Protective leg attachment apparatus

Abstract

An improved leg attachment apparatus comprising a protective wrap in combination with a leg attachment device that effectively protects a worker's legs from bruising, chaffing, irritation and other negative effects associated with current pole climbing and leg extension devices. In the preferred embodiment, the protective wrap comprises a backing made of cotton, a middle layer of polyfiber material and a securing means in the form of a hook and loop system to fasten the wrap around the leg.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to an improved protective leg attachment apparatus utilized by workers in climbing poles and trees, and other construction and related industrial activities that require a climbing or leg extension device. More specifically, the invention involves a protective leg wrap, for use in combination with leg attachment devices to protect the shins, calves and other areas of the leg from injury, irritation, discomfort and overall negative effects which might result from an extension device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The use of mechanical stilts and pole climbing devices has long been associated with bruises, cuts, scrapes, chaffing and overall discomfort on the legs of workers. Leg gear typically used to walk or climb for periods in excess of an hour, cause the wearer to experience negative effects. Straps and buckles that tightly fasten these devices around the leg combined with frequently repeated motion produce an inordinate amount of rubbing and friction on the legs of workers that is the cause of these dilemmas. These problems exist whether the devices are strapped directly around the leg or over pants worn by a worker.

[0003] In addition, mechanical stilts and pole climbing devices do not effectively absorb sweat and moisture that is typically generated by a worker, especially over the course of a hot or humid day. While generally uncomfortable in its own right, sweat can lead to further irritation as a result of increasing slipping of straps and buckles.

[0004] Generally, stilt walking is a labor-intensive task that requires strength, endurance and balance. Typically, mechanical stilts and other types of leg extension devices are utilized in situations where a particular labor requires added height and a perpetual change in physical position while work is being executed. Stilts are particularly useful in situations where a worker needs to paint an elevated surface or install lighting in a room. The usefulness of such a device is evident when work in a particular area of a room is completed. Without stilts, one would need to use a ladder. Then, when the work in a specific area is finished, the worker would need to dismount the ladder, reposition the ladder and then climb back up to begin the task in a new location. Since the worker can ambulate at an elevated height, stilts basically eliminate the need for a ladder to perform these tasks, promoting efficiency and productivity.

[0005] To mount a mechanical stilt, a worker fastens two straps around the arch of each foot thereby securing the foot to the device. Then, a leg strap is fastened around the leg with a buckle below the knee, thereby fully securing the device to its user. While a particular labor may or may not be difficult per se, the act of walking or even standing with a mechanical stilt device produces a great amount of strain and tension on each leg, particularly to the shin and calf areas where the device is secured.

[0006] While theoretically beneficial, current extension devices have a major fault. These devices afford insufficient protection to their users. Stilts and other leg extension devices may come fitted with a leg band and pads in an attempt to provide needed protection. When provided, these pads are generally situated on the outer flank of each leg just below the knee. However, they do not extend around an entire section of the leg. This is unacceptable to workers who utilize stilts daily. Thus, the pads do not fully protect users from the bruising, chaffing, irritation and other deleterious effects associated with the stilt's use. The strap, combined with weight of the device, and the strain on the leg generated by a worker balancing his weight are the primary reasons for these problems. Specifically, while a worker frequently raises and lowers each leg to walk, the strap causes bruising, irritation and overall discomfort by the pressure, repeated rubbing and friction generated along the leg. Furthermore, even when merely standing, a worker balancing his weight generates strain at the point of attachment of the device to the unprotected leg.

[0007] Pole climbing, comparable to stilt walking, also involves demanding and strenuous activity. During the course of pole climbing, a worker utilizes a device that is secured about each leg, in conjunction with a belt and harness. Before a worker proceeds up a pole, the device is secured to each leg with two relatively slim yet resilient nylon straps that bind the device tightly around the shin and ankle areas. As a worker ascends, he must forcefully lodge gaffs from the climbing device into the sides of a pole temporarily fixing his position. Thereafter, the climber pitches a supporting belt up to an elevated position along the pole affording him some upper level support while he gently leans back away from the pole. Then, the climber removes and immediately thereafter re-lodges the gaffs up to an even higher position on the pole. A climber performs these steps repeatedly throughout the normal course of climbing poles during a typical day at work. Accordingly, the device produces a great amount of tension and physical abuse that the leg must endure as each gaff strikes and subsequently dislodges from a pole. Moreover, the strap and buckle of this device exert pressure on the leg that is generated by the weight of the worker which must be supported as well.

[0008] As one can easily imagine, the strap and buckle secured about the shin are a major culprit causing discomfort, bruising, chaffing and irritation. In an attempt to minimize these negative effects, some climbing devices possess leather pads that are cushioned with rubberized horsehair. However, similar to the mechanical stilts, the pads only cover a portion of the leg and thus, do not fully protect the entire area from the primary injurious characteristics of the climbing device, namely, the nylon straps and buckles.

[0009] The current limited padding of both mechanical stilts and pole climbing devices lend themselves to an additional concern. The padding on these devices does not efficiently absorb sweat produced by the user. This is either because of its limited dimensions or the nature of the materials used in the padding or a combination thereof. When not absorbed, sweat and moisture cause additional slippage of the strap and buckles from around the leg and further contribute to irritation, injury and overall discomfort.

[0010] In short, the prior art does not provide an acceptable apparatus for protecting the legs of workers using mechanical stilts or pole climbing devices. Current leg attachment devices have attempted to overcome specified problems by including padding for the leg area. However, the padding is insufficient as it does not encompass or surround an entire section of the leg and still permits the straps and buckles to directly or indirectly rub away at a worker's skin, generate strain and tension or otherwise cause injury. Furthermore, as a result of their failure to surround or encircle an entire section of the leg with absorptive padding, these devices do not provide a satisfactory solution to the problem of moisture and sweat absorption.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In view of the prior art deficiencies, the principal objective of the present invention is to provide an improved leg attachment apparatus. More specifically, the objective is to provide a protective wrap in combination with leg extension and pole climbing devices that effectively protects a worker's shin and calf area from the chaffing, bruising, irritation, discomfort and overall negative effects associated with current leg extension and pole climbing devices used in construction and maintenance.

[0012] A further objective of the present invention is to provide an improved leg extension and pole climbing apparatus that will effectively absorb sweat and moisture present on or in the vicinity of a worker's leg, shin and calf areas.

[0013] Additional objectives will be apparent from the description of the invention as contained therein.

[0014] The present invention presents an improved protective leg attachment apparatus for use by workers in climbing poles and trees and other construction and related industrial activities that require a leg extension device. The apparatus includes a protective wrap that fully surrounds or encircles a portion of the leg below the knee that current devices lack. The wrap is constructed with at least one section of material used as interior and exterior backing layers, at least one additional layer of material placed between said backing layers and a securing means for removably fastening the wrap around the leg.

[0015] As constructed, the apparatus evenly spreads the pressure on the shin and calf area of the leg. The apparatus may be worn both directly over the skin or clothing. The protective wrap guards the legs from the straps that secure the gear in place that cause pain, discomfort, unsightly marks, cuts, chaffing and bruising. The wrap also effectively absorbs sweat and moisture.

[0016] With this invention, maintenance and construction workers are able to perform their work more safely, quickly, efficiently and for a longer period of time.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a backing layer of the wrap of the present invention;

[0018] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a middle filling or insulating layer positioned over such backing layer;

[0019] FIG. 3. is a plan view of another backing layer, the protective wrap, the two backing layers and middle layer being stitched together;

[0020] FIG. 4 is a plan view of the protective wrap with corresponding hook section as securing means;

[0021] FIG. 5 is a plan view of the protective wrap with corresponding loop section as securing means;

[0022] FIG. 6 depicts the protective wrap removably secured around shin area of a worker's leg;

[0023] FIG. 7 an overhead view of the protective wrap taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6;

[0024] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the protective wrap taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7;

[0025] FIG. 9 depicts a worker climbing a pole with a pole climbing device fixed about a protective shin wrap secured about his leg; and

[0026] FIG. 10 depicts a mechanical stilt fixed about a protective shin wrap secured about the leg of a worker.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] An improved leg attachment apparatus, shown in use in FIGS. 9 and 10, is used to prevent repeated strain and tension in the shin area caused by current leg extension and pole climbing devices. The apparatus prevents bruising, chaffing, irritation, and other negative effects to the leg, shin and calf areas of a worker. The apparatus also effectively absorbs sweat and moisture thereby providing a relatively dry, cool and comfortable environment.

[0028] FIGS. 1-5 illustrate the layered assembly of a protective wrap 40. In particular, each layer serves a particular purpose by offering protection and comfort when utilizing the protective wrap in conjunction with the leg attachment devices as discussed above.

[0029] The wrap 40 includes two backing layers 10, 11, an interior layer 10 and an exterior layer 11, as the front and back surfaces of the wrap. Each backing 10, 11 is generally rectangular comprising both minor sides 12,12A and major sides 14,14A. When the protective wrap 40 is constructed, the minor sides 12,12A are generally coextensive with the vertical section of the leg that is covered by the wrap. The major sides 14,14A generally encompass the circumference of leg area where the wrap 40 is applied plus the measure of overlap of the ends when the wrap 40 is secured around the leg. Thus, if the minor sides 12,12A of material are eight inches, approximately an eight-inch vertical section of the user's leg can be protected. Likewise, where the major sides 14,14A are thirty inches in length, the wrap 40 could be applied around a leg whose circumference is thirty inches minus the measure of overlap of the ends of the wrap 40. Accordingly, an entire section of the user's leg is fully protected and enclosed by the wrap. Obviously, the wrap can be constructed to protect legs along a spectrum of shapes and sizes by simply altering the minor 12,12A and major 14,14A sides of the backing.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, cotton is used as the material for the backing layers 10, 11. Cotton is generally favored since it is economical and provides a generally pleasant texture and sensation when in contact with skin. Cotton also provides for easy folding and storage when the protective wrap is not in use. Other materials may be employed for additional advantageous purposes such as increased durability for longer subsistence of the wrap and increased elasticity thereby providing a more comfortable and snug fit around the leg. Additionally, a more durable material other than cotton may be employed to produce a more heavy-duty front backing layer that will further prevent and withstand tearing or penetration.

[0031] The backing layers 10,11 of the wrap 40 can also be formed from one relatively larger section of material. This larger section of material is then folded over to form both the front and back surfaces of the wrap 40. For instance, a section of material that is sixteen inches on its minor side 12,12A by thirty inches on the major side 14,14A may be folded at the midpoint of minor side 12,12A longitudinally along the length of the material to produce two backing layers 10,11 that are eight inches by thirty inches. This can save time and money in the overall production of the protective wrap 40.

[0032] The middle layer 20 of the protective wrap 40 is shown in FIG. 2 and is used for insulating and filling purposes. The middle layer 20 is fitted to a length and width relatively shorter than the major 14,14A and minor 12,12A sides of the backing 10,11 respectively. The middle layer 20 provides an added level of protection and comfort to the user. In the preferred embodiment, the middle layer 20 is composed of a single layer of polyfiber material. The use of polyfiber is advantageous since it is lightweight, generally soft, comfortable and pliable. Additionally, polyfiber insulates and provides excellent durability. Polyfiber does not deteriorate from prolonged exposure to water and is generally washer and dryer friendly. While polyfiber may generally be advantageous for its lightweight and water-resistant properties, other natural and synthetic materials and combinations thereof may be used to compose this layer as well.

[0033] While the preferred embodiment possesses only one middle layer 20 of polyfiber, additional layers may be inserted composed of the same or differing materials or combinations thereof, thereby increasing the protection and comfort afforded by the wrap 40.

[0034] In FIG. 3, the wrap 40 is assembled by perimeter stitches 30 along its edges in addition to a plurality of vertical sets of stitches 32 across the minor side 12 of the wrap 40. This serves a variety of functions. Firstly, the stitches 30,32 serve to sandwich the middle layer 20 between the backing layers 10,11 composing the wrap 40. Moreover, the stitches 30,32 enable the wrap 40 to retain its generally rectangular shape without undue and excessive crimping and wrinkling. This is desired for both after the wrap 40 is removed from around the leg and also when the wrap 40 is unfolded for use after storage. Furthermore, the stitches 30,32 prevent bulking and disproportionate shifting to any one side of the different layers of material, which may render the wrap 40 at least somewhat uncomfortable to the user.

[0035] Sewing stitches in the pattern previously described is only one choice for attaching each of the layers 10,11,20 together. Obviously, one with ordinary skill in the art could use many different means as adhesives and stitch patterns to accomplish this result while still keeping in line with the wrap's 40 general shape, degree of comfort and protection.

[0036] The wrap 40 has circumferential securing means shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 for removably securing about the leg of a worker. In a preferred embodiment, a hook 34 and loop 36 system such as Velcro functions as the securing means. Such a system has a strip of hooks 34 which removably clings to a corresponding strip of loops 36 as springy hook-shaped fibers latch through tiny but firm loops. Gentle pressure allows the hook strip 34 to be pulled apart from the loop strip 36. The user may repeat the process many times over without diminishing its effect.

[0037] Two rectangular strips of hooks 34 and loops 36 are attached, as by adhesive, generally near the edges of the protective wrap 40, one set to backing layer 10 and the mating set to layer 11. Specifically, one end of the wrap holds both hook sections 34 while the opposite end holds both of the corresponding loop sections 36. The hook 34 and loop 36 sections may be constructed on the right or left side of the wrap since the wrap is generally symmetrical. However, it is chiefly important that hook 34 sections be placed on the front surface of the wrap 40 and the loop 36 sections be placed on the back surface of the wrap, or vice versa. This favorably allows the wrap 40 to remain generally flat when the hook 34 and loop 36 sections coincide and ultimately connect.

[0038] Of course, the wrap 40 may be constructed with more or fewer sections of hooks 34 and loops 36. Likewise, each section may be of different corresponding shapes and sizes, limited by the size of the wrap 40 and the amount of desired connections between the hooks 34 and loops 36 when the wrap 40 is worn. Similarly, while in a preferred embodiment each particular edge has either hooks 34 or loops 36, it is evident that each edge may comprise a combination of hook 34 and loop 36 sections in various configurations, as long as they correspond to hook 34 and loop 36 sections on the opposite edge of the wrap 40.

[0039] As a desirable securing means, Velcro provides a convenient, versatile replacement for zippers, buttons, snaps, laces, and other forms of fasteners. However, it is clear that all of these fasteners may be used in addition to, or instead of, the preferred hook 34 and loop 36 system.

[0040] While the protective wrap 40 may be worn in direct contact with the skin, it is to be understood that the wrap 40 may also be placed over full-length pants or jeans that are typically worn by workers.

[0041] When fastened about the leg of a worker, the wrap 40 forms a generally cylindrical shape as shown in FIG. 7. Also, depending on the diameter of the leg around which a particularly sized wrap 40 is fitted, there may be some portions of the hook 34 strips that are not actually engaged with their corresponding loop 36 strips. This is clearly acceptable as long as there is a sufficient amount of hooks 34 and loops 36 engaging one another to keep the wrap 40 in place about the shin area.

[0042] A fragmented sectional view of the protective wrap 40 at a point where corresponding hook 34 and loop 36 sections engage one another is shown in FIG. 8. The backings 10,11 sandwich between them a middle layer 20 that together serve to protect and comfort its user. As previously mentioned, the edges of the major 14,14A and minor 12,12A sides are sealed with stitches 30 maintaining the general form of the wrap 40. The thickness of the combined layers 10, 20 are relatively thinner than both the dimensions of the minor 12,12A and major 14,14A sides of the wrap. Accordingly, the wrap 40 is able to provide the necessary protection without being excessively bulky even at the point where the wrap overlaps.

[0043] When the wrap 40 is worn by a worker, it is typically positioned just below the knee 42 allowing the knee 42 to remain capable of its natural movement. Of course, modifications to the wrap 40 may easily be made to cover other leg areas such as the thigh. Obviously, upper leg protection from harmful effects caused by straps or other forms of bindings around the thigh or other areas is also favorable.

[0044] The wrap 40 can be combined with many forms of leg attachment devices providing the necessary protection to its user. For instance, the wrap 40 can be used in combination with a pole climbing device 52, see FIG. 9, a mechanical stilt 50, see FIG. 10, or other leg attachment devices.

[0045] One brand of mechanical stilt 50 is the Dura Stilt which is manufactured by InterAmerican Mfg. Dura Stilts generally comprise a mechanical leg assembly 68, a foot plate 58 on which a worker's leg is supported, corresponding arch 60 and toe 62 straps that fasten the foot to the plate 58, a leg band 64 with padding and nylon straps 44 that secure the calf area to the Dura Stilt, and a strut tube 66 that generally connects and supports the upper and lower portions of the device.

[0046] One brand of pole climber 52 is manufactured by Klein Tools as the 1972AR Series and may be sold with corresponding padding, ankle and calf straps. Such a device essentially comprises an adjustable steel sleeve 56 to conform to the height of a worker's leg, a sharpened gaff 54 that is driven into a pole during the course of climbing, a leg iron and stirrup (not shown) which provide support, and a split ring (not shown) that secures an ankle strap to the climber.

[0047] When worn with one of the above types of devices 50, 52, the protective wrap 40 is first secured around the leg below the knee 42. The protective wrap 40 fully surrounds a section of the leg so that there is no direct contact between the leg and strap 44,48 of the attachment device. Then, the straps 44,48 of the respective devices 50,52 are fastened over the exterior surface of the wrap 40.

[0048] When the protective wrap 40 is used in conjunction with stilt 50 or pole climbing 52 devices the positive results are evident. The wrap 40 shields the covered area from the direct and harsh effects of the straps 44,48 and buckle 46 and other strains caused by the respective devices 50,52. Accordingly, strain on the leg area from these devices is spread uniformly over the surface of the wrap 40 and not directly upon an unguarded area of the shin or calf. Thus, the consequences of bruising, chaffing and discomfort are virtually non-existent. The wrap 40 also better protects its user from other external objects that may come in contact with the area during the course of work.

[0049] The wrap 40 effectively absorbs moisture and sweat by surrounding an entire section of the leg with an absorptive article thereby keeping the area cool and dry throughout the day. Thus, the wrap 40 also prevents complete or partial slipping of the straps 44,48 from around the leg of a worker. In turn, this not only keeps the devices 50,52 and straps 44,48 bound where they should be, but also prevents the straps 44,48 from causing injury and irritation by rubbing against a sweaty leg.

[0050] In general, possessing the characteristics noticeably absent in current mechanical stilt 50 and pole climbing 52 devices, the wrap 40 used in combination with these devices allows workers to perform work with a greater degree of safety. Workers no longer must to resort to the risky proposition of adjusting the straps 44,48 of their device because of pain and discomfort while suspended on a pole or elevated above the ground. Adjusting straps 44,48 while in this precarious position can often lead to further injury by failing off a pole entirely or tumbling forward to the ground. A worker is also protected from external objects that may fall, collide or otherwise come in contact with the shins and calves.

[0051] Although this invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these are merely illustrative of an application of the principles of the invention. Numerous modifications to the illustrative embodiments discussed herein may be made and other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An improved leg attachment apparatus for use by workers including pole climbers, construction and maintenance workers comprising:

a leg attachment device including an upper strap;

a wrap that fully encompasses a section of a leg of the worker and is removable therefrom; and

a securing means to secure said wrap about said section of said leg of a worker:

wherein the strap of said leg attachment device is secured over said wrap after said wrap is secured about said section of said leg.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said attachment device is a pole climbing device.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said attachment device is a leg extension device.

4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein said leg extension device is a stilt.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said wrap is comprised of backing layers that define the exterior surfaces of the wrap and have major and minor dimensions.

6. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein said backing layers are composed of cotton.

7. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein the wrap has a pair of backing layers of equal dimension.

8. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein said wrap further comprises at least one middle layer situated between said backing layers.

9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said middle layer has major and minor dimensions respectively less than said major and minor dimensions of said backing layers.

10. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein said middle layer is composed of a polyfiber material.

11. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said backing layers and middle layers are sewn together to form a sandwich.

12. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said securing means is a corresponding hook and loop system.

13. In combination with a leg attachment device which includes an upper strap such as a pole climbing and leg extension device, the improvement which comprises:

a wrap that fully encompasses a section of a leg of the worker and is removable therefrom;

a securing means to secure said wrap about said section of said leg:

wherein the strap of said leg attachment device is secured over said wrap after said wrap is secured about said section of said leg; and

wherein said leg is generally protected from negative effects caused by said leg attachment device.

14. In combination with a leg attachment device of the type wherein a padding means is provided for protecting a worker's leg, the improvement which comprises:

a protective wrap that completely surrounds a perimeter of a portion of said leg;

wherein said wrap is positioned around said portion said leg; and

further wherein said attachment device is at least partially fastened over said wrap.

15. A method for protecting a leg of a worker engaged in pole climbing, maintenance, construction and the like comprising the steps of:

providing a wrap comprising a front and a back surface, at least one inner layer and a securing means; and

providing a leg attachment device;

wherein said wrap is secured around said leg fully encompassing at least a portion of said leg; and

further wherein at least a portion of said leg attachment device is positioned around said section of said leg over said wrap.

16. The method of claim 15 wherein providing a wrap includes positioning said wrap below a knee of a worker.

17. The method of claim 16 wherein providing a wrap includes positioning said wrap around a calf area and shin area of said worker.

18. The method of claim 17 wherein providing a wrap includes fastening said wrap with a corresponding hook and loop system.

19. The method of claim 15 wherein providing a leg attachment device includes using a binding means to attach said leg attachment device over said wrap.

20. The method of claim 15 wherein providing a leg attachment device includes using a strap to attach said leg attachment device over said wrap.