim 1, wherein the semi-rigid polymer material of the receptacle is sufficiently flexible to allow the receptacle to deform sufficiently to enable a wearer's hand to be inserted into the receptacle to retrieve an item. 31. The garment of claim 1, wherein the opening of the receptacle is arranged to be easily accessible by a wearer's hand. 32. The garment of claim 1 , wherein one of said receptacles is a handcuff receptacle having a shape and size approximately corresponding to a folded pair of handcuffs, and comprising inner and outer walls and positioned generally within said receptacle. A central hub sized and shaped to fit within the central opening of said pair of folding handcuffs. 33. The garment of claim 32, wherein the hub comprises a hub element extending from the inner wall of the handcuff receptacle, wherein the interior of the hub element is filled with silicone gel. 34. The garment of claim 32, wherein the outer wall of the handcuff receptacle comprises EVA foam and an elastomeric material, and the receptacle opening is located in the elastomeric material. 35. The garment of claim 34, wherein the receiver opening is slightly smaller than the largest dimension of the folded shackle, the opening being elastically stretchable enough to allow passage of the shackle. 36. The garment of claim 1, said one or more receptacles comprising one or more elongated receptacles for storing extendable batons and/or chemical sprayers and/or first aid kits, said one or a plurality of elongated receptacles are located on the upper front portion of the garment, the longitudinal axis of each receptacle is oriented at an oblique angle to the midline of the torso when worn, and the opening of each receptacle is positioned at or toward the side of the receptacle lower end. 37. A garment according to claim 36, wherein the or each elongate receptacle comprises an outer wall comprising shaped EVA foam material, an integral cover positioned at or towards the lower end of the receptacle and hinged for outward rotational movement from a closed position to an open position. 38. A garment according to claim 37, wherein the or each cover includes a release flap or tab which can be grasped by the wearer when opening the cover, said release tab including instructions indicating each Obvious marking of the contents of the receptacle. 39. The garment of claim 1, wherein an interior surface of the receptacle includes gripping means to help retain items therein. 40. The garment of claim 1, wherein one of said receivers for receiving a radio handset includes a guide formed of said semi-rigid polymer material and a flexible pocket suspended from the guide. 41. The garment of claim 40, wherein the flexible pocket is constructed of a three-dimensional mesh. 42. The garment of claim 1, further comprising a flexible light mounted on the garment, wherein the flexible light comprises a flexible arm having a light source disposed at one end thereof, the other end of the flexible arm Mounted in the upper garment in the shoulder region and extending downwardly towards the upper front region of the garment. 43. The garment of claim 42, wherein the power source for the light is rechargeable and integral with the garment. 44. The garment of claim 1, further comprising garment lighting to enhance the wearer's visibility at night or when visibility is poor, wherein the garment lighting comprises one or more luminous parts. 45. The garment of claim 44, wherein the light emitting component comprises a window comprising a plurality of light emitting diodes. 46. The garment of claim 44, wherein the garment lighting is powered by a rechargeable power source. 47. The garment according to claim 1, further comprising side size adjustment means for adjusting the size of the garment to fit a particular wearer's torso size, wherein each adjustment means comprises first and second adjustment members, the first The adjustment part is arranged on the front area and the second adjustment part is arranged on the back area of the garment. 48. The garment of claim 47, wherein the first and second adjustment members of each adjustment means comprise interconnectable flaps, the first flap being disposed on the lower front region, the second flap Arranged on the corresponding lower back area. 49. The garment of claim 48, wherein at least one of the first and second flaps includes a size indicator that indicates a proper relative position of the first and second flaps when attached so as to obtain Special outerwear sizes. 50. The garment of claim 49, wherein said first and second flaps are interconnectable by hook and loop fasteners, the size indicator being welded or heat pressed to the hook or loop of each second flap in the fastener area. 51. The garment according to claim 1 , wherein the inner surface of the garment is provided with raised areas which distance the inner surface of the garment from the body of the wearer to facilitate and strengthen the gap between them. air circulation. 52. The garment of claim 51, wherein the raised areas are padded and/or comprise impact resistant material.

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