| abstract |
The present invention pertains to a structure resistant to the transmission of forces of impact which is useful in the fabrication of articles subjected to impact forces by the user of the articles. The structure includes a double plush-like open mesh structure having first and second layers of interlaced stretch-resistant flexible strand material positioned adjacent each other, and defining an intermediate space therebetween. A plurality of elongated partitions are disposed between the first and second layers and divide the intermediate space into a plurality of elongated generally parallel channels. The partitions each comprise a plurality of pile stretch-resistant strand material connecting with the first and second layers in a plane generally perpendicular to the first and second layers. Resiliently-compressible single cell fluid-impermeable tubular members are disposed within at least a majority of chambers and adaptable to be inflated under fluid pressure to within the confining limits of the chamber walls to provide a cushioning and impact absorption structure. |