BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

I. Cross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/526,394, filed July 12, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/403,595, filed September 2, 2022, the entirety of which are incorporated by reference as if fully disclosed herein.

II. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates generally to body armor systems for military personnel.

III. General Background

[0003] Typically soldiers in a combat theater will wear body armor for eight to ten hours at a time while moving, rucking, and engaging in close combat operations. As such, comfort and adjustability are key for solider satisfaction while ensuring safety and protection are not compromised. While prior art systems are operable for carrying equipment and carrying plates, these systems are bulky, uncomfortable, hot, and interfere with an assaulter’s ability to operate a weapon.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a plate carrier system having a lay flat yoke is provided. The plate carrier system includes a yoke having a pair of straps extending from the yoke. The yoke has a substantially flat attachment portion. The plate carrier system a plate bag having an inner panel and the inner panel has a width. A plate bag fastener connects the yoke to the inner panel. The attachment portion of the yoke is in substantially continuous contact with the inner panel along the width of said inner panel. [0005] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a lay flat plate carrier yoke system is provided. The lay flat plate carrier yoke system includes a first yoke. A first pair of straps extends from the first yoke and each strap of the first pair of straps has an end. A fastener is disposed at each end of each strap of the first pair of straps. The lay flat plate carrier yoke system includes a second yoke. A second pair of straps extends from the second yoke and each strap of the second pair of straps has an end. A fastener is disposed at each end of each strap of the second pair of straps. The first yoke is operable to attach to an inner panel of a first plate carrier bag. The second yoke is operable to attach to an inner panel of a second plate carrier bag. The first pair of straps is operable to attach to the second pair of straps to selectively determine a length between the first yoke and the second yoke.

[0006] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a plate carrier system having a lay flat yoke is provided. The plate carrier system has a yoke with a pair of straps extending from the yoke. The yoke has a substantially flat attachment portion. A plate bag has an outer panel, and the outer panel has a width. A yoke fastener is disposed on an underside of the yoke. The yoke is operable to selectively attach to the plate bag to selectively determine a position of the plate bag relative to the yoke. The attachment portion of the yoke is in substantially continuous contact with the outer panel along the width of the outer panel when attached.

[0007] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a lay flat plate carrier yoke system is provided. The lay flat plate carrier yoke system includes a first yoke. A yoke fastener is disposed on an underside of the first yoke. A first pair of straps extends from the first yoke and each strap of the first pair of straps has an end. A strap fastener is disposed at each end of each strap of the first pair of straps. The lay flat plate carrier yoke system includes a second yoke. A yoke fastener is disposed on an underside of the second yoke. A second pair of straps extends from the second yoke and each strap of the second pair of straps has an end. A strap fastener is disposed at each end of each strap of the second pair of straps. The first yoke is operable to selectively attach to a first plate carrier bag to selectively determine a position of said first plate carrier bag relative to the first yoke. The second yoke is operable to selectively attach to a second plate carrier bag to selectively determine a position of the second plate carrier bag relative to the second yoke. The first pair of straps is operable to attach to the second pair of straps to selectively determine a length between said first yoke and the second yoke.

[0008] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a plate carrier ventilation system is provided. The plate carrier ventilation system includes a plate bag having an inner panel. At least one spacer is attached to the inner panel of the plate bag.

[0009] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a plate carrier ventilation system is provided. The plate carrier ventilation system includes a plate bag. The plate bag includes an inner panel. A breathable material is disposed within the inner panel. A pair of channels is defined by the inner panel of the plate bag. An insert is inserted into each channel of the pair of channels. The inserts are operable to push the plate bag off of a user wearing the plate bag to enable air flow between the plate bag and a user wearing the plate bag.

[0010] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a plate carrier system having quick release doff strap is provided. The plate carrier system has a first plate bag. A pair of first straps extends from the first plate bag. The plate carrier system has a second plate bag. A pair of second straps extend from the second plate bag. A pair of strap fasteners connects the first pair of straps to the second pair of straps. A doff strap is connected to a strap fastener between an end of a first strap and an end of a second strap. The doff strap has a body having a first end opposite a second end. A pull tab is disposed at the first end of the body. A connector is disposed at the second end of the body and has a first side opposite a second side. The connector of the doff strap is connected between a first strap and a second strap. The body of the doff strap is operable to fold over an end of the first strap. Upon a pull of the pull tab by a user, the doff strap is operable to disconnect the strap fastener.

[0011] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a plate carrier system having a quick release doff strap is provided. The plate carrier system has a plate bag. A cummerbund removably attached to the plate bag. A doff strap is removably connected between the cummerbund and the plate bag. The doff strap has a body having a first end opposite a second end. A pull tab is disposed at the first end of the body. A connector is disposed at the second end of the body and has a first side opposite a second side. The connector of the doff strap is connected between the cummerbund and the plate bag. The body of the doff strap is operable to fold over an end of the cummerbund. Upon a pull of the pull tab by a user, the doff strap is operable to disconnect the cummerbund from the plate bag.

[0012] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a doff strap for quick release of a plate carrier is provided. The doff strap includes a body having a first end opposite a second end. A pull tab is disposed at said first end of the body. A connector is disposed at the second end of the body and has a first side opposite a second side. A hook fastener is disposed on the first side of the connector. A loop fastener is disposed on the second side of the connector. The connector is operable to connect between two components of a plate carrier system fastened by hook and loop fasteners. The body is operable to fold over an end of one component of the plate carrier system of two components of the plate carrier system fastened by hook and loop fasteners. Upon a pull of the pull tab by a user, the doff strap is operable to disconnect the two components of said plate carrier system fastened by hook and loop fasteners. [0013] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a locking tab for securing components to a plate carrier is provided. The locking tab includes a body having a proximal end opposite a distal end. A connector is disposed at the proximal end of the body. At least one arm is disposed at the distal end of the body and has a proximal end opposite a distal end. The arm is operable to insert through and fold over an aperture defined by an attachment device. The connector is operable to connect to a plate bag.

[0014] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a locking tab for securing components to a plate carrier is provided. The locking tab includes a body having a proximal end opposite a distal end. A connector is disposed at the proximal end of the body. A pair of arms is disposed at the distal end of the body. The arms have proximal ends opposite distal ends. A hook connector is disposed on each distal end of each arm of the pair of arms. A loop connector is disposed on each proximal end of each arm of the pair of arms. The pair of arms are operable to insert through and fold over a MOLLE (modular, lightweight load-carrying equipment) attachment device. The hook connectors are operable to connect to a loop connector of a MOLLE attachment device. The loop connectors are operable to connect to a hook connector of a MOLLE attachment device. The connector is operable to connect to a plate bag.

[0015] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a plate carrier system having a quick release thread member is provided. The plate carrier system includes a plate bag having a M.O.L.L.E. (modular, lightweight load-carrying equipment) pattern. The plate carrier system includes an attachment device having a M O L.L.E. pattern. A thread member connecting said plate bag to said attachment device by threading through alternating M.O.L.L.E. patterns of said plate bag and said attachment device. [0016] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a quick release handle is provided. The quick release handle includes a body. The quick release handle includes a pair of folds in the body. The quick release handle includes a pair of thread members, each thread member of the pair of thread members extends from a fold of the pair of folds. A handle portion is disposed between the folds. The thread members are operable to thread into and secure two M.O.L.L.E. (modular, lightweight load-carrying equipment) attachment devices. Upon a pull of the handle by a user, the thread members are operable to disconnect and release the two M.O.L.L.E. attachment devices.

[0017] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a cummerbund for use with a plate carrier system is provided. The cummerbund includes a body, at least one elastic member, and at least one limit strap. The at least one limit strap is operable to limit a stretch distance of the at least one elastic member.

[0018] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a cummerbund for use with a plate carrier system is provided. The cummerbund includes a fastener. The cummerbund includes a fastener. At least one elastic member is disposed between the body and the fastener. At least one limit strap is disposed between the body and the fastener. The at least elastic member is operable to enable the cummerbund to stretch and the at least one limit strap is operable to limit a stretch distance of the at least one elastic member.

[0019] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a plate carrier bag with a channel is provided. The plate carrier bag includes an inner panel, an outer panel, a side panel connecting the inner panel to said outer panel, and a covered channel along at least a portion of a periphery of the plate carrier bag.

[0020] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a plate bag with a communications channel is provided. The plate bag includes an inner panel and an outer panel. A plurality of side panels connects the inner panel to the outer panel. A plurality of edges extends from the outer panel and are attached to the inner panel. A plurality of apertures is defined by the plurality of edges. A plurality of slits is defined by the edges. A communications channel is defined by the edges, the side panels, and the inner panel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like parts are given like reference numerals and, wherein:

[0022] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a plate carrier system in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0023] FIG. 2 depicts a side perspective view of a plate carrier system in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0024] FIG. 3 depicts a side view of two components plate carrier system connected by a thread member in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0025] FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of a plate carrier system in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0026] FIG. 5 depicts an exploded view of the outer side of a plate carrier system in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0027] FIG. 6 depicts an view of the inner side of a plate carrier system in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0028] FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of a cummerbund of a plate carrier system in accordance with embodiments of the invention. [0029] FTG. 8 depicts a perspective view of a plate bag having an outer panel with a plurality of edges operable to define a communications channel in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0030] FIG. 9 depicts a front view of a quick release handle operable to engage a MOLLE (modular, lightweight load-carrying equipment) pattern and releasable pouch in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0031] FIG. 10 depicts a front view of a locking tab for securing components to a plate carrier in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0032] FIG. 11 depicts a side view of a quick release handle engaging a MOLLE (modular, lightweight load-carrying equipment) pattern of releasable pouch in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0033] FIG. 12 depicts a bottom perspective view of a locking tab securing a placard to a plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0034] FIG. 13 depicts a bottom perspective view of arms of locking tab inserted into a MOLLE pattern of a placard to secure the placard to a plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0035] FIG. 14 depicts a bottom perspective view of arms of locking tab inserted into a MOLLE pattern of a placard to secure the placard to a plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0036] FIG. 15 depicts a bottom perspective view of arms of locking tab inserted into a MOLLE pattern of a placard to secure the placard to a plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention. [0037] FTG. 16 depicts a bottom perspective view of arms of locking tab inserted into a

MOLLE pattern of a placard to secure the placard to a plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0038] FIG. 17 depicts a bottom perspective view of arms of locking tab inserted into a MOLLE pattern of a placard to secure the placard to a plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0039] FIG. 18 depicts a bottom perspective view of arms of locking tab inserted into a MOLLE pattern of a placard to secure the placard to a plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0040] FIG. 19 depicts a bottom perspective view of arms of locking tab inserted into a MOLLE pattern of a placard to secure the placard to a plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0041] FIG. 20 depicts a front view of a plate carrier ventilation system in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0042] FIG. 21 depicts a side view of a plurality of slits defined by edges of a plate bag to form a communications channel in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0043] FIG. 22 depicts a perspective view of a plate bag with a communications channel in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0044] FIG. 23 depicts a front view of a plate bag with bottom panels operable to receive and secure plates longer than the plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0045] FIG. 24 depicts a front view of a plate bag with bottom panels operable to receive and secure plates longer than the plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention. [0046] FTG. 25 depicts a perspective view of a plate bag with bottom panels operable to receive and secure plates longer than the plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0047] FIG. 26 depicts a front view of an outer side of a plate carrier system with lay flat yokes operable to selectively attach to plate carrier bags in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0048] FIG. 27 depicts a front view of an inner side of a plate carrier system with lay flat yokes operable to selectively attach to plate carrier bags in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0049] FIG. 28 depicts an exploded view of a plate carrier system with a lay flat yoke having two sides operable to selectively attach to a plate carrier bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0050] FIG. 29 depicts an exploded view of a plate carrier system with a lay flat yoke having operable to selectively attach to a plate carrier bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0051] FIG. 30 depicts a front view of a doff strap for quick release of a plate carrier in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0052] FIG. 31 depicts a perspective view of a doff strap for quick release of a plate carrier attached between a cummerbund and a plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention. [0053] FIG. 32 depicts a perspective view of a doff strap for quick release of a plate carrier attached between a cummerbund, a plate bag, and a hook and loop panel of the plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention. [0054] FTG. 33 depicts a perspective view of a user pulling a doff strap for quick release of a plate carrier attached between a cummerbund, a plate bag, and a hook and loop panel of the plate bag to disconnect the plate carrier in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0055] FIG. 34 depicts a perspective view of a user pulling a doff strap for quick release of a plate carrier attached between a cummerbund, a plate bag, and a hook and loop panel of the plate bag to disconnect the plate carrier in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0056] FIG. 35 depicts a perspective view of a user pulling a doff strap for quick release of a plate carrier attached to a cummerbund to disconnect the cummerbund from the plate carrier in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0057] FIG. 36 depicts a perspective view of a plate carrier system with doff straps for quick release of the plate carrier attached to release a cummerbund and a yoke in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0058] FIG. 37 depicts a perspective view of a plate carrier system with a doff strap for quick release of the plate carrier attached between straps of a yoke in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0059] FIG. 38 depicts a perspective view of user of a plate carrier system pulling a doff strap attached between straps of a yoke for quick release of the plate carrier in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0060] FIG. 39 depicts a perspective view of user of a plate carrier system pulling a doff strap attached between straps of a yoke for quick release of the plate carrier in accordance with embodiments of the invention. [0061] FTG. 40 depicts a perspective view of user of a plate carrier system pulling a doff strap attached between straps of a yoke for quick release of the plate carrier in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0062] FIG. 41 depicts a perspective view of user of a plate carrier system pulling a doff strap attached between straps of a yoke for quick release of the plate carrier in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0063] FIG. 42 depicts a perspective view of user of a plate carrier system pulling a doff strap attached between straps of a yoke for quick release of the plate carrier in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0064] FIG. 43 depicts a perspective view a plate carrier system released from a user after pulling of a doff strap attached between straps of a yoke for quick release of the plate carrier in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0065] FIG. 44 depicts a front view of a quick release handle in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0066] FIG. 45 depicts a back view of a quick release handle in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0067] FIG. 46 depicts a front perspective view of a plate carrier system with a quick release handle attached to a front plate bag and connecting a backpack to a back plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0068] FIG. 47 depicts a back perspective view of a plate carrier system with a quick release handle connecting a backpack to a back plate bag with thread members threaded through straps of a yoke system in accordance with embodiments of the invention. [0069] FTG. 48 depicts a close front perspective view of a plate carrier system with a quick release handle attached to a front plate bag with thread members threaded through straps of a yoke system in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0070] FIG. 49 depicts a side perspective view of a plate carrier system with a quick release handle threaded through straps of a yoke system and covered by sleeves in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0071] FIG. 50 depicts a side perspective view of a plate carrier system with a quick release handle threaded through straps of a yoke system in accordance with embodiments of the invention. [0072] FIG. 51 depicts a perspective view of a plate carrier system with thread members of a quick release handle connecting a backpack and a plate bag by a MOLLE pattern in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0073] FIG. 52 depicts a front perspective view of a plate carrier system with user pulling a quick release handle attached to a front plate bag to disconnect a backpack from a back plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0074] FIG. 53 depicts a side perspective view of a plate carrier system with a quick release handle disconnected from a front plate bag and partially pulled away from the plate carrier system to disconnect a backpack from a back plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention. [0075] FIG. 54 depicts a side perspective view of a plate carrier system with thread members of a quick release handle disconnected from a backpack from a back plate bag in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0076] FIG. 55 depicts a front view of a yoke of a plate carrier system in accordance with embodiments of the invention. [0077] The images in the drawings are simplified for illustrative purposes and are not depicted to scale. Within the descriptions of the figures, similar elements are provided similar names and reference numerals as those of the previous figure(s). The specific numerals assigned to the elements are provided solely to aid in the description and are not meant to imply any limitations (structural or functional) on the invention.

[0078] The appended drawings illustrate exemplary configurations of the invention and, as such, should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention that may admit to other equally effective configurations. It is contemplated that features of one configuration may be beneficially incorporated in other configurations without further recitation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0079] The embodiments of the disclosure will be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. It will be readily understood that the components, as generally described and illustrated in the Figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations or be entirely separate. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the system and method of the disclosure, as represented in the Figures is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, as claimed, but is merely representative of possible embodiments of the disclosure.

[0080] In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a plate carrier system 100 is provided, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-55. Referring initially to FIGS. 1-2, the plate carrier system 100 has a front plate bag 102 having an outer panel 104, an inner panel 106, a plurality of side panels 108 connecting the outer panel 104 and inner panel 106, and a bottom panel 110 attached to the outer panel 104. The inner panel 106 comprises a breathable material, such as a breathable mesh foam material, as shown in the Figures. Spacers or inserts 107, which may be foam inserts as illustrated, push the plate slightly off of the assaulter to enable breathability and air flow between the plate carrier 100 and the assaulter. The plurality of side panels 108 may be an elastic material, such as a four way stretch material, as illustrated, for example, to enable stretching of the front plate bag to accommodate plates of varying width, height, and shape. As illustrated, edges of the outer panel 104 extend over the side panels 108 to define channels 112. In some embodiments, the channels 112 may be formed by attaching material apart from the outer panel 104. The portion of the outer panel 104 that covers the channel 112 serves as a limit to the distance the elastic material of the side panels 108 may extend. The channel 112 is operable to enable running of communications cables, attachment for a cable looping system utilizing slits 113, or for hydration tubes, for example, as shown in FIG. 22. As illustrated, channel 112 has three sections - a top section and a section on both sides of the front plate back 102. An interior 114 of the front plate bag 102 is defined by the outer panel 104, the inner panel 106, the plurality of side panels 108, and the bottom panel 110. The bottom panel 110 is operable to retain and secure a body armor plate in the interior 114. As illustrated, the bottom panel 110 has a hook and loop member 116 operable to attach to a hook and loop member 118 on the interior surface 120 of the inner panel 104. The bottom panel 110 may be tapered to enable different sized plates to fit in the interior 114, for example, as the bottom panel 110 may be attached further up or down on the interior surface 120 of the inner panel 104. A hook and loop panel 121 is disposed on the outer panel 104 of the front plate bag 102 operable to receive and secure a hook and loop member 154 of a cummerbund 148 and a placard 149 including magazine carriers and sewn utility pouches and med kits, for example. Clips 151 may be attached to the front of the front plate bag 102 to receive and secure the placard 149. In one embodiment, a pouch 153 is operable to store ammunition. [0081] The plate carrier system 100 has a back plate bag 122 having an outer panel 124, an inner panel 126, a plurality of side panels 128 connecting the outer panel 124 and the inner panel 126, and a bottom panel 130 attached to the outer panel 124, as shown in FIG. 2. The inner panel 126 comprises a breathable material, such as a breathable mesh foam material, as shown in the Figures. Spacers or inserts 127, which may be foam inserts as illustrated, push the plate slightly off of the assaulter to enable breathability and air flow between the plate carrier 100 and the assaulter. The plurality of side panels 128 may be an elastic material as illustrated, for example, to enable stretching of the front plate bag to accommodate plates of varying width, height, and shape, defines channels 129 to enable running of communications cables or a cable looping system, for example. As illustrated, edges of the outer panel 124 extend over the side panels 128 to define channel 129. In some embodiments, the channel 129 may be formed by attaching material apart from the outer panel 124. The portion of the outer panel 124 that covers the channel 129 serves as a limit to the distance the elastic material of the side panels 108 may extend. The channel 129 is operable to enable running of communications cables, attachment for a cable looping system utilizing slits 113, or for hydration tubes, for example, as shown in FIG. 4. As illustrated, channel 129 has three sections - a top section and a section on both sides of the back plate bag 122. An interior 132 of the back plate bag 122 is defined by the outer panel 124, the inner panel 126, the plurality of side panels 128, and the bottom panel 130. The bottom panel 130 is operable to retain and secure a body armor plate in the interior 132. As illustrated, the bottom panel 130 has a hook and loop member 134 operable to attach to a hook and loop member 136 on the interior surface of the outer panel 124. The bottom panel 130 may be tapered to enable different sized plates to fit in the interior 132, for example, as the bottom panel 130 may be attached further up or down on the hook and loop member 136 of the interior surface 138 of the outer panel 134. [0082] In one embodiment, the bottom panels 110 and 130 are operable to receive and secure plates in the plate bags 102 and 122 that are longer than the plate bags. Referring to FIGS. 23-25 illustrating the embodiment as applied to a front plate bag 102, wings 111 and 117 are operable to fold over a plate. In one embodiment, as illustrated, the wings 111 and 117 and are secured by strap 119; however, some embodiments may not include the strap 119. The bottom panel 110 has the length to fold over the plate and attach to the interior surface 120 of the inner panel 106 of the front plate bag 102, as shown in FIG. 25.

[0083] The plate carrier system 100 includes a yoke 140 connecting the front plate bag 102 to the back plate bag 122. The yoke 140 has a substantially flat attachment portion 141 operable to be in substantially continuous contact with the inner panels of the plate bags (FIGS. 20 and 55). The yoke 140 has a pair of back straps 142 connected to the inner panel 126 of the back plate bag 122 and a pair of front straps 144 connected to the inner panel 106 of the front plate bag 102. Hook and loop members 146 are attached to the front straps 144 and said back straps 142 and are operable for selectively attaching the back straps 142 to said front straps 144. The hook and loop members 146 operable to adjust a length of the yoke 140 by adjusting the location of attachment of the back straps 142 relative to the front straps 144. A pair of sleeves 147 is operable to cover and secure the hook and loop members 146. By connecting to the inner panels 126 and 106 of the respective plate bags 122 and 102, the yoke 140 lays flat on the chest, shoulders, and back of the assaulter, enabling the assaulter to use a weapon without imposition from the plate carrier system 100, as prior art systems are bulky and interfere with weapons, particularly assault rifles (FIGS. 36 and 52). The plate carrier system 100 enables an assaulter to access their shoulder cavity to press the butt of a weapon into the shoulder cavity. The plates retained and secured within the plate bags 102 and 122 sit in front of and behind the front straps 144 and the back straps 142 respectively of the yoke 140 while the plates remain tight and hug the body of the assaulter wearing the plate carrier system 100.

[0084] The plate carrier system 100 includes a pair of cummerbunds 148. Each cummerbund 148 has a first end opposite a second end. Hook and loop members 154 are disposed at the first end and the second end of each cummerbund 148. The cummerbunds 148 include a breathable material, such as mesh panel 156, to enable airflow and cooling of the assaulter. Each cummerbund 148 includes a pair of elastic members 158 a pair of fabric limit straps 160. The fabric limit straps 160 are operable to limit a stretch length of the pair of elastic members 158 to prevent overextension, overstretch, and to increase long term durability of the elastic members 158. The fabric limit straps 160 also serve as abackup in the event of failure of the elastic members 158, as the cummerbund 148 will remain intact and stay on the assaulter. The cummerbund 148 enables elasticity while assaulter inhales and exhales.

[0085] The plate carrier system 100 includes a laser cut Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (M.O.L.L.E.) pattern 178 defined by said back plate bag 122 (FIG. 4). A backpack 180 is included in the plate carrier system 100 (FIG. 1). The backpack 180 may be used for medical or tourniquet kit or expandable for tools, for example. The interior 187 of the backpack 180 includes a M.O.L.L.E. panel 181 and an additional pouch 183 for modularity and storage. A laser cut Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (M.O.L.L.E.) pattern 182 is defined by a back of the backpack 180. The plate carrier system 100 includes a quick release handle 184 having an elongate 185 (FIGS. 44-54). The quick release handle 184 includes a pair of thread members 186 (see, e.g., FIG. 44). A pair of shoulders 188 is defined by a pair of folds 190 in the thread members 186. A pair of stitches 192 is operable to secure the shoulders 188. The quick release handle 184 includes a handle 194 disposed between the folds 190. As shown in FIG. 47, the folds 190 enable the handle 194 to lay flat on a component attached to a plate carrier system by thread members 186, The backpack 180 is operable to be attached to the back plate bag 122 by weaving the thread members 186 through slits 193 of the yokes 140, under the straps 142 and 144, through the alternating M.O.L.L.E. pattern 178 of the back plate bag 122 and the M.O.L.L.E. pattern 182 of the backpack 180, as shown in FIGS. 51. A hook and loop connector may be disposed on the handle 194 to attach to the front plate bag 102. In one embodiment, the backpack 180 includes a pair of loops 196, as shown in FIG. 2, which may be looped through the M.O.L.L.E. pattern for additional stability. The quick release handle 184 may be threaded through the M.O.L.L.E. pattern of the back plate bag 122 for additional stability and retention, particularly if there is a heavy load carried in the backpack 180 which may cause the quick release handle 184 to slip. A grip material 191 may be added to the handle 194 to assist with grip if it is wet, dry, or greasy. The backpack 180 includes small accessory straps 197 to enable it to be worn as a standard backpack rather than needing to be carried. The quick release handle 184 may be reinforced to be sturdier to enable easier threading through the M.O.L.L.E. pattern.

[0086] The quick release handle 184 eliminates an issue with prior art systems. In the prior art systems, once a plate carrier system is worn by an assaulter, a fellow assaulter must assist with removing something from a backpack in a hurry. The quick release handle 184 enables an assaulter wearing the plate carrier system to quickly access anything in the backpack 180, such as medical equipment or an explosive charge or anything that is needed quickly in combat or an emergency.

[0087] In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 9 and 1 , the plate carrier system 100 includes a releasable pouch 216. A laser cut Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (M.O.L.L.E.) pattern 218 is defined by the releasable pouch 216. A laser cut Modular Lightweight Loadcarrying Equipment (M.O.L.L.E.) pattern 220 is defined by a front of the backpack 180. A pull handle 222 has thread members 224 and a pair of folds 226 secured by stitches. A grip material 217 may be added to the pull handle 222 to assist with grip if it is wet, dry, or greasy. The releasable pouch 216 is operable to be attached to the back plate bag 122 by weaving the thread members 224 through the alternating M.O.L.L E. pattern 218 of the backpack 180 and the M.O.L.L.E. pattern 220 of the releasable pouch 216, as shown in FIG. 11. When the releasable pouch 216 is secured to the backpack 180, the folds 226 of the pull handle 222 enable the handle to lay flat onto a top of the releasable pouch 216 and below any other pouches or equipment that may be attached to the M.O.L.L.E. pattern 220 of the backpack 180.

[0088] In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 10 and 12-29, the plate carrier system 100 includes a locking tab 228 having attachment arms 230. The exemplary locking tab 228 illustrated in the Figures includes two attachment arms 230. Alternate embodiments may include one arm, four arms, or six arms, as examples, depending on the item to be retained to the plate bag 102. Hook and loop members 232 are disposed on the attachment arms 230. The attachment arms 230 of the locking tab 228 are operable to slide into a M.O.L.L.E. pattern 153 of the placard 149 to wrap around itself and fasten to both sides of the placard 149 via the hook and loop members 232. The locking tab 228 has a button 234 operable to fasten to a button 236 on the front plate bag 102, thereby further securing the placard 149 to the front plate bag 102 and preventing it from going up and down. The locking tab 228 eliminates side clips that would normally be attached to a cummerbund to enable ease of getting out of equipment quickly. The ability to disconnect the locking tab 228 is advantageous, as assaulters often cut tabs off of plate carrier systems when if they are viewed as interfering. The arms 230 may secures to themselves after inserting through and folding over the placard 149, for example. [0089] Embodiments of the invention include a covert lay flat plate carrier system 300, as illustrated in FIGS. 26-29, operable to be worn under clothing. The plate carrier system 300 includes a front plate bag 302 and a back plate bag 304. A front yoke 306 is operable to connect to an outer surface 308 of the front plate bag 302. The front yoke 306 may connect to the outer surface 308 by hook and loop connectors, for example. In the embodiment illustrated in the Figures, the front yoke 306 comprises two sides 310 and 312, enabling one side to be removed from the front plate bag 302 while the other side remains attached, as shown in FIG. 28. The front yoke 306 includes a pair of front straps 314. A back yoke 316 is operable to connect to an outer surface 318 of the back plate bag 304. The back yoke 316 may connect to the outer surface 318 by hook and loop connectors, for example. As illustrated, the back yoke 316 attaches as a single piece to the back plate bag 304 (FIG. 29). However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the back plate bag 304 may comprise one or more sections to enable partial removal of the back yoke 316 from the back plate bag, such as two sides similar to the front yoke 306, for example. The back yoke 316 includes a pair of back straps 320. Hook and loop members 322 are attached to the front straps 314 and the back straps 320 and are operable for selectively attaching the front straps 314 to the back straps 320. The hook and loop members 322 operable to enable an assaulter to adjust a length of the front yoke 306 relative to the back yoke 316 by adjusting the location of attachment of the front straps 314 relative to the back straps 320. The front yoke 306 and the back yoke 316 may define cutouts 324, such as a laser cut M.O.L.L.E. pattern as illustrated, which may match a laser cut M O L.L.E. pattern 326 of a plate bag, to enable equipment to attach to the plate carrier system 300. A pair of sleeves 327 is operable to cover and secure the front straps 314 when connected to the back straps 320 when connects by the hook and loop members 322 (FIGS. 26- 27). The sleeves 327 may be made from a continuous piece of material that can be slid onto an end of one of the straps when disconnected from another strap or include a fastener, such as a hook and loop fastener, so that the sleeve may be wrapped around the connected straps 320 and 322 and secured, for example.

[0090] By connecting the front yoke 306 to the outer surface 308 of the front plate bag 302 and the back yoke 316 to the outer surface 318 of the back bag 304, the yokes 306 and 316 lay flat on the chest, shoulders, and back of the assaulter, enabling the assaulter to use a weapon without imposition from the plate carrier system 300, as prior art systems are bulky and interfere with weapons, particularly assault rifles. The plate carrier system 300 enables an assaulter to access their shoulder cavity to press the butt of a weapon into the shoulder cavity. The yokes 306 and 316 extend over the plate bags 302 and 304 to attach to the respective outer surfaces 308 and 318 while plates contained within the bags remain tight and hug the body of the assaulter wearing the plate carrier system 300. The plate carrier system 300 provides enhanced modularity, as the plate bags can be interchanged, as the yokes 306 and 316 are removable via hook and loop connectors. [0091] Embodiments of the invention include doff straps 328, as illustrated in FIGS. 30-43. The doff straps 328 are operable to enable quick release of a plate carrier system, such as plate carrier system 100 or 300, by an assaulter. Doff as used herein means to remove an article of wear from the body. As illustrated in the Figures, the doff straps 328 are operable to connect between shoulder straps of a yoke system or between a cummerbund and a front plate bag. Referring initially to FIG. 30, doff strap 328 has a connector 330 opposite a pull tab 332. Hook and loop connectors are attached to each surface of the connector 330. One skilled in the art will appreciate that any connector operable to attach the doff straps 328 may be suitable. FIGS. 31-32 illustrate a configuration of steps of attaching doff strap 328 attached to a cummerbund 148 to enable a quick release of the cummerbund 148 from a front plate bag 102. FIG. 31 shows a connector 330 of a doff strap 328 attached to a hook and loop connector of a cummerbund 148. FIG. 32 shows a doff strap 328 connected by hook and loop fasteners between a cummerbund 148 and a front plate bag 102 of a plate carrier system 100. FIG. 32 shows the pull tab 332 of the doff strap 328 folded over the end of the cummerbund 148 to extend past the front plate bag 102 and secured to the cummerbund 148 by a placard 149 attached to the cummerbund 148 by hook and loop fasteners. In this configuration, the doff strap 328 is folded under and around the end of the cummerbund 148. As shown in the sequence illustrated in FIGS. 33-35, pulling on the doff strap 328 will pull the end of the cummerbund 148, causing it to curl and disconnect from both the front plate bag 102 and the placard 149, thereby releasing the plate carrier system from an assaulter.

[0092] The doff straps 328 are operable for quick release of the hook and loop connection of the shoulder straps of the yoke systems. FIGS 36-43 show the doff straps 328 in an exemplary use with the plate carrier system 300. The connectors 330 of the doff straps 328 are operable to connect between the hook and loop members 322 of the front straps 314 of the front yoke 306 and the back straps 320 of the back yoke 316. The doff strap 328 is folded under and over the end of the front strap 314 with the pull tab 332 extended past an end of a sleeve 327 to enable an assaulter to pull it. By pulling on the pull tab 332, front strap 314 will curl and disconnect from the back strap 320, thereby releasing the plate carrier system from an assaulter, as shown in the sequence illustrated in FIGS. 38-43. The front strap 314 and the doff strap 328 may remain in the sleeve 327 after a disconnection. The doff straps 328 and sleeves 327 may be used in conjunction with communications equipment. Quick release by the doff straps 328 is particularly advantageous in certain missions, especially in marine settings where equipment can pose a hazard when an assaulter unintentionally enters a body of water. [0093] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference has been made to the preferred embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language has been used to describe these embodiments. However, this specific language intends no limitation of the scope of the invention, and the invention should be construed to encompass all embodiments that would normally occur to one of ordinary skill in the art. The particular implementations shown and described herein are illustrative examples of the invention and are not intended to otherwise limit the scope of the invention in any way. For the sake of brevity, conventional aspects of the system (and components of the individual operating components of the system) may not be described in detail. Furthermore, the connecting lines, or connectors shown in the various figures presented are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and/or physical or logical couplings between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships, physical connections or logical connections may be present in a practical device. Moreover, no item or component is essential to the practice of the invention unless the element is specifically described as “essential” or “critical”. Numerous modifications and adaptations will be readily apparent to those skilled in this art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.