Abstract: Three dimensional fabric matrices are provided for insertion into compartments of or attachment to wearable items and padded items, referred to as contact articles. The matrix includes a core that maintains an air space between inner and outer layers to facilitate heat transfer by convection and evaporation, when the enclosure is breathable. When the enclosure restricts air permeation, the air space provides insulation. Embodiments reconfigurable from insulating to breathable include adjustable impermeable sections that releasably cover permeable sections. The matrix also absorbs shocks and distributes stresses to provide padding and cushioning, including reduction of backface signature in ballistic applications. Wearable items containing one or more matrices offer enhanced thermal regulation and shock absorption.

Abstract: Three dimensional fabric matrices are provided for insertion into compartments of or attachment to wearable items and padded items, referred to as contact articles. The matrix includes a core that maintains an air space between inner and outer layers to facilitate heat transfer by convection and evaporation, when the enclosure is breathable. When the enclosure restricts air permeation, the air space provides insulation. Embodiments reconfigurable from insulating to breathable include adjustable impermeable sections that releasably cover permeable sections. The matrix also absorbs shocks and distributes stresses to provide padding and cushioning, including reduction of backface signature in ballistic applications. Wearable items containing one or more matrices offer enhanced thermal regulation and shock absorption.

Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting a layer of fabric attaches to a garment to manage the body heat of the user. The apparatus includes a lining that may be extended to substantially the width of the garment worn by the user or retracted to reduce the area surrounding the user. The apparatus includes controllers for moving the lining between the extended position and the retracted position, which include extension cords and retraction cords connected to the lining. The extension cord is connected between a proximal end of the lining and an extension grip. The retraction cord is connected between the proximal end of the lining and a retraction grip. In the extended position, the lining surrounds a substantial portion of the user. When the retraction grips are drawn, the proximal end of the lining will be moved toward the distal end of the lining. To return the lining to the extended position, the user will pull the extension grips and the proximal end of the lining will move away from the distal end of the lining.

Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting a layer of fabric attaches to a garment to manage the body heat of the user. The apparatus includes a lining that may be extended to substantially the width of the garment worn by the user or retracted to reduce the area surrounding the user. The apparatus includes controllers for moving the lining between the extended position and the retracted position, which include extension cords and retraction cords connected to the lining. The extension cord is connected between a proximal end of the lining and an extension grip. The retraction cord is connected between the proximal end of the lining and a retraction grip. In the extended position, the lining surrounds a substantial portion of the user. When the retraction grips are drawn, the proximal end of the lining will be moved toward the distal end of the lining. To return the lining to the extended position, the user will pull the extension grips and the proximal end of the lining will move away from the distal end of the lining.

Abstract: An adjustable insulation apparatus attaches to a garment to manage the body heat of the user. The apparatus includes a lining that may be extended to substantially the width of the garment worn by the user or retracted to reduce the area surrounding the user. The apparatus includes controllers for moving the lining between the extended position and the retracted position, which include extension cords and retraction cords connected to the lining. The extension cord is connected between a proximal end of the lining and an extension grip. The retraction cord is connected between the proximal end of the lining and a retraction grip. In the extended position, the lining surrounds a substantial portion of the user. When the retraction grips are drawn, the proximal end of the lining will be moved toward the distal end of the lining. To return the lining to the extended position, the user will pull the extension grips and the proximal end of the lining will move away from the distal end of the lining.

Abstract: An adjustable insulation apparatus attaches to a garment to manage the body heat of the user. The apparatus includes a lining that may be extended to substantially the width of the garment worn by the user or retracted to reduce the area surrounding the user. The apparatus includes controllers for moving the lining between the extended position and the retracted position, which include extension cords and retraction cords connected to the lining. The extension cord is connected between a proximal end of the lining and an extension grip. The retraction cord is connected between the proximal end of the lining and a retraction grip. In the extended position, the lining surrounds a substantial portion of the user. When the retraction grips are drawn, the proximal end of the lining will be moved toward the distal end of the lining. To return the lining to the extended position, the user will pull the extension grips and the proximal end of the lining will move away from the distal end of the lining.