Radiation Shielding Pocket for Inclusion in Apparel and Accessories

This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/644,723 filed May 9, 2024, which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

The present subject matter relates to a radiation shielding pocket for inclusion in articles of clothing and the like and enclosing a portable wireless device which emits radiation in order to shield a user from radiation and to facilitate communication with the portable wireless device.

Cell phones have become ubiquitous in everyday life. A cell phone is not simply a telephone. It is a sophisticated computer, communications network terminal, and a transceiver. Cell phones emit radiation in the radiofrequency region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Radiofrequency emitted by 4G cell phones is in the 2.7 GHz range, and radiofrequency emitted by 5G cell phones is in the 4 GHz range. 5G communication may also be implemented in the future in millimeter wavebands. The frequency range of millimeter wavebands spans from ˜300 MHz to 30 GHz. There is increasing concern for certain types of cancer and other health risks as cell phones are now used throughout the day. Hand-held phones are used close to the head, near the brain and central nervous system. Higher frequencies are of greater concern. The consistently recognized biological effect of radiofrequency absorption is heating to the area of the body where the cell phone is held. Clinical studies suggest that dangers from cell phone radiation cannot be ignored. Approaches have been provided to address the pervasive problem of radiation damage to users from electromagnetic radiation from portable wireless devices, for example, cell phones.

Clinical studies on the effects of cell phone radiation have been conducted over several years to assess potential health risks. Increasing sophistication of cell phone designs creates new avenues for production of potentially harmful radiation. Studies have reported an increase in the risk of tumors among heavy and long-term cell phone users, especially on the side of the head where the phone is typically held. Research has also explored the possible connection between cell phone radiation and other types of cancer, including tumors of the salivary glands and thyroid gland. The real existence of risks has prompted creation of a body of technology for shielding users from RF radiation produced by cell phones.

Radiation protection is provided by devices surrounding cell phones. Rigid phone cases can isolate a cell phone. An important area of radiation protection is directed toward allowing a user to carry a cell phone in a compartment or flexible pocket within clothing. Certain phone cases or accessories claim to reduce RF radiation exposure by deflecting or absorbing radiation emitted by the device. While the effectiveness of these products is debated, using cases that are specifically designed to minimize RF radiation exposure may provide some level of protection. Particular techniques in controlling radiation exposure include complete isolation of a cell phone, except during actual communications, partial isolation, variable configuration, and deflection of radiation as opposed to blocking.

Containers or pouches designed to shield RF radiation emitted by cell phones are often marketed as products aimed at reducing users' exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF). These products typically claim to block or absorb RF radiation emitted by the phone, thus reducing the amount of radiation that reaches the user's body. While the effectiveness of such products is debated, they usually employ various materials and designs to achieve this goal. Here are some common types of containers or pouches for shielding RF radiation:

Faraday pouches are designed to block RF radiation by using conductive materials to create a Faraday cage around the cell phone. A Faraday cage is an enclosure made of conductive material, such as metal mesh or fabric, that prevents electromagnetic fields from passing through. Faraday pouches typically feature a metallic lining or layer that effectively blocks RF radiation from reaching the phone's surroundings.

RF shielding fabric pouches are made from special fabrics that are woven or coated with metallic threads or materials to provide RF shielding. The metallic components in the fabric reflect, absorb, or block RF radiation, thereby reducing exposure to the user. RF shielding fabric pouches are often lightweight and flexible, making them convenient for everyday use.

RF shielding pouches with multiple layers come in various forms. Some shielding pouches use multiple layers of RF-blocking materials to enhance their effectiveness. These pouches may combine different types of shielding materials, such as metallic foils, conductive fabrics, and insulating layers, to provide comprehensive protection against RF radiation.

Wallet-style pouches offer a convenient way to carry both a cell phone and other belongings while providing RF shielding for the phone. These pouches typically feature compartments for storing cards, cash, and other items, along with a designated pocket or slot for the phone. The RF shielding properties are integrated into the pouch's construction to protect the phone from radiation exposure.

It is important to note that the effectiveness of containers or pouches for shielding RF radiation may vary depending on factors such as the materials used, design features, and the specific frequency and intensity of the RF radiation emitted by the cell phone. Additionally, while these products may reduce exposure to RF radiation, they may not provide complete protection, and further research is needed to assess their efficacy and safety.

RF radiation shielding fabric pouches integrated into clothing are designed to provide protection against electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by electronic devices such as cell phones. These pouches are typically incorporated into garments like shirts, jackets, pants, or accessories like hats or scarves.

The shielding pouches may be seamlessly integrated into the design of clothing items. They may be located in specific areas of the garment, such as pockets or sleeves, where electronic devices like cell phones are commonly carried. The pouches are often discreetly incorporated to maintain the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the clothing.

RF shielding fabric pouches are typically constructed as pockets or compartments within the clothing item. They may feature closures such as zippers, buttons, or Velcro to securely hold electronic devices like cell phones. The pouches are usually lined with RF shielding fabric on the inner side facing the body to provide maximum protection.

When a cell phone or other electronic device is placed inside the RF shielding fabric pouch, the specialized textiles act as a barrier against RF radiation. The shielding materials block or absorb the electromagnetic fields emitted by the device, preventing them from penetrating through the fabric and reaching the user's body. This helps reduce exposure to potentially harmful RF radiation while allowing users to carry their devices conveniently and comfortably.

Overall, RF radiation shielding fabric pouches included in clothing offer a practical and fashionable solution for reducing exposure to electromagnetic fields from electronic devices. By seamlessly integrating these pouches into everyday garments, users can enjoy enhanced protection against RF radiation while maintaining their personal style and comfort. Physical shielding also improves security with a fully enclosed cell phone. A user is protected from receiving unwanted Airdrop pictures from passers-by. Physical shielding provides protection against interception of signals emitted by a user's cell phone and also protects against malicious signals transmitted to the cell phone via wi-fi, Bluetooth or 5G RF signals. In this manner, hacking attacks from cell phone networks are minimized.

A number of specific approaches have been taken. Each approach provides some characteristics but not others. For example, some radiation-shielding pouches block radiation but do not permit use of a cell phone while it is carried in the pouch. In order to make use of a cell phone sealed in a pocket, the user must have access to a microphone and earphone. This requires opening the radiation-shielding pouch, thereby losing the protection afforded to the user.

In order to protect the cell phone physically, it is necessary to prevent the cell phone from falling out of the pocket. It has been difficult to optimize security in maintaining the cell phone in the pocket versus ease of access to the cell phone. A prior art technique is the use of elastic bands. The elastic bands may grip the cell phone and also be fastened to the interior of a pocket. The elastic band secures the cell phone but does not surround it. Therefore, while the cell phone is secured, it is not shielded. Other schemes use elasticity but do not provide for convenient access to the cell phone.

U.S. Pat. No. 10,366,798 discloses garments provided with built-in pockets to isolate a device that may produce electromagnetic radiation, such as a cell phone. Garments are disclosed such as a brassiere, camisole, shirt, pants, leggings, head wear, footwear, and the like. The garment is made of a first fabric that is a non-metallized fabric and a second fabric that is a metallized fabric. The metallized fabric is used to form at least one pocket of the garment. Electronics and other devices can be placed and stored in the metallized pocket. This scheme has limited functionality in that it does not allow for using the cell phone while it is in the pocket.

United States Published Patent Application No. 20160262476 discloses a garment which has a stitched front pocket for holding a mobile phone handset. A concealed zipper is provided for fully enclosing and accessing the device. A top eyelet feed hole enables the use of handset earphones or headphones with a cable connection to the handset when the zip is closed. A resilient neoprene layer offers protection and handset holder reinforcement. This disclosure makes no mention of radiation protection. It does not provide for flexibility in placement of a pocket. No provision is made for preventing dropping of an enclosed device when a user changes positions.

U.S. Pat. No. 11,132,595 discloses an article of clothing including a pocket assembly formed as part of the clothing body. The pocket assembly can include an inner panel disposed as a part of the pocket assembly. The inner panel can include an electrically conductive material. It can also include an outer panel disposed as a part of the pocket assembly that is farther than the inner panel from a user wearing the article of clothing. This scheme is primarily directed toward use of an RFID tag for shielding information. This scheme provides for shielding information but does not particularly teach how to direct or block radiation.

U.S. Pat. No. 10,134,495 discloses a shirt including a pocket made of a radiation-reducing material which encloses a smartphone. This can reduce the amount of radiation absorbed by a user's body. A harness system of the shirt can also distribute the weight of the smartphone. This system only includes structure for isolating a cell phone in the pocket. A small cut-out for an antenna is provided to receive and transmit some signals to and from a cell phone. It prevents some of the radiation from being absorbed into the body of the user. The flap can be opened or closed. Signals can be received when the flap is opened. The location of the flap is made without any regard for the location of the antenna in the cell phone. Consequently, a greater opening must be provided so that the opening has the opportunity to be in registration with the cell phone antenna. Therefore, greater radiation exposure is delivered.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,492,957 discloses a detection indicator wherein the detection device provides voltage indicative of EMF energy received from a radiation source such as a portable device. The EMF energy is converted into monitoring DC voltage. The detector may be located at a user's head, for example. This indicator could be an accessory to measure energy received inside a particular location. This patent does not disclose structure important to make the device effective.

United States Published Patent Application No. 20070034406 discloses containers to shield a wireless device from transmitting or receiving electromagnetic signals. This container is directed at preventing entry of radiation rather than protecting users outside of the container.

United States Published Patent Application No. 20130122975 discloses a radiation protector that may be customized to match a particular radiation frequency. This application emphasizes selection of frequency rather than selecting a strategic location on a garment.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,968,854 discloses a radiation shielding fabric, particularly fabric including silver-coated yarns. It discloses a radiation shielding material. However, it does not disclose the structure that houses a radiation source. The shielding fabric prevents entry and not exit of radiation.

U.S. Pat. No. 11,412,645 discloses a device for radiation protection which reflects radiation away from the user rather than blocking it. It does not disclose the structure of an enclosure that houses a radiation source.

United States Published Patent Application No. 20220136141 discloses a woven fabric combination comprising carbon yarn to block radiation and elastic yarn which stretches. A particular structure to cooperate with an electronic device is not disclosed.

United States Published Patent Application No. 20240172822 discloses a pocket assembly formed in a garment and having multiple layers. An outer layer exposes components of the wearable device to an outside environment. The aperture allows for direct contact of the environment with sensors. The assembly does not provide radiation protection.

United States Published Patent Application No. 20220104568 discloses a pocket structure on an inner liner of underwear below the waist band at the hips of a wearer. This design assures that the phone does not engage the wearer's front or back sections. This pocket placement is useful only in a narrow range of locations. It does not provide radiation protection.

United States Published Patent Application No. 20180206566 discloses a stand-alone pocket structure which can be attached to a garment that cannot hold a cell phone. Fabrics may be used to protect the wearer from surveillance using different frequencies of electromagnetic waves. This reference does not provide teachings with respect to protection from radiation emitted by a cell phone.

United States Published Patent Application No. 20160183614 discloses a pocket assembly fixed to a pair of pants. It has panels of elastic or non-elastic material. It has compartments formed between outer panels and a middle panel. Also, a compartment between middle panel and the clothing. Second compartment can only be accessed through a hole in the bottom of the garment. Access is inconvenient. If the elastic stretches, the cell phone can fall out.

United States Published Patent Application No. 20210045465 discloses a resiliently stretchable band placed inside a pocket. The band can hold a cell phone in a pocket but cannot enclose a cell phone or provide protection from radiation.

None of these references seeks to optimize the ability to clear a path for radiation to and from the cell phone versus minimizing exposure to undesirable radiation. Flexibility of placement of shielding pockets is limited in the prior art. The structure of the pocket does not have embodiments in which specific models of cell phones are accommodated.

Briefly stated, in accordance with the present subject matter, a pocket of radiation-shielding material is provided for attachment to articles of clothing or accessories. The structure of the pocket optimizes protection from radiation emitted by a cell phone process versus ability to communicate. The pocket is fixed to clothing to reinforce the area of clothing surrounding the pocket and cell phone. Tearing and or inordinate wear are minimized.

This radiation shield pocket is provided to block electromagnetic radiation from a source such as a cell phone. In one embodiment, the cell phone can be used while in the pocket. In another embodiment, the pocket can feature a zipper to close the pocket to completely block RF radiation. When the zipper is not completely closed, it will allow for some of the cell phone signal to be received or emitted. In other embodiments other closure means may be provided. In one protection mode, radiation is blocked around the entire source. When RF radiation is completely blocked, the cell phone cannot communicate. However, when a user wants to communicate, the RF pocket allows operation of the cell phone. Communication is possible while the cell phone is still mostly shielded. In a further embodiment, an aperture through the pocket permits passage of a wire from an output device, e.g., an earbud, to a signal connector in the cell phone, allowing connection to the outside world. This permits a user to play preloaded content from the cell phone. Other interconnections may be provided in further embodiments. The pocket can be positioned on the clothing. The position may be selected so that a cell phone remains in the pocket even when a user assumes various positions, such as sitting, which would commonly cause an article to fall out of a pocket. The pocket can be worn on pants, shorts, women's leggings, jackets, fanny packs, handbags, and the like.

In one form, the RF pocket allows construction of openings to be in registration with antenna locations of many different models of cell phones. 5G telephones made by different manufacturers have differing numbers of antennas and different locations of antennas within the rectangular parallelepiped containing the cell phone. This construction maximizes the efficiency of energy transfer from the cell phone antenna to the outside of the RF pocket. Because this invention offers increased efficiency, effectiveness of communication is significantly improved even though the cell phone is mostly shielded.

A new feature to be incorporated is the addition of elasticity in the interaction between components in providing a unique optimization of accessibility to operating features of a portable device, such as a cell phone, and protection of the user from radiation. The subject pocket preferably is integrated into the structure of an article of clothing. This pocket comprises a blend of spandex fibers and radiation shielding fibers. The pocket stretches to exert compressive force on the cell phone. Ready accessibility to the cell phone is maintained. Alternatively, the subject pocket may be a pocket liner that is housed in a non-stretch pocket.

The present subject matter relates to an article which addresses the pervasive risk of radiation damage to users from electromagnetic radiation from portable wireless devices, including cell phones. Cell phones emit radiation in the radiofrequency region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Radiofrequency emitted by 4G cell phones is in the 2.7 GHz range, and radiofrequency emitted by 5G cell phones is in the 4 GHz range. 5G communication may also be implemented in the future in millimeter wavebands. This higher frequency is of greater concern. There is increasing concern for certain types of cancer and other health risks as cell phones are now ubiquitous. Cell phones and other wireless devices have become pervasive in all phases of everyday life and all segments of society. Hand-held phones are used close to the head, near the brain and central nervous system. The consistently recognized biological effect of radiofrequency absorption is heating to the area of the body where the cell phone is held. Clinical studies suggest that dangers from cell phone radiation cannot be ignored.

The current subject matter is provided to block electromagnetic radiation from a source such as a cell phone. In differing embodiments, the degree of closure of the pocket is varied to create a differing effect resulting in the amount of radiation permitted to exit from the pocket or to enter the pocket. In one embodiment the pocket features a zipper. Degree of closure of the zipper determines the degree of radiation shielding. When RF radiation is blocked around the entire source, the cell phone cannot communicate. When a user wants to communicate, the RF pocket allows sufficient radiation transmission for operation of the cell phone while the cell phone is still mostly shielded. Another embodiment provides structure for connecting a shielded cell phone to operating components outside of the RF pocket. Other interconnections may be provided in further embodiments. The RF pocket is positioned in clothing. The RF pocket can be worn on pants, shorts, women's leggings, jackets, fanny packs, handbags, towels, and the like.

The RF pocket may be constructed to accommodate interactions with antenna locations in specific cell phone models. This construction maximizes the efficiency of energy transfer from the cell phone antenna to the outside of the RF pocket. Outputs can be provided to the user even when the cell phone is completely enclosed in the RF pocket. A wire can be connected from inside the pocket, go through the pocket, and be connected to utilization means, such as, a headset. The cell phone can be used while it is protected in the RF pocket. Alternatively, a feedthrough may be built into the RF pocket to permit connecting of utilization means to the cell phone without opening the RF pocket.

is a perspective view of a first form of RF pocketto be employed by a user. In one form, the RF pocketcomprises a front paneland a rear panel. The terms “front” and “rear” are arbitrary. For purposes of the present description, “rear” is a direction intended to face the body of the user. “Front” is a direction facing away from the user. The RF pocketis used to hold an electronic device. The electronic deviceis not part of the present combination. Electronic deviceis a device that is carried by a user. At the present time, the electronic devicewill comprise a cell phone. The cell phonepreferably includes a microphoneand a speaker. The RF pocketmay provide radiation protection while allowing sound transmission to and from the microphoneand the speaker. Cell phones are made by many different manufacturers, and each model has its own respective set of dimensions. The RF pocketis proportioned to be capable of enclosing a specific preselected cell phone model or a range of cell phone models having similar dimensions. As of the time of filing, most cell phones comprise parallelepipeds having substantially planar front and rear rectangular surfaces. At other times, prevalent types of cell phones have been “flip phones.” These phones comprise upper and lower segments with an upper segment folding over a lower segment. The RF pocketcould be dimensioned to accommodate more than one type of cell phone. A maker of the RF pocketmay provide different models, each to receive a selected cell phone or group of cell phones.

The RF pocketis made of flexible fabric. The flexible fabricis made of fibers selected for performance of respective functions. The front paneland the rear panelmay be made of different fabrics. For radiation shielding, the fabricmay comprise radiation shielding materials, such as silver, carbon, or other metals. These materials absorb radiation in the electromagnetic frequency spectrum and prevent or attenuate transmission of radiation through the fabric. In a further embodiment, fibers comprising elastomeric materials may be blended with the radiation shielding materials. Elastomeric materials include spandex, neoprene, and elastane. There are two types of stretch fabrics, two-way stretch and four-way stretch. Two-way stretch fabrics stretch primarily along a principal axis and stretch less along a secondary axis. In a first embodiment, both the front paneland the rear panelare made of the same material and are not elastomeric. In a second embodiment, both the front paneland the rear panelare elastomeric. The elastomeric fabric grips the cell phoneand provides protection against the cell phonedropping out of the RF pocket.

The front paneland the rear panelmay be fastened to each other around their perimeters such as by stitching. In this form, there is no separation between the perimeter of the front paneland the rear panel. Alternatively, as illustrated in a broken away portion of, a spacer panelmade of fabric may be sewn with stitchesto the respective perimeters of the front paneland the rear panel. This is so that the edges of the front paneland the rear panelare displaced from each other. The displacement may be selected to approximate the thickness of the cell phone. To permit insertion and removal of the cell phonean openingis provided in the RF pocket. The location of the openingis selected in accordance with the function it will perform as disclosed in further embodiments below. The RF pocketmay be used alone or may be combined with a garment as illustrated in.

is a perspective view of garmentsthat may be used to cooperate with the RF pocket. For purposes of the present description, the term garment is used to denote something that is worn by the useror an accessory commonly held close to the usersuch as a handbag or a beach towel. “Garments” also includes such items as fanny packs, backpacks and purses. The garmentsmay comprise a shirtor pants, for example. Other forms of garments include pants, sweatpants, joggers and leggings. The shirthas a garment pocket. The garment pocketmay be formed on the garment surface. The garment pockethas an openingat the garment surfaceto permit insertion and removal of the cell phone. In pants, a garment pocketis formed inside pantsand has an opening. The openingcommunicates with a surfaceof the pants. Other garments may be constructed with pockets on a surface or inside of a garment opening onto the surface.

A garment pocketmay be placed in a position to keep a cell phone at a minimum preselected distance from a particular organ. A garment pocketat a position to be in registration with a particular part of the body, such as a position on a person's back will be at least a preselected distance from the brain. A particular distance is selected in accordance with a selected organ, cell phone power, degree of attenuation provided per unit distance, and maximum desired power level at the organ of interest.

is a cross-sectional view of the RF pocketin the garment pockettaken along lines-of.is a partial detailed view ofillustrating location of elements in the garment pocket.illustrates the positions of components ofin hidden lines.andare taken together.

The RF pocketis separate from the garment pocket, but the RF pocketis received in the garment pocket. A cell phoneis illustrated as placed within the RF pocket. The openingand the openingdefine a travel paththrough which the cell phonemay travel in or out of the pantswhen the cell phoneis being inserted or removed. A travel path is provided in other forms of garments, such as a shirt or handbag. In the present embodiment both the front paneland the rear panelcomprise radiation shielding fabric. A closure deviceis provided for selectably closing the opening. The closure devicemay comprise a zipper or a hook and mesh closure, often referred to by the registered trademark Velcro. Another form of closure deviceis a magnetic closure. In this embodiment, a first side of the openingis covered by a flap projecting from a second side of the opening. A first magnet is secured adjacent the first side of the opening. A second magnet is positioned in the flap to be in registration with the first magnet when the flap closes over the opening. In a further embodiment, the front panelis sewn to the surface. In this form the RF pocketis fixed in position. This facilitates the ability to remove the cell phonewithout having to remove the RF pocket.

is an elevation of the shirtshowing the shirt garment pocket. In the present embodiment the shirtis constructed to carry the cell phone. A shirt RF pocketis fixed to the interior of the shirt garment pocket. A horizontal openingprovides a path from the interior of the shirt RF pocketto the exterior of the shirt. Preferably, the shirt RF pocketis sewn to a surfaceof the shirt. An aperturemay be formed in the shirt garment pocketand the shirt RF pocketto permit connection of a wirefrom the cell phoneto the exterior of the shirt RF pocket. The RF pocketmay have dimensions that are typical in shirt construction or may be dimensioned to provide extra room to receive the cell phonein the shirt RF pocket. The shirt garment pocketis formed on an interior surface of the shirt.

is a cross-sectional view of the shirt garment pockettaken along line-of. As seen in, the shirt RF pockethas an inner surfaceand an outer surface. The inner surfaceis sewn to the shirtwith stitches. This provides the best protection against tearing of the shirtor the RF pocket. Alternatively, the outer surfacemay be sewn to the shirt garment pocket. The openingmay be selectively closed to close the shirt garment pocketand the shirt RF pocket. The openingmay be closed by a flap. The shirt RF pocketmay be closed by a zipper. The flapcloses the space within the shirt pocket. The zippercloses the shirt RF pocketto prevent RF radiation from escaping.