EP2276369A2

EP2276369A2 - Load bearing suspension system

Info

Publication number: EP2276369A2
Application number: EP09798222A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Thomas A. Marx; Eric M. Yeates; Charles E. Buis III; Scott V. Ferros; Zac West
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Vista Outdoor Operations LLC
Priority date: 2008-04-08
Filing date: 2009-04-08
Publication date: 2011-01-26
Also published as: WO2010008426A3; WO2010008426A2; EP2276369A4; US20110214212A1

Abstract

A load bearing suspension system having a belt having one or more belt attachment devices; a harness having one or more harness attachment devices, wherein the number of harness attachment devices corresponds to the number of belt attachment devices, and wherein each harness attachment device is capable of being releasably attached to a corresponding else attachment device; and an overgarment, wherein the overgarment includes one or more apertures formed therein for allowing a harness attachment device to pass therethrough such that a harness attachment device is able to pass therethrough so as to be attached to a corresponding belt attachment device.

Description

LOAD BEARING SUSPENSION SYSTEM

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 61/123,336, filed April 8, 2008, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

[0002] This invention relates generally to load bearing and/or suspension systems. In particular, the present invention relates to an ergonomic load bearing and/or suspension system.

2. Description of Related Art

[0003] Military personnel, law enforcement officers, and other workers have traditionally carried most of the essential tools of their trade on their belts.

Duty/tool belts, and the weight and shape of the equipment carried on them, not only cause discomfort and fatigue to the wearers wearing them, but over the years of the wearer's career often cause chronic physical problems, including serious back, leg, hip, and nerve ailments. [0004] The duty /tool belt that provides the foundation on which the wearer's tools are supported has traditionally been a heavy, rigid, leather belt, with a large metal buckle. The better leather belts are made of two layers of leather, glued, and stitched tightly together, to increase the belt's stiffness for the purpose of supporting the items it must carry. [0005] In order to provide some support for the weight of the equipment, duty/tool belts are often attached to the wearer's trousers belt beneath it by several "keepers" spaced at intervals around the belt. These keepers are leather or synthetic straps, typically Yi" to ³A" wide, that are placed around both the duty/tool belt and the trousers belt beneath it, after which the keeper is fastened into a closed loop either with two metal snaps or with Velcro to hold the two belts together and thus restrict the duty/tool belt's movement on the user's waist. [0006] Alternatively, duty/tool belts are sometimes made with hook-and-loop ("Velcro") material on their underside, to attach them, without keepers, to a trousers belt faced with corresponding Velcro material.

[0007] The paramount purpose of the duty/tool belt is, of course, to allow the wearer to carry his or her most important items of equipment in a manner that will make them both secure, and readily accessible when needed. [0008] As an example, a typical police officer's "duty belt," as it is called, often supports from 10 to as much as 20 pounds or more of equipment, typically including a semi-automatic pistol in a heavily-constructed, rigid duty/tool holster, a magazine pouch with two spare pistol magazines containing 12-18 rounds of ammunition each, one or sometimes two pairs of handcuffs, a radio with batteries, a baton (solid or expandable), a flashlight, pepper spray, rubber gloves in a glove case, and possibly a Taser, spare Taser cartridges, a cell phone, a duty/tool knife with glass breaker and seat-belt cutter, a citation book (at least for the foot patrol wearer), keys, and other items.

[0009] The result of having a significant amount of equipment and/or weighty tools suspended or attached to a duty/tool belt is that all of the considerable weight of the duty/tool belt presses downward on the wearer's hips. Depending on the wearer's physique, physical condition, the material and construction of the belt itself, the equipment carried on it, and the nature of the wearer's job description, the heavy duty/tool belt presses down hard on the wearer's hips, and, as it does, it constricts the wearer's lower back and presses on sensitive nerves. Some wearers find their belts constantly sliding downward over their hips, requiring them to tug the belt back up again and again throughout their work day. [0010] Tightening the belt in an attempt to keep it from sliding down increases the discomfort to the wearer's back, hips, and nerves. The tight belt sometimes causes equipment or equipment pouches to bite into the wearer's hip, or to aggravate the nerves running over the hip. [0011] Typically, the military and law enforcement communities place a high value on tradition and radical changes in uniform design are slow in coming. Generally, the sharp, neat appearance of uniformed personnel and officers is of great importance, and even a minor deviation from the unit's or agency's dress code can subject the wearer to reprimand or discipline. In the past, at least some agencies were so insistent on the uniform appearance of their uniformed officers that they went so far as to require all officers to wear their holsters on the same side, regardless of whether the wearer was right-handed or left-handed. [0012] While such an extreme demand for consistency may now be largely a thing of the past, it is evident that any major deviation from a traditional uniformed military, law enforcement, and other appearance, such as wearing externally-visible suspenders, an equipment vest, or a uniform shirt with equipment pouches sewn into it, would be unacceptable to most military, law enforcement, and other agencies, and thus would not offer a practical solution to the duty/tool belt's physical problems for the majority of wearers who suffer - or will sooner or later suffer - from physical problems as a result of wearing a traditional duty/tool belt.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates generally to load bearing and/or suspension systems. In particular, the present invention relates to an ergonomic load bearing and/or suspension system. [0014] In order to alleviate the discomfort, fatigue, and chronic physical problems suffered by many military personnel, law enforcement officers, and others as the result of the weight of their equipment laden duty/tool belts pressing on their hips, nerves, and lower backs, the present invention relates to a suspender system that transfers at least some of the duty/tool belt's weight to the wearer's shoulders, relieving weight and pressure on the wearer's lower back and hips. [0015] Load Bearing and/or Suspension System

[0016] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the load bearing and/or suspension system comprises an over-the-shirt system, which incorporates a visible or partially visible suspenders load bearing and/or suspension system. Alternatively, the load bearing and/or suspension system of the present invention comprises an under-the-shirt system, which comprises a non-visible or only minimally visible, non-suspender load bearing and/or suspension systems. [0017] Patrol "Shirt" Embodiment [0018] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, a shirt, or other overgarment, is formed so as to accommodate the load bearing and/or suspension system instead of actually being the load bearing and/or suspension system. The shirt or overgarment provides a more traditional appearance with non-traditional materials and construction. The shirt or other overgarment may also be formed so as to accommodate conventional or concealed soft armor. [0019] In various additional exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the load bearing and/or suspension system is applied the shirt or overgarment itself and/or to externally worn hard or soft armor. [0020] In various additional exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the load bearing and/or suspension system is applied external tactical armor/vests. [0021] A typical shirt or other overgarment may be retrofitted to accommodate the load bearing and/or suspension system of the present invention. For example, an existing duty shirt may be modified to include iron-on patches and cut opening. Thus, a wearer may take a current in-use shirt and make a simply alteration to employ this new system.

[0022] In certain exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the system duty shirt may be modified to incorporate longer zipper access to reach in for adjusting the adjustment dial. In certain exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the shirt or other overgarment may include a substantially flat interior pocket in this opening where a wearer could keep important personal items, such as, for example, identification cards. [0023] It should be appreciated that the shirt or overgarment itself may have ballistic properties.

[0024] Vest Embodiment

[0025] In certain exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the overgarment may comprise a vest, either a tactical-type vest or an external vest. The vest may optionally include a zippered front as well as certain side protection and fitted patterning.

[0026] Alternatively, the vest may be constructed so as to provide increased flexibility for a custom fit. In still other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the vest can combine a zippered front with a degree of modular dexterity. [0027] Adjustment Dial

[0028] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, an adjustment dial is positioned within the load bearing and/or suspension system in order to allow the system to be adjusted for each individual wearer. While an adjustment dial may be utilized, any device capable of retracting appropriate section(s) of the load bearing and/or suspension system may be utilized.

[0029] The adjustment dial may be manually manipulated to extend or retract portions of the load bearing and/or suspension system. Alternatively, the adjustment dial may allow for auto-retraction and/or tensioning of the components of the load bearing and/or suspension system.

[0030] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the adjustment dial, or other retracting device, is attached or coupled to a suspender-type portion of the load bearing and/or suspension system. Alternatively, the adjustment dial, or other retracting device, maybe attached coupled to a belt portion of the load bearing and/or suspension system.

[0031] Duty Trouser

[0032] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, improvements are made to a pair of trousers as well. In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the trousers and body a traditional appearance, but allow for improved performance.

In other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the appearance of the trousers is modified to provide for even better performance.

[0033] Duty/tool belt

[0034] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, improvements are made to a duty/tool belt. While maintaining a relatively traditional appearance, the improved the duty/tool belt is constructed using extremely non-traditional elements and/or components.

[0035] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the duty/tool belt includes an overmolded portion. The overmolded portion may be included along at least an area of the upper and/or lower edge of the belt, in an area proximate the right and left hip bone areas of a wearer.

[0036] The duty/tool belt may be constructed so as to include at least some interfacing loops for the harness structure to support the belt. Alternatively, interfacing loops may be appropriately secured around a more traditional duty/tool belt.

[0037] Holsters

[0038] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the load bearing and/or suspension system includes a holster or other pouch or carrier. The holster, pouch, or carrier allows for improved positioning, carrying angles, and/or carry heights. In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the holster, pouch, or carrier is able to be attached or coupled to certain elements of the load bearing and/or suspension system of the present invention. [0039] Support Equipment

[0040] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, certain methods of attachment are provided for proper utilization of the load bearing and/or suspension system.

[0041] Thus, the load bearing and/or suspension system can be a stand-alone system; can be worn over a shirt, a shirt-like overgarment, and/or vest; can be formed as an integral part of a shirt, a shirt-like overgarment, and/or vest; and/or can be part of a combined body armor carrier and load bearing and/or suspension system.

[0042] Velcro Strap Adjustable Version. [0043] In various exemplary embodiments, a Velcro adjustable version of the load bearing and/or suspension system is similar to the adjustment dial version, except that instead of the adjustment dial, the system utilizes Velcro-controlled gross adjustments in the nylon straps that pass down from the right and left shoulder harnesses, combined with plastic adjustment buckles that permit the straps to be shortened or lengthened several inches to allow fine adjustments to be made by accessing the strap ends through the slots in the modified uniform shirts. [0044] In various exemplary embodiments, the plastic buckles are quickly detachable by the user, by means of a glove-compatible pinch-to-release design. The simplicity and less mechanical nature of the Velcro strap adjustable system can be more reliable in extended field use and under adverse conditions. [0045] It should be appreciated that with either the adjustment dial or the Velcro adjustment system, the user has the option of determining how much of the duty/tool belt's weight he or she transfers off the hips and waist, and onto the shoulders.

Slack in the load bearing and/or suspension system will leave all or almost all of the weight and pressure on the user's hips and waist, while a tight load bearing and/or suspension system can transfer virtually all of the duty /tool belt's weight to the user's shoulders. Individual users may prefer to adjust the ratio based on their own comfort, physical condition, or the nature of activity in which they are engaged.

Analogizing the load bearing and/or suspension system to a backpack with shoulder straps and a hip belt, the user may also wish to tighten and loosen the load bearing and/or suspension system from time to time during the day, to give either his shoulders or his hips a rest by temporarily transferring more of the weight to the other part of his body.

[0046] While traditional uniform-style shirts can easily and inexpensively be modified to permit the use of the load bearing and/or suspension system, the load bearing and/or suspension system can also be used with unconventional uniform shirts, such as bike patrol shirts and golf-type shirts. Other types of shirts can be modified to permit the use of load bearing and/or suspension system of this design as well.

[0047] Accordingly, various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system of improved design. [0048] Various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system, which is capable of accommodating and/or allowing for non-traditional equipment placement. [0049] Various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system, which is capable of being used in conjunction with all kinds of undershirts as well as with various armor carriers. [0050] Various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system, which is not dependent on any kind of internal carrier.

[0051] Various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system, which provides a better overall distribution of the weight that results from conventionally carried duty gear. [0052] Various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system, which is capable of accommodating both male and female wearers, as well as wearers of various body types, physical condition, disabilities, and/or skill levels. [0053] Various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system, which allows improved freedom of movement for a wearer.

[0054] Various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system, which does not need to be removed during certain activities, such as, for example, while the wearer is using a toilet.

[0055] Various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system, which is constructed so as to avoid nerve damage often associated with military, law enforcement, and others and other belt-wearing tradesmen.

[0056] Various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system, which is capable of being utilized with a conventional-looking but wrap-around-securing shirt. [0057] Various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system, which provides improved comfort and reduction of fatigue to those wearing equipment-laden duty/tool belts. [0058] Various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention separately provide a load bearing and/or suspension system, which may reduce the incidence and/or severity of physical ailments commonly associated with the long- term wearing of duty/tool belts. [0059] These and other features and advantages of this invention are described in or are apparent from the following detailed description of the exemplary, non- limiting embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0060] The exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of this invention 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: [0061] Fig. 1 shows a prior art suspender system;

[0062] Figs. 2 A - 2K show various views of the components of a first exemplary embodiment of a load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0063] Figs. 3 A - 3K show various views of the components of an additional exemplary embodiment of the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0064] Figs. 4 A - 4K show various views of the components of an additional exemplary embodiment of the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention; [0065] Figs. 5 A - 5C show various components of an additional exemplary embodiment of the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0066] Figs. 6A - 6C show various views of an exemplary embodiment of a shirt to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0067] Figs. 7A - 7C show various views of an additional exemplary embodiment of a shirt to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0068] Figs. 8 A - 8C show various views of an additional exemplary embodiment of a shirt to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention; [0069] Figs. 9A - 9C show various views of an additional exemplary embodiment of a shirt to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0070] Figs. 1OA - 1OC show various views of an exemplary embodiment of a vest and harness to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0071] Figs. 1 IA - 1 1C show various views of an additional exemplary embodiment of a vest and harness to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention; [0072] Figs. 12A - 12E show various views of an exemplary embodiment of a harness to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0073] Figs. 13A - 13C show various views of an additional exemplary embodiment of a vest, harness, and belt to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0074] Figs. 14A - 14C show various views of exemplary attachment means to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0075] Fig. 15 shows an exemplary belt to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0076] Fig. 16 shows an exemplary pair of pants and belt to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0077] Figs. 17A - 17B illustrate the placement of an exemplary belt, according to this invention, in relative to a wearer's skeletal structure;

[0078] Figs. 18A - 18C show various views of an exemplary belt and belt padding elements to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention; [0079] Figs. 19A - 19B show an exemplary belt and attachment means to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0080] Fig. 20 shows various views of an exemplary belt padding element and attachment means to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0081] Fig. 21 shows various views of an exemplary belt padding element and an additional embodiment of an attachment means to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention; [0082] Fig. 22 shows an exemplary belt, belt padding element, and attachment means to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0083] Fig. 23 shows an exemplary attachment means to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0084] Fig. 24A shows front perspective view of an exemplary belt, belt padding element, and attachment means to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0085] Fig. 24B shows side perspective view of an exemplary belt, belt padding element, and attachment means to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0086] Fig. 25 A shows side perspective view of an exemplary belt, belt padding element, and attachment means to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention; [0087] Fig. 25B shows side perspective view of an exemplary belt, belt padding element, and attachment means position around a wearer's waist, according to this invention; [0088] Figs. 26A - 26C show an exemplary load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention, as worn by a user;

[0089] Figs. 27A - 27C show various components of an additional exemplary embodiment of the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0090] Figs. 28A - 28C show an additional exemplary embodiment of a harness to be utilized in connection with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0091] Fig. 29 shows an additional exemplary embodiment of a harness to be utilized in connection with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention;

[0092] Fig. 30 shows an additional exemplary embodiment of a harness to be utilized in connection with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention; [0093] Fig. 31 shows an additional exemplary embodiment of a harness to be utilized in connection with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention; and

[0094] Figs. 32A - 32C show an exemplary load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention, as worn by a user.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY, NON-LIMITING

EMBODIMENTS

[0095] For simplicity and clarification, the design factors and operating principles of the load bearing suspension system according to this invention are explained with reference to various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of a load bearing suspension system according to this invention. The basic explanation of the design factors and operating principles of the load bearing suspension system is applicable for the understanding, design, implementation, and operation of the load bearing suspension system of this invention. [0096] It should also be appreciated that the "load bearing and/or suspension system", "suspender", and "non-suspender" are used for basic explanation and understanding of the operation of the systems, methods, and apparatuses of this invention. Therefore, the "load bearing and/or suspension system", "suspender", and "non-suspender" are not to be construed as limiting the systems, methods, and apparatuses of this invention.

[0097] Turning now to the drawing Figs., Fig. 1 shows a prior art suspender system. Suspenders designed to be worn outside the wearer's shirt have been offered in the past.

[0098] Unfortunately, exposed suspenders ofttimes have a sloppy or non- conventional appearance. Exposed suspenders are also troubled by the possibility of their catching on things and thereby entangling the wearer.

[0099] For military or law enforcement personnel, exposed suspenders have an inherent risk that an attacker could use the exposed suspenders straps as a means by which to grab and manhandle the wearer during an altercation. [00100] In response to some of these concerns, some of these exposed suspenders were designed to attach to a duty/tool belt with breakaway keepers that unsnapped when a certain amount of force is applied to the keepers. Unfortunately, this can result in the keepers regularly unsnapping during routine use. [00101] In order to overcome these and other disadvantages of known suspender systems, the present invention, as illustrated in Figs. 2 - 32C, provides a load bearing and/or suspension system that is at least partially concealed under a wearer's shirt. [00102] Figs. 2 A - 2K show various views of the components of a first exemplary embodiment of the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention. As illustrated in Figs. 2A - 2K, the load bearing and/or suspension system 100 includes at least some of a belt 1 10, a harness 130, an undergarment 150, and a shirt 170. [00103] In various exemplary embodiments, the belt 1 10 is substantially rigid. The belt 1 10 includes a belt padding element 1 16 that extends around a lower portion of the belt, at least along a portion of the belt 1 10 that will be located over a wearer's hips. In various exemplary embodiments, the belt padding element 1 16 includes a rolled, molded edge of the belt. The belt padding element 1 16, if included, provides a degree of padding to provide a measure of comfort to the wearer.

[00104] The belt 1 10 also includes belt attachment means 1 12 that generally extend from or are embedded within the belt 1 10. [00105] The harness 130 comprises a fabric, webbing, mesh, or reinforced fiber material that is flexible enough to drape over the shoulders of the wearer, and strong enough to support at least a portion of a load while in tension. Each end of the harness 130 terminates in a harness attachment means 132. [00106] The belt attachment means 1 12 and the harness attachment means 132 include corresponding mating attachment means, such as, for example, amish buttons, male/female snap-release buckles, Velcro or other hook-and-loop fasteners, a corresponding button and buttonhole, mating snaps, hook-and-eye closures, or other fastening means for removably interlacing or attaching the belt attachment means 1 12 to the harness attachment means 132. [00107] The undergarment 150 may comprise an undershirt, T-shirt, or vest. In various exemplary embodiments, the undergarment 150 may have certain ballistic properties. As illustrated, undergarment 150 is intended to be worn under the harness 130. [00108] The overgarment or shirt 170 is intended to be worn over a predominant portion of the harness 130, but tucked under or into the belt 1 10 so as to at least partially conceal or hide the harness 130 under the shirt 170. In order for the harness attachment means 132 to be able to engage the belt attachment means 1 12, one or more apertures 172 are formed through the shirt 170. In various exemplary embodiments, the aperture's 172 are formed proximate the location of the belt attachment means 1 12. It should be appreciated that the closer the location of the apertures 172 to the belt attachment means 1 12, the less of the harness 130 that becomes visible outside of the shirt 170. [00109] In various exemplary embodiments, the apertures 172 include grommets, stitching, or other reinforcement around their perimeter.

[00110] By incorporating apertures 172 in the shirt 170, when the load bearing and/or suspension system 100 is worn, the belt 1 10 can be worn in a traditional fashion, over the wearer's pants and shirt 170, while the harness 130 can be worn under the shirt 170. The harness attachment means 132 are able to pass through the apertures 172 in order to connect or attach to the belt attachment means 1 12.

[00111] Thus, the harness 130 is able to be releasably connected or coupled to the belt 110 such that the load of the belt 1 10 can be shared between the belt 1 10 and the harness 130, and thus be distributed between the wearer's hips and shoulders. [00112] It should be appreciated that Figs. 2C and 2D show exterior views of the shirt 170, while Figs. 2E and 2F show interior views of the shirt 170 so as to illustrate relative positioning of the harness 130 within the shirt 170. [00113] As illustrated in Figs. 2C and 2D, the shirt 170 may include multiple apertures 172 at different positions, accommodating users having different torso heights.

[00114] In various exemplary embodiments, as illustrated in Figs. 2G - 2 J, the undergarment 150 may comprise an undergarment 150', which includes additional padding 155' proximate and area where the harness 130 will transmit a load to the wearer's shoulders. Additionally, the undergarment 150' may include Velcro or other hook and loop closure means that provide girth adjustments and make it easier for a wearer to put the undergarment 150' on or take the undergarment 150' off. [00115] It should be appreciated that a shirt or other overgarment may be retrofitted to accommodate the harness 130. For example, an existing shirt may be modified to include apertures similar to the apertures 172. Thus, a wearer may take a current shirt and make a simply alteration to employ the load bearing and/or suspension system 100. [00116] Figs. 3A - 3K show various views of the components of an additional exemplary embodiment of the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention, wherein the harness 130, as illustrated in Figs. 2A and 2B, is replaced by a vest or overgarment 230. [00117] As illustrated in Figs. 3 A - 3K, the load bearing and/or suspension system 200 includes at least some of a belt 210 having a belt padding element 216, an undergarment 250, and a shirt 270. It should be appreciated that the belt 210 and the undergarment 250 correspond to and operate similarly to the belt 1 10, the belt padding elements 1 16, and the undergarment 150, as described above, with reference to Figs. 2A - 2K. [00118] However, the vest 230 is designed to be worn over the shirt 270 and provide load-bearing support to the belt 210. The vest 230 includes belt loops 233, which provide a means for removably securing the belt 210 to the vest 230. [00119] As illustrated in Figs. 3J and 3K, the vest 230 may optionally include padding elements 235 and may optionally include Velcro or other hook and loop closure means that provide girth adjustments and make it easier for a wearer to put the vest 230 on or take the vest 230 off. [00120] Figs. 4A - 4K, 1OA - 1OC, and 12A - 12E show various views of the components of an additional exemplary embodiment of the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention. As illustrated in Figs. 4A - 4K, 1OA - 1OC, and 12A - 12E, the load bearing and/or suspension system 300 includes at least some of a belt 310 having a belt padding element 316, an undergarment 350, and a shirt 370. However, the apertures 172 of the shirt 170, as illustrated in Figs. 2 A and 2B, are repositioned from a position in the front and rear of the shirt to a positioned proximate the sides of the shirt 370. Additionally, the apertures 372 of the shirt 370 are somewhat larger than the apertures 172 of the shirt 170. Likewise, corresponding belt attachment means 312 are located in an area of the belt 310 that will be positioned proximate sides of the wearer when the load bearing and/or suspension system 300 is worn.

[00121] In various exemplary embodiments, the harness 330 includes an adjustment dial 335 that allows the length of the harness attachment means 332 to be adjusted. In various exemplary embodiments, when the adjustment dial 335 is rotated or otherwise manipulated, a portion of cable or webbing 333 is adjusted so that the length of the harness attachment means 332 is altered. [00122] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, an adjustment dial 335 is positioned within the load bearing and/or suspension system in order to allow the system to be adjusted for each individual wearer. While an adjustment dial 335 may be utilized, any device capable of retracting appropriate section(s) of the load bearing and/or suspension system may be utilized.

[00123] The adjustment dial 335 may be manually manipulated to extend or retract portions of the load bearing and/or suspension system 300. Alternatively, the adjustment dial 335 may allow for auto-retraction and/or tensioning of the components of the harness 330.

[00124] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the adjustment dial 335, or other retracting device, is attached or coupled to the harness 330. Alternatively, an adjustment dial, or other retracting device, may be attached to or imbedded within a portion of the belt, as illustrated in Figs. 18A - 26C. [00125] As further illustrated in Figs. 4B and 4F, which show interior views of the shirt 370, the shirt 370 may include adjustment dial access apertures 376 form behind the front pockets of the shirt 370. Included, the adjustment dial access apertures of 376 provide access to the adjustment dials 335, such that the length of the harness attachment means 332 can be adjusted while the load bearing and/or suspension system 300 is worn.

[00126] It should be appreciated that the adjustment dial 335 is optional and at the harness 330 may be utilized without the adjustment dial 335, as illustrated in Figs. HA - HC.

[00127] As illustrated, for example, in Fig. 4G, the undergarment 350 may optionally include padding elements 335 and may optionally include Velcro or other hook and loop closure means that provide girth adjustments and make it easier for a wearer to put the undergarment 350 on or take the undergarment 350 off. [00128] In various exemplary embodiments, the load bearing and/or suspension system 300 includes a padded harness 330 passing over each of the user's shoulders, similar in design to a handgun shoulder holster harness. A nylon strap with Velcro adjustment, or a circular plastic "X" juncture, connects the two shoulder sections behind the user's neck, between the shoulder blades. Each shoulder section passes over the front and rear of the shoulder, and joins below the user's armpit, where the front and rear straps connect to a nylon pad.

[00129] The nylon pad holds a knob-shaped dial-type, adjustment dial 335, by means of which the user can lengthen or shorten a loop of vinyl covered steel wire 333 by turning the adjustment dial 335. Attached to the bottom end of the dial- adjustable portion of cable 333, on the user's right and left sides, are harness attachment means 332 that attach to belt attachment means 312. The harness attachment means 332 on each side passes through the aperture 372 in the shirt 370, to allow the harness attachment means 332 to attached to the belt attachment means 312 and provide support to the belt 310 at a point approximately even with the side- seam of the wearer's uniform trousers.

[00130] Figs. 5 A - 5C show various components of an additional exemplary embodiment of the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention.

[00131] As illustrated in Figs. 5A - 5C, an enlarged slot 376' may be formed in the shirt 370' to act as an aperture 372'. In various exemplary embodiments, a portion of reinforcing material 375' maybe attached or coupled to the shirt 370' to reinforce the aperture 372'. [00132] In certain exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the reinforcing material 375' may include a flap-style closure that can be secured, for example, by Velcro.

[00133] Use of the reinforcing material 375' may also be used if an existing shirt is modified to be used with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention.

[00134] Figs. 6A - 7C show a rear view, a side view, and a front view, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of a shirt 470 that can be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention. More specifically, Figs. 6A - 6C show an exterior view of alternate embodiment of a shirt 470 having an aperture 472, which includes a flap-style closure that can be opened so that elements of the load bearing and/or suspension system can be adjusted while the system is being worn. [00135] Figs. 7 A - 7C show and interior view of the shirt 470, illustrating the aperture 472 and further illustrating adjustable dial access apertures 476 positioned below the front pockets of the shirt 470.

[00136] Figs. 8A - 9C show a rear view, a side view, and a front view, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of a shirt 570 that can be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention. More specifically, Figs. 8A - 8C show an exterior view of alternate embodiment of a shirt 570 having an aperture 572, which includes a flap-style closure that can be opened so that elements of the load bearing and/or suspension system can be adjusted while the system is being worn. Figs. 9A - 9C show and interior view of the shirt 570, illustrating the aperture 572. [00137] As further illustrated in Figs. 8A - 9C, they shirt 570 also includes adjustable dial access apertures 576 positioned proximate the front pockets of the shirt 570. The adjustable dial access apertures 576 incorporate longer zipper or Velcro closure access to reach in for adjusting the adjustment dial 335. In certain exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the shirt or other overgarment may include a substantially flat interior pocket 576' in this opening where a wearer can keep important personal items, such as, for example, identification cards. [00138] Figs. 13A - 13C show various views of an additional exemplary embodiment of a vest, harness, and belt to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention. As shown in Figs. 13A - 13C, the load bearing and/or suspension system 600 is similar to the load bearing and/or suspension system 300, including a belt 610, a harness 630, and undergarment 650, adjustment dials 635, cable 633, and Velcro closure means 654. However, the harness 630 of the load bearing and/or suspension system 600 is releasably attached, via Velcro, to the undergarment 650.

[00139] Figs. 14A - 14C show various views of exemplary belt attachment means 712, 712', and 712" and harness attachment means 732, 732', in 732" to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention.

[00140] Fig. 15 shows an exemplary belt to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention. [00141] Fig. 16 shows an exemplary pair of pants and belt to be utilized in conjunction with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention.

[00142] Figs. 17A - 17B illustrate the placement of an exemplary belt, according to this invention, in relative to a wearer's skeletal structure. [00143] Figs. 18A -26C show an exemplary load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention, wherein an adjustment dial, or other retracting device, is attached to or imbedded within a portion of the belt.

[00144] Figs. 27A - 27C show various components of an additional exemplary embodiment of the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention.

[00145] Figs. 28A - 28C show an additional exemplary embodiment of a harness to be utilized in connection with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention.

[00146] Fig. 29 shows an additional exemplary embodiment of a harness to be utilized in connection with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention.

[00147] Fig. 30 shows an additional exemplary embodiment of a harness to be utilized in connection with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention. [00148] Fig. 31 shows an additional exemplary embodiment of a harness to be utilized in connection with the load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention. [00149] Figs. 32A - 32C show an exemplary load bearing and/or suspension system according to this invention, as worn by a user. [00150] While this invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary, non-limiting embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, in various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of the load bearing and/or suspension system, a holster and/or certain accessory compartments are integrally formed on the load bearing and/or suspension system. Such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed exemplary, non-limiting embodiments. [00151] 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 invention. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and is also encompassed within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either both of those included limits are also included in the invention. [00152] 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 this invention belongs.

[00153] Also, 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. [00154] Accordingly, the foregoing description of the exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of the invention, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Various changes, modifications, and/or adaptations may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. A load bearing suspension system, comprising: a belt having one or more belt attachment means; a harness having one or more harness attachment means, wherein the number of harness attachment means corresponds to the number of belt attachment means, and wherein each harness attachment means is capable of being releasably attached to a corresponding else attachment means; and an overgarment, wherein the overgarment includes one or more apertures formed therein for allowing a harness attachment means to pass therethrough such that a harness attachment means is able to pass therethrough so as to be attached to a corresponding belt attachment means.

2. The load bearing suspension system of claim 1 , wherein the belt is substantially rigid.

3. The load bearing suspension system of claim 1 , wherein the belt includes a belt padding element that extends around a lower portion of the belt.

4. The load bearing suspension system of claim 1, wherein the belt padding element includes a rolled, molded edge of the belt.

5. The load bearing suspension system of claim 1, wherein the belt attachment means and the harness attachment means include corresponding mating portions of amish buttons, male/female snap-release buckles, hook-and-loop fasteners, button and buttonhole, mating snaps, hook-and-eye closures, or an equivalent.

6. The load bearing suspension system of claim 1, further including an undergarment to be worn beneath the harness.

7. The load bearing suspension system of claim 6, wherein the undergarment has ballistic properties.

8. The load bearing suspension system of claim 6, wherein the undergarment is a vest.

9. The load bearing suspension system of claim 6, wherein the undergarment is releasably secured to the harness.

10. The load bearing suspension system of claim 1, wherein the one or more apertures formed in the overgarment comprises an enlarged slot.

1 1. The load bearing suspension system of claim 1, wherein the overgarment is a shirt.

12. The load bearing suspension system of claim 1, wherein the overgarment is to be worn over a predominant portion of the harness, but under the belt.

13. The load bearing suspension system of claim 1 , wherein the harness includes an adjustment dial that allows a length of the harness attachment means to be adjusted.

14. The load bearing suspension system of claim 13, wherein the adjustment dial provides for auto-retraction and/or tensioning of the harness relative to the belt.

15. The load bearing suspension system of claim 13, wherein the overgarment includes at least one adjustment dial access aperture form therethrough so as to provide access to the adjustment dial.

16. A load bearing suspension system, comprising: a belt having one or more belt attachment means, wherein the belt includes an adjustment dial that allows a length of the belt attachment means to be adjusted; a harness having one or more harness attachment means, wherein the number of harness attachment means corresponds to the number of belt attachment means, and wherein each harness attachment means is capable of being releasably attached to a corresponding else attachment means; and an overgarment, wherein the overgarment includes one or more apertures formed therein for allowing a harness attachment means to pass therethrough such that a harness attachment means is able to pass therethrough so as to be attached to a corresponding belt attachment means.

17. A load bearing suspension system, comprising: a belt having one or more belt attachment means extending from the belt; a harness having one or more harness attachment means, wherein the number of harness attachment means corresponds to the number of belt attachment means, and wherein each harness attachment means is capable of being releasably attached to a corresponding else attachment means; and an overgarment, wherein the overgarment includes one or more apertures formed therein for allowing a harness attachment means to pass therethrough such that a harness attachment means is able to pass therethrough so as to be attached to a corresponding belt attachment means.