Abstract: A vest has a front, a back, a left side, a right side, and top and bottom edges. A plurality of fixed coupling strips is secured to the vest in pairs. The strips of each pair are vertically oriented and spaced apart. The fixed coupling strips include long front and back pairs and short side pairs. A plurality of similarly configured envelopes is provided. A pair of repositionable coupling strips are secured to each envelope in a horizontal orientation.

Abstract: A back support and compression vest includes a garment made of a compression-like material with a fabric panel arranged about the abdomen designed to receive an adjustable back support belt. The fabric panel includes a right and left fabric panel cooperating to form a slot opening about the lower middle back and spaced generally about the middle front abdomen of wearer. The fabric panel is sufficiently wide to allow the belt to be properly positioned. The garment includes a pair of shoulder pad holders for receiving removable shoulder pads. The shoulder pads are sufficiently shaped to cover the wearer's shoulder while also extending rearward across a portion of the wearer's back and forward across a portion of the wearer's chest. The shoulder pad holders include a fabric envelope having an opening arranged generally on the inside portion of the garment along the arm aperture.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method treat a neurological disorder by applying proprioceptive feedback to a wearer of a garment. Specifically, the garment includes one or more pressurizable reservoirs that, when pressurized, apply distributed pressure to the wearer. A system including the garment also includes a mechanism for pressurizing the reservoir and, optionally, a controller operable to control the pressurizing mechanism.

Abstract: The invention relates to a simulator for simulating the stresses on a human body generated in the course of the movement of a vehicle, having a control element, a control unit, a display device of the surroundings and actuating elements. So that the full imitation of all physical inertia forces acting on the human body in the course of the various driving conditions is achieved, the invention provides that the control unit is connected with the actuating elements, and that the actuating elements are connected with the human body by means of an element (vest 8) directly acting on the body.

Abstract: A safety vest for use with a safety harness, which includes first and second shoulder straps connected with a connector in an overlapping, crisscrossing relationship proximate a juncture. The first and second shoulder straps form an opening therebetween and below the connector. The vest includes an outer lining and an inner lining, and the first and second shoulder straps are at least partially positioned between the outer and inner linings. The inner lining extends from proximate an upper portion of the outer lining to proximate an intermediate portion of the outer lining. The inner lining includes a releasable connector configured and arranged to extend through the opening and releasably connect to the outer lining, wherein the releasable connector is disconnected and the inner lining is moved away from portions of the first and second shoulder straps to allow for inspection of the first and second shoulder straps.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of a quick release garment can be provided. The exemplary garment can include a plurality of co-operable garment panels, which when interconnected, can form a garment in a condition wrapped about an upper torso of a person, a plurality releasable mechanical latches, each latch having a first and a second portion and at least one latch element biased towards an engaged condition, releasably engageable to interconnect the garment panels, and a release arrangement operable in a single operation to release the latches. Further, the latches can be structured so that the single operation allows the garment to fall from the upper torso, and the garment can thereafter be rapidly restorable to the condition wrapped about the upper torso by re-engaging each of the latches by pushing the first and second portions together against the bias to re-engage the latch element(s).

Abstract: The present application is directed to a method for providing reflective and/or lighted capability about the torso of a wearer, said method comprising providing it least one reflective and/or lighted strap, draping said strap about said torso, adjusting said strap via a mechanism that keeps said strap relatively taut about torso such that when said wearer is engaged in movement, said straps remain in place on said torso without substantial impediment to said wearer engaging in an activity.

Abstract: Sports garment (10), especially a cyclist jersey, of the type comprising a vest (12) intended to be in contact with the sportsman's torso and equipped with at least one pocket (14), means (16) being provided for supporting said at least one pocket (14), extended between at least one part thereof and an area of the sports garment positioned substantially at the shoulders of the sportsman who is wearing said garment (10), thus substantially transforming said pocket (14) into a pack-saddle, i.e. into a shoulder bag associated with the said garment (10).

Abstract: An item of clothing for personal air-conditioning which has at least one three-dimensional air-flow guiding structure. The air-flow guiding structure is an air-impermeable woven spacing fabric. At least one pocket exists to accommodate an air-pumping device. The pocket interior is connected to the structure which allows for an air-flow capable of being supplied by the air-pumping device into the structure or out of the structure and connected to the environment allowing air to be drawn from or expelled into the environment.

Abstract: A convertible shirt having a sleeveless base and a sleeved half-shirt configured to couple to the sleeveless base is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, a convertible shirt includes a sleeveless base, a sleeved half shirt configured to couple inconspicuously to the sleeveless base, and a multiplicity of fasteners to couple to the sleeved half shirt to the sleeveless base. In at least one alternative embodiment a two-piece convertible Western shirt includes a sleeveless base, the sleeveless base having a flared, pointed collar, a button-up front, and at least a pair of pockets on a front side of the sleeveless base, a sleeved half shirt configured to couple inconspicuously to the sleeveless base, the sleeved half shirt having a Western adornment, and a multiplicity of fasteners configured to couple to the sleeved half shirt to the sleeveless base.

Abstract: An article of clothing is provided comprising a torso portion including a front section defining the front surface of the torso portion. The front section includes an exterior surface and an interior surface. The exterior surface is defined at least in part by a first continuous portion of a one of a hook or a loop fabric. The one of a hook or a loop fabric is configured to releasably connect to the corresponding other one of a hook or a loop fabric of a display attachment. The first continuous portion includes a portion defined by a square-shaped perimeter and each one of the side of the square shaped perimeter has a length of at least about 4 inches. The interior surface is disposed on an opposite side of the front section relative to the exterior surface and includes a normal axis projecting inwardly towards the body of a person wearing the article of clothing when the article of clothing is being worn by the person.

Abstract: The invention discloses devices and methods for identifying a diver in distress and initiating a rescue response. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention allow for identification of a diver who is not breathing properly and in response giving local stimuli to allow the diver to response. Should he/she not respond, the instant invention will initiate steps to bring the diver back to the water surface and alert others as to his/her need of assistance.

Abstract: A radiation protective vest includes a back panel with flaps at opposite lower sides and a pair of front panels, each panel containing radiation shielding material. Each front panel has an inner straight edge and a flap at a lower outer side. The front and back panels are connected to form the vest. A first strap is attached to one front panel and a second strap is attached to the other front panel. The second strap is threaded in a first sleeve attached to the inside of the back panel and the first strap is threaded in a second sleeve attached to the inside of the back panel. A fastener is provided on the free ends straps. When the vest is worn, the flaps of the front panels press against a user's waist and the back panel flaps overlap the front panels.

Abstract: A vest having front and rear members made of rigid or semi-rigid material where each member has recesses for receiving a user's head and both arms. Left and right shoulder pads are located between and attached to both members on each side of the recess for receiving the user's head with pivotably connecting members, and side access panels are located between and removably attached to both members below the left and right recesses for a user's arms with pivotably connecting members which prevent the shoulder pads and the side access panels from being displaced laterally from the front and rear members when the vest is subjected to a compression load. A lift harness is integrated into the front and rear members and a lift ring, which is permanently connected to the lift harness, is removably connected to a rescue rope that has distance markings thereon.

Abstract: An article of clothing with an on-demand power supply for electrical devices is provided. The power supply includes stiff planar fuel cell devices that are distributed in a plane. The number of fuel cells is dependent on the power requirements for the electrical devices. The planar stiff fuel cells are flexibly interconnected in the plane by a flexible interconnection, which allows the fuel cells to move with respect to each other out of the plane. This further allows the power supply to be nicely integrated in an article of clothing and minimizes negative impact to a body region or to the article of clothing. The electrical and fuel connections between the fuel cells are integrated with the flexible interconnection. To further integrate and increase ease of operation a control system is included to control the on-demand power supply or control power levels for the electrical device.

Abstract: A method for providing a shock penetration resistant apparatus may include providing an item of protective gear to be positioned proximate to an object to be protected, and disposing a shock penetration resistant material proximate to the item of protective gear to attenuate or redirect shock pulses away from the object to be protected. An apparatus is also provided that may include an item of protective gear and a shock penetration resistant material. The item of protective gear may be configured to be positioned proximate to an object to be protected. The shock penetration resistant material may be disposed proximate to the item of protective gear to attenuate or redirect shock pulses away from the object to be protected.

Abstract: A vest is disclosed that the user can remove without removing an outer garment such as a coat. The vest utilizes hook and loop fasteners at the shoulder to allow the back and front to be separated. In order to facilitate separation, a pull cord is attached at the rear shoulder and crosses the back of the vest and passes through a guide near the opposing hip. When the pull cord is pulled the opposing shoulder that has been separated is peeled back and down across the back allowing the user to remove the vest without removing an overcoat.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention may include one or more high-density textile fibers with a density from about 1 to about 11 g/mL. Some embodiments may include fabrics and/or garments made from such fibers. Embodiments comprising garments can include, for instance, exercise aids for providing extra mass to the wearer. Other embodiments can comprise, without limitation, building materials, safety equipment, armor, body armor, protective apparel, marine repair materials, marine protective devices, boat hulls, vehicle chassis, or blast-resistant materials.

Abstract: Camouflage apparel for a hunter or solder or the like comprising a cape or sheet composed of camouflage material. The cape may be separate or attached to a pouch or hood of camouflage material. The cape and hood may be separate or attached to a portion of a vest which extends across the back of the neck of the wearer thereof such that the cape is receivable in the hood for stowage and such that the cape may be removed from the hood to drape across the front of the wearer. The vest has a seat which is stowably securable to the rear of the vest by straps which are fastened by buckles which are manipulatable at locations in front of the vest.

Abstract: A garment (14) with an associated seat (22) is disclosed. The seat (22) is interconnected with the garment (14) using at least one elastic strap or strap section (56). This allows the seat (22) to be moved from a stowed position to a deployed position by stretching at least one strap section (56). Moreover, the manner in which the strap sections (56) are integrated alleviates the need to disconnect the seat (22) from the garment (14) in any manner when moving the seat (22) from its stowed position to a deployed position.

Abstract: A protective shoulder pad assembly for use in contact sports. The shoulder pad assembly includes a flexible vest, a pair of rigid shoulder pads attached to the vest, and a pair of straps extending from a back side of the vest. The straps can each be refastenably attached to a front side of the vest. In particular, the straps can be crossed over one another in an “X” configuration on the front side of the vest, thereby directly securing each strap to both a front right portion and a front left portion of the vest.

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.

Abstract: A fishing vest/chest pack has a backpack slidably attached to its shoulder straps to enable the backpack to be flipped between a first stored position and a second in front position enabling ready access to the contents of the backpack without the need to remove the garment.

Abstract: A quick release garment such as a vest including a quick release system for easy removal by a wearer in an emergency situation wherein activation of the quick release system releases the vest from one side only disconnecting one shoulder strap, at least one belt end portion and at least one cummerbund end portion, if a cummerbund is present. Components of the vest remain attached together so that the wearer may easily retrieve the garment, once removed, and easily reposition and reconnect the garment for movement to another location. The present garment can also be configured such that the quick release system releases only one shoulder strap, a shoulder strap and one or both belt end portions, a shoulder strap and one or both cummerbund end portions, and other combinations.

Abstract: The training system comprises a shell adapted to conform to a portion of a body of a wearer. The shell includes an exterior surface and an interior body contact surface. The interior body contact surface includes at least one pocket that is positioned and sized so as to correspond to an anatomical muscle group of the wearer. Preferably, the shell includes a plurality of sets of pockets, each set of pockets being shaped and positioned to correspond to different anatomical muscle groups of the wearer. A weight is also provided for each pocket. The weights are shaped substantially similar to their respective pockets and are formed from a combination of a flexible material and a metal.

Abstract: A stab resistant knit fabric, made containing a plurality of panels of a knit fabric having a modified knit structure corresponding to rows of knit stitches, wherein each of the panels of knit fabric comprise a front layer of knit fabric and a back layer of knit fabric, wherein the front layer and back layer are joined together by rows of tuck stitches formed from a yarn having no more than 4.5% elongation; wherein at least one panel of knit fabric is arranged such that the rows of knit stitches of the at least one panel of knit fabric are perpendicular to the rows of at least one other panel of knit fabric, its combination with a ballistic layer to provide ballistic resistance properties, and a protective garment prepared therefrom.

Abstract: Sports utility garment for carrying articles while swimming, paddling in water or running and walking on land. Garment 10 includes interchangeable holsters 40, attached to a body portion 11 at an angle so that mouth 71 of holster 40 is accessible over wearer's shoulder such as a water bottle or a long article such as a fishing pole extends over wearer's shoulder. Holster 40 includes guide means 70 to hold mouth 71 open and help guide the article into mouth 71. Articles are secured to garment 10 both during carrying and during use.

Abstract: A portable self-contained hair drying helmet is taught that has thermal storage, desiccants, a phase change material, and thin lithium ion polymer batteries to allow one to dry their hair while walking around and performing personal and household duties.

Abstract: An improved device for assisting a caregiver in lifting and moving a patient. The device comprises a unitary garment member having a front panel section, a rear panel section and an interconnecting central or middle panel section. The device further includes a plurality of integral, reinforced support straps that enhance the structural integrity of the garment member. The rear panel section includes two flap portions extending laterally on opposing sides of the rear panel section. The two flap portions can be pulled forward and attached to the front panel section whereby the device becomes a vest-type garment that completely surrounds the patient's torso. The improved patient assistance device includes a plurality of strategically positioned hand holds, which provide enhanced leverage enabling a caregiver to more easily assist a patient wearing the device to move from one position to another.

Abstract: Bulletproof vests, body armor, and other tactical vests with quick release buckle mechanisms are described along with methods of their use. The multi-point buckle mechanisms release upon rotating a shaft, allowing the vest panels and straps to fall cleanly to the ground without knocking the wearer off balance. Waist belt clips allow a wearer to put the vest on over his or her head without engaging the emergency release, or the multi-point buckle mechanism can release only the waist straps upon rotating the shaft in the opposite direction. A flap protects the rotatable quick release mechanism from inadvertent activation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for enhanced ergonomic bowel-movement posture are presented. The objective of the method and apparatus is to prevent injury to due to incorrect posture during a bowel movement. One aspect of the invention comprises a garment for use during a bowel movement comprising ergonomic enhancements such as a rigid spine, and convenience and hygienic enhancements such as dispensers for such liquid, aerosol, and/or paper products as are commonly required during a bowel movement. The method and apparatus enable more efficient and hygienic bowel movements, thereby avoiding health risks associated with known bowel movement methods.

Abstract: A quick release garment such as a vest including a quick release system for easy removal by a wearer in an emergency situation wherein activation of the quick release system releases the vest from one side only disconnecting one shoulder strap, at least one belt end portion and at least one cummerbund end portion, if a cummerbund is present. Components of the vest remain attached together so that the wearer may easily retrieve the garment, once removed, and easily reposition and reconnect the garment for movement to another location. The present garment can also be configured such that the quick release system releases only one shoulder strap, a shoulder strap and one or both belt end portions, a shoulder strap and one or both cummerbund end portions, and other combinations.

Abstract: An eyewear temple arm apparatus for an eyewear device including an elongated body member having a proximal end portion configured to mount to the eyewear device. The temple arm apparatus includes a functional element, an elongated flexible tether; and a guide base. The base is movably mounted to the elongated body member for movement thereof along a fixed path in a direction generally longitudinally therealong between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the guide bas is positioned proximate to a proximal portion of the body member, while in the second position, it is oriented proximate to a distal portion thereof.

Abstract: A reversible garment with a warming side and a cooling side is comprised of a double knit fabric including a first face and a second face. The garment is reversible such that either face may be worn on the exterior of the garment. When the first side of the garment is worn against the body, the garment provides a heating effect by trapping air and body heat while wicking moisture to the outside of the fabric. When the second side of the garment is worn against the body, the garment provides a cooling garment by accelerating moisture movement across the fabric. Indicia are provided on the garment to indicate whether heating or cooling effects will be provided in the first-side-out configuration and the second-side-out configuration.

Abstract: A ballistic resistant garment quick release system may include an outer shell configured to form a pocket into which ballistic resistant material is positioned. A cable channel is positioned along at least a portion of the ballistic resistant garment and a release cable is positioned within the cable channel. The release cable may move from a first position to a second position wherein the release cable is configured in the first position to engage a removable attachment strap and retain the removable attachment strap to the ballistic resistant garment and the release cable is configured in the second position to disengage from the removable attachment strap and thereby enable the removable attachment strap to disengage from the ballistic resistant garment. A fixed attachment strap is attached to the ballistic resistant garment and configured to mate with the removable attachment strap to retain the ballistic resistant garment on the user.

Abstract: A wearable device with pockets, straps and other attaching apparatus which hold rescue devices, first aid devices and supplies, survival devices and supplies, and a recovery data storage system so individuals can endure and recover from dire circumstance.

Abstract: A method of providing compressive force to a person. In one embodiment, a first level of compression is applied adjacent the axillae of the person, a second level of compression is applied to a side torso region of the person, and a third level of compression is applied to a chest region of the person. The second level of compression is greater than the first level of compression and the third level of compression is greater than the fourth level of compression. The compression may be applied using a compression garment having one or more layers of compression fabric. The garment may be configured using specific compression fabric to provide the desired levels of compression to various regions of the torso of a person.

Abstract: The present invention is a safety garment having electroluminescent strips to illuminate the garment, as well as quick-release points to allow an individual wearing to garment to quickly remove the garment in an emergency situation.

Abstract: A sleep shell is provided comprising a flexibly foldable sheet material having complementary engageable side enclosures enabled to surround at least a user's torso. The sheet material has aligned recessed neck openings to form a neck hole when folded and at least a pair of complementary fasteners engageable with one another and disposed substantially toward the top side of the sheet material. An arm opening is also provided disposed selectively between top and bottom of the sheet material. The shell can be used for sleeping or as a blanket and allows a user to become ambulatory while wearing it.

Abstract: An armored garment, such as a vest, has an attached rescue strap allowing a soldier in battle to quickly move a fallen comrade from immediate danger to safety. The rescue strap enables a rescuing soldier to move a wounded soldier in a manner that also allows the rescuing soldier to use his weapon and return enemy fire as necessary. The rescue strap may be affixed to an anchor strap secured to a panel of the garment and that distributes the pulling force across the garment panel. The rescue strap stores when not in use, but in a manner easily reached for quick deployment. A pull handle, for example a ring or a carabiner, can be affixed to an end of the strap to be grasped by a rescuing soldier. Pulling the handle draws the rescue strap from its storage location to be used to pull a wounded soldier to safety. A further feature of the armored garment is a stretchable flexible expansion joint that divides an outer woven back panel of the garment allowing greater freedom of movement to the wearer.

Abstract: Fumble Flaps are disclosed which are cradles strategically located on a vest or shirt to prevent the fumbling of a ball by an offensive player.

Abstract: A garment apparatus adapted and configured to have the functionality of a backpack that includes at least one pocket fixedly attached to each of an anterior portion and a posterior portion. The at least one pocket on the posterior portion covers a surface area of the posterior portion in an amount of about one percent up to fifty percent of the surface area.

Abstract: Rescue harness devices are designed for incorporation into protective coats of firefighter or other types of first responders such that when deployed, the rescue harness forms a closed loop that cinches around an upper torso region under the armpits of an individual donning the protective coat, to thereby positively secure the individual and pull directly on the individual's body.

Abstract: A releasable vest having a front panel; front shoulder strap elements that include at least one front shoulder strap attachment opening; a back panel; a first waist belt element and a second waist belt element that are releasably coupled to the front panel and extend from the front panel; at least one release loop that is capable of being passed through an opening formed in at least one of the waist belt elements and an opening formed in the front shoulder strap elements; and a release lanyard that is capable of being passed through the release loop so as to releasably secure the waist belt elements and the shoulder strap elements to the release loop.

Abstract: This invention is a torso-body shaped frame vest-like garment that is designed to function as ballistic armor. This garment contains inserts comprised of unitary panels of pliable ballistic material capable of stopping bullets from most handguns. The use of a torso pattern sloper as a base structure for frame design allows this garment to be adapted for all types of wearable apparel besides vests such as jackets, coats, suits, shirts, etc, and allows for an increased range of movement and level of comfort. Unlike most other types of ballistic armor that is concealed by being worn under normal clothing this garment is designed to be used as outerwear that can compliment casual, business, or other professional attire. Its function as fashionable, concealable, and comfortable ballistic armor is achieved by using design methods, sewing techniques, ornamental trim applications, and fabric applications common to high fashion casual and professional attire.

Abstract: The present invention addresses the security of medical tubes (including, but not limited to, cannulae and catheters) that are inserted into a patient's internal organ or cavity and/or passed through the patient's skin. Specifically, the invention provides a patient-worn garment in the form of a vest and accompanying apparatuses which secure the tubes in order to redistribute physical and/or gravitational force away from the tube anchoring (or exit) sites (including, but not limited to, suture sites) onto the vest. This minimizes the risk of tug trauma, kinking, and accidental dislodging of the tubes. Thus the invention allows for increased patient mobility during post-operative recovery, after medical device implant(s), and during pre-organ transplant wait periods.

Abstract: A garment apparatus adapted and configured to have the functionality of a backpack that includes at least one pocket fixedly attached to each of an anterior portion and a posterior portion. The at least one pocket on the posterior portion covers a surface area of the posterior portion in an amount of about one percent up to fifty percent of the surface area.

Abstract: A body armor accessory adds protection to unguarded areas of conventional body armor. The removable accessory comprises an axillary panel having a coverage area and is made of material that impedes the penetration of a foreign object. The accessory can be worn on either the left or right side of the wearer. The coverage area to the deltoid and flank areas of the wearer provided by the axillary panel is greater than that provided by the vest without the panel. A deltoid panel provides added protection to the deltoid area of the wearer.

Abstract: A garment apparatus adapted and configured to have the functionality of a backpack that includes at least one pocket fixedly attached to each of an anterior portion and a posterior portion. The at least one pocket on the posterior portion covers a surface area of the posterior portion in an amount of about one percent up to fifty percent of the surface area.

Abstract: A wearable tubing safety vest configured to harness medical treatment delivery tubing and/or communication cables. The tubing safety vest comprises a vest component having a body-encompassing component cooperable with a plurality of releasably securable flaps, and an elongate tubing harness configured to releasably receive and retain therethrough at least one of medical treatment delivery tubing and communication cables. The tubing harness may be securely engaged with the vest component or alternatively, at least one hinge component can be interposed the vest component and the tubing harness. The vest component is configured for demountably encircling a mammalian body torso, e.g, a human infant torso, juvenile torso, or an adult torso. The tubing harness may be demountably engaged with the front or with the back of the vest component. The wearble tubing safety vest may be optionally configured for demountable engagement about an animal's torso.