Priority Documents

[0001] The present application claims priority from Australian Provisional Application No. 2015900473 titled "INFLATION APPARATUS" and filed on 13 February 2015, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Background of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates to an inflation apparatus for providing protection and/or support to a limb of a person.

Description of the Prior Art

[0003] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

[0004] A limb of a person, for example an arm or a leg, is susceptible to injury such as abrasion, sprain or fracture in various types of sports and activities including for example, motorcycling, motor racing, skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, road cycling, mountain biking and parachuting. In activities such as these, accidents are commonplace and typically involve injuries to the arms and legs.

[0005] As an example, with respect to motorcycling it is known that riders are particularly susceptible to serious accidents typically as a result of speed and being exposed to the environment. Motorcycle accidents cause various types of injuries to riders. These include injuries to the head, neck, chest, shoulders, back, arms, hands, hips and pelvis. However, research suggests that the most common type of injury occurs to a person's lower limbs. [0006] Lower limb injuries that often result from motorcycle accidents include tibia and fibula fracture as well as fractures of the ankle and patella. The risk of injuring the tibia is particularly prevalent which is likely due to its superficiality and exposed position while riding a motorcycle. In addition to fracture (both open and closed fracture), other common types of lower limb injury include contusion, torsional sprain or strain, penetration or puncture wounds, skin abrasion, ligament damage and dislocation resulting from collision with a stationary or moving object or falling with the motorcycle.

[0007] Typically, in order to reduce the risk and severity of motorcycle crash related injuries, riders wear protective clothing including a helmet, jacket, gloves, pants and boots. Such protective clothing is designed to protect soft tissues from abrasion, cuts and the like while also providing a degree of impact protection by absorbing and distributing the force of direct impacts.

[0008] While protective clothing may offer at least some protection in low impact crashes, it is apparent that there are limits to the extent that clothing alone can provide sufficient protection, particularly in high impact crashes. It is also recognised that many riders have a general reluctance to wear protective clothing as it is often seen as cumbersome. Accordingly, riders often prefer convenience over safety and choose to wear regular clothing such as jeans and normal shoes.

[0009] In order to address this limitation, some motorcycles have been equipped with airbag technology similar to that found in motor vehicles. For example, some motorcycles have an on-board airbag system that deploys an airbag towards a rider's head and upper torso when a crash is detected. In other systems, airbags have been integrated into a jacket worn by the rider which inflates in an accident in order to protect the rider's back, chest and collar bones in particular.

[0010] While the above systems may provide some protection to the head and upper torso of the rider, they do not address the issue of how to reduce the risk of lower limb injury and trauma which most commonly occurs in a motorcycle accident. Likewise, in the various other sports and activities previously mentioned, there is found to be a general lack of suitable protection for limbs in an accident.

[0011] In the event that an injury to a limb has already been sustained, such as a fracture or broken bone, a first aid responder, paramedic, emergency room physician or the like may attempt to splint the limb for temporary immobilisation for transportation for example. Splints are often makeshift and often involve use of whatever rigid materials may be available together with some string, rope, clothing or the like to tie the rigid materials to the limb. This is often a time consuming process which may not result in sufficient immobilisation or support or patient comfort.

[0012] More advanced splints have been used including purpose built devices made from extruded plastic that may fold around the limbs before being tied off with straps to secure them in position.

[0013] Air splints have also been used which typically involve an inflatable plastic chamber that is positioned around the limb before being inflated. While air splints are relatively simple to use, they require the splint to be positioned around the fracture site before inflation which can cause discomfort. Furthermore, air splints are typically quite soft in order to provide sufficient cushioning to the injured limb and may therefore lack sufficient rigidity required to completely immobilise the limb.

[0014] It is against this background, and the problems and difficulties associated therewith, that the present invention has been developed.

[0015] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide an apparatus that can assist in protecting a limb of a person in an accident from injury or to at least provide an apparatus that can assist in supporting or immobilising a limb that has already been injured.

[0016] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. Summary of the Present Invention

[0017] In one broad form the present invention seeks to provide an inflation apparatus for providing limb protection, including:

a) a first portion that is inflatable to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around a limb of a person; and,

b) a second portion positioned between the first portion and the limb, the second portion being inflatable to cushion the limb and operable to restrict movement of the limb relative to the first portion when both the first and second portions are inflated, to thereby at least partially protect the limb.

[0018] Typically the first portion is configured to be inflated to a higher pressure than the second portion.

[0019] Typically the apparatus is configured to initiate inflation of the second portion after inflation of the first portion.

[0020] Typically the first portion includes a plurality of chambers adapted to inflate in a lengthwise direction along the limb.

[0021] Typically the plurality of chambers of the first portion are interconnected to allow passage of gas between each chamber.

[0022] Typically the plurality of chambers each have a tubular structure.

[0023] Typically the second portion includes a plurality of chambers adapted to inflate in a direction generally towards the limb.

[0024] Typically the plurality of chambers of the second portion are interconnected to allow passage of gas between each chamber.

[0025] Typically the first portion has more chambers than the second portion.

[0026] Typically the apparatus further includes a sleeve having an outer layer disposed around an outer periphery of the first portion. [0027] Typically the outer layer is at least partly made from an abrasion resistant material.

[0028] Typically the sleeve further includes an intermediate layer disposed between the first and second portions.

[0029] Typically the sleeve further includes an inner layer disposed around the inner periphery of the second portion.

[0030] Typically the sleeve further includes a plurality of spaced apart first connection portions that connect the outer layer to the intermediate layer.

[0031] Typically the sleeve further includes a plurality of spaced apart second connection portions that connect the intermediate layer to the inner layer.

[0032] Typically the apparatus further includes at least one gas inflator operable to inflate the first and second portions.

[0033] Typically the at least one gas inflator includes a source of compressed gas.

[0034] Typically the at least one gas inflator includes one or more trigger mechanisms for initiating release of gas from the at least one gas inflator into the first and/or second portions.

[0035] Typically the apparatus further includes an electronic processing device configured to:

a) receive from one or more sensors signals indicative of one or more vehicle parameters;

b) process the signals to determine if the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident; and,

c) transmit an activation signal to the at least one gas inflator to initiate inflation of the apparatus in response to determining that the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident.

[0036] Typically the apparatus further includes an electronic processing device configured to: a) receive from a controller a signal indicative of a vehicle accident; and, b) transmit an activation signal to the at least one gas inflator to initiate inflation of the apparatus in response to receiving the signal indicative of a vehicle accident.

[0037] Typically one or more signals are transmitted wirelessly.

[0038] Typically the vehicle is selected from one of the following:

a) a motorcycle;

b) a cycle;

c) a motor vehicle;

d) a ski;

e) a snowboard;

f) a snow mobile; and,

g) a parachute.

[0039] Typically the vehicle is a motorcycle.

[0040] Typically the apparatus further includes a foot receiving portion.

[0041] Typically the foot receiving portion includes a protective shell covering at least a portion of the person's foot.

[0042] Typically the first and second portions are stored in the foot receiving portion.

[0043] Typically the foot receiving portion is adapted to be releasably securable to a footrest of the motorcycle.

[0044] Typically the limb is a leg portion of the person.

[0045] Typically the apparatus is configurable between a stored configuration around a region of the person's foot and/or ankle and an inflated configuration whereby the apparatus extends between the region around the person's foot and/or ankle to a region around the person's knee.

[0046] Typically the limb is an arm portion of the person. [0047] Typically the apparatus is for use as a medical splint.

[0048] In another broad form the present invention seeks to provide a method for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person, the method including:

a) inflating a first portion of the apparatus around the limb to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure; and,

b) inflating a second portion of the apparatus that is positioned between the first portion and the limb, the second portion cushioning the limb and restricting movement of the limb relative to the first portion when both the first and second portions are inflated, to thereby at least partially protect the limb.

[0049] Typically the method includes inflating the first portion to a higher pressure than the second portion.

[0050] Typically the method includes initiating inflation of the second portion after inflation of the first portion.

[0051] Typically the method includes inflating the first portion to a first pressure and initiating inflation of the second portion after the first portion has reached the first pressure.

[0052] Typically the method includes inflating the first portion in a lengthwise direction along the limb.

[0053] Typically the method includes inflating the second portion in a direction generally towards the limb.

[0054] In another broad form the present invention seeks to provide a method for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident, the method including, in an electronic processing device:

a) receiving from one or more sensors signals indicative of one or more vehicle parameters;

b) processing the signals to determine if the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident; and, c) transmitting an activation signal to at least one gas inflator in response to determining that the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident, the at least one gas inflator causing:

i) a first portion of the apparatus to inflate to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around the limb; and,

ii) a second portion of the apparatus to inflate to thereby cushion the limb, the second portion positioned between the first portion and the limb and operable to restrict movement of the limb relative to the first portion when both the first and second portions are inflated, to thereby at least partially protect the limb.

[0055] In another broad form the present invention seeks to provide a method for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident, the method including, in an electronic processing device:

a) receiving from a controller a signal indicative of a vehicle accident; and,

b) transmitting an activation signal to at least one gas inflator in response to receiving the signal indicative of a vehicle accident from the controller, the at least one gas inflator causing:

i) a first portion of the apparatus to inflate to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around the limb; and,

ii) a second portion of the apparatus to inflate to thereby cushion the limb, the second portion positioned between the first portion and the limb and operable to restrict movement of the limb relative to the first portion when both the first and second portions are inflated, to thereby at least partially protect the limb.

[0056] In another broad form the present invention seeks to provide a system for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident, the system including: a) an inflation apparatus, including:

i) a first portion that is inflatable to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around the limb;

ii) a second portion positioned between the first portion and the limb, the second portion being inflatable to cushion the limb and operable to restrict movement of the limb relative to the first portion when both the first and second portions are inflated, to thereby at least partially protect the limb;

iii) at least one gas inflator operable to release gas into the first and second portions of the apparatus;

iv) one or more sensors for sensing one or more vehicle parameters; and,

v) at least one electronic processing device configured to:

(1) receive from the one or more sensors signals indicative of the one or more vehicle parameters;

(2) process the signals to determine if the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident; and,

(3) transmit an activation signal to the at least one gas inflator to initiate inflation of the apparatus in response to determining that the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident; and,

b) a vehicle member adapted to permit the inflation apparatus to be releasably secured to the vehicle.

[0057] Typically the apparatus further includes an energy storage apparatus to provide power to the at least one electronic processing device, one or more sensors and at least one gas inflator.

[0058] Typically the vehicle member facilitates charging of the energy storage apparatus when the inflation apparatus is secured to the vehicle member.

[0059] Typically the vehicle is a motorcycle.

[0060] Typically the vehicle member is a footrest.

[0061] Typically the limb is a leg portion of the person.

[0062] In another broad form the present invention seeks to provide a system for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident, the system including: a) an on-board vehicle controller including:

i) one or more sensors for sensing one or more vehicle parameters; and, ii) a first electronic processing device configured to receive one or more signals from the one or more sensors and process the signals to determine if the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident;

b) an inflation apparatus, including:

i) a first portion that is inflatable to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around the limb;

ii) a second portion positioned between the first portion and the limb, the second portion being inflatable to cushion the limb and operable to restrict movement of the limb relative to the first portion when both the first and second portions are inflated, to thereby at least partially protect the limb;

iii) at least one gas inflator operable to release gas into the first and second portions of the apparatus; and,

iv) a second electronic processing device configured to:

(1) receive from the controller a signal indicative of a vehicle accident; and,

(2) transmit an activation signal to the at least one gas inflator to initiate inflation of the apparatus in response to receiving the signal indicative of a vehicle accident from the controller; and,

c) a vehicle member adapted to permit the inflation apparatus to be releasably secured to the vehicle.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0063] An example of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: -

[0064] Figure 1 is a schematic cross sectional side view of an example of an inflation apparatus surrounding a lower limb of a person in an inflated configuration;

[0065] Figure 2 is a schematic cross sectional view through section A-A of Figure 1;

[0066] Figure 3 is a schematic cross sectional view of the apparatus of Figure 1 in an initial stage of inflation;

[0067] Figure 4 is a schematic cross sectional view of the apparatus of Figure 1 in a partially inflated configuration; [0068] Figure 5A is a schematic side view of the apparatus of Figure 1 in a stored configuration engaged with a vehicle member;

[0069] Figure 5B is a schematic cross sectional view of the apparatus shown in Figure 5A in a stored configuration engaged with a vehicle member;

[0070] Figure 6A is a schematic side view of a motorcycle showing the apparatus of Figure 1 secured thereto in a stored configuration;

[0071] Figure 6B is a schematic front view of a motorcycle showing a pair of apparatus of Figure 1 secured thereto in a stored configuration;

[0072] Figure 6C is a schematic front view of a motorcycle rider seated on a motorcycle with feet attached to the apparatus of Figure 1 wherein the apparatus attached to the rider's right foot is disengaged from the motorcycle.

[0073] Figure 7A is a schematic top view of an example of an inflation apparatus for protecting an arm of a person in a stored configuration;

[0074] Figure 7B is a schematic side view of the apparatus of Figure 7 A.

[0075] Figure 8 is a flowchart of an example of a method for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person;

[0076] Figure 9 is a flowchart of an example of a method of inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident;

[0077] Figure 10 is a flowchart of another example of a method of inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident;

[0078] Figure 11 is a block diagram of an example of a system for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident;

[0079] Figure 12 is a block diagram of another example of a system for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident; and,

[0080] Figure 13 is a block diagram of a specific implementation of the system depicted in Figure 12.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0081] An example of an inflation apparatus 100 for providing limb protection will now be described with reference to Figure 1. [0082] In this example, the inflation apparatus 100 includes a first portion 210 that is inflatable to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around a limb 5 of a person. The apparatus 100 further includes a second portion 220 positioned between the first portion 210 and the limb 5, the second portion being inflatable to cushion the limb 5 and operable to restrict movement of the limb 5 relative to the first portion 210 when both the first and second portions 210, 220 are inflated, to thereby at least partially protect the limb.

[0083] In the example shown in Figure 1, the limb is a leg portion of the person, in particular a lower leg portion, and the apparatus 100, in an inflated configuration, extends from a region around the person's foot 6 or ankle to a region around the person's knee 7. In this way, the apparatus 100 completely surrounds or encapsulates the person's limb 5 when inflated and in this sense forms a wearable protective device. Although the limb shown in Figure 1 is a lower leg portion of the person, it is to be appreciated that the apparatus can be used with any limb, such as an arm as will be described in more detail below.

[0084] In one application, first and second portions 210, 220 form part of an airbag 200 that is deployable in the event of a vehicle accident in order to protect the person's limb from injury. In other applications, such as for use as a medical splint, the first and second portions 210, 220 may simply form part of an inflatable structure that is used to support or immobilise a limb that has already been injured.

[0085] In accordance with the above described arrangement, a substantially rigid structure is erected around the limb whilst a softer cushioning is provided in direct contact with the limb that provides both comfort and assistance in supporting and immobilising the limb. The rigidity and strength provided by the first or outer portion 210 makes the apparatus 100 particularly robust and increases the ability of the apparatus 100 to absorb larger impact and crush loads. In this way, larger loads can be absorbed without compromising the structural integrity of the apparatus 100, therefore increasing the likelihood that the limb can be adequately protected from injury in the event of a vehicle accident for example. The rigid first portion 210 also assists in protecting the limb from abrasion, torsional strains and sprains and penetration or puncture like wounds by forming a substantially penetration resistant barrier. [0086] A number of further features will now be described with further reference to Figures 2 to 7B.

[0087] Typically, the first portion 210 includes a plurality of chambers 212 as shown in Figure 2 which provides a cross section of an example of an airbag 200. The plurality of chambers 212 are adapted to inflate in a lengthwise direction along the limb 5. In one example, the chambers 212 have a tubular structure which enables them to inflate longitudinally. For example, when the limb 5 is a lower leg portion as shown in Figure 1, the chambers 212 of the first portion 210 inflate vertically up the lower leg portion 5 from the region around the person's foot 6 or ankle to the region around the person's knee 7 to thereby form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure surrounding the limb.

[0088] The plurality of chambers 212 of the first portion 210 are interconnected (not shown) to allow passage of gas between each chamber 212 so that the chambers 212 are inflated simultaneously (i.e. at the same rate) so that the first portion 210 is erected or raised evenly around the limb. In one example, the plurality of chambers 212 may be interconnected by small passageways between adjacent chambers 212 located in the vicinity of a gas inlet for example. The chambers 212 may be filled with any suitable gas, including for example nitrogen, argon, helium, carbon dioxide or air.

[0089] Typically, the second portion 220 includes a plurality of chambers 222 adapted to inflate in a direction generally towards the limb 5. The plurality of chambers 222 are also interconnected to allow passage of gas between each chamber 222. The chambers 222 may be interconnected in the same way as the chambers 212 of the first portion 210.

[0090] In order to maximise gas flow (e.g. air flow) into the apparatus 100 and maintain the cylindrical structure during inflation, any number of internal structures may be used to assist inflation. In one example, the first and second portions 210, 220 include large openings between respective chambers 212, 222 at the top and bottom of the airbag 200. Gas is able to flow between the respective top and bottom openings between adjacent chambers in order to inflate the first and second portions of the airbag in an efficient manner. Alternatively, the apparatus may include gas permeable membranes between the chambers 212, 222 in order to promote distribution of gas between adjacent chambers. Alternatively, when the airbag is stored in a rigid foot receiving portion (i.e. a foot unit), gas distribution may be built into the rigid components of the foot receiving portion. For example, the foot receiving portion may include internal cavities in fluid communication with respective chambers of the airbag in order to direct gas thereto in a controlled manner in order to maximise gas flow.

[0091] The first portion 210 is configured to be inflated to a higher pressure than the second portion 220. This is due to the fact that the first portion 210 provides a rigid structure whereas the second portion 220 is only required to provide a soft cushion for the limb and to restrict relative movement between the limb and the first portion 210. The second portion 220 therefore only needs to be inflated to a relatively low pressure compared to the first portion 210. Typically, the air chambers 212 of the first portion 210 may be inflated to at least lOOkPa while the air chambers 222 of the second portion 220 may be inflated to less than 50kPa to avoid injury.

[0092] As the chambers 212 of the first portion 210 carry a higher pressure than the chambers 222 of the second portion 220, the chambers 212 of the first portion 210 are typically configured to have a smaller volume than the chambers 222 of the second portion 220. A smaller volume increases the pressure carrying capacity of each chamber 212 ensuring that desired pressures can be achieved. The decrease in volume of chambers 212 compared with the chambers 222 is typically achieved by reducing the cross sectional area of each chamber 212. Accordingly, the first portion 210 generally has more chambers than the second portion 220.

[0093] In one example, the first and second portions 210, 220 comprising chambers 212 and 222 are inflatable bladders made from rubber such as latex or a suitable fabric such as siliconised nylon.

[0094] The apparatus 100 is typically configured to initiate inflation of the second portion 220 after inflation of the first portion 210. In one example, inflation of the second portion 220 does not occur until after the first portion 210 has completely inflated. In this way, the rigid outer structure is inflated first as it is desirable to provide this structure around the limb as rapidly as possible in the event of a vehicle accident for example. With the rigid outer structure erected around the limb, the second portion 220 can be inflated towards the limb in a more controlled manner which prevents any likelihood of overinflating the second portion 220. When the first portion 210 is inflated, a defined circumference is defined around the limb and the second portion 220 can be inflated to fill the void between the first portion 210 and the limb. Suitable techniques and apparatus for inflating the first and second portion 210, 220 will be discussed in detail below.

[0095] The first and second portions 210, 220 of the apparatus 100 are typically disposed within a sleeve having an outer layer 250 disposed around an outer periphery of the first portion 210, an intermediate layer 252 disposed between the first and second portions 210, 220 and an inner layer 254 disposed around the inner periphery of the second portion 220. An example of such an arrangement is shown in Figure 2 and further includes a plurality of spaced apart first connection portions 251 that connect or join the outer layer 250 to the intermediate layer 252. The sleeve also includes a plurality of spaced apart second connection portions 253 that connect the intermediate layer 252 to the inner layer 254.

[0096] The first and second connection portions 251, 253, along with the outer, intermediate and inner layers 250, 252, 254 act to form pockets or compartments around each chamber 212, 222 respectively. In use, as the first and second portions 210, 220 are inflated, each pocket or compartment of the sleeve becomes taut which further increases the rigidity and strength of the structure. The sleeve is typically made from a suitable fabric, including for example a woven nylon or woven Kevlar in some areas. The outer layer 250 in particular, is at least partly made from an abrasion resistant material such as Kevlar as this portion of the apparatus 100 will be prone to the most wear and tear in the event of a vehicle accident. The respective layers 250, 252 and 254 may each be made from a single piece of fabric or alternatively could be made from multiple piece of fabric sewn or stitched together to assist for example in folding the apparatus 100 for storage when not in use.

[0097] When used to protect a lower limb such as a portion of a leg, the inflation apparatus 100 will typically include a foot receiving portion 110 similar to a shoe or boot as shown for example in Figures 3 and 5 A to 5B. The foot receiving portion 110 includes a protective shell 112 that surrounds a person's foot 6. The protective shell 122 may be made from a suitable polymer including a rigid particle filled polymer and in some areas may be a flexible polymer. The sole of the foot receiving portion 110 is typically made from a high density rubber. In another example, when used to protect an upper limb such as an arm portion, the inflation apparatus will typically include a hand receiving portion such as a glove for receiving a hand of a person as will be described in more detail below.

[0098] The first and second portions 210, 220 of the airbag 200 are stored in the foot receiving portion 110. Specifically, the airbag 200 is stored folded in a storage portion 130 as depicted in Figures 5A and 5B. The airbag storage portion 130 is typically located at the top of the foot receiving portion 110 so as to surround or encircle the foot and/or ankle of the person. The storage portion 130 is preferably a weather sealed cavity having a sacrificial break line (not shown) above the airbag chambers that provides a weak point for the airbag 200 to burst through. The break line may be in the form of a waterproof seam or a thin point in the material covering the storage portion 130. In some examples, the inflatable components of the airbag 200 may be fixed to the foot receiving portion 110 using webbing loops. The webbing loops may be attached to the inflatable components of the airbag in any suitable manner, for example by sewing or heat bonding.

[0099] To deploy the airbag 200 in the event of a vehicle accident, the apparatus 100 may further include at least one gas inflator 30 operable to inflate the first and second portions 210, 220 of the airbag 200. In some examples, a single gas inflator is used to inflate both the first and second portions 210, 220 of the airbag 200. In other examples, multiple gas inflators may be used to inflate the first and second portions 210, 220. Any suitable gas inflator 30 may be used such as those known by a person skilled in the art that are used to inflate airbags in motor vehicles, motorcycle and the like.

[0100] For example, a chemical gas generator type of inflator may be used which has a trigger or initiator which causes an explosive chemical reaction that produces a large quantity of gas that is released into the airbag 200. The trigger for this kind of inflator is generally an electrical conductor through which electric current is passed. The current heats the conductor which is surrounded by a combustible material (propellant) which ignites thereby causing a chemical reaction that produces gas such as Nitrogen.

[0101] In another example, the gas inflator includes a source of compressed gas. In this way, a stored gas cartridge or canister may be used in conjunction with an explosive trigger or a mechanical trigger mechanism. In a mechanical trigger, a spring loaded piston or pin is usually actuated in a vehicle accident to pierce a burst disc which usually prevents the stored gas from exiting the canister. An explosive trigger may be used as well similar to that described above whereby a chemical reaction is initiated which generates gas that builds pressure to burst the disc and release the stored gas contents into the airbag.

[0102] In one example, a first trigger mechanism is used to release gas into the first portion 210 of the airbag 200 and a second trigger mechanism is used to release gas into the second portion 220 of the airbag 200. To enable the first portion 210 of the airbag 200 to be inflated before the second portion 220 of the airbag 200, the first trigger mechanism may be actuated first in the event of an accident thereby causing gas to be released into the first portion 210 through a gas inlet 122 as shown in Figure 3 for example. The first portion 210 is then erected into a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around the limb of the person as shown in Figure 4. The pressure in the first portion 210 may be monitored by some form of pressure sensor such that inflation of the first portion 210 ceases when a first pressure (i.e. pressure threshold) is reached. The second trigger mechanism may then be activated which causes gas to be released from the inflator 30 into the second portion 220 of the airbag 200 through a gas inlet of the second portion as also shown in Figure 4. The second portion 220 is inflated until a desired pressure threshold is reached at which point inflation is stopped to prevent overinflation. Appropriate flow control valves may be located between the gas inflator 30 and first and second portions 210, 220 of the airbag 200 in order to shut off the respective flow of gas into each portion 210, 220 as required.

[0103] The electronic processing of the apparatus 100 will now be described. In one example, the apparatus 100 includes at least one electronic processing device configured to receive from one or more sensors signals indicative of one or more vehicle parameters. The sensors, may include accelerometers, tilt sensors, gyroscopes, impact sensors and the like that are mounted in the inflation apparatus 100 itself for monitoring one or more vehicle parameters including for example acceleration/deceleration, velocity, angular tilt etc.

[0104] The electronic processing device is further configured to process the signals to determine if the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident and transmit an activation signal to the at least one gas inflator 30 to initiate inflation of the apparatus in response to determining that the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident. The processing device will use a suitably implemented triggering algorithm as known in the art for determining an accident from the signals received from the sensors. This may involve comparison to threshold limits or recognition of patterns of sensor data that correlate with a vehicle accident.

[0105] In one example, the electronic processing device, one or more sensors and at least one gas inflator are mounted in a storage portion 120 of the foot receiving portion 110 as shown in Figure 5 A.

[0106] The electronic processing device typically includes a processor such as a microprocessor, microchip processor, logic gate configuration, firmware optionally associated with implementing logic such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or any other electronic device, system or arrangement capable of receiving signals from the one or sensors and transmitting a signal to the at least one gas inflator.

[0107] In another example, the electronic processing device is configured to receive from a controller a signal indicative of a vehicle accident and transmit an activation signal to the at least one gas inflator 30 to initiate inflation of the apparatus in response to receiving the signal indicative of a vehicle accident from the controller.

[0108] In this instance, the controller is typically an on-board vehicle control unit and includes another electronic processing device that receives signals from one or more sensors mounted on the vehicle that are indicative of one or more vehicle parameters.

[0109] The on-board sensors, may include accelerometers, tilt sensors, gyroscopes, impact sensors, door pressure sensors, brake pressure sensors, strain gauges, seat occupancy sensors and the like for monitoring one or more vehicle parameters including for example acceleration/deceleration, velocity, angular tilt, structural stress and strain etc. The on-board vehicle controller constantly monitors the signals received from the one or more sensors and processes the signals to determine if the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident as previously described. If a vehicle accident is detected, the controller transmits a signal to the electronic processing device associated with the inflation apparatus. While the controller may be hardwired to the electronic processing device associated with the inflation apparatus 100, preferably the devices communicate wirelessly such that the onboard controller transmits a wireless signal to the inflation apparatus.

[0110] Now referring to Figures 6A-6C, there is shown an example of a specific use of the inflation apparatus 100. In this example, the inflation apparatus 100 is used by a motorcycle rider 1 to provide protection to a lower limb in the event of a motorcycle accident. While the apparatus is depicted in Figures 6A-6C for use with a motorcycle, it is to be appreciated that the apparatus may be used, in other adaptations with various vehicles and devices including a cycle such as road bike or mountain bike, a motor vehicle, a ski, a snowboard, a snow mobile and a parachute to name a few.

[0111] The inflation apparatus 100 includes a foot receiving portion 110 that is adapted to be releasably securable to a footrest 150 of the motorcycle 10. The foot receiving portion 110 includes a suitable securing mechanism enabling the apparatus 100 to be releasably secured to the footrest 150. The footrest 150 will have a complementary securing mechanism to interface with the foot receiving portion 110. The securing mechanism can take many different forms, including for example a cleat or clip type arrangement, an electromagnetic locking arrangement or some form of electrically actuated locking arrangement that controllably retracts and extends a locking member to thereby releasably secure the foot receiving portion 110 to the footrest 150. In Figure 5B, there is shown a basic cleat or clip type arrangement whereby a tab 114 located at the base of the foot receiving portion 110 is secured into a recessed portion 152 of the footrest 150 containing a clip.

[0112] In some examples, the foot receiving portion 110 is only secured to the footrest 150 when the motorcycle 10 is not in use in order to prevent theft and to provide a convenient way for the rider 1 to attach their feet to the foot receiving portion 110 of the apparatus 100 at the beginning and end of a ride. During a ride, or when the motorcycle is running, the foot receiving portion 110 is able to be released from the footrest 150. In one example, the rider 1 may twist or pivot their foot in order to disengage or decouple the foot receiving portion 110 from the footrest 150. For an electrically actuated locking arrangement, a retractable shaft may be extended from the footrest 150 into the foot receiving portion 110 when power to the motorcycle is turned off in order to lock the foot receiving portion 110 to the footrest 150. When the motorcycle is turned on, the shaft may be retracted back into the footrest 150 which then enables the rider 1 to twist or pivot their foot and release the foot receiving portion 110 from the footrest 150. In this way, the rider 1 has complete freedom over their leg movement whilst attached to the apparatus 100.

[0113] In order to attach oneself to the inflation apparatus 100, the rider 1 simply places their foot into the foot receiving portion 110 of the apparatus 100. Typically, the rider 1 will already be wearing some type of footwear that is accommodated in some examples by providing the foot receiving portion 110 with a flexible or hinged chassis that makes it easier for foot insertion. The foot receiving portion 110 may further include suitable lacing or straps to firmly secure the apparatus 100 to the rider 1. When the apparatus 100 is attached to the rider 1, the airbag portion of the apparatus 100 is located around the rider's foot and/or ankle in a stored configuration ready for deployment in an accident.

[0114] A further example of an inflation apparatus 800 is shown in Figures 7 A to 7B. In this example, the inflation apparatus 800 is for use with an arm portion 3 of a person. The apparatus 800 includes a hand receiving portion 810 for receiving a hand 3 A of a person. In other examples, the hand receiving portion 810 could be optional depending on whether the apparatus 800 is used as a protective device for use in a vehicle accident or as a supporting arm splint for example where it would not be essential to cover the hand.

[0115] The apparatus 800 further includes a storage portion 830 for storing an inflatable structure (not shown) such as an airbag as described previously with respect to the example shown in Figures 1 to 4. In accordance with such an arrangement, the apparatus 800 will therefore include a first portion that is inflatable to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around the arm portion of the person. The apparatus 800 will further include a second portion positioned between the first portion and the arm portion, the second portion being inflatable to cushion the arm portion and operable to restrict movement of the arm portion relative to the first portion when both the first and second portions are inflated.

[0116] In general, the apparatus 800 is deployable from a storage configuration as shown in Figures 7 A and 7B whereby the inflatable structure is stored in a folded state generally around the hand and/or wrist portion of the person to an inflated configuration whereby the inflatable structure is deployed around the arm portion so as to span a length of the person's arm such as from a region around the person's wrist to a region around the person's elbow.

[0117] For use in protecting an arm portion 3 of the person in a vehicle accident, the apparatus 800 further includes a housing portion 820 for housing at least one gas inflator and control electronics operable to inflate the first and second portions of the inflatable structure when a vehicle accident is detected. The at least gas inflator and associated control electronics will be as described previously with respect to the example shown in Figures 1 to 4.

[0118] An example of a method for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person will now be described in further detail with reference to Figures 8 to 10.

[0119] The method broadly depicted in Figure 8 includes inflating a first portion of the apparatus around the limb to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure at step 900. The method of inflation will vary depending upon the intended use of the apparatus. For example, when used as a medical splint to support or immobile an injured limb, such as a broken arm or leg, the first portion may be inflated by a suitable pump including for instance an electric air pump, air foot pump, air hand pump or the like. The pump may be connected to a suitable valve connected to the first portion which permits passage of air into and out of the first portion. For use in protecting a limb in a vehicle accident, the first portion may be inflated by a suitable gas inflator including for instance a chemical gas generator or source of compressed gas that is rapidly released into the first portion when a vehicle accident is detected. It will be appreciated that for use as a medical splint, the first and second portions would be inflated to lower pressures than when used for protecting a limb in a vehicle accident. So while in a vehicle accident, the first portion may be inflated to over lOOkPa and the second portion may be inflated up to 50kPa, these pressures will be much less for use as a medical splint to allow sustained application without adversely affecting circulation.

[0120] In general, the first portion is inflated to a first pressure sufficient to achieve a desired rigidity of the structure. In some examples, the first pressure will be a predetermined pressure while in other instances a person responsible for inflating the apparatus around the limb may determine when the first portion has been sufficiently inflated based on an assessment of the rigidity of the structure obtained through touch, visual appearance etc.

[0121] At step 902, the method further includes inflating a second portion of the apparatus that is positioned between the first portion and the limb, the second portion cushioning the limb and restricting movement of the limb relative to the first portion when both the first and second portions are inflated. In this way, the limb becomes at least partially immobolised thereby preventing unwanted movement of the limb and ensuring that it is adequately supported. The method of inflation will vary as described above depending on the intended use of the apparatus.

[0122] Typically, the method further includes inflating the first portion to a higher pressure than the second portion. The second portion is typically inflated to a second pressure sufficient to provide soft cushioning to the limb only. The second pressure is therefore typically much lower than the first pressure used to inflate the first portion of the apparatus. In some examples, the second pressure will be a predetermined pressure while in other instances a person responsible for inflating the apparatus around the limb may determine when the second portion has been sufficiently inflated based on an assessment of factors including the perceived pressure applied to the limb or tightness of fit between the apparatus and the limb.

[0123] In some examples, the method includes initiating inflation of the second portion after inflation of the first portion. Typically, the method further includes inflating the first portion to a first pressure as described above, and initiating inflation of the second portion after the first portion has reached the first pressure. In this way, the first portion defines a fully inflated substantially rigid structure from which the second portion can be inflated.

[0124] As the first portion is inflated, an inflated structure begins to rise or extend in a lengthwise direction along the limb from a stored configuration in which the first portion is in a folded configuration to an inflated configuration in which the first portion spans or extends along a length of the limb. With the first portion inflated forming a cylindrical structure around the limb, the second portion is then inflated in a direction generally towards the limb. It is to be understood therefore, that generally, the first and second portions of the apparatus inflate in a substantially orthogonal direction relative to one another.

[0125] Now referring to Figure 9, there is provided an example of a method for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident. The method is typically performed in an electronic processing device associated with the inflation apparatus.

[0126] At step 1000, the method includes receiving from one or more sensors, signals indicative of one or more vehicle parameters. The sensors, may include accelerometers, tilt sensors, gyroscopes, impact sensors and the like that are mounted in the inflation apparatus itself for monitoring one or more vehicle parameters including for example acceleration/deceleration, velocity, angular tilt etc.

[0127] The electronic processing device constantly monitors the signals received from the one or more sensors and at step 1010, processes the signals to determine if the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident. The processing will typically involve the use of suitably implemented algorithms which analyse the sensor inputs and compare against threshold limits indicative of a crash or accident or patterns recognised to be indicative of crash events. In this respect, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the processing can be implemented in a number of different ways that are known in the art and the for the purposes of this disclosure, any suitable processing method may be used in accordance with the particular sensors that are employed in the design.

[0128] Finally, at step 1020, the method includes transmitting an activation signal to at least one gas inflator in response to determining that the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident. As previously described, the at least one gas inflator causes a first portion of the apparatus to inflate to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around the limb. Further, the at least one gas inflator causes a second portion of the apparatus to inflate to thereby cushion the limb, the second portion positioned between the first portion and the limb and operable to restrict movement of the limb relative to the first portion when both the first and second portions are inflated.

[0129] The activation signal will trigger the at least one gas inflator to release gas into the first portion of the apparatus followed by the second portion. For example, the activation signal may cause an electric current to pass through a circuit, heating a small filament or heating element which ignites a propellant causing an explosive chemical reaction which generates a significant amount of a gas such as Nitrogen, Argon etc. used to rapidly inflate the first and second portions of the apparatus. In other examples, the activation signal may actuate a triggering pin which pierces a burst disc of a stored compressed gas canister thereby causing gas to be released into the first and second portions.

[0130] In Figure 10, there is shown an alternative example of a method for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident. The method again is typically performed in an electronic processing device associated with the inflation apparatus.

[0131] At step 1050, the method includes receiving from a controller a signal indicative of a vehicle accident. The controller is typically mounted on-board the vehicle and includes an electronic processing device that receives signals from one or more sensors mounted on the vehicle that are indicative of one or more vehicle parameters.

[0132] The on-board sensors, may include accelerometers, tilt sensors, gyroscopes, impact sensors, door pressure sensors, brake pressure sensors, strain gauges, seat occupancy sensors and the like for monitoring one or more vehicle parameters including for example acceleration/deceleration, velocity, angular tilt, structural stress and strain etc. The on-board vehicle controller constantly monitors the signals received from the one or more sensors and processes the signals to determine if the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident as previously described. If a vehicle accident is detected, the controller transmits a signal to the electronic processing device associated with the inflation apparatus. While the controller may be hardwired to the electronic processing device associated with the inflation apparatus, preferably the devices communicate wirelessly such that the on-board controller transmits a wireless signal to the inflation apparatus.

[0133] At step 1060, the method includes transmitting an activation signal to at least one gas inflator in response to receiving the signal indicative of a vehicle accident from the controller. The at least one gas inflator is then caused to inflate the apparatus as previously described.

[0134] Now referring to Figures 11 to 13, there are shown examples of a system for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident.

[0135] The system shown in Figure 11 includes an inflation apparatus 100 and a vehicle member 1110. In this example, the system includes an inflation apparatus including an airbag having a first portion that is inflatable to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around the limb and a second portion positioned between the first portion and the limb, the second portion being inflatable to cushion the limb and operable to restrict movement of the limb relative to the first portion when both the first and second portions are inflated. The apparatus further includes at least one gas inflator operable to release gas into the first and second portions of the airbag in the event of a vehicle accident.

[0136] The inflation apparatus further includes one or more sensors for sensing one or more vehicle parameters and at least one electronic processing device configured to receive from the one or more sensors signals indicative of the one or more vehicle parameters as previously described. The electronic processing device is then configured to process the signals to determine if the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident and transmit an activation signal to the at least one gas inflator to initiate inflation of the airbag in response to determining that the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident.

[0137] In the case of the limb being a lower limb portion of the person, the inflation apparatus may further include a foot receiving portion such as a shoe that attaches to a person's foot. The foot receiving portion will typically house or store the one or more sensors, the electronic processing device, the one or more gas inflators and the airbag. When the limb is an arm portion of the person, the apparatus may include a hand receiving portion such as glove that attaches to a person's hand.

[0138] Finally, the system includes a vehicle member adapted to releasably secure the inflation apparatus to the vehicle. For example, the vehicle member may include a footrest, handlebar or the like and will typically include a suitable securement mechanism as previously described. Furthermore, the vehicle member may be adapted to facilitate electric charging of an energy storage device such as a battery that is used to provide power to the one or more sensors, at least one gas inflator and electronic processing device associated with the inflation apparatus. Charging of the energy storage device may be facilitated when the inflation apparatus is secured to the vehicle member.

[0139] An alternative example of a system for inflating an inflation apparatus around a limb of a person in a vehicle accident shall now be described with reference to Figures 12 to 13.

[0140] In this system, there is provided an on-board vehicle controller 1200 including one or more sensors 1202, a first electronic processing device 1204 and a wireless transmitter module 1206. The one or more sensors 1202, including for instance accelerometers, tilt sensors, gyroscopes, impact sensors, door pressure sensors, brake pressure sensors, strain gauges, seat occupancy sensors and the like. The sensors 1202 are used to monitor one or more vehicle parameters including for example acceleration/deceleration, velocity, angular tilt, structural stress and strain etc. The first electronic processing device 1204 is configured to receive one or more signals from the one or more sensors and process the signals to determine if the one or more vehicle parameters are indicative of a vehicle accident using suitable processing techniques that are well known in the art.

[0141] The system further includes an inflation apparatus 1210 including an airbag 1220 having a first portion 1222 that is inflatable to form a substantially rigid cylindrical structure around the limb and a second portion 1224 positioned between the first portion 1222 and the limb, the second portion 1224 being inflatable to cushion the limb and operable to restrict movement of the limb relative to the first portion 1222 when both the first and second portions 1222, 1224 are inflated. The apparatus further includes at least one gas inflator 1216 operable to release gas into the first and second portions 1222, 1224 of the airbag 1220 in the event of a vehicle accident as previously described.

[0142] If the first electronic processing device 1204 determines a vehicle accident, a signal is transmitted wirelessly from the transmitter module 1206 to a receiver module 1212 mounted on the inflation apparatus 1210 and coupled to a second electronic processing device. The wireless signal may include infra red, radio frequency, Bluetooth, Zigbee, WiFi or other suitable wireless signals. The second electronic processing device 1214 is configured to receive from the on-board vehicle controller 1200 a signal indicative of a vehicle accident and transmit an activation signal to the at least one gas inflator 1216 to initiate inflation of the airbag 1220 in response to receiving the signal indicative of a vehicle accident from the controller 1200.

[0143] Finally, the system includes a vehicle member adapted to releasably secure the inflation apparatus to the vehicle as previously described. For example, the vehicle member may include a footrest, handlebar or the like and will typically include a suitable securement mechanism including for example a cleat or clip type arrangement, an electromagnetic locking arrangement or some form of electrically actuated locking arrangement that controllably retracts and extends a locking member to thereby releasably secure the inflation apparatus 1210 to the vehicle.

[0144] From the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that the inflation apparatus described herein has many advantages including the ability to protect a limb of a person from injury during a vehicle accident by erecting a substantially rigid structure around the limb whilst providing a cushioned interior contactable with the limb itself. This unique structural arrangement assists in protecting the limb from abrasion, impact, torsional sprain object penetration etc. which can potentially result from a vehicle accident. [0145] In addition, in further applications, the apparatus may also provide benefit as a medical splint for an injured limb as it is able to assist in supporting or immobilising the limb and protecting it from further injury.

[0146] Throughout this specification and claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0147] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous variations and modifications will become apparent. All such variations and modifications which become apparent to persons skilled in the art, should be considered to fall within the spirit and scope that the invention broadly appearing before described.