Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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TEXTILE ITEM OF CLOTHING WITH BALLISTIC PROTECTION
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The invention relates to a textile item of clothing with ballistic
protection.
A textile item of clothing of the type in question is known from
DE 10 2012 110 104 Al.
The term "ballistic protection" is understood, in particular, to
mean personal protection provided by items of clothing worn close
to the body, as result of which the person wearing the item of
clothing should be protected against the effects of an explosion
and the resulting fragments, or the effects thereof on the wearer
should be reduced.
Investigations have shown that there is a sharp increase in
injuries to the (lower) abdomen, in particular in the genital
region, among military personnel, but also among civilians in
areas of conflict, in particular in areas where there is regular
terrorist activity, for example in Afghanistan. This is due, inter
alia, to the fact that terrorists use improvised explosive
devices, so-called IEDs. These are explosive devices which are
positioned usually on the ground and act from the ground upwards.
This results in primary fragments and secondary fragments, which
injure, in particular, the (lower) abdomen. Particles of sand,
dust and dirt are also accelerated by the explosion. The explosive
devices also give rise to a pressure wave and fire.
The prior art, reference being made here to US 6,961,958 Bl,
discloses an item of underwear with ballistic protection. The
underwear here, for example underpants, has pockets, into which
ballistic protection pads are pushed. The ballistic protection
pads may be made, for example, of a ballistic material known as
SPECTRAFLEX available from Allied Signal Company. It is also
known from US 6,691,958 B1 to use aramid fibers or polyethylene
REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26)
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fibers, for example TwaronTm and DyneemaTM, to produce the
protection pads which are to be pushed into the pockets.
The arrangement known from US 6,961,958 B1 provides comparatively
good protection against ballistic attack from the front, but
provides insufficient protection against explosions caused by the
aforementioned improvised explosive devices positioned in the
vicinity of the ground. Furthermore, there is the risk of the
protection pad, once introduced into the pockets, shifting in an
undesired manner. In addition, the person wearing the underwear is
impeded by the protection pads, for example when he is lying on
the ground or is to crawl forward.
A further disadvantage of known ballistic-protection underpants is
that the protection pads thereof are only insufficiently
coordinated with the locations of the (lower) abdomen which
actually particularly require protection.
The document relating to the item of clothing of the type in
question discloses an item of underwear of which the basic surface
area is made up of a knitted fabric which inhibits the penetration
of fragments and is made from UHMWPE (ultrahigh-molecular-weight
polyethylene) and of a further, different textile material. The
various textile materials or the various zones from which the
underwear is made up are sewn to one another. This invention was
based on the consideration that, rather than the entire item of
underwear, it is necessary essentially only for the regions which
require particular protection to be formed from a single knitted
fabric which inhibits the penetration of fragments. Within the
context of this invention, it has therefore been assumed that it
is sufficient to use the knitted fabric made from UHMWPE in a
first zone of the basic surface area, which requires particular
protection. The invention was also based on the consideration, in
contrast to the prior art, as is known from US 6,961,958 Bl, of
doing away with producing the underwear in the first instance
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entirely from a material which does not provide ballistic
protection and then providing pockets for accommodating ballistic
protection pads. In contrast to this, the document relating to the
item of clothing of the type in question discloses that the
underwear is made up by virtue of a plurality of different textile
materials being sewn together. This is intended to achieve the
situation where the underwear has a comparatively low mass per
unit area and, nevertheless, provides good protection.
It has been found, however, that the protection provided by an
item of underwear which is produced in a manner corresponding to
the disclosure of the document relating to the item of clothing of
the type in question is still worthy of improvement. One problem
is that the aforementioned IEDs take effect in two waves. In a
first instance, a pressure wave acts on the textile item of
clothing, in particular the underwear. The latter is thus inflated
and the seams by which the individual textile surfaces are sewn
together can rupture. Although the surfaces which are intended to
ensure ballistic protection remain essentially intact, they are no
longer necessarily situated at the envisaged locations, since it
is possible that all the other surfaces are destroyed and, in
particular, the seams are torn. If, then, the second wave, on
account of the explosion, subjects the body to the action of
fragments and dirt, ballistic protection is no longer reliably
provided. It is thus possible for the fragments and the dirt to
penetrate into the body.
It has been found that the first wave gives rise to excess
pressure which very much pumps up or inflates the textile item of
clothing. The item of protective clothing ruptures as a result of
this pressure and of the pumping-up action.
The present invention is based on the object of creating a textile
item of clothing with ballistic protection which overcomes the
disadvantages of the prior art, in particular provides
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particularly effective protection even against improvised
explosive devices positioned in the vicinity of the ground, which
is easy to handle and impedes the wearer as little as possible.
This object is achieved according to the invention by the features
of claim 1.
This object is also achieved according to the invention by the
features of claim 24.
The present invention is also based on the object of creating a
glove, a sock, a knee sock or a bra, which, in comparison with the
prior art, provide better protection, in particular against
improvised explosive devices positioned in the vicinity of the
ground.
This object is achieved according to the invention by the features
of claim 22.
Since the textile item of clothing has at least one knitted
fabric, which has a plurality of differently protected zones,
wherein at least two different zones are connected seamlessly to
one another, and at least one zone is formed from a yarn which
inhibits the penetration of fragments, the invention solves the
abovedescribed disadvantages of the textile items of clothing
according to the prior art, in particular improves protection
against improvised explosive devices positioned in the vicinity of
the ground.
This is illustrated in yet more detail hereinbelow.
According to the invention, provision may be made for the textile
item of clothing to be a knitted fabric.
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According to the invention, provision may likewise be made for the
textile item of clothing to have at least one knitted fabric and
at least one woven fabric, which is connected to the knitted
fabric.
Configuring the textile item of clothing according to the
invention in the form of a knitted fabric or of a knitted fabric
and at least one woven fabric, which is connected to the knitted
fabric, may have various, in particular use-specific, advantages,
which will be illustrated in yet more detail hereinbelow.
All the advantages which are illustrated hereinbelow with
reference to a textile item of clothing, and in which the item of
clothing is preferably a knitted fabric, can also be realized for
an item of clothing which is made up of a knitted fabric and at
least one woven fabric, which is connected to the knitted fabric,
unless stated explicitly to the contrary or technically
impossible.
Since the textile item of clothing is preferably a knitted fabric
and has a plurality of differently protected zones, wherein at
least two different zones are connected seamlessly to one another
and at least one first zone is formed from a yarn which inhibits
the penetration of fragments, the invention overcomes the
disadvantages of the previously known textile items of clothing
with ballistic protection.
The expression "a plurality of zones" is understood to mean two or
more zones.
Any possible bands which may be present on the textile item of
clothing according to the invention do not count as a "zone"
within the context of the invention.
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That part of the textile item of clothing which is formed by the
first zone may be formed in one or more pieces. It is also
possible for each of the other zones provided to be arranged in
one or more pieces, i.e. distributed over a plurality of regions.
The feature according to the invention whereby "at least two
different zones are connected seamlessly to one another" does not
presuppose that, when a zone is in more than one piece, i.e. is
divided up over a plurality of regions of the textile item of
clothing, all the sub-surfaces of said zone are connected
seamlessly to one or more (sub-)surfaces of a different zone. It
is sufficient for two (sub-)surfaces of different zones to be
connected seamlessly to one another. It is preferable, however,
for all the surfaces of a zone to be connected seamlessly to all
the surfaces of a different zone.
Within the context of the invention, two zones are deemed to be
differently protected when the construction thereof, i.e. the yarn
used and/or the thickness of the yarn and/or the weave and/or the
structure of the yarn and/or the thickness of the layer and/or the
number of layers arranged one above the other, gives rise to
different levels of ballistic protection.
Different zones are deemed to be, for example, two or more of the
zones mentioned hereinbelow:
a) a zone which is knitted from a yarn which is known to provide
ballistic protection, in particular UHMWPE, aramid or Vectran ;
b) a zone which is constructed in a manner corresponding to zone
a), but in which the yarn which is to provide the ballistic
protection is coarser and/or has a higher mass per unit area
and/or a closer weave is provided and/or a different number of
layers arranged one above the other is provided;
c) a zone in which other properties, for example elasticity or air
permeability, are important and which is produced merely by way
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of a minimum level of ballistic protection, preferably by use
being made of a covered yarn which has preferably UHMWPE,
aramid or Vectran ;
d) a zone which does not incorporate any material which is known
for providing a minimum level of ballistic protection, in
particular when the zone does not have yarn consisting of
UHMWPE, aramid or Vectran .
According to the invention, provision may be made for the
ballistic protection which is to be provided by the textile item
of clothing to be achieved only from the fact that the knitted
fabric has differently protected zones, without any need for
additional protection pads, which according to the prior art are
pushed into pockets.
According to the invention, provision may be made for a plurality
of, preferably all, the zones to be connected seamlessly to one
another.
The zones are preferably integrated with one another.
According to the invention, provision may be made for the textile
item of clothing to be flat-knitted entirely seamlessly and for
the different zones to be integrated with one another.
In contrast to the teaching of the document relating to the item
of textile clothing of the type in question, that is to say
DE 10 2012 110 104 Al, the zones produced from different
materials, rather than being sewn together, are connected
seamlessly to one another.
The inventor has recognized that a seamless connection of the
zones can significantly improve the level of protection provided
by the textile item of clothing. This avoids a previous problem,
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namely the rupturing of the seams by the pressure wave of an
explosion and the resulting failure of the ballistic protection.
Since the item of textile clothing according to the invention, on
account of the seamless connection, is no longer ruptured by the
pressure wave, the textile item of clothing is also still situated
at the envisaged position following the pressure wave, and
therefore the first zone, which is formed from a yarn which
inhibits the penetration of fragments, can provide protection at
the anticipated location and can protect the person wearing the
item of clothing.
In contrast to the other prior art, the invention also has the
advantage that the formation of different zones makes it possible
to form different protective regions or other regions, and
therefore the textile can also perform other functions, for
example it can regulate heat and provide a good fit.
The inventor has also recognized that it is very advantageous if
the textile item of clothing fits closely against the wearer's
body, in particular if the textile item of clothing is an item of
underwear, and this avoids the situation where the first pressure
wave causes the textile item of clothing to inflate.
It is particularly advantageous here if the textile item of
clothing is configured such that it is not just any bands which
may be provided which cause the item of clothing to fit closely
against the body of the person wearing the item of clothing, but
rather the entire item of clothing is formed so as to fit closely
against the person wearing the item of clothing.
The inventor has also recognized, and solved, a further problem of
ballistic-protection textiles from the prior art, in particular
according to the document relating to the item of clothing of the
type in question. If the individual zones are knitted
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independently of one another and then put together to form a
textile item of clothing, this inevitably results in open edges or
predetermined breaking points. These open edges prevent the active
forces from being distributed in the best way possible, since the
filaments are cut off directly at the periphery and the force can
be absorbed by the filaments only up to this cut-off point. The
functioning of soft ballistics, however, is based on the
absorption and distribution of the kinetic energy which arises.
The directly affected threads of the item of clothing are
destroyed and/or expanded by the penetration of the
bullet/projectile and thus distribute the energy to the
surrounding threads. Since woven fabrics and laid fabrics are
produced generally at right angles, this energy distribution
occurs predominantly in the longitudinal and transverse
directions. The force is distributed further to the surrounding
threads via the crossover points of the fibers, which results in a
kind of chain reaction. The energy thus propagates increasingly to
the individual threads until the kinetic energy of the
bullet/projectile, as the latter tries to pass through the textile
layer, has dissipated and the bullet/projectile is halted.
Cutting the ballistic clothing to size creates artificial
"predetermined breaking points", and therefore the force acting on
the threads can be absorbed only up to the cut-off point. This
problem is solved by the present invention. The individual zones
are connected seamlessly to one another, and are preferably
integrated with one another. It is advantageous here if the zones
of the textile item of clothing each comprise endless yarns which
are not cut off at the periphery. It is preferable for each zone
to be formed just by one thread. This makes it possible to achieve
a situation where the force produced by the bullet/projectile is
conducted over the entire textile surface instead of just over the
directly affected surface. The thread would therefore dissipate
the force (theoretically) more or less endlessly, which results in
the number of layers being reduced, in an associated reduction in
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weight and in improved trauma characteristics. Furthermore,
production from one thread is more advantageous and
environmentally compatible, since there is no waste and there are
no additional costs for making the layers.
Making up the textile item of clothing from a plurality of zones
has the advantage that the zones which provide the ballistic
protection can be concentrated in the locations which are to be
appropriately protected. The other zones can incorporate
correspondingly suitable materials, which provide, for example,
for heat regulation or ensure advantageously the elasticity of the
item of clothing.
According to the invention, provision may be made for the textile
item of clothing to be designed in the form of underwear,
underpants, a vest, T-shirt, headscarf, scarf, balaclava, tubular
scarf, combat shirt or long-sleeved shirt.
Provision may also be made for the textile item of clothing to be
designed in the form of a glove, of an inner glove, of a sock, of
a knee sock, of a bra, of a T-shirt or item of underwear shaped
for the female body, of a shirt or of a long-sleeved shirt, in
particular of a combat shirt.
In all the possible configurations, the textile item of clothing
is worn preferably directly on the skin, that is to say the
textile item of clothing also serves as underwear or replaces
underwear.
In a configuration in the form of underwear, it may be
advantageous if a first zone extends in one piece from a front
side to the rear side and, in the process, also protects in
particular the perineum and the anal region, in particular against
fragments which shoot upward from the ground. The prior-art
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ballistic protection pads, which are merely pushed into pockets,
provide pretty much no protection here.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being configured in
the form of underpants, it may be advantageous, as already
described above, if a part located on the front side as well as
the region of the perineum and the anal region and a portion
formed on the rear side are formed in one piece from the first
zone. It is advantageous in this case if, rather than being formed
from the first zone, the legs of the pants, preferably at least
the laterally outer surfaces of the legs of the pants, constitute
a different zone, which is connected seamlessly to the first zone.
It is preferably possible for the legs of the pants to constitute
a comfort zone, and particularly preferably to be of breathable
and elastic, and possibly also flame-retardant, design. The legs
of the pants preferably fit closely against the wearer's body.
It is advantageous if there is a second zone, which provides a
higher level of ballistic protection than the first zone. It is
possible for the second zone, which may likewise be formed in one
or more pieces, i.e. which is realized by a continuous surface or
by a plurality of individual surfaces, to be, in turn, connected
seamlessly to the other zones, and preferably to be integrated
therewith.
It is advantageous if the second zone, which provides a higher
level of ballistic protection than the first zone, protects those
regions of the wearer which are particularly at risk. It may be
advantageous if the second zone, should the textile item of
clothing be designed in the form of underpants, extends in one
piece from a front side, in particular the external genitalia, to
the rear side and, in the process, protects in particular the
perineum and the anal region, in particular against fragments
which shoot upward from the ground.
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In particular on the rear side of the underpants, it is then
possible for the first zone to be connected seamlessly to the
second zone and, if appropriate, for a further zone with more
elastic properties to be connected seamlessly to the first zone.
It is advantageous if the second zone is formed from a yarn which
inhibits the penetration of fragments, wherein the yarn is coarser
and/or the mass per unit area is higher and/or a closer weave is
provided than in the case of the yarn in the first zone. This
makes it straightforwardly possible to provide a higher level of
protection. It is advantageous if the first zone is of single-
layer design and the second zone is of two-layered or multi-
layered design. As an alternative, provision may also be made for
the first zone to be of two-layer design and for the second zone
to be of three-layered, four-layered or multi-layered design.
It is advantageous if the second zone is designed in the form of a
spacer knit fabric. This makes it straightforwardly possible to
realize a double layer or, if appropriate, also a multiple layer.
A spacer knit fabric has been found to be advantageous here, in
particular in respect of breathability. Despite the spacer fabric
having multiple layers, it is not too stiff or the wearer.
According to the invention, provision may be made for the first
zone to be designed in the form of a spacer knit fabric.
According to the invention, provision may be made for the yarn
which inhibits the penetration of fragments to have, or to be, a
UHMWPE (ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene) or aramid or
Vectran .
Aramid is the abbreviation for "aromatic polyamide", a special
polyamide form. These polyamides are divided up into para- and
meta-aramids. Their mechanical properties make para-aramids well-
suited for protective clothing, i.e. for ballistic protection and
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protection against stabbing and cutting. Meta-aramids are used
specifically for heat protection. In the case of the para-aramid
polymers, the amide groups are situated on the opposite sides of a
benzene ring and therefore produce a rectilinear molecule-chain
structure.
The use of UHMWPE has been found to be very appropriate for
ballistics and is already proposed in the document relating to the
item of clothing of the type in question.
It is also possible, in principle to use PBO. PBO is an isotropic,
crystalline polymer fiber and is a polybenzazolene. On account of
its linear structure and of the aromatic heterocyclic groups, PBO
is a rigid rod-like macromolecule (similar to the para-aramid). It
is very difficult, however, to make PBO.
The use of Vectran has been found to be appropriate. This is a
high-performance multifilament yarn which is spun from liquid
crystal polymers.
It is advantageous if the first zone and/or the second zone
form/forms at least that part of the textile item of clothing
which, when the textile item of clothing is being worn correctly,
at least partially covers at least one of the regions of the human
body which are mentioned hereinbelow:
a) internal organs,
b) liver and/or kidneys and/or bladder and/or digestive organs
and/or spleen,
c) abdomen and urinary tract,
d) aorta and venous system,
e) perineum and anal region,
f) inner thigh region.
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Of course, when the textile item of clothing is adjacent to one of
the aforementioned regions only to some extent, or not at all, it
is also the case that said regions cannot be protected by the
textile item of clothing. If the textile item of clothing is
designed in the form of underwear, i.e. underpants and/or a vest,
provision is made for said item, when it is being worn, to cover
at least one of the aforementioned regions, said region therefore
being provided with ballistic protection and/or penetration of
fragments being inhibited.
It is preferred if a plurality, particularly preferably all, of
the aforementioned regions are assigned to the first and/or the
second zone.
It is advantageous if the textile item of clothing is designed in
the form of underpants. However, the invention is not confined to
this.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being configured in
the form of underpants, it is advantageous if these are configured
such that the underpants, when being worn correctly by the wearer,
reach upward to such an extent that they also cover over the navel
- and run round in annular form at this level. This has the
advantage that the underwear overlaps with a protective vest which
is possibly worn in addition. In particular it is also possible
for the kidneys, on the rear side of the person wearing the
underwear, to be fully protected by the underwear and, if
appropriate, the protective vest.
It is also advantageous if the underwear, configured in the form
of underpants, extends to a wearer's knee, and terminates
preferably directly above the knee, when the wearer is wearing the
underpants correctly.
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It is advantageous if a further zone has an elastic yarn or is
formed by an elastic yarn.
The further zone here may be defined as a zone which requires a
lower level of protection and in which other properties, for
example the production of air circulation and elasticity in order
to achieve a good fit, are important. The further zone may be
designed here in the form of a comfort zone, if appropriate in the
form of a so-called mesh, i.e. in the form of an air-permeable
textile net fabric. It is also possible here for the yarn selected
for the further zone to be configured such that it allows, or
assists, the regulation of heat and/or the wicking of sweat from
the body.
It may be advantageous if the further zone is of flame-retardant
and/or breathable design.
That part of the textile item of clothing which is formed by the
further zone may be formed in one or more pieces. If formed in
more than one piece, the further zone may also have different
properties, in particular, as described hereinbelow, it may be
designed with and without ballistic protection.
It may also be advantageous if the further zone has a yarn which
inhibits the penetration of fragments. Use can be made, for this
purpose, of a yarn which has already been mentioned above, in
particular UHMWPE, aramid or Vectran .
The inventor has recognized that a covered yarn is particularly
suitable for the further zone. It is possible for the further zone
to have a covered yarn, or to be formed by a covered yarn, which
preferably has a core which is made of the elastic yarn and has
the yarn which inhibits the penetration of fragments wound around
it.
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This solution has been found to be particularly suitable since, on
the one hand, it realizes a comfort zone with the desired
properties, in particular the desired elasticity and good wearing
comfort, and it also results in the technical advantage of the
textile item of clothing fitting closely to the wearer's body.
Furthermore, this solution provides a certain minimum level of
ballistic protection as a result of the core made of the elastic
yarn having a yarn which inhibits the penetration of fragments
wound around it. This has been found to be particularly
appropriate. The yarn which inhibits the penetration of fragments
may, in turn, be one of the aforementioned yarns.
According to the invention, the textile item of clothing may have
bands, which are connected preferably seamlessly to adjacent
zones. The bands may have an elastic yarn or be formed by an
elastic yarn. It is also possible here for the bands to be of
flame-retardant and/or breathable design. It is also possible for
the additional zone to be produced from a covered yarn, wherein it
is preferable once again to provide an elastic core, for example
made of a material referred to as elastan, which has another yarn
wound around it, said other yarn, for example, also being, once
again, a yarn which inhibits the penetration of fragments (UHMWPE,
aramid or Vectran )
It is also the case that the bands are preferably integrated with
the other adjacent zones. It is not imperative for the bands to be
present in the textile item of clothing and/or to be connected
seamlessly to the adjacent zones.
Within the context of the invention, the term "bands" also covers
a configuration of the textile item of clothing with just one
band.
An antibacterial finish at least of the first or of the second
zone, preferably of all the zones, may be advantageous.
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It is advantageous if at least the first and/or the second zone,
preferably all the zones, have hydrophilic properties.
It is advantageous if the first zone and/or the second zone are
designed in the form of a close-knit fabric.
It is advantageous if, in the case of the first and/or second zone
being configured with UHMWPE, use is made of a plastic fiber known
as Dyneema0, developed by the same group Royal DSM N.V., or of a
plastic fiber known as Spectra available from Honeywell
International Inc.
It may be advantageous if the knitted fabric made from UHMWPE is
knitted using a double yarn.
According to the invention, provision may be made for in each case
a number of the first zones and/or of the second zones and/or of
the further zones to be formed in the textile item of clothing.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being designed in the
form of a vest, a harness may be incorporated, preferably knitted
into the same. The harness may be provided so that, for example
when the person wearing the vest or the T-shirt has been injured,
the harness, which may be designed in the form of a rescue handle,
can be used to lift the wearer or at least to help the wearer for
example in standing up.
It is possible for the harness to be guided preferably from the
back over the chest and/or from the back underneath the armpits up
to the shoulder and, at the rear, around the wearer's neck, when
the vest or the T-shirt is being worn correctly.
It is advantageous here, in particular, if the harness branches
from the back, this therefore allowing it to both be guided
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underneath the armpits up to the shoulder and to run round the
wearer's chest.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being configured in
the form of a vest or T-shirt, it may be advantageous if a padding
arrangement is incorporated, or formed, in the shoulder region, in
order to facilitate the carrying, for example, of packs or
rucksacks. It may also be advantageous if pockets are introduced,
preferably knitted in, in the region of the sleeves and/or of the
bands, for example for the purpose of accommodating smartphones,
keys, access cards, pens or the like.
The abovedescribed configuration of a vest or of a T-shirt having
a harness and/or a padding arrangement and/or pockets is suitable
both for vests and T-shirts for men and for vests and T-shirts for
women, wherein the vests and T-shirts may have appropriate shaping
for the female body. The aforementioned configurations are also
suitable, in addition, for a long-sleeved shirt, in which case the
pockets can be formed preferably in the arm parts, particularly
preferably in the region of the upper arm.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being designed in the
form of a head covering, scarf, headscarf, tubular scarf or
balaclava, provision may be made for a further zone in the form of
a net-like elastic knitted fabric to be formed in the upper head
region, wherein when the head covering, the scarf, the headscarf,
the tubular scarf or the balaclava is being worn correctly, the
upper head region fits against an upper region of the wearer's
head, which extends upwards and all the way round from a lower
region of the wearer's forehead. This may be, for example, a
knitted product having a perforated structure, preferably made of
a natural fiber, polyamide or polyester, particularly preferably
with a flame-retardant configuration. The aforementioned region is
configured, in particular, in the form of a further zone in the
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manner already described. It is preferably a mesh. Breathability
and elasticity are preferably provided.
Such a configuration of the head covering, of the tubular scarf,
of the scarf, of the balaclava or of the headscarf (referred to
hereinbelow jointly as a head covering) has been found to be
particularly suitable since, on account of the particular need for
protection, in particular emergency personnel usually wear a
helmet, and there is no need for the head covering to provide
ballistic protection in this region of the head. It is
particularly important, in this region of the head, for the head
covering to be comfortable to wear and to be of breathable and
elastic design. It is also possible here to use once again, for
example, a covered yarn of the configuration already described.
According to the invention, provision may be made for sub-regions
and/or individual zones to have an outer side, which is knitted
from a different material to the inner side thereof. The manner in
which this can be achieved is known, in principle, from the prior
art and is referred to there as plating.
According to the invention, provision may be made for the textile
item of clothing to have a seam in order for the seamlessly flat-
knitted textile item of clothing to be formed into a textile body
which is closed all the way round, in particular in the form of an
item of underwear, of underpants, of a vest, of a T-shirt, of a
head covering, of a headscarf, of a scarf, of a tubular scarf, of
a balaclava, of a sock, of a knee sock, of a glove, of an inner
glove, of a bra, of a long-sleeved shirt or of a torso part of a
long-sleeved shirt.
This alters nothing in respect of the seamless connection provided
according to the invention between the zones of the item of
clothing, but is merely down to the preferably envisaged
production method, which may possibly make provision for the ends
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of the flat-knitted item of clothing to be connected to one
another in order to produce a textile body which the wearer can
put on. The seam will preferably run such that it bothers the
wearer as little as possible and runs preferably within one zone,
i.e. preferably not between two zones.
If appropriate, it is also possible, in dependence on the knitting
method, for the seam to be dispensed with altogether, in order for
the flat-knitted textile item of clothing to be formed into a
textile body which is closed all the way round.
The aforementioned seam may be configured, for example, in the
form of a "medical release" so that, in the event of the person
wearing the textile item of clothing being injured, said clothing
can be removed quickly from the body. Configuring the seam in the
form of a "medical release" may also be recommended, in
particular, in the case of the textile item of clothing being
designed in the form of an inner glove or glove.
The textile item of clothing is produced preferably on a flat-
knitting machine.
According to the invention, provision is made for the textile item
of clothing to be produced such that it fits as closely as
possible against the body.
In the further zone and possibly also in the bands, use can be
made of so-called covered yarns, preferably with an elastan core,
but also of natural yarns and so-called FR yarns. The further
zone, which is the comfort region, is preferably supported, in
addition, by a high-strength yarn, in particular UHMWPE, aramids
and Vectran , so that the clothing does not rupture here as a
result of the pressure of the detonation.
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The solution according to the invention, namely the seamless
connection of the zones, in particular the fact that the zones are
integrated with one another, prevents the textile item of clothing
from rupturing. The solution according to the invention avoids the
situation where the air from a first pressure wave, in particular
from an IED explosion, does not pass beneath the item of clothing
and therefore does not pump up, and rupture, the item of clothing.
It is also the case that there are no seams present which can be
torn open by the pressure wave.
Provision is preferably made for net regions (mesh) also to be
formed in the comfort region, and this can be realized, in
particular, in the region of muscles or non-critical locations of
the body, without the strength of the product being adversely
affected thereby. It is possible for net regions to be connected
seamlessly to, in particular integrated with, the other zones. The
further zone is preferably designed, at least in part, in the form
of a net.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being configured in
the form of ballistic underwear, provision is preferably made for
it to be produced on a flat-knitting machine and for the
underwear, in particular when designed in the form of underpants,
to fit closely against the body, similarly as known in the case of
cycling shorts. Reinforced zones, preferably knitted by a spacer
knit fabric, are provided in particular for protection in the
genital and anal regions and for the protection of arteries and
veins. Reference is made here to the description in particular
relating to the second zone.
If a second zone is dispensed with, it is also possible for the
first zone to be designed in the manner described for the second
zone. In particular, provision may be made for the first zone also
to be produced by a spacer knit fabric or to be formed by a
plurality of layers of the knitted fabric. Configuring the textile
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item of clothing with two protective zones (first zone and second
zone) has, indeed, been found to be particularly appropriate;
however, if just one zone is to be formed, this zone may have one,
more or all of the properties and options which have been
described in relation to the second zone.
Configuring the textile item of clothing with just a protective
zone ("first zone"), as described above, is appropriate, in
particular, when the textile item of clothing is a sock, a knee
sock or a bra. In these configurations, it may be sufficient if
the protective zone provided is one which is connected seamlessly
to a further zone, which is designed preferably in the form of an
elastic zone or comfort zone. In addition, it is also possible for
the textile items of clothing configured in the form of a sock,
knee sock or bra to have bands, which are connected preferably
likewise seamlessly to the protective zone and/or the further
zone. There may be one or more bands provided. The further zones
and also the protective zones may each be formed in one or more
pieces, as already described.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being configured in
the form of a vest or T-shirt for female wearers, in which case
the textile item of clothing may be provided with appropriate
shaping for the female body, it may likewise be sufficient to form
a protective zone ("first zone"), as described above, which is
connected seamlessly to a further zone and/or bands.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being configured in
the form of an inner glove or glove, it may likewise be sufficient
to form a protective zone ("first zone") which, in turn, is
connected seamlessly to a further zone, preferably an elastic zone
or a comfort zone. It is also possible for the textile item of
clothing configured in the form of a glove also to have bands,
preferably just one band in the region of a wearer's wrist,
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wherein the band is connected seamlessly to the protective zone
and/or the further zone.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being configured in
the form of a long-sleeved shirt, in particular of a combat shirt,
it may be sufficient if the torso part of the shirt, said torso
part covering the wearer's torso, to be formed from a protective
zone ("first zone").
In a configuration of the textile item of clothing which can
constitute an invention in its own right, provision may be made
for the item of clothing to be made up of a torso part and arm
parts, wherein the torso part is designed in the form of a knitted
fabric, whereas the arm parts are designed in the form of a woven
fabric, and the arm parts are connected to the torso part in each
case via a seam. The torso part may be configured here in the
manner which has already been described within the context of the
invention above and below. However, it is also possible for the
torso part to have just a protective zone and no further zone
("comfort zone"), although provision may preferably be made for
bands to be connected seamlessly. In this case, the knitted
fabric, which forms the torso part, has at least one zone which is
formed from a yarn which inhibits the penetration of fragments.
Such a configuration, namely a configuration in which the textile
item of clothing has only a first zone, or at least one first
zone, which is formed from a yarn which inhibits the penetration
of fragments may also be suitable for a configuration of the
textile item of clothing in the form of a glove, inner glove,
sock, knee sock or bra. In all these cases, however, provision may
also be made for for example a band to be connected, preferably
seamlessly, to the first zone.
It is possible for the further zone, which may be arranged in the
comfort region, to be produced by an elastic net and/or a jersey
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fabric, possibly using UHMWPE yarns. High-performance filaments
can be knitted into the same so that there is no rupturing of the
textile item of clothing, in particular the underpants.
The bands are produced from an elastic and skin-friendly material.
The bands are connected, preferably without seams, to the rest of
the textile item of clothing, in particular the underwear, the
underpants, the vest, the T-shirt, the head covering, the sock,
the knee sock, the bra, the inner glove, the glove or the long-
sleeved shirt.
Instead of synthetic materials being used in the net, jersey
fabric and the bands, use can also be made of viscose or cotton or
of other known skin-friendly materials. A special yarn, which is
preferably also skin-friendly, can be used for the additional
flame-retardant property (FR property).
All the variants which have been described above in detail using
UHMWPE may also be realized with the aid of aramid to form the
ballistic material. This is recommended, in particular, on account
of the flame-retardant properties. The use of a yarn of 420 dtex
to 550 dtex may be advantageous here.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being configured in
the form of underpants according to the invention, provision may
be made for these to be worn directly on the skin or over close-
fitting conventional underpants.
Regions which should be preferably at least partially protected,
or for which it may be advantageous to form the first zone or the
second zone, are arteries and veins, internal organs - the abdomen
and urinary tract, external and internal genitalia, the perineum
and anal region and the inner thighs. Zones in which a reduced
degree of protection is recommended, that is to say the comfort
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region, are in particular the regions of the muscles and of the
bones. The further zone may preferably be formed here.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being designed in the
form of a head covering, of a scarf, of a tubular scarf, of a
balaclava or of a headscarf, it has been found to be advantageous
if the first zone and/or the second zone are designed such that
they protect the mouth and/or the neck region when the
aforementioned textile items of clothing are being worn correctly.
It is advantageous if, in these zones, use is made of a spacer
knit fabric which is formed from a high-strength material, in
particular UHMWPE, aramid or VectranG, and which protects the
lower half of the face, including the throat and neck region. The
head covering according to the invention preferably keeps the eyes
and the ears free, so that the use of communications and display
units is not restricted.
The region which, in the case of emergency personnel, is typically
protected by a helmet need not be protected separately by the head
covering according to the invention, and the formation of a
comfort zone, preferably of the further zone, may therefore be
recommended in this region. The use of a mesh, in particular, is
recommended here.
In the case of the head covering, the first and the second zones
may preferably be produced, at least in part, by plating. It is
advantageous if the inner side is produced from UHMWPE or aramid
or Vectran and if the outer side is knitted from a flame-
retardant material and printed, if appropriate, with a camouflage
print.
Use is preferably made, in the head region beneath the helmet, of
net-like elastic knitted fabrics which are preferably made from
skin-friendly materials and are connected directly, and
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seamlessly, to the ballistic material of the first and/or second
zones.
In the case of the textile item of clothing being configured in
the form of a vest or T-shirt, it may be advantageous if a central
region of the front side, i.e. the chest and/or a central region
on the back, is produced by a further zone, which realizes a
comfort region. This region is provided with sufficient protection
typically by a ballistic vest, and therefore there is no need for
the vest or the T-shirt to provide any ballistic protection here.
The side parts of the vest or T-shirt and/or the upper region of
the back and/or the lower region of the back and/or the upper
region of the front side, i.e. the chest, and/or the lower region
of the front side, in the region of the waist and above, may
preferably be formed from a high-strength material, in particular
UHMWPE, aramid or Vectran and may preferably constitute a first
zone and/or a second zone, in order for supplementary protection,
in addition to the ballistic vest, to be realized here.
The abovedescribed configuration is suitable both for vests or T-
shirts which are configured specifically for male or female
wearers.
The vest and/or the T-shirt may preferably have shoulder pads or a
harness or a rescue handle. Provision may also be made for pockets
to be knitted into the region of the arm and/or of the hip, for
example for the purpose of accommodating smartphones, keys, access
cards and the like.
According to the invention, provision may be made for so-called
two-dimensionally knitted regions, i.e. flat-knitted regions,
which are provided for example in the first zone, but also in the
further zone or at the bands, to be connected seamlessly to three-
dimensionally knitted regions. The three-dimensional regions are
preferably designed in the form of spacer knit fabrics and/or have
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a pile thread. It is advantageous if the head covering, which has
been described in more detail above, is used in conjunction with a
vest and/or a T-shirt and/or in conjunction with underpants. This
provides particularly advantageous protection for the wearer, in
particular for emergency personnel.
It is also advantageous if the underpants according to the
invention are used in conjunction with a T-shirt or a vest
according to the invention.
It is also advantageous if the underpants and/or the vest or the
T-shirt are/is used in conjunction with a sock according to the
invention, a knee sock, a glove, an inner glove and, if
appropriate, a bra. This provides the wearer with particularly
advantageous overall protection.
It is further advantageous if, in the case of a single-layered
construction, the first zone has a mass per unit area of at least
150 g/m2, preferably 200 g/m2, particularly preferably 250 g/m2 and
quite particularly preferably 300 g/m2, in particular 350 g/m2. It
is advantageous if the mass per unit area is smaller than
700 g/m2, preferably smaller than 600 g/m2. A mass per unit area of
360 g/m2 to 600 g/m2, in particular 400 g/m2 to 600 g/m2, has been
found to be quite particularly appropriate.
It is advantageous if the thickness of the yarn used for producing
the first zone from UHMWPE is at least 50 dtex, preferably at
least 80 dtex, particularly preferably at least 200 dtex. It is
advantageous if the thickness of the yarn used for producing the
first zone from UHMWPE is less than 880 dtex, preferably less than
700 dtex. A thickness of the yarn for producing a first zone from
UHMWPE of 220 to 440 dtex, preferably 440 dtex +/- 20 dtex, has
been found to be particularly appropriate.
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It is advantageous if a first zone made of UHMWPE is formed with a
high level of moisture absorption, in particular with a Ret value
in accordance with DIN EN 31092 of 4.3895 m2 x Pa/W +/- 20%,
preferably +/- 5%, in relation to a single-layered configuration
of the first zone made from UHMWPE.
According to the invention, provision may be made for the textile
item of clothing to have a quick-opening function, also referred
. to as a "medical release", so that the textile item of clothing
can be removed quickly from the wearer's body without him having
to take off the item of clothing in the usual way. For this
purpose, provision may be made according to the invention for a
thread of the textile item of clothing to be configured such that
pulling on the thread gives rise to a predetermined breaking
point, that is to say the textile item of clothing comes apart in
this region. It is preferably the case that the thread, which can
be pulled in order for the textile item of clothing to come apart
along the thread line, is dyed in a specific manner and can thus
be recognized better.
In an invention which is independent of the aforementioned
configurations, but can be combined with the abovedescribed
embodiments and variants, or can make use of the same, provision
is made for a glove, an inner glove, a sock, a knee sock or a bra
to be provided with ballistic protection, wherein the glove, the
inner glove, the sock, the knee sock and the bra have at least one
knitted fabric, wherein at least one first zone of the knitted
fabric is formed from a yarn which inhibits the penetration of
fragments.
Inner gloves, gloves, socks, knee socks or bras which have a
knitted fabric with ballistic protection are not known in the
prior art. The configuration according to the invention of the
aforementioned textiles increases the overall protection of the
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wearer against injury, without detracting from the wearing
comfort.
In contrast to the already described textile item of clothing
according to the invention, for example configured in the form of
a vest or T-shirt, it may be sufficient in the case of a glove, an
inner glove, a sock, a knee sock or a bra to provide a knitted
fabric which has just a first zone made of a yarn which inhibits
the penetration of fragments. The configuration of further zones,
which serve as comfort zones or as elastic zones, or of a second
zone providing further-enhanced protection can be dispensed with
here. Provision is also preferably made however, in the case of
the textile item of clothing being configured in the form of a
glove, inner glove, sock, knee sock or bra, for a further zone to
be provided in addition to the first zone, which is formed from a
yarn which inhibits the penetration of fragments, said further
zone forming a comfort or an elastic zone in order for the wearing
comfort of the item of clothing also to be increased in these
configurations. It is possible here to make use of all the
features and configurations which have already been described in
relation to the invention for which a plurality of differently
protected zones are provided. The differently protected zones may
preferably be a first zone, made of a yarn which inhibits the
penetration of fragments, and a further zone, the construction of
which differs by way of the yarn used and/or the thickness of the
yarn and/or the weave and/or the structure of the yarn and/or the
thickness of the layer and/or the number of layers arranged one
above the other, a different level of protection being achieved as
a result.
The inner glove, the glove, the sock, the knee sock or the bra is
preferably a knitted fabric or designed entirely in the form of a
knitted fabric. Provision may be made here for the glove, the
inner glove, the sock, the knee sock or the bra to have one or
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more bands, which are fitted preferably in a seamless manner, and
in particular are also designed in the form of a knitted fabric.
In a particularly advantageous configuration, the glove or the
inner glove may have elastic regions, preferably in the region of
the palm of the hand and/or on the back of the hand. The elastic
region preferably extends from the back of the hand into the
fingers. It is also possible for the glove or inner glove to have
tactile zones preferably on the fingertips. The glove can be worn
on its own and, in the form of an inner glove, in a further glove.
The glove is preferably configured such that it has a high level
of tactility, in particular in the region of the fingertips, in
order to allow, or to facilitate, the typical activities of a
soldier, such as shooting or the operation of displays. It is
important here to have a high level of tactility in particular in
the region of the index finger in the curved state and on the
thumb.
The glove according to the invention, or the inner glove,
preferably has a seamless knit design. Preferably at most one seam
is provided, this then being designed preferably in the form of a
"medical release", as already described.
Both the glove and the inner glove are preferably of pre-curved
design. The inner glove and the glove preferably fit as closely as
possible. In the case of an inner-glove configuration, provision
may be made for said inner glove to fit underneath a combat glove.
In one configuration of the inner glove, in order for the latter
to be sewn firmly to an outer glove, provision may be made for the
inner glove to have, on its fingertips, small tabs, via which the
inner glove can be sewn firmly in the outer glove.
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According to the invention, provision may be made for the glove to
have a first and a second protective zone, as has already been
described, in principle, above. In particular the regions which
are important for operating instruments may be of somewhat thinner
configuration than the other protective zones. It is preferable
here for the first zone to be of thinner design and the second
zone to be thicker.
According to the invention, provision may be made, in the case of
an inner-glove configuration, for said inner glove to have
silicone yarns or a partial application of silicone at certain
locations. This is intended to prevent the situation, if
necessary, where the gloves slide against one another to too
pronounced an extent and do not provide any grip. Furthermore,
silicone can make it easier to operate buttons/keys and other
equipment.
According to the invention, provision may be made for the inner
side of the glove to be finished hydrophilically by, for example,
plasma processing.
Preferably either the finish of the yarn or of the glove as a
whole can render the glove flame-retardant.
A further invention which stands in its own right is presented in
claim 24. It is also the case that this invention can be combined
preferably with one or more features of the other inventions
already described above. The invention which stands in its own
right as claimed in claim 24 relates to a textile item of clothing
with ballistic protection and having a torso part and arm parts,
wherein the torso part is a knitted fabric and has at least one
protected zone which is formed from a yarn which inhibits the
penetration of fragments, and wherein the arm parts are formed
from a woven material.
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The torso part is the part of the item of clothing which covers a
human torso and the arm parts constitute that part of the item of
clothing which at least partially covers the human arms when the
item of clothing is being worn correctly.
According to this invention, provision may be made for the torso
part to have just a single-piece protected zone, that is to say
that the knitted fabric which forms the torso part is produced in
a single piece and is connected to the arm parts made from the
woven fabric. This has been found to be appropriate in particular
for producing a so-called combat shirt, which performs both the
function of underwear and that of a combat jacket and can replace
these items of clothing. The arm parts here are preferably of
long-sleeved design.
The torso part may also have a plurality of differently protected
zones, wherein at least two different zones are connected
seamlessly to one another and at least one first zone is formed
from a yarn which inhibits the penetration of fragments. All the
already described configurations and variants of the other
inventions already described can be used for this purpose.
The arm parts made from the woven material preferably likewise
=
provide ballistic protection.
The torso part may be provided with bands, in particular in the
region of the neck opening and also at the opposite, lower end of
the torso part. It is possible for the bands to be configured, and
fitted, as has already been described within the context of the
other inventions.
The textile item of clothing having the torso part made from a
knitted fabric and the arm parts made from a woven material, said
item of clothing being referred to hereinbelow (and above) as a
combat shirt, is suitable in particular, at relatively high
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exterior temperatures, so that it can be worn instead of a combat
jacket. The arm parts here may be formed preferably by a woven
fabric with a camouflage print. As a result of the woven fabric or
of the woven material, the arm parts withstand high loading, in
particular also under the action of moisture, and have
continuously high strength values. It is also possible for the arm
parts to be produced such that they have a high level of air
permeability.
The torso part of the combat shirt is designed preferably with a
high collar.
The combat shirt is suitable, in particular, for use in
combination with a ballistic vest. The knitted design of the torso
part does away with bothersome seams which rub.
The torso part and also the arm parts may have a fire-retardant
properties and/or antistatic properties and/or antibacterial
properties. The combat shirt may be of hydrophilic design.
The torso part of the textile item of clothing (combat shirt) is
formed preferably from a seamless tube made of a flame-retardant
and hydrophilic knitted fabric with different knitted zones which
wick sweat and regulate the body temperature. The antibacterial
property of the material which is preferably provided curbs odors.
According to the invention, provision may be made for the combat
shirt to be used in the form of underwear, that is to say for
there to be no need to put on underwear in addition. Designing the
combat shirt to be close to the body can ensure optimum moisture
transfer. It is possible to provide a knitted channel, which runs
through from the hem to the neck band, for the purpose of
achieving a venturi effect, and this improves the removal of
moisture by way of the shirt. The removal of moisture is assisted
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by the seamless design of the knitted fabric preferably provided
according to the invention.
The knitting technology used in order to achieve the venturi
effect provides for a good dissipation of heat and moisture via
the neck region to the surroundings, in particular also the high
collar being suitable for this purpose.
The arm parts of the combat shirt are produced preferably from a
lightweight, flame-retardant twill. The upper material may be
designed with a 3-color camouflage print. It is possible to
provide vector protection, applied preferably on both sides, and
hydrophilic properties on the inner side of the arm parts.
According to the invention, provision may be made for preshaped
pockets, preferably made from a highly wear-resistant and flame-
retardant polyamide, to be provided on the elbows, it being
possible in particular for flexible elbow protectors, preferably
configured as described in DE 20 2013 100 788 Ul, to be
accommodated in said pockets.
The elbow protectors may be provided, in a manner specific to the
right side/left side, with pressed-in movement folds and special
convexities for protecting the elbow and/or the upper forearm. It
is also possible for the arm parts to have pockets, serving as
stowage space, in the region of the upper arms. It is further
possible to provide a hook and loop tape, which serves for
accommodating a rank badge and possibly, at the same time, as pen
storage.
The arm parts may preferably also have yet further pen pockets,
for example in the region of the front left-side sleeve.
The sleeve ends are preferably cut to be relatively wide, such
that they can be rolled up in the pulse region.
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Provision may also be made for the width of the arm end to be
adjustable via a tab with a hook and loop fastener.
According to the invention, ventilation with a mosquito net may be
incorporated in the forearm region of the arm parts. For this
purpose, it is preferably possible to provide a zip fastener, in
particular a two-way zip fastener, which can be opened preferably
in the form of an O.
It is advantageous if short zip-fastener sliders and, if
appropriate, a zip-fastener garage are provided at the ends of the
ventilation openings, as a result of which the noise development
is reduced. The arm parts may preferably be of a raglan design.
The arm parts. may be connected to the torso part preferably by a
flatlock seam.
The combat shirt preferably has a high-cut stand-up collar with no
opening options provided. This is advantageous so that, when use
is made of a protective vest or a harness/protective equipment,
pressure points are avoided in this region.
The upper material of the torso part may have camouflage
properties, but this is not necessary in a preferably envisaged
configuration since the torso part is covered over during use by a
harness/protective equipment which already has a camouflage
function. The material of the torso part and of the stand-up
collar may be of preferably hydrophilic and antibacterial design.
The combat shirt can be worn, in particular, in combination with a
ballistic vest and a harness/protective equipment, as is
conventional for military personnel. This constitutes a
particularly advantageous inventive use.
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Advantageous configurations of the invention can be gathered from
the exemplary embodiments which will be described hereinbelow with
reference to the drawing, in which:
Figure 1 shows a front view of a textile item of clothing
configured in the form of underpants;
Figure 2 shows a rear view of the underpants illustrated in
figure 1;
Figure 3 shows a front view of a textile item of clothing
configured in the form of a T-shirt or vest;
Figure 4 shows a rear view of the T-shirt or vest illustrated in
figure 3;
Figure 5 shows a front view of a textile item of clothing
configured in the form of a head covering;
Figure 6 shows a rear view of the head covering illustrated in
figure 5;
Figure 7 shows a basic illustration of a covered yarn having a
core made of an elastic yarn and having a single yarn
wrapping around the same;
Figure 8 shows a basic illustration of a covered yarn having a
core made of an elastic yarn and having two wraparound
yarns;
Figure 9 shows a basic section through a high-strength yarn or a
yarn which inhibits the penetration of fragments;
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Figure 10 shows a front view of a textile item of clothing
configured in the form of a T-shirt or vest shaped for
the female body;
Figure 11 shows a rear view of the T-shirt or vest illustrated in
figure 10;
Figure 12 shows a front view of a textile item of clothing
configured in the form of a bra;
Figure 13 shows a rear view of the bra illustrated in figure 12;
Figure 14 shows a front view of a textile item of clothing
configured in the form of a sock;
Figure 15 shows a front view of a textile item of clothing
configured in the form of a knee sock;
Figure 16 shows a front view of a textile item of clothing
configured in the form of a glove or inner glove;
Figure 17 shows a rear view of the glove or inner glove
illustrated in figure 16;
Figure 18 shows a front view of a textile item of clothing
configured with a torso part made from a knitted fabric
and arm parts made from a woven material; and
Figure 19 shows a rear view of the textile item of clothing
illustrated in figure 18.
The production of textiles and the various processing methods for
textiles are common knowledge from the general prior art, for
which reason it is only the specific special features of the
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textile item of clothing according to the invention which will be
discussed in more detail hereinbelow.
A flat-knitting machine is particularly suitable for producing the
textile item of clothing according to the invention.
All the features of the exemplary embodiments illustrated
hereinbelow, in particular the features which are presented with
reference to the various embodiments of the textile item of
clothing, can be combined as desired with one another. The
features which are mentioned in relation to one embodiment can
also be transferred to the other embodiments in order to establish
further advantageous variants of the textile item of clothing
according to the invention. It is also possible for the features
of the embodiments which are not referred to explicitly as being
essential to the invention to be dispensed with.
The exemplary embodiments illustrated hereinbelow show a textile
item of clothing which is designed in the form of underpants 100
or in the form of a vest 200 or T-shirt or in the form of a head
covering 300, headscarf, scarf, tubular scarf or balaclava. The
invention, however, is not restricted hereto. The invention may
relate, in particular, also to other items of clothing in which
ballistic protection is advantageous.
The exemplary embodiments illustrated likewise show a textile item
of clothing which is designed in the form of a bra 400, of a sock
500, of a knee sock 600 or of a glove or inner glove 700.
Figures 18 and 19 show the textile item of clothing configured in
the form of a so-called combat shirt 800, which will be
illustrated in yet more detail hereinbelow.
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The underpants 100 illustrated are underpants for men. It is also
possible, however, for pants for women to be configured in an
analogous manner.
Figure 1 shows a textile item of clothing with ballistic
protection configured in the form of underpants 100. The
underpants 100 are designed in the form of a knitted fabric and
have a plurality of different zones 1, 2, 3. The zones 1, 2, 3 are
connected seamlessly to one another. At least one first zone 1 is
formed from a yarn 5 which inhibits the penetration of fragments.
An example of a configuration of the fragment-inhibiting yarn 5 is
illustrated in figure 9. A multifil yarn (multifilament yarn) is
provided. According to the exemplary embodiment, the zones 1, 2
and 3 are integrated with one another.
The yarn 5 which inhibits the penetration of fragments is a high-
strength yarn. The yarn 5 which inhibits the penetration of
fragments may be, for example, in the form of UHMWPE, of aramid or
of VectranO. The yarn in the exemplary embodiment is formed from
UHMWPE. However, the description is very much to be understood
such that, instead of a UHMWPE, it is also possible to use aramid
or Vectran .
A particularly suitable UHMWPE is sold under the trade name
Dyneema by Dutch chemical company Royal DSM N.V. Dyneema is a
high-strength polyethylene fiber with a tensile strength ranging
from 3 to 5 GPa. Dyneema is a highly crystalline, highly
stretched UHMWPE. Although the Dyneema fiber is particularly
suitable for producing the first zone 1 provided according to the
invention, the invention is nevertheless not restricted hereto.
In the exemplary embodiment according to figures 1 and 2,
provision is made for those zones of the person wearing the
underpants 100 which are particularly at risk to be formed by a
second zone 2. The second zone 2 likewise comprises a yarn 5 which
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inhibits the penetration of fragments, and which will be referred
to hereinbelow throughout (albeit not in limiting fashion) as
UHMWPE (this also applies to the other exemplary embodiments). In
contrast to the first zone 1, provision is made, in the second
zone 2, for more UHMWPE yarn 5 to be used and/or for the weave to
be closer and/or for the UHMWPE yarn 5 to be coarser and/or for
the knitted fabric to be designed in the form of a spacer knit
fabric in the region of the second zone 2. The production of a
spacer knit fabric is known in principle. For this purpose, use is
usually made of a pile thread. In the exemplary embodiment,
provision is made for the second zone 2 to be produced in the form
of a spacer knit fabric.
The exemplary embodiment according to figures 1 and 2 provides
three separate zones 1 and three separate zones 2.
In respect of the arrangement and design of the first zone 1 and
of the second zone 2, and of the way in which they are divided up,
reference is made to the illustration in figures 1 and 2. It is
also possible, in principle, for the regions in which, in the
exemplary embodiment, the first zone 1 or the second zone 2 is
illustrated to have just one zone, namely the zone 1, throughout,
albeit, if appropriate, also configured there in the form of a
spacer knit fabric or configured with one, two or more layers. The
exemplary embodiment should not be understood to mean that it is
imperative for a zone 2 to be provided. It is also possible for
just the first zone 1 to be realized throughout, in which case,
however, said first zone can also have the properties of the
second zone 2 throughout, i.e. if appropriate, and if desired, it
may have more than one layer. The same also applies to the other
exemplary embodiments.
In the exemplary embodiments, provision is made for the second
zone 2 - if present - to have a higher mass per unit area than the
first zone 1.
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Provision is also preferably made, in the exemplary embodiments,
for the first zone 1 to be of single-layered design, whereas the
second zone 2 - if present - is of preferably two-layered design,
which is achieved in the exemplary embodiment by being configured
in the form of a spacer knit fabric.
As can be gathered from figures 1 and 2, provision is made, in
this exemplary embodiment, for the underpants 100 to be formed
from a further zone 3 in the outer leg region or in the outer
region of the thigh. The further zone 3 has an elastic yarn 6 or
is formed by an elastic yarn 6.
Two zones 3 are provided in the exemplary embodiment according to
figure 1 and figure 2.
The further zone 3 may be of flame-retardant and/or breathable
design. In the exemplary embodiment, provision is made for the
zone 3 to be of breathable and flame-retardant design.
Provision may also be made, in the exemplary embodiment, for the
further zone 3 according to figures 1 and 2 to be designed in the
form of a mesh.
A covered yarn 7, which is particularly well-suited for forming
the further zone 3 in all the exemplary embodiments, is
illustrated in figures 7 and 8.
Figures 7 and 8 show a highly abstract illustration. The elastic
yarn 6 forms the core of the covered yarn 7. The elastic yarn 6 is
preferably designed in the form of an elastan core or is
preferably formed from elastan. The elastic yarn 6 here has a
preferably high-strength material (preferably a fragment-
inhibiting yarn 5, particularly preferably embodied in the form of
UHMWPE (possibly also in the form of aramid or Vectranfl) wound
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around it. Figures 7 and 8 here, in order to show the construction
clearly, illustrate large spacings as the yarn 5 wraps around the
core. It is actually the case, however, that the fragment-
inhibiting yarn 5 is wound so closely that there are no spacings
present here between the individual windings. Figure 7 differs
from figure 8 only in that just a single yarn is wound around the
elastic core 6 in figure 7, whereas two yarns 5 are wound around
the elastic yarn 6 in figure 8.
It is also possible for that variant of the covered yarn 7 which
is illustrated in figure 8 to have, in an advantageous
configuration, two yarns 5 having differing properties and/or
consisting of different materials. For example, one of the yarns 5
may be a high-strength material, preferably a fragment-inhibiting
yarn of the already described configuration including the already
described variants, whereas the second yarn 5 is a flame-retardant
yarn. This means that the covered yarn 7, in addition to the
elasticity, also provides for two further advantageous properties
by use being made of two different yarns 5. It is also possible to
use two yarns made from cotton, preferably one of the yarns, or
even both yarns, having an FR or flame-retardant finish.
It is also possible, in principle, for a covered yarn to have more
than two yarns 5. The yarns 5 here may be formed from an identical
material or from different materials.
A covered yarn 7 is particularly suitable for forming the further
zone 3, since a certain minimum level of ballistic protection can
also be realized thereby.
As can also be gathered from figures 1 and 2, the underpants 100
illustrated there have bands 4, wherein the bands 4 have an
elastic yarn 6 or are formed by an elastic yarn 6. A particularly
high level of elasticity is advantageous in this region. Once
again, a flame-retardant configuration may also be provided here.
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The yarn which is used for producing the bands 4 may be, once
again, a covered yarn of suitable construction.
Use can also be made here of a material which is typically used
for producing bands, in particular has a particularly high level
of elasticity.
A seam 8 is illustrated by way of example in figure 1. This seam 8
serves merely to form the seamlessly flat-knitted textile fabric
into a textile body which is closed all the way round, said
textile body according to figure 1 being a pair of underpants.
This operation depends on the knitting machine. The exemplary
embodiment provides the use of a flat-knitting machine, wherein
the ends of the seamlessly flat-knitted fabric should be connected
to one another to form a closed textile body. A closed textile
body should be understood here to mean that said body is, for
example, in the form of underpants 100, of a vest 200, of a T-
shirt, of a head covering 300, of a headscarf, of a tubular scarf,
of a balaclava, of a sock 500, of a knee sock 600, of a glove or
an inner glove 700 or a bra 400.
A closed textile body may also be understood here to mean a torso
part, as is illustrated in figures 18 and 19.
As illustrated in figure 1, the seam 8 runs preferably such that,
rather than running between two zones 1, 2, 3, it runs within a
zone, in particular so as not to weaken the seamless connection
between two zones. However, it would also be possible, in
principle, for the seam 8 to run between two zones 1, 2, 3. This
alters nothing, within the context of the invention, in respect of
the zones 1, 2, 3 being connected seamlessly to one another.
Figures 3 and 4 show the textile item of clothing according to the
invention configured in the form of a vest 200 or T-shirt. To
simplify matters, the text hereinbelow refers to a vest 200, but
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it is equally possible for this item of clothing to be a T-shirt.
The vest 200 is designed, by way of example, with sleeves in
figures 3 and 4, but this is optional.
As is also the case for the already described underpants 100, the
vest 200 has a first zone 1, a second zone 2 and a further zone 3
and also bands 4. In respect of the configuration of the zones 1,
2, 3 and of the bands 4, and of the production thereof, reference
is made to the description relating to the underpants 100.
In respect of the preferably envisaged design and arrangement of
the zones 1, 2, 3 and of the bands 4, and the way in which they
are divided up, reference is made to the illustration in figures 3
and 4.
In a manner analogous to the underpants 100, provision is also
made, in the case of the vest 200, for the first zone 1 to be
constructed in the manner which has been described in relation to
the second zone 2 of the underpants 100.
The formation of the second zone 2 is optional in the case of the
vest 200 illustrated in figures 3 and 4. In the case of the vest
200 illustrated, the second zone 2 has only one particular
function to perform in any case. The second zone 2 is provided in
order to form a harness or a rescue handle 9, by way of which it
should be possible to lift the person wearing the vest 200 or to
move him, in the event of injury, out of danger's way. In the
exemplary embodiment here, the harness 9 runs from the back via
the chest and/or from the back underneath the armpits up to the
shoulder and, at the rear, around the wearer's neck, when the vest
200 is being worn correctly. As far as the precise progress of the
harness is concerned, reference is made to the illustration in
figures 3 and 4. Of course, the harness 9 is not restricted to
this precise progression.
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As can be seen from figures 3 and 4, the harness 9 runs preferably
such that it is spaced apart from the band 4 which runs around the
wearer's neck, so that it is possible for a hand to grip beneath
the harness 9 in this region in order to lift the person wearing
the vest 200.
Although the harness 9, in the case of the vest 200, is formed
preferably from a high-strength yarn, it is not imperative for the
entire harness 9 to comprise the high-strength yarn. It may be
sufficient if the harness 9 is connected preferably directly and
seamlessly to the vest 200, but to be formed from a different,
likewise appropriately stable material for example at least in the
region where provision is made for a hand to lift the harness 9.
Furthermore, it is not necessary either for the harness 9, as
compared with the zone 1, to be produced from a double layer or
from a spacer knit fabric. It is also possible here for the
harness to comprise just an appropriately suitable high-strength
yarn, which need provide no ballistic protection. A single-layered
configuration may also be provided.
In the case of a design in the form of a vest 200 according to
figures 3 and 4, provision is optionally made for two padding
arrangements 10 to be formed in the region of the shoulders, in
order to facilitate the carrying of rucksacks or packs. These
padding arrangements can be realized by a separate pad being
applied or by the knitted fabric being configured appropriately in
this region, for example also by the formation of a spacer knit
fabric, in particular without ballistic protection being provided
here.
It is likewise optional, in the case of the vest 200 illustrated
in figures 3 and 4, for provision to be made for pockets 11 to be
formed in, preferably knitted into, the region of the sleeves
and/or the region of the waist, in particular the region of the
band 4 running round the waist. The pockets 11 should be suitable,
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for example, for accommodating a smartphone, a key, an access card
or other small items.
Figures 10 and 11 show a vest 200 or a T-shirt configured for a
female wearer, specific shaping for the female body being provided
in the chest region. All the variants and configurations which
have been described in relation to the embodiment of the vest 200
according to figures 3 and 4 can also be realized in the .
embodiment according to figures 10 and 11.
In respect of the preferably envisaged design and arrangement of
the zones 1, 3 and of the bands 4, and the way in which they are
divided up, reference is made to the illustration of figures 10
and 11. The invention, however, is not restricted hereto.
With the exception of the specific female shaping in the chest
region, the embodiments according to figures 3 and 4 and also 10
and 11 can be realized for both male wearers and female wearers.
Figures 12 and 13 show the textile item of clothing configured in
the form of a bra 400. All the variants and configurations which
have already been described in relation to the vest 200 according
to figures 3 and 4 and also 10 and 11 can be realized for a bra
400.
In the exemplary embodiment according to figures 12 and 13,
provision is made for the bra 400 to have a protected zone 1,
which is connected seamlessly to a two-part, further zone 3, which
is a comfort zone and has already been described above. The
further zone 3, as likewise already described, has improved
elastic properties in relation to the zone 1 and can otherwise be
configured in the manner illustrated in the other exemplary
embodiments. Preferably four bands 4 are also provided, reference
likewise being made, in respect of the configuration of said
bands, to the already described exemplary embodiments.
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Figures 5 and 6 show the textile item of clothing configured in
the form of a head covering 300, scarf, headscarf, tubular scarf
or balaclava. To simplify matters, the text hereinbelow refers
just to a head covering 300. However, this may also be a scarf, a
headscarf, a tubular scarf or a balaclava.
The head covering 300 illustrated in figures 5 and 6, once again,
has a first zone 1, a second zone 2, a further zone 3 and bands 4.
A first zone la is provided, and this differs from the first zone
1 by way of a higher level of air permeability and, if
appropriate, a lower level of ballistic protection. The first zone
la here covers over the wearer's mouth, when the head covering 300
is being worn correctly. Provision is preferably made for the
first zone la to have a higher level of air permeability than the
first zone 1.
Also provided are two different configurations of the further zone
3, which is subdivided hereinbelow into a further zone 3 and a
further zone 3a. The further zone 3 differs from the zone 3a in
that the further zone 3, in addition to using an elastic yarn 6,
also makes use of a high-strength yarn, in particular of a UHMWPE
yarn 5, preferably by use being made of a covered yarn 7, as is
illustrated, by way of example, in figures 7 and 8.
In the exemplary embodiment according to figures 5 and 6, the
further zone 3a here preferably has no high-strength yarn. It is a
net-like elastic knitted fabric, i.e. preferably a mesh, which is
preferably breathable and, in particular, elastic which is
provided in the zone 3a, which is located in the upper head region
of the head covering 300. Use can also be made, in this case, of a
covered yarn 7, although a high-strength yarn is preferably
dispensed with. This means that the elastic yarn 6, as is
illustrated in figures 7 and 8, can, once again, form the core,
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although it does not have any high-strength yarn, for example a
flame-retardant yarn, wrapped around it.
The expression "upper head region of the head covering 300" should
be understood to mean that region of the head covering 300 which,
when the head covering 300 is being worn correctly, fits against
an upper region of the wearer's head, which extends upward and all
the way round from a lower region of the wearer's forehead. In the
case of emergency personnel, this region is typically protected by
a helmet, and there is therefore no need for the head covering
300, in this region, to have a high-strength yarn, i.e. additional
ballistic protection.
In respect of the design and arrangement of the zones 1, la, 2, 3,
3a and of the bands 4, reference is made to the illustration in
figures 5 and 6. It is possible, in principle, once again for the
zones 1, la, 2, 3, 3a and the bands 4 to be constructed as has
already been described in relation to the underpants 100, taking
into account the possibly preferably envisaged modifications which
have been described for the head covering 300, in particular in
relation to the zones la, 3 and 3a.
It is possible, if appropriate, to dispense with the formation of
the second zone 2, or the first zone 1 can also cover the region
of the second zone 2. However, it is also possible, if
appropriate, for the first zone 1 to be constructed here in the
manner as has already been described in relation to the second
zone 2, i.e. the first zone 1 can have a spacer knit fabric, a
denser yarn, an increased mass per unit area and the like, in
particular if the second zone 2 is to be dispensed with. Reference
is made, in this respect, to the description relating to the
'underpants 100.
In the exemplary embodiments, in particular in the exemplary
embodiment according to figures 5 and 6, i.e. relating to the head
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covering 300, provision may be made to use so-called plating. This
is recommended, in particular, in the first zone 1, la and/or in
the second zone 2. Provision may be made here for the inner side
13 to be formed from the yarn 5 which inhibits the penetration of
fragments, in particular UHMWPE, and for the outer side 12 to be
formed by a yarn which has flame-retardant properties and is
printed, or can be printed, if appropriate with a camouflage
print.
The zones 1 and 2 of the other exemplary embodiments may also be
configured correspondingly in an analogous manner.
Figure 14 shows a possible exemplary embodiment of a sock 500. A
first zone 1, a two-part further zones 3 and a band 4 are provided
here. The zone 3 is designed in the form of a comfort zone having
better elastic properties than the zone 1. In respect of the
preferably envisaged design and arrangement of the zones 1, 3 and
of the bands 4, and the way in which they are divided up,
reference is made to the illustration in figure 14.
Figure 15 shows a possible configuration of the textile item of
clothing in the form of a knee sock 600. A first zone 1 and a
three-part zone 3, which is designed in the form of a comfort zone
with improved elastic properties in relation to the zone 1, are
provided here. Also provided is a band 4.
In respect of the preferably envisaged design and arrangement of
the zones 1, 3 and of the band 4, and the way in which they are
divided up, reference is made to the illustration in figure 15.
Figures 16 and 17 show a possible configuration of the textile
item of clothing in the form of a glove or of an inner glove 700.
The glove has a first zone 1, which is formed from a yarn 5 which
inhibits the penetration of fragments, in particular UHMWPE. In
the exemplary embodiment, the palm region and the back of the hand
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contain a further zone 3, which is designed in the form of a
comfort zone with improved elastic properties in relation to the
zone 1. The further zone 3 on the back of the hand projects into
the fingers of the glove 700.
A band 4 is also provided.
In respect of the preferably envisaged design and arrangement of
the zones 1, 3 and of the band 4, and the way in which they are
divided up, reference is made to the illustration in figures 16
and 17.
Both in relation to the sock 500 and in relation to the knee sock
600 and the inner glove 700, or a glove in general, reference is
made to the features and variants which have already been
illustrated in relation to the other exemplary embodiments. This
applies, in particular, also to the yarns which are to form the
individual zones.
As can be gathered from figures 16 and 17, the glove 700 has -
optionally - tactile zones 14 on the fingertips. The tactile zones
14 are configured so as to simplify the operation of displays or
even the operation of a trigger of a weapon.
In a manner which is not illustrated specifically, a silicone yarn
can be used, or a partial application of silicone can be provided,
at certain locations of the inner glove 700. Provision may also be
made for the tactile zones 14 to be formed from silicone. In a
manner which is likewise not illustrated specifically, the glove
700 may have a maximum of one seam, which serves preferably as a
"medical release".
The glove illustrated in figures 16 and 17 is preferably, as
illustrated, pre-curved. It is possible for the inner glove 700,
in a manner which is not illustrated specifically, to have small
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tabs on the fingertips, and these tabs can be used to sew said
inner glove firmly in an outer glove (not illustrated). It is also
possible, however, for the inner glove 700 to be designed in the
form of an outer glove.
The inner glove 700 according to figures 16 and 17 is preferably
of seamless knitted design.
Figures 18 and 19 show a textile item of clothing having a torso
part 15 and two arm parts 16. The torso part 15 is a knitted
fabric with at least one protected zone 1. In the exemplary
embodiment, the torso part 15 is formed from a protected zone 1.
However, it is also possible, in principle, for the torso part 15
to be constructed in the manner described, in particular,
according to the exemplary embodiments in figures 3 and 4 and also
and 11, that is to say it is possible to provide a second
protected zone 2 and/or further zones 3, which should form a
comfort region. However, just a protected zone 1 is provided in
the exemplary embodiment. The zone 1, as has already been
described above in relation to the other exemplary embodiments, is
formed from a yarn 5 which inhibits the penetration of fragments.
As can also be seen from figures 18 and 19, the textile item of
clothing illustrated there, referred to for short as a "combat
shirt", has two arm parts 16, which are formed from a woven
material, that is to say a woven fabric. The arm parts 16 here are
of long-sleeved design, but a short-sleeved design is also
possible.
The torso part 15 has a high collar 17, which is designed in the
form of a band 4. The torso part 15 also preferably has a further
band 4 at the lower end, opposite the neck opening.
The torso part 15 and also the collar 17 may have fire-retardant
properties and be of antistatic, antibacterial and hydrophilic
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design. In the exemplary embodiment, the torso part 15 is designed
in the form of a seamless tube with, if appropriate, different
knitted zones.
The torso part 15 according to the exemplary embodiment may
preferably be provided in order to be worn directly on the body,
that is to say there is no need for underwear to be worn in
addition. The torso part 15 performs the function of underwear.
The exemplary embodiment makes provision, in a manner which is not
illustrated specifically, for the arm parts 16 to be produced from
a lightweight, flame-retardant twill. Provision is also made, in a
manner which is likewise not illustrated, for the arm parts to
have a camouflage print, preferably a 3-color camouflage print.
Pockets 18, preferably for accommodating flexible elbow protectors
(not illustrated), are provided on the elbows of the arm parts 16.
In the region of the sleeve ends, each of the arm parts 16 has a
tab 19 with hook and loop fasteners in order to make it possible
to regulate the width of the sleeve ends. Just like the pocket 18,
this is optional.
The exemplary embodiment also - optionally - makes provision for a
pen pocket 20 to be formed in the region of the front end of the
left-side arm part 16. A mosquito net, which can be opened and
closed preferably by a zip fastener, may be provided for
ventilation purposes, in a manner which is not illustrated
specifically in the region of the forearm of the arm parts 16.
Optionally further pockets 21 may be provided as stowage space in
the region of the upper arms of the arm parts 16. It is further
possible to provide a hook and loop tape in order to accommodate a
rank badge and possibly to serve, at the same time, as pen
storage.
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In the exemplary embodiment, the collar 17 is designed in the form
of a stand-up collar with no opening options provided, this
avoiding pressure points which can arise when the combat shirt is
worn preferably together with a harness/protection equipment. The
combat shirt replaces the underwear, preferably a vest, and can be
worn as the bottom layer on the body. Furthermore, the combat
shirt, by virtue of being configured with the arm parts, replaces
a combat jacket, in particular at high temperatures.
Overall protection for the upper body is achieved when the combat
shirt is worn together with a ballistic vest; it is therefore
preferably possible to dispense with a camouflage print for the
torso part 15.
