Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to armor, body armor, and body protection such as used in sport or recreational activities.

Background

[0002] There are numerous body armor systems currently on the market, typically as protective vests and helmets such as “bullet resistant vests”. These provide significant protection for specific, limited areas of the body. However, these same systems provide little to no protection to critical mobility areas, leaving large areas of the body unprotected due to challenges of covering body parts which bend, flex, and curve in complex and sometimes opposite directions. Joints like knees and elbows are generally not covered, as robust armor doesn’t prefer bending in one direction, and even less so in two opposite directions. As such there are some protection systems segmented at joints, such as an upper thigh pad and a shin guard with no protection in between. Or a knee pad that protects the front of the knee and omits the back of the knee altogether. Further, robust armor elements to cover a joint when straight, may allow gaps or voids to open up when the same joint is bent.

[0003] There is however no products that satisfactorily provide an improved armor system to cover significantly more surface areas than a protective torso vest can, including armouring an entire body with extremities and joints, while allowing full range of movement, and preventing gapping or voids in armor coverage from opening up during movement or bending of joints. Tremendous extra benefit to wearers in various situations, allowing joints and mobile areas to be covered and contoured with armor, and allowing the armor assembly to move, elongate, shorten, expand, etc. so that the wearer can still reasonably or rigorously perform the duty or activity while wearing the protective armor.

[0004] Three, non-limiting, examples of situations generally not currently covered by available armor systems follow. Example A is a person in the ocean who is bitten on the leg by a shark. As the teeth of sharks are on the upper and lower jaw, if there is armor on one side of the leg and not the other, the non-protected side of the leg can still be bitten through. In armouring both the front and back of a knee, or on the outer thigh and inner thigh, while allowing full range of movement this will be avoided.

[0005] Example B is a law enforcement person wearing a traditional stab resistant vest. In close quarters a perpetrator could stab or slash the law enforcement person under the arm, where there is a major artery, inflicting significant damage which can result in death from blood loss. As current vests do not protect under arms at all, there is a need for a significant improvement to protect this area while maintain full range of movement. [0006] Example C is a soldier wearing a typical bullet resistant vest, and incurring damage to nonprotected extremities from fragmented munitions. Injury and death can result from extremity wounds, as well as permanent debilitation from tiny fragments embedded in soldiers that surgeons can’t fully remove. There is a need to provide better extremity protection, covering most or all of the extremities while allowing a full range of movement and preventing gapping.

[0007] Another technical problem in many available systems, is that they may be flexible and adjustable, but they are not elastic. There is a significant difference between elasticity and flexibility. Flexible systems do not elongate nor contract to conform to the body, and do not elongate and contract during movement of critical joints. As such current systems generally leave voids in critical wear areas, and/or require a plurality of adjustable straps typically with nylon webbing flat strap, to fit more snugly to the wearer. However, adjusting an armor system to a snug fit while standing or walking, can leave that system restrictive when climbing or running. Adjusting an armor system to an acceptable fit while climbing or running, may leave that system loose or sloppy while walking (which loose armor can create chafing, blisters, and other problems). There is a need to provide elastic solutions designed to conform to the body and allow expansion and contraction while moving while still keeping the armor system relatively snug to the wearer in different situations, improving comfort.

[0008] Further to these problems, there are hostile elements in the world who have learned where typical voids and weaknesses are in current armor systems, and specifically train their combatants to exploit these voids when attacking (such as projectiles or cutting/stabbing attacks targeted to unprotected areas). Case in point is the specific training of hostile forces to stab/cut under an arm or in a groin area in close quarter combat, as there are major arteries there which are unprotected by current systems.

[0009] In light of the above, there is a need for an improved protection systems, to better protect people in various activities that are significantly unprotected now. This includes ocean sport protection from sharks, as well as law enforcement and military largely without extremity protection, and numerous other people in other scenarios who may benefit from armor with addition body coverage and improved comfort. There is a need to improve body armour solutions to protect individuals, by improving; protection coverage by surface area covered, protection of critical threat areas (such as under an arm or in a groin area), protection from different threats (knife/bullets/blunt force) to different body areas, and overall fit and mobility for the wearer at various activity levels.

Background [00010] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or substantially ameliorate at least one of the above disadvantages, or at least to provide a useful alternative to the above discussed armour systems.

Summary of Invention

[00011] Preferably, in a first aspect, the present invention provides an elastic armour system comprising: at least two armor elements, an elastic restraint system for each armor element, whereby the elastic restraint system holds said armor element in relative position to a wearers body while allowing movement and bending of joints.

[00012] Preferably, the armor system utilizes adjacent or overlapped armor elements which are separated from colliding in the same plane by an intermediary layer of material. The intermediary material may be an additional complete (or incomplete) layer(s) of the garment, separating one plane/layer of armor elements from another plane/layer of armor elements.

[00013] Preferably, armor elements may be rigid, semi rigid, or flexible.

[00014] Preferably, armor elements may include more rigid element and less rigid elements in the same armor element.

[00015] Preferably, armor elements may include shock absorbing materials.

[00016] Preferably, armor elements may be comprised of high strength materials, in one or numerous layers, where high strength materials include high strength fabrics such as made from aramid fibers, UHMWPE fibers, carbon fibers, glass fibers, graphene fibers, etc.

[00017] Preferably, the intermediary layer of the armor system may be in the form of continuous or partial pockets encapsulating armor elements, whereby the pockets allow the armor elements to move within the pocket by no or minimal attachment between the pocket material and the armor element, but overlapping pockets are held in overlapped positions relative to adjacent/overlapped other pockets.

[00018] Preferably, the multi-layer armor system consists of at least two at least partially elastic layers consisting of a base (first layer) and a cover layer (second layer) and overlapping pockets or partial pockets, which enclose or partially enclose the armor elements, holding the armor elements in relative position, and the (partial) pocket material serving as an intermediary layer to prevent armor elements from colliding with one another on the same plane. The overlapping of these (partial) elastic pockets may be similar to the shingles on a roof, where a leading edge of one armor panel (element) is underneath a trailing edge of an adjacent armor panel (element). [00019] Preferably, in a second aspect, the present invention provides, an armour system has armour elements which are held in relative position by elastic tethers, connected to the armour element at its perimeter and/or opposite poles of the armor element, and connected to the armor system (first) base or (second) cover layers at substantially opposing sides such as outside seams or central seams, which tethers serve to keep the armor element outstretched, and also serves to keep armor elements from colliding with adjacent armor elements on the same plane.

[00020] Preferably, the tethers have elastic limits within, allowing a maximum amount of expansion/elongation which preserves a minimum overlap of one armor element to another, preventing gapping or voids from developing.

[00021] Preferably, the elastic tethers are more elastic than base or cover layers (first or second layers).

[00022] Preferably the elastic tethers are connected between armor panels and the (first) base material.

[00023] Preferably, the elastic tethers are connected between armor panels, and other armor panels.

[00024] Preferably, in a third aspect, the present invention provides, an armor system assembly is comprised of multiple layers of armor elements, where each layer of armor elements is separated from another layer of armor elements by an intermediary layer of material within the garment. The separating layer(s) serve to keep the armor elements on different planes preventing collision when expanding and contracting versus adjacent armor elements. The separating layer may be approximately the same surface area of the base layer of the garment or may be smaller or discontinuous serving as an intermediary layer in the specific region of the potential collision of adjacent armor elements. Two or more layers of the garment are connected together at a linear boundary around an armor element, creating a perimeter boundary restraint to the armor element holding it in relative position. The boundary can be formed by typical garment seams such as a pant leg seam, or by attachment lines or pluralities of discontinuous attachments between two or more layers of the garment material, across the garment specifically to restrain an armor element within. The armor element is specifically not attached or minimally attached to the base or cover layer(s), so that the majority of surface area of the base/cover layers remains elastic.

[00025] Preferably, the armor system is comprised of multiple layers of material which may each be elastic. Each layer may be progressively larger to outermost, so that elasticity of multiple layers doesn’t multiply the compressive force on the wearer. For example, putting on 3 layers of an elastic sock all the same size, will make each progressive sock layer stretch further, and exert progressively more compressive pressure on the wearer (3x the compressive force vs. a single sock). Putting on 3 layers of an elastic sock, whereby each sock layer is larger than the last, will reduce or eliminate the cumulative compressive force exerted on the wearer, vs. 3 same size layers overlapped. [00026] Preferably, the armor system may be comprised of multiple layers of material, where by one or more layers may be less elastic and protective adjacent to the wearer may be significantly large/loose, and held in conformity to the wearer by at least one outermost elastic cover layer, which hold the loose protective layers close to and conforming to the wearer, while still allowing the wearer to move and flex joints where the elastic outer layer will expand and contract as required. For example, if three socks were worn together. The first sock could be non-elastic and oversized so that the fabric would need to be folded over or gathered together to take out the slack material, a second sock could be similarly non elastic and oversized and need to be folded over or gathered together to take out the slack material, and a third elastic sock could be placed over these first two in slight compression, holding both previous layers closer to the wearers body. In this embodiment the first two layers are exerting no compressive force to the wearer, and only the outermost layer is exerting a compressive force, whereby 3 layers of material are present but only one layer is exerting a compressive force, which allows the assembly to be more mobile/comfortable.

[00027] Preferably, in a fourth aspect, the present invention provides, an armor system features elongation control in specific planes/directions, designed and strategically placed. Elastic armor systems can allow pulling or tearing forces to pull armor or armor elements out of place, pull overlapped armor elements into non-overlapped arrangements leaving undesirable voids or gaps, or even pull armor systems off, like pulling an armor system off a limb. By utilizing elongation control in critical planes and locations, allows for expansion/contractor where desired (such as in a human joint circumference), while placing more resistance to expansion where not required such as along the length of an arm. When a critical joint is moving, elastic expansion and contraction can be preferable in the limbs circumference. However, in a law enforcement or combat situation, tugging pulling tearing etc. of a garment can pull armor elements out of the preferred location or can pull overlapped armor elements, such that undesirable voids or gaps can open up between armor elements. Additionally, a significant pulling force could dislocate a joint or limb, thereby injuring the wearer. This can also be limited or prevented by strategically integrated elongation control.

[00028] Preferably, the elongation control can be achieved by various methods, including specific fabric designs to stretch in one plane and not another, or by adding fabrics/stitched threads/infused glue/attached other materials which are specifically less or non-elastic, to the elastic base material, in linear or shaped assemblies to control elongation.

[00029] Another embodiment of elongation control is to include a harness system such as using non/less elongating material like nylon flat strap or other non/less elongating elements in an integrated harness system. The harness may be adjustable and yet connected to an armor system garment, which could be a full body suit, or smaller garment such as a shirt or pants. An integrated harness can allow; better weight distribution of armor elements to the wearer, improved adjustment of fit, and additional support to carry other external equipment and gear which can be affixed to the exterior of the armor system.

[00030] Preferably, the armor system comprises at least two different layers, each layer comprising a partial surface area of elastic material, and the remaining surface area of less elastic armor material, whereby the armor material and the elastic material are joined together on the same plane where their respective edges meet. One layer of this elastic joined to armor material is covered by at least a second layer of similar elastic joined to armor material, whereby the first layer’s elastic material surface area is covered by the second layer’s armor material, and the first layer’s armor material is covered by the second layer’s elastic material, whereby the entire surface area is covered by armor from either the first or second layer. These two layers are substantially not joined to one another, or may be joined at typical seam locations, edge of garment locations (such as edge of wrist, or neckline, or joined together at a zipper, etc.). This allows the combined garment to maintain full elasticity for greater movement. Each of these layers may also be in a circumference or partial circumference such as to protect an arm, a leg, a torso, etc.

[00031] Preferably, the armor system utilizes armor elements shaped to allow bending in two substantially opposite directions, which allows the shape to conform to shapes in opposite directions (such as a bent knee). This void may occur in at least one location, or two opposing locations, or in multiple or many locations, to provide reduced cross sections in the armor element (panel) to allow better bending and contouring. One preferred shape for an armor element is similar to a bow tie or an hourglass, where there is at least one section between two opposing edges of the shape that is narrower than the shape perimeter, and the narrower section is along at least one axis. This type of shape allows bending and hinging of the shape in opposing directions concurrently. For example, trying to curve an A4 piece of paper along it’s height, and then also trying to concurrently bend this paper along it’s width, will cause the paper to wrinkle and distort. A curve in non-elastic material one direction resists curving in a second direction. However, by creating cuts/voids in the width of the paper 1/3 of it’s width on both sides leaving it’s center width intact, will allow the paper to curve along it’s height and also bend perpendicularly in the middle along this reduced cross section. This shape can function well for critical mobility areas typically un-protected by many armor systems currently, such as underarms, the back of knees, etc.

[00032] Utilizing a second reduced cross section shape, such as a bow tie/hour glass shape, layered over a first reduced cross section bow tie/hour glass shape, can create more complete coverage profile by surface area, at difficult areas to protect, while maintaining mobility of the joint. When a first bowtie/hourglass shape bends/curls in one direction and hinges in an opposite direction, narrowed section of the hourglass can open up significant voids or gaps when hinged open (see figures). A second bow tie/hourglass shape’s wider, non-reduced cross section areas can cover these voids/gaps of the first bow tie/hour glass shape’s voids, when the second bow tie/hourglass shape is perpendicularly overlapped over the first bow tie/hourglass shape. This combination of two shapes allows significant mobility of the joint and superior surface area coverage of the area simultaneously.

[00033] Preferably, the two perpendicularly overlapped bow tie/hourglass shapes are separated from one another by an intermediary layer of material, or pocket material, so that the two overlapped shapes do not collide with one another in the same plane when the joint is moving/expanding/contracting.

[00034] Another shape which can cover movement areas and allow multiple plane bending is an elongated shape in one axis, such as a rectangular or oval shape, with a void created (slit or a “V” shape) in one location only such as on the end where mobility is needed. When this shape is bent or curled in the long dimension/axis, the slit or “V” shape on the end will allow bending of the material in an opposite direction, with the bend crease lines from the bottom of the “V” or bottom of the slit to an outside perimeter edge of the shape. This ability to conform/bend two substantially opposite directions is ideal for elbows, knees, for example.

[00035] Preferably, the armor system utilizes different armor elements in different areas of the body, with different armor rigidity levels and or different armor protection profiles for different potential threats. For example, leg and knee protection may have flexible/pliable armor behind the knee, as well as at the hip joint, as well as the groin/inner thigh area, and have rigid or semi rigid armor elements at the shin and outer leg for greater blunt force protection. Similarly, an arm could utilize flexible pliable armor at the elbow joint, as well as under the arm pit, and rigid or semi rigid armor elements at the shoulder, outer arm, and forearm. Pliable / flexible armor can handle many cut/puncture/projectile threats, while semi rigid and rigid elements can better protect from blunt force threats. The rigidity/protective design of the armor elements could be determined by statistical data on likely attacks or threats to different body parts. For example - blunt force attacks to extremities, may use rigid or semi rigid armor elements, whereas slashing attacks to inner thighs or underarms may use flexible cut and puncture resistant panels.

[00036] Preferably, the armor elements in certain areas could also be used as attack elements. For example, rigid elements at the forearms and shins could be used for attacks in close quarters, using forearm strikes and shin strikes, potentially damaging an opposing combatant while protecting the wearer from harm. [00037] Preferably, the armor system uses individual elements to be added onto existing armor systems, to provide better overall surface area coverage or to specifically cover areas unprotected by a current system. For example, an existing stab resistant vest for a person working in a prison, is susceptible to pointed attacks under the arms or to the neck. Adding bow tie/hourglass shaped armor elements to the vest under the arms, by attaching the added armor element to the vest, could provide added protection to the wearer while allowing full mobility of the joint. Adding a turtleneck ring with integral armor element can better protect the wearers neck to puncture/slash. These added individual elements can preserve and enhance the effectiveness of gear already issued. It could also be selected for individuals or teams who face more severe threats. For example, a typical prison guard may wear just the vest for typical shifts at work. However, under a lock down situation during a prison fight or riot, the prison guards may “level up” the protection of the existing vest by adding under arm or turtle neck protective elements to their existing protective vests, without needed to buy all new equipment. In this instance the “first” armor element is existing or pre-owned, and the “second” armor element is a single armor element added onto the first so that there are now two armor elements.

[00038] Any of the aspects or embodiments above can be complete garment systems with integral armor elements such as a full body suit with a hood, or smaller garments such as long/short sleeve shirts, short/long pants, or can be individual elements such as added underarm, added turtleneck, added groin/inner thigh protection, etc.

[00039] Any of the above aspects or embodiments may utilize overlapping layers, armor pockets, or armor elements, in any combination, so that protection of joints and critical mobility areas allows significant expansion and contraction without opening up voids in the protection system. The design of elasticity and elongation control allows mobility while preserving required overlap for armor elements.

[00040] Any of the above embodiments or aspects above may experience weakness at seams compared to uninterrupted material. Seam sewing/joining, or attachments of accessories to the garment (zippers etc.) can provide a weak link in the garment, but this weak link can be mitigated by utilizing high strength thread such as aramid fiber thread, UHMWPE thread or other high strength threads in sewing, or multiple passes of sewing, and/or combined with fabric glues, heat fusing, sonic welding, riveting, or other elements/techniques known to those skilled in garments/armor to yield exceptionally high seam strength. This is also critical to prevent undue elongation and maintain garment integrity.

[00041] Any of the above aspects or embodiments of the armor system above may preferably be substantially nonthermal or non-insulating to the wearer, to allow use in different climates. Hot climates do not prefer insulation, and cool climates can utilize independent thermal layers underneath the armor system/garment. By creating armor system garments that are non-thermal, the wearer can choose their own insulation layers to match climate conditions, thus making the armor system suitable for multiple climates/conditions. Base (first) layers may be exceptionally breathable materials to aid in reducing heat build in the garment, or to aid flushing in water when in warm water conditions.

[00042] Any of the above aspects or embodiments of the armor system above may utilize armor elements that with designed buoyancy that is positive, neutral, or negative, depending on the desired conditions. For example, divers typically prefer suits that are neutrally buoyant or slightly negative buoyant, to distribute some of the dive weight away from the lower back, and to offset positive buoyancy from thermal suits such as neoprene. Swimmers or surfers may prefer positive buoyancy elements, to keep them at the surface, even in rough surf.

[00043] Any of the above aspects or embodiments of the armor system above have preferably low coefficient of friction from the armor elements to the carrier system, whereby the armor carrier system can expand/contract/move without being restrained by (inelastic) armor elements.

[00044] Any of the above aspects or embodiments of the armor system above have preferably minimal or no connected surface area between the armor element and a layer of the garment, or between the armor element and a pocket enclosure. This minimal or non-connection allows the elastic material of the garment layer, or elastic pocket material, to remain elastic and move slidably in relation to the non/less elastic armor element(s).

[00045] Any of the above aspects or embodiments of the armor system above may preferably feature closures, adjustments, buckles, zippers, etc. that may be located in non-standard locations to aid the wearer’s activities such as at right angles to the center front of a person. For example, an adjustable clip/buckle for the waist may be located at the hip, and not the front of the garment, for a surfer who would be lying on a board paddling, or a soldier in prone position on the ground. If the buckle were at the front for a surfer, it would press into the users stomach, and into the board. For a soldier, a front buckle may press into the stomach and snag on ground elements in prone position or crawling. Brief Brief Description of Figures

[00046] Figure 1 is a depiction of the EAC depicted as long pants with armor panels under the cover, including groin cover and side mounted hardware to don/doff.

[00047] Figure 2 depicts the elastic armor assembly of Figure 1 revealing overlapped armor panels over a base (first elastic) layer, with the cover (second) layer removed. [00048] Figure 3 depicts the base layer of a pant garment, with a progressively larger second layer and a progressively larger third layer. The view is from the smallest first layer on top of larger second and larger again third layer.

[00049] Figure 4a shows a section of layered materials in a cylinder of three layers, including a base layer (first elastic layer), a cover layer (a second layer), and a second cover layer (a third layer). Note the innermost layer may be non-elastic and has a fold 120 in it showing that it could be actually larger than the outermost layer. The outermost layer keeps the multiple layers compressed together.

[00050] Figure 4b shows a cross section from Figure 3, depicting a first layer, a larger sized second layer, and a larger again third layer. These larger sizes and gaps between layers either allow a multilayer garment of multiple armor layers to exert minimal compressive force on the wearer or allow armor elements to be encapsulated in between any two layers.

[00051] Figure 5 depicts an alternate embodiment of the armor elements tethered by elastic means to the first layer, and to other armor elements, with an optional second layer removed.

[00052] Figure 6 depicts an alternate embodiment with elastic pockets, each enclosing an armor element within, with two planes, and with stitching lines which may be discontinuous from the elastic pockets to the base layer, with the optional second layer removed. The topmost pocket and the bottom most pocket is on a second plane, where the central pocket is depicted on a first plane.

[00053] Figure 7a depicts a cross section of the embodiment of figure 6, with the elastic pocket and base layer at rest.

[00054] Figure 7b depicts the same section of 7a, stretched or elongated, noting that the elastic pocket is longer, the elastic base layer is longer, yet the armor element within is the same dimension.

[00055] Figures 8a-8e depict a sequence of assembly for a multilayer garment forming layered pockets.

[00056] Figure 8a depicts an alternate embodiment a three-layer design where the layers are themselves form the pockets. Figure 8a depicts a base layer and four armor elements with the next cover layer removed, and the armor elements are not attached to the base layer.

[00057] Figure 8b depicts the first cover layer over the first layer of armor elements, with stitching lines between the base layer and the first cover layer.

[00058] Figure 8c depicts the second layer of armor elements placed over the first cover layer.

[00059] Figure 8d depicts the placement of the second cover layer over this second layer of armor. [00060] Figure 8e depicts the three layer elastic armor assembled in layers (not yet a completed garment) showing in dotted outlines the armor elements between base layer and cover layer one, and the armor elements between cover layer one and cover layer two, noting the overlaps in the different outlines depicting overlaps in the armor elements.

[00061] Figure 9 depicts the elastic armor assembly of Figure 8e in a section view, with the intermediary layer preventing armor elements in one plane from colliding with armor elements on a second plane.

[00062] Figure 10a depicts an upper torso garment with critical “turtleneck” protection for the neck added.

[00063] Figure 10b shows an exploded section of the turtleneck fabric encapsulating an armor element within, which armor is pliable and flexible.

[00064] Figure Ila shows a “bow tie” shaped armor element, allowing bending/curving in two different axis substantially perpendicular to one another, which can be ideal for protecting critical areas such as under arms and the back of a knee.

[00065] Figure 1 lb depicts a similar bow tie shape in a perpendicular orientation.

[00066] Figure 11c depicts the two bow tie shapes of 1 la and 1 lb laid one over the other.

[00067] Figure 1 Id is a perspective view of one of a bow tie shape showing it curving in one plane (upward) and bending oppositely (downward) at a central hinge in a perpendicular plane (concurrently bending/conforming to two planes in opposite directions). Notice also the gap dimension 142 is larger than Figure Ila ‘s gap 147.

[00068] Figure 1 le is a perspective view of one of the bow tie shapes of Figure 1 Id, showing it curving in one plane and bending/hinging oppositely at a greater angle than Figure 1 Id. This opens the gap 143 at the center significantly wider.

[00069] Figure 1 If is a perspective view of two bow tie shapes, the first 132 curving in one direction and hinging in an opposite direction. The second bow tie shape 133 is overlaid in substantially perpendicular alignment to the first, where the wide sections of 133 cover the openings at the center of the first bow tie armor element 132, which openings become larger when the bow tie hinges more as shown in Fig. lie.

[00070] Fig.12 depicts another armor element shape which can allow bending movement at a joint via a cut in curved “V” shape at the joint. This shape also allows bending in two directions concurrently.

[00071] Figure 13a depicts an underarm bow tie shape, with a perpendicular bow tie shape to be added. [00072] Figure 13b depicts the same assembly of 13a with the perpendicular bow tie shape overlaid over the first.

[00073] Figure 14a depicts an individual wearing a standard protective vest noting that under the arm there is no protection, with a single bow tie shape to be added.

[00074] Figure 14b shows the first bow tie shape simply added to the existing vest assembly and held in place by a hook and loop strip or other attachment, with a perpendicular second bow tie shaped to be added.

[00075] Figure 14c depicts the first bow tie shape added to the vest as well as the second bow tie shape to cover openings in the first bow tie.

[00076] Figure 15a depicts an individual with a first bow tie shape conforming to the circumference of a leg and bending with the back of a leg.

[00077] Figure 15b depicts a second bow tie shape covering the openings from the first bow tie shape.

[00078] Figure 15c depicts an elastic cover over these armor elements in bow tie shapes noting the location with dotted lines.

[00079] Figure 15d depicts the pliable armor shape of Figure 12 conforming to the circumference of the leg, as well as opening at the back of the knee to allow bending of the joint.

[00080] Figure 19a depicts an alternating arrangement whereby flexible pliable armor elements are connected to elastic elements in the same plane, in this case forming a cylinder, with another larger circumference cylinder of alternating nonelastic armor and elastic non armor, juxtaposed to one another.

[00081] Figure 19b depicts the larger cylinder of Fig 19a over the smaller cylinder of Fig 19a, whereby the armor elements are overlapping and continuous and yet the two cylinders will expand and contract independently.

[00082] Fig. 19c depicts a section of the assembly of Fig. 19b in maximum expansion, showing the armor elements overlapping non armor elements, whereby all the circumference is protected by at least one layer of armor.

[00083] Figure 20a depicts a cylinder of elastic material, with an area of elongation control, with the elastic material at rest.

[00084] Figure 20b depicts the same cylinder of elastic material as Fig 20a, where the elastic material is expanded to a greater circumference, but the elongation control area has not expanded nor elongated. [00085] Figure 21 is an alternate embodiment of (partial) pockets formed, allowing armor elements to overlap one another, and while and preventing the armor elements from colliding with one another in the same plane during expansion/contraction.

[00086] Figure 22 depicts a complete body suit showing pliable armor at underarms and groin area, semi rigid armor in chest, torso, knee and elbow areas, and rigid armor at forearms, shoulders, and outer legs.

[00087] Figure 23 depicts the complete body suit from Figure 22 with a cover layer over the armor panels, with central torso flaps of segmented armor hinging over the zipper to protect the area of the zipper.

[00088] Figure 24 depicts an armor system garment with nonelastic elongation control elements in the format of a typical waist and over the shoulder harness, as well as elongation control strips running down the outer portions of the leg, and elongation control strips running down the outer parts of the arms.

Detailed Description of Embodiments

[00089] Figure 1 depicts a preferred embodiment of the armor system 1 in a long pant garment, utilizing a first layer (not shown here) which is elastic and a second layer 100 which is elastic covering over the armor elements, and overlapping armor elements between these two layers with the armor element perimeters 102 noted as dotted lines under the cover layer 100. By utilizing overlapping and flexible/semi rigid armor elements, movement of the joints is preserved while most surface area of the legs is protected by armor. This also shows groin protection 153 under the outer second layer 100 as another overlapping layer of armor element to protect the critical upper inner thigh. There is also a side mounted belt buckle 30 as garment donning/doffing hardware, shown to the side or at a right angle from center, so that the wearer of the garment can lie on a surfboard or a soldier in prone position without the hardware pressing into the stomach or snagging on ground objects.

[00090] Figure 2 depicts the first layer 99 with the overlapping armor elements 103 exposed, and a second layer 100 which may be placed over 105 the armor panels/elements which are over the first layer and may be attached intermittently from the first layer to the armor elements 103. When a knee is bent, the overlapping armor elements 103 will overlap less than when the leg is straight on the front and overlap more on the back of the knee then when the leg is straight, and yet the overlap amount can be adjusted to protect a fully bent knee and a fully straight leg. This embodiment shows a shingled configuration of armor elements 103 overlapping from the ankle up to the waist, where a leading edge of a panel (towards the waist) is under a trailing edge (toward the ankle) of an adjacent panel. [00091] Figure 3 depicts three progressively larger sized layers (base (first layer), cover (second) layer one, and second cover (third) layer), where by the larger layers allow room for armor elements underneath, and the larger layers do not multiply the compressive force on the wearer underneath. The smallest base layer 99 is shown on top of a slightly larger second layer 100, on top of a slightly larger again third layer 101. Note the base layer is adjacent to the wearer, and the cover layers away from the wearer, progressively larger.

[00092] Figure 4a depicts a cross section of a three-layer garment in a cylinder format. The first (innermost) (base) layer 99 is shown by a dotted line with a fold or wrinkle in the material and may be non-elastic and protective armour material. Note this fold/wrinkle would allow the base layer 99 to be larger in circumference than the second cover layer 101, but as folded over the resulting circumference is smaller than the circumference of the first cover layer 100 (depicted as an alternating long and short dashed line). A second cover layer 101 is depicted as a solid line and is larger than the preceding first cover layer. These three layers at rest are not introducing compressive forces on one another. If all three layers were the same size at rest, then each successive layer need to be stretched over the previous layer, which would exert more compressive force on the preceding layer. This would essentially multiply the compressive force by three times, which would place an undue compression on the wearer reducing the garments comfort. It should be noted that by making only the outer most layer compressive, while allowing the inner layer(s) to be looser in fit (or folded/wrinkled 120 as the base layer 99 is depicted) as well as protective and non/less elastic, can provide a protective assembly of complete layers, as well as increase the comfort again as the outer compressive layer would be the only layer in expansion, which would hold the layers underneath (basically the entire assembly) closer and contouring to the wearer, yet the inner layer(s) will exert less or no compressive force.

[00093] Figure 4b depicts a cross section from Figure 3 of the base layer 99, a larger first cover layer 100, and a larger again second cover layer 101 whereby the three layers are joined 109 at perimeter seams continuously or discontinuously. The open areas between the layers allow room for armor elements to be inserted in between (not shown here). It should be noted that when each layer gets progressively larger, then all of the layers can be at rest without any expansion. When a joint is moved such as an elbow or a knee, these layers can then expand and contract without multiplying compressive forces on one another. It should also be noted that the base layer and the first cover layer can be slightly larger than needed (even larger in size that the cover layer), where by only the outermost cover layer is designed to expand and contract thereby limiting the overall compressive force to the wearer to a single outermost layer and not three layers (thereby reducing the compressive force to 1/3). It should also be noted that the base (first) layer 99 and the second (cover) layer 100, may themselves be non/less elastic and protective material, while the third (outermost) layer 101 may be the elastic material to hold the other two layers underneath close to the wearer completing the armor assembly. This allows for layer(s) of less elastic armor material to be oversized and adjacent to the wearer, with layer(s) of elastic material outside to compress all layers to the wearer, as a complete armor assembly. It also allows a void 35 between any two layers to allow for housing separate armor elements within or in between any two layers. It may also be suitable to make the innermost layer 99 extremely breathable to aid comfort.

[00094] Figure 5 is an alternate embodiment depicting the armor elements 103, over a first layer 99, with elastic tethers 110, connecting each armor element 103 to the first layer 99. The optional second layer 100 may be placed 105 over the armor elements 103. The arrangement may be amor elements against the wearer and the first layer as an outer. It may also be the first layer 99 over the wearer, then the armor elements 103, then a second layer 100. When the first layer is next to the wearer, the material may be exceptionally breathable and/or padded, for extra comfort and breathability. These tethers 110 serve to keep the armor elements 103 in relative position during movement (expansion and contraction bending of knees etc.). The tethers 110 also serve to maintain appropriate overlap of the armor elements 103 at all times, including during expansion and contraction such as when a joint is moving/flexing. Tether 95 spans from attachment of the lower armor element to overlap the armor element above, and it attached between the armor element and the first material. This serves to keep the armor elements in different planes and reduce collisions at perimeter edges. Tether 94 is connected between two adjacent overlapping armor elements, with no attachment to the first (base) material. This image may be interpreted as shown outside in, where the armor is against the wearer and the first layer is a cover layer, or inside out where the first layer is a base layer adjacent to the wearer and the armor panels are outside of the base, where the optional cover (second) layer is preferred.

[00095] Figure 6 is an alternate embodiment depicting armor elements each enclosed in an elastic pocket 119, with the perimeters 102 of the armor elements shown as dotted lines under the optional cover layer 100. The elastic pocket 119 is not connected or minimally connected to the armor element within ensuring the majority of the elastic pocket surface area is not attached to non-elastic armor. The elastic pocket is sewn 120 continuously or discontinuously to the base layer 99 underneath. This allows the base layer 99 and the elastic pocket 119 to expand and contract, while the non/less elastic armor elements within the pockets are held in relative position. These pockets 119 also serve as an intermediary layer, to prevent different layers of armor from colliding with one another in the same plane during expansion and contraction movements. It also may not require a second (cover) layer 100 as the pockets hold the armor in relative position. This image may be interpreted as shown outside in, or inside out. [00096] Figure 7a depicts a cross section from figure 6 armor system assembly whereby the elastic pocket 119 and the base layer 121 underneath dimension at rest 124. The dimension 123 of the nonelastic armor element 103 is shown. Pocket 119 is attached 109 to the base material 121 continuously or discontinuously, and the pocket material 119 is not attached or minimally attached 155 to the armor element 103. It is critical to maintain overall elasticity that the majority of the surface area of the elastic pocket material 119 is not attached to the non/less elastic armor element 103.

[00097] Figure 7b depicts the same cross section of figure 7a, only showing the base layer 122 expanded dimension 125, yet the armor element 103 dimension in section 123 has not stretched /changed because there is separation between the pocket material 119 and the armor element 103 (or optional minimal connection 155 from the elastic pocket 119 to the armor element 103) so that the entire assembly remains very elastic and mobile. Pocket material 119 is attached 109 to the base material 122 continuously or discontinuously.

[00098] Figure 8a to 8e depicts an assembly sequence of a triple layer garment with two layers of armor elements. Figure 8a shows a base (first) layer 99, a first cover (second) layer 100 which is to be placed over 105 the first layer of armor elements 103. Between the base layer 99 and the cover layer 100 is space forming pockets for the armor elements.

[00099] Figure 8b depicts the first cover layer 100 over the first layer of armor elements, which are over the base layer 99. Sewing/attachment 128 between the two layers, as well as sewing/attachment at perimeters 156 of the two layers, which sewing/attachment can be continuous or discontinuous, creates strategic perimeter borders to hold armor elements in relative position, where the perimeter edges 102 of the armor elements is depicted as dotted lines underneath the cover layer 100. These attached borders may be continuous or discontinuous. It is anticipated that most/all of layer perimeters would be stitched /attached together thereby creating perimeter pockets to hold the armor elements in relative position.

[000100] Figure 8c depicts a second layer of armor elements 106 overlapping the first layer. These armor elements 106 are placed on top of the first cover layer 100 and the first set of stitch lines between the base layer 99 and the first cover layer 100. Again, these armor elements 106 are not connected directly to the base layer or the first cover layer. The previous layer of armor elements has perimeter edges 102 shown as dotted lines denoting these elements occur under the first cover layer 100. Please note the second layer of armor elements 106 overlap the perimeters 102 of the first layer of armor elements. [000101] Figure 8d depicts the same image as figure 8c well also showing the second cover layer 101 to be placed over 105 the second layer of armor elements 106, which second layer of armor elements 106 are on top of the first cover layer 100.

[000102] Figure 8e depicts the second cover layer 101 and second layer of stitching lines 129 between the second cover layer 101 and the first cover layer 100 thereby holding the second layer of armor elements in position, overlapping the first layer of armor elements. With the first cover layer 100 acting as a separating plane or intermediary layer between the first layer of armor elements and the second layer of armor elements, whereby the outside edges of these two layers of armor elements are prevented from colliding with each other on the same plane during expansion and contraction movements, as the intermediary layer keeps these planes separated.

[000103] Figure 9 depicts the assembly of Figure 8e in section, essentially a two-plane armor overlap. This shows the first layer of armor elements 103 overlapping the second layer of armor elements 106, and separated by the first cover layer 100. This section shows that collisions between the edges of the first layer of armor elements and the second layer of armor elements cannot collide because of the separating cover layer 100. Stitching or attachment borders 128 for the first layer of armor elements 103 keeps these elements in relative position and the stitching or attachment between the first cover layer 100 and the second cover layer 101 serves 2 provide a boundary or a formed pocket around the second layer of armor elements 106. Significant overlap of the armor elements allows significant elongation without gaping. Spacing 37 between panels on the same plane can be designed to allow appropriate shortening such as the bending of the back of the knee.

[000104] Figure 10a depicts an upper torso long sleeve armor system assembly 150 with an armored turtleneck 151 to better protect the wearer from slashes, punctures, or other damage to the neck.

[000105] Figure 10b depicts an exploded section of the turtleneck area from figure 16 with an armor element 103 captured within and overlapped pocket 151, which is then joined to the larger upper torso garment shown in section 152.

[000106] Figure 1 la depicts a reduced cross section shape or “bow tie” shape armor element 130 allowing it to curve in one direction and hinge in an opposite direction at the same time. These “bow tie” shapes can be ideal for joints, underarms, for example. The gap 147 at the perimeter edge of the shape is relatively small when the shape is flat. This also shows a first axis 48, and a second axis 46 substantially perpendicular to the first axis, and along the second axis are voids to reduce the cross section along this axis.

[000107] Fig. 1 lb depicts a similar bow tie shape 130 of figure 1 la in a perpendicular plane to figure Ila. [000108] Figure 11c depicts the two bow tie shapes 130 from figure Ila and the same perpendicular shape from figure 1 lb overlapping one another which serves to cover for widening joints. The perimeter edges 131 of the underlying bow tie shaped armor element is shown as a dotted line.

[000109] Figure 1 Id depicts the bow tie shape flexible armor element of figure 1 la in a perspective view, showing the armor element curving upwards 45 along the longer dimension of axis one, and concurrently hinging downward 43 with a bend along axis two which is perpendicular to axis one. Please note that the opening gap dimension 142 at the hinge along axis two can become wider (compared to Figure Ila gap 147) when the armor element hinges at a greater angle.

[000110] Figure lie depicts the bow tie shape flexible armor element of figure 1 Id in a greater bend at the center hinge along axis two, whereby the gap dimension at the center 143 is significantly larger than Figure 1 Id gap 142.

[000111] Figure Ilf depicts two bow tie armor elements both curving in one direction and hinging in an opposite direction whereby the first bow tie/hourglass element 132 is on top of the second bow tie/hour glass element 133. Note that the gaps opened by the hinging bow tie/hourglass element 132, are covered by the wide sections of the perpendicularly oriented bow tie/hourglass element 133. The opening from the hinging of armor element 132 is shown as a dotted line 144 noting where the overlapping bow tie/hourglass element 133 is covering.

[000112] Figure 12 depicts another embodiment of a flexible armor element 134 where the shape conforms to joint movement via a “V” shape 145 cut in where the armor element needs to flex for a joint such as the back of a knee. Potential crease/bend lines 157 are depicted as dotted lines. This shape can curve 49 along a vertical axis and also bend 47 along a substantially perpendicular (horizontal) axis.

[000113] Figure 13a depicts a wearer 140 from the side view with arms raised and a large first bow tie shaped element 135 covering under the arm as well as covering a portion of the side of the torso. A second perpendicular bow tie element 136 is to be added 146 over the first bow tie/hourglass element 135.

[000114] Figure 13b depicts the perpendicular bow tie 136 overlapping the first layer bow tie 135 at the underarm. You can see the curving shape of the flexible armor conforming to the arm, and to the torso via the two bow tie shapes.

[000115] Figure 14a depicts another embodiment, whereby a person 140 is wearing a standard preexisting/preowned protective vest 149, leaving the underarm area exposed where major arteries exist. The bow tie underarm protective element 137 can be added 146 individually to an existing protective vest 149 (now two armor elements) and held in place via elastic tether 138 or other attaching means between the armor element 137 and the protective vest 149. This shows two armor elements, one preexisting and at least one added on.

[000116] Figure 14b depicts the first bow tie element in place 137 (now covering over 90% of the previously unprotected underarm) and a second layer bow tie/hour glass element 136 to be added over 146 the first bow tie armor element 137, in a mostly perpendicular arrangement and held in place by elastic tether under the top layer 139 or other attaching means, or held in relative position by a separated pocket or separated layer as denoted in previous figures so that the overlapping bow tie armor elements do not collide with one another on the same plane during movement, and both bow tie/hour glass elements are held in relative position. Please note that the openings of the first curved hinged bow tie 137 are covered by the second bow tie/hourglass element 136.

[000117] Figure 14c depicts the two added bow tie armor protective elements 137 and 136 respectively, shown in figure 14a and 14b, shown in Figure 14c in their final protective position, and added to a typical protective vest 149. Note this is now 100% coverage under the arm which was previously 100% unprotected.

[000118] Figure 15a depicts a bow tie/hourglass element on the back of a knee of a person 141. You can see the first bow tie 132 element conforming to the knee by bending around the leg “cylinder” in the long dimension of axis one. The armor element 132 also hinges in the opposite direction along the short dimension axis 2. The openings/voids at the bow tie/hourglass narrowing create wider pie shaped opening as the angle of the knee bending increases. A perpendicular second bow tie/hourglass armor element 133 may be placed over 146 the first bow tie/hourglass armor element 132.

[000119] Figure 15b depicts a second bow tie/hourglass element 133 in a perpendicular arrangement to the first bow tie armor element 132, which second bow tie/hourglass element 133 larger surface areas cover the openings from the hinging bow tie 132 while the knee bends at a greater angle.

[000120] Figure 15c depicts this same configuration as Fig 15b, with an elastic cover 158 over the armor elements whereby the underlying armor perimeter edges 102 are shown with dotted lines.

[000121] Figure 19a depicts two different cylinders 160 and 161 of material, each cylinder comprising flexible or rigid shaped armor elements 163 and elastic non armor elements 162, joined together in the same plane which may be flat and any shape, it doesn’t not need to be a circumference but depicted this way for clarity. The smaller cylinder 160 and the larger cylinder 161 are rotated so that the larger cylinder 161 armor elements 163 cover the elastic elements 162 of the inner cylinder 160. This provides for a two-layer system that remains elastic and mobile yet provides complete protection as the entire circumference has at least one layer of armor 163. Note there may be more than one section of armor and/or elastic material in each plane and maybe more than two planes overlapping (three or more).

[000122] Figure 19b depicts the larger cylinder 161 over the smaller cylinder 160 and showing the armor element 163 of the larger cylinder 161 covering over the elastic non-armor element 162 of the smaller cylinder 160, as well as the smaller cylinder armor 163, underlying the larger cylinder elastic element 162. The seam 62 between the armor and non-armor elements can be reinforced by high strength thread sewing, reinforcing tape, or other means to ensure the materials don’t separate.

[000123] Figure 19c depicts a cross section of figure 19b in maximum expansion, whereby the armor elements 163 of the outer cylinder are in the same plane as the elastic elements 162 of the outer larger cylinder 161. Also, the outer cylinder 161 armor elements 163 cover the elastic elements 162 of the inner cylinder 160 so that the entire circumference of the assembly is protected by armor, with a reinforce seam 62 between armor and non-armor elements. The armor areas 163 may be substantially or totally nonelastic, and yet the entire assembly remains elastic in circumference due to the areas of elastic material 162 in both cylinders. The larger cylinder may be unattached to the smaller cylinder, or may be minimally attached together at a seam such as at a exterior seam of a pant leg.

[000124] Figure 20a depicts a cylinder 170 of elastic material 172 with a critical area 175 that is non elastic 173 and non-elongating. The dimension 175 of the elongation control, and dimension of the circumference 176 of the cylinder at rest.

[000125] Figure 20b depicts this same assembly of figure 20a, in an expanded state. Here the area of elongation control 175 has remained at the same width and the same length as in Figure 20a, however the cylinder circumference 177 has expanded dramatically compared to Figure 20a, as most of the circumference of the cylinder material is elastic. This elongation control can take many forms including strapping, nylon webbing, non-elastic stitching patterns, infusing with a flexible or semi rigid element to bind the elastic fabric in a particular section preventing it from stretching, or other means. The elongation control can serve multiple functions as it can prevent a sleeve or a leg of the armor system garment from being pulled or stretched off the wearer. It can prevent overlapping armor elements from stretching to the point where they're no longer overlapping. It can also serve as more robust support to carry the weight of the armor system or the weight of external gear and devices which may be fixed at least temporarily to the armor system garment and fastened to non/less-elastic areas of the garment.

[000126] Figure 21 depicts a shingle overlap arrangement with leading edges and trailing edges overlapping one another. This also shows partial (discontinuous) pockets 78, as well as continuous pockets 178 formed between a base (first) layer 99 and a an option cover layer 100 whereby these (partial) pockets 178 serve to keep armor elements 103 in relative position, and allows them to overlap, and allows them to expand and contract without colliding into one another in the same plane. The first (base) layer may be specifically substantially breathable where this layer is adjacent to the wearer, and the second layer 100 water resistant where this layer is the outer layer. Note overlap 77 can be designed to allow maximum expansion without gapping. These armor elements are also free to overlap with each other further than shown, shortening the overall assembly.

[000127] Figure 22 depicts a full body suit from ankles to wrists, with an elongated armored turtleneck 151. This arrangement allows different rigidity of armor elements in different areas if desired. For example cut and stab resistant, flexible and pliable armor panels can be utilized in groin areas 153, underarm areas 201, to allow maximum mobility and comfort while providing robust protection from cut, stab, shrapnel etc. Areas adjacent to the soft pliable armor elements such as adjacent to a kneel87 or adjacent to an elbow 183, front hip area 204, chest 186, and front torso 185 could be semi rigid providing additional protection from blunt force attacks. Areas such as outer shoulders 182 outer arms 184 outer legs 188 including shins and thighs could be rigid armor elements allowing robust protection from severe blunt force attacks as well as projectiles shrapnel etc. They could also allow the wearer to attack with blunt force attacks by shielding critical areas of the body from damage. Additional shoulder pocket element 209 can cover voids in the armor, this shoulder pocket armor element is shown transparently 210 as well. Entry to the suit is via a zipper 189, with segmented armor flaps 211 covering over the zipper, which can be attached on one side of the zipper and temporarily fixed via hook and loop or other fastening system 212. Note this image also depicts a complete armor system that covers virtually 100% of the wearer save for head, hands and feet, while allowing full range of movement.

[000128] Figure 23 depicts a full body suit from ankles to wrists shown in Figure 22, with a cover layer 100 over the armor elements, depicting the armor element perimeter edges 102 with dotted lines, and a central zipper 189 for donning/doffing the suit, and external armor panels 211 covering over the zipper area.

[000129] Figure 24 depicts an armor system garment full body suit incorporating non elongating elements in a somewhat traditional harness arrangement, including a non-elongating waist 194 that can be adjustable via a waist adjustment 193 such as a buckle, non-elongating shoulder straps 196 which can be adjustable via shoulder adjustments 197, non-elongating strips down the arms 191, and nonelongating strips down the outer parts of the legs 192. There can be a central zipper 189 or other means of opening the suit for donning/doffing. A central tie buckle 195 can hold the shoulder straps 196 from slipping off the shoulder, while allowing the central tie to separate as needed to don/doff the suit. These non-elongating elements can also serve to better carry and distribute the weight of the armor elements within, or the weight of other gear that can be affixed to the outside of the suit such as a ring 198 affixed to a harness / less elongating area of the suit. These non-elongating elements can also serve to limit undesired expansion, preventing armor elements from expanding to the point of no overlap (opening up voids/gaps). These non-elongating elements can also serve to adjust the fit of the elastic suit making it more snug in certain areas as the wearer may desire.

Description of terms

[000130] “Armor” or “armor element” can mean any protective element continuous or partial, flexible, rigid, or semi rigid, elastic etc. It can be an element separate of, attached to, or part of the garment. It is essentially the protective element of a garment designed to resist the effect of a threat.

[000131] “Threat” may be any point, blade, projectile, or blunt force, tooth, protrusion, surface or object that is sharp, abrasive, smooth, pointed, for example which surface or object can cause harm directly or indirectly.

[000132] “Carrier” or “Carrier system” or “elastic armor carrier system” is meant to include a complete garment, a portion of a garment, or an assembly to hold an armor element in place. It could be a long sleeve shirt, a short sleeve shirt, short pants, long pants, a complete bodysuit with or without a hood, etc. It could also be an individual armor element with an element to attach/restrain the armor element in position relative to a body. The carrier system may/may not include armor elements within.

[000133] “Rigid” may include elements that are hard, rigid, semi rigid, layered, shear thickening fluids, for example as may be utilized to resist compression, blunt force trauma, crushing, pinching, for example.

[000134] “Seams” are meant to include any joining of armor elements and garment elements or any combination thereof, using elastic elements, non elastic elements, accessories, straps, clips, stitching, riveting, gluing, heat/sonic fusing, folding, taping, etc as may be commonly used to join different elements of the armor system/garment together.

[000135] “High strength” in relation to thread or material includes fabrics knits weaves Aramid fibers, UHMWPE fibers, glass fibers, metal fibers, carbon fibers, graphene, or any other high strength or cut resistant or abrasion resistant fibers or elements.

[000136] “Stitching” can also mean attachment riveting gluing fusing heat welding stapling or other means of attaching fabric layers one to another or attaching elements or accessories to one another or accessories and elements to fabric layers. [000137] “Bow tie” or “bow tie armor element” or “bow tie/hourglass” can also mean armor elements which may be rigid with hinge lines or shaped or semirigid or flexible and pliable and also maybe elastic or partially elastic. These may include bow tie or hourglass or other shapes with bottlenecking voids in at least one location, and at least one plane/axis. These voids can take the shape of a slit, line, “V” shape, “U” shape, or other shapes as may allow reduced cross section dimension to aid bending in one or more planes axis, and bending/hinging in the same or opposite planes axis.

[000138] “Mobile body area” includes necks, underarms, groins, front and back of knees, hips, elbows, wrists, ankles, shoulders, fingers, essentially any portion of a body which allows movement, bending, flexing, etc. in normal conditions (i.e. the lower leg /shin won’t bend in between the knee and the ankle) but will bend at the knee or at the ankle.

[000139] “Pre-existing” armor element is an armor element already in use or owned, such as bullet resistant vest, or stab resistant vest, or elbow pad or knee pad or glove or other, where the pre-existing armor element is the first armor element and the second armor element is a single or multiple armor element(s) added to or used adjacent to the preexisting element so that the number of armor elements is two or more.

[000140] “base layer” means a first layer of material which may be elastic, partially elastic or nonelastic, and “cover layer” means a second layer of elastic, partially elastic or non-elastic material.

[000141] “less elastic” or “non-elongating” or “less-elongating” agents may be glue, epoxy, heat fused materials such as vinyl or other heat setting agents, heat fusing of fabrics, non or less elastic threads such as polyester, nylon, UHMWPE, aramid, or other threads which resist elongation in tension.

[000142] “Elastic tether” may be strips of elastic fabric, rubber sheet, elongating plastic, elongating epoxy, flat or round strap or cord with elastic material and non-elastic material (such as knit polyester expanding flat strap), or other elastic elements which may be used to allow elongation / contraction.

[000143] “Attachment” can mean sewing, gluing, heat fusing, riveting, taping, stapling, point gluing, folding, ultrasonic welding, or any other way known to fix two different materials together.

[000144] “Threats” may mean points, blades, teeth, abrasive material, blunt forces, sticks, poles, clubs, curbs, trees, rocks, etc. which may be natural, or manmade, mobile or fixed, where application of the threat to a person may cause damage.

[000145] “Reinforcement” may mean high strength joining processes, including thread sewing such as UHMWPE or aramid fiber thread sewing, fabric gluing which may be discontinuous, redundant rounds of sewing, ultrasonic welding, heat fusing, folding, stapling, or additional fabric reinforcement tape, or riveting or other means to reinforce seams or joints. [000146] In preferred embodiments the elastic armour assembly comprises a first layer of elastic material, and a second section of a less elastic material fixed to the first layer of elastic material along a specific plane, where the elastic material may expand and contract perpendicular to the plane of less elastic material, but expansion will be reduced or eliminated along the plane of less elastic material. The less elastic material is less elastic thread stitched into the elastic material using stitches that are substantially non expansive. The less elastic material is an agent infused into the fibers of the elastic material to reduce expansion where the less-elastic agent is present. There is an elastic armor assembly that covers substantially all area of a complex shape such as a portion of a human body, without significant restriction of movement, and without voids or gaps between armor elements despite the movement or position of the shape/body. An armor assembly garment, which includes hardware for donning and donning the garment, which hardware is located at a right angle to the central front of the wearer, whereby the wearer of the garment may lie face down without contact of the hardware to an object below the wearer. The armor system includes at least one adjustable belt. The armor system wherein the layer(s) of elastic and non-elastic material, and/or the armor elements, are not significantly thermally insulating.

[000147] In further embodiments the elastic armor carrier system with at least two different types of armor elements, includes a first armor element is more rigid than a second armor element to resist a first type of threat and, a second armor element is more flexible than a first type of armor element to resist a second type of threat and, the first rigid armor element is fixed to a first location in a garment likely to encounter the first threat and, the second armor element is fixed to a second location in a garment likely to encounter a second type of threat. The armor system is fixed between any assembly components utilizes sewing with high strength thread. The armor system where the fixing between assembly components are reinforced by high strength joining processes. The armor system whereby the armor elements have buoyancy parameters (negative, positive, neutral) tailored to a specific activity. The armor system whereby armor elements utilize materials that have a low coefficient of friction, to facilitate slide ability between the armor element and adjacent material surfaces. The armor system comprising overlapping partial pockets to maintain overlap of armor elements without armor elements colliding with one another during expansion and contraction movements. The armor assembly where the armor element is comprised of at least one layer of flexible material comprised of high strength fibers. The armor assembly where the armor element is comprised of metal. The armor assembly where the armor element is comprised of composite material. The armor assembly where the armor element is comprised of metal, ceramic. The armor assembly wherein strategic elongation control is achieved by the fabric design of at least one layer of elastic material which expands in one direction more than another direction.

[000148] The present invention in a preferred embodiment therefore provides the following advantages:

[000149] 1. Elastic, (expanding and contracting) armor carrier systems to fit more snugly to a wider variety of body types/shapes.

[000150] 2.Elastic Armor Carrier system to fit more snugly to a wider range of motions and exertion levels such as walking vs running, etc.

[000151] 3.Greater surface area protection in critical areas of the human body largely unprotected currently, such as the underarm or groin area.

[000152] 4. Elastically mounted armor panels which allows the panels to move when in contact with a threat, which allows better absorption and/or dissipation of threat energy forces compared to armor panels held fast by non elastic elements such as nylon web flat strap.

[000153] 5. Strategic elongation control, designed to limit elastic expansion and contraction to controlling voids and gapping of protective elements in a garment during activity/movement.

[000154] 6. Improved strength and reinforcement at garment seams/joints, so weak areas of a garment are strengthened to improve garment protection afforded to the wearer, and to ensure greater integrity/longevity of the garment.

[000155] 7.Allowing different armor panels to be used in different areas, providing different protection systems, for different threats, for different parts of a body. This can be tailored to address different threats, different armor mobility characteristics, and different armor costs to cover different body locations.

[000156] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.